EUROPE
Photo by olgacov via 123RF

Photo by olgacov via 123RF ()

Shopping and eating are some of my favorite pastimes when visiting big cities. Whether you want to find unique souvenirs for loved ones back in the States or nosh on some delicious local eats, street markets are some of the best and most authentic spots to hit up. In the fabulous city of Amsterdam, there is no shortage of fantastic markets to stop at. Here are five must-visit markets to shop at on your next visit.

  1. Albert Cuyp Markt. With more than 260 vendors in the popular De Pijp area of the city center, the Albert Cuyp Markt has operated since 1905. If you’re looking for fun and inexpensive Dutch souvenirs or freshly baked “stroopwafels” or “poffertjes,” look no further. The neighborhood surrounding the market is also well-known for its vintage and boutique shops. The Albert Cuyp Markt is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

  2. Boekenmarkt Op Het Spui (Amsterdam Book Market). Bibliophiles will not want to pass this one-of-a-kind opportunity to find a rare book in different languages. The Amsterdam Book Market consists of more than 20 booksellers offering used and hard-to-find pieces of literature. Old posters and prints, historical documents, magazines and other periodicals can also be found here. If there’s a specific word you’re looking for, be sure to ask a vendor. They may have it in stock and not on display, or they may be able to help source it for you. The market is open every Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

  3. Bloemenmarkt. Holland is known for its vibrant tulip trade, both in bulbs and the brilliantly colored blooms. Opened in 1862 on the Singel canal, the world’s only floating flower market was the trading post for the barges arriving from the countryside. Today, Bloemenmarkt still offers shoppers high-quality flower bulbs and beautiful flowers at a reasonable price. Vendors are well-versed in which bulbs and seeds can legally be sent or brought into other countries. The market is open year-round, Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

  4. Lindengracht Markt. In the fashionably hip neighborhood of Jordaan, just west of the city center near the Anne Frank House, is the Lindengracht Markt. On Saturday mornings, the area transforms into a bustling market of more than 200 stalls. While a few vendors sell trinkets and souvenirs, Lindengracht is known for its gastronomic delights. Foodies will revel in the gourmet Dutch cheeses, handmade pastries, fresh-caught seafood, locally prepared ethnic foods and other delectable eats. This tasty spot is only open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

  5. Noordermarkt. Not far from Lindengracht in the same lively Jordaan area is the Noordermarkt. This market is the second-oldest in Amsterdam, just behind the Nieuwmarkt. Vendors have plenty of knickknacks, antiques, hard-to-find books, handwoven rugs and Dutch souvenirs for sale. There is also a food market attached which offers organically grown produce, meats and cheeses. Noordermarkt is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Mondays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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