Do you want to do some shopping during your stay in the Dutch capital but you don't know where to go shopping in Amsterdam?
Renowned for its picturesque canals, world-famous museums, and vibrant nightlife, Amsterdam is also a great city for shopping. While perhaps not as famous as shopping in Paris , Barcelona , London , or New York , Amsterdam is nonetheless a thriving commercial city offering a wide variety of shops, shopping centers, markets, and vintage boutiques.
In this article, I will introduce you to the best neighborhoods and addresses to shop in Amsterdam, from the bustling shopping streets to the traditional markets and the trendiest fashion boutiques.
The best shopping malls in Amsterdam
If you want to go shopping in Amsterdam, I recommend that you first discover the best malls and department stores. Indeed, they bring together the best brands and fashion boutiques and therefore prevent you from walking too much or getting lost in the alleys of Amsterdam:
MAGNA PLAZA best place to shop in Amsterdam
Located in a historic building from the XNUMXth century, the Magna Plaza Mall was a must-visit place for shopping. It is located just behind the Royal Palace:
There were international fashion brands as well as electronics and beauty stores. The building itself is also an architectural gem with its glass dome and sculptured facade.
But after the Covid period, many shops have closed and there are only a few left like Mango. However, the Magna Plaza is worth the detour at least for the historical monument it represents:
De BIJENKORF – Luxury shopping in Amsterdam
In the most chic district of Amsterdam, with boutiques like Luis Vuitton, Yves Saint Laurent, Zadig&Voltaire or Prada, this is the best place to go for luxury shopping in the historic center of Amsterdam.
Indeed, just like the Galeries Lafayette in Paris or Harrods in London, there are major designer brands, luxury boutiques, fashion, leather goods, cosmetics. Here is the location of this shopping temple in Amsterdam:
KALVERPASSAGE – Mall where to shop in Amsterdam
The Kalverpassage shopping center is located at the very end of the Kalverstraat shopping street in the city center of Amsterdam. Here you will find more than 45 different stores: International fashion brands as well as stores offering electronics and household items. The mall is also known for its restaurants and cafes.
This is Kalverstraat street , which leads from Dam Square to this gallery, ideal for shopping in Amsterdam:
It is the most famous street that brings together the most shops with a wide range of shops for all tastes and budgets.
GELDERLANDPLEIN another option where to shop in Amsterdam
The Gelderlandplein shopping center is located in the Buitenveldert district of Amsterdam. It offers a variety of stores including fashion stores, electronics stores, and supermarkets. The shopping center is also known for its roof terrace which offers a panoramic view of the capital of the Netherlands.
The best shopping areas in Amsterdam
The district of nine streets – 9 Straatjes
Located in the center of Amsterdam, the Nine Streets area is a great place to shop for quirky and unique things. As its name suggests, the district is made up of nine picturesque streets that are full of vintage shops, flea markets, cafes and restaurants. You will find fashion boutiques but also jewelry, handicrafts and souvenirs.
You'll also find traditional Dutch specialty shops here that sell everything from cheese to stroopwafels (a delicious Dutch waffle in syrup).
The Jordan district
The Jordaan district is another popular shopping area in Amsterdam. It is known for its cobblestone streets, historic homes and specialty shops. Here you will find shops selling vintage clothing, vinyl records, artwork and antiques. The Jordaan Flea Market is also famous for its unique finds.
The Pijp district
The Pijp district is a trendy area, known for its restaurants, bars and designer shops. Here you will find shops offering designer clothes as well as beauty products and household items. The main shopping street, the Van Woustraat, is also known for its organic produce shops and specialist supermarkets.
Cheap shopping in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is full of places to shop cheaply, but you'll find the most on Nieuwendijk Street . There are many international low-cost clothing chains there: New Yorker, Hema, H&M, Zara, and others.
You can take this street from Dam Square and join Haarlemmerstraat.
Shopping Amsterdam Outlet
But if you're looking for a bargain, you should check out the outlets in Amsterdam! These stores offer amazing discounts on big name brands and designer labels, so you can shop your way without breaking the bank.
Outlet shopping outlets in Amsterdam are located on the outskirts of the city and are easily accessible by public transport. You will find everything from clothes, shoes, bags and accessories. You will be surprised by the variety of products available and by the incredible prices.
One of my favorite stores in Amsterdam is the Batavia Stad Fashion Outlet . With a selection of over 250 stores, including brands like Nike, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, and Michael Kors, you can easily spend a whole day there shopping on a budget. Indeed, with discounts of up to 70% off the original prices, it's easy to see why it's one of the city's most popular shopping destinations.
The Roermond Designer Outlet is another great option for outlet shopping in Amsterdam. There you'll find some of the world's most famous luxury brands at unbeatable prices. It's the perfect place to treat yourself to something truly special without breaking the bank.
The best markets in Amsterdam
Albert Cuyp Market – The biggest in Amsterdam
Albert Cuyp Market is the largest and most famous market in Amsterdam. It is located in the Pijp district and offers a variety of products including clothing, accessories, food and souvenirs. The market is open every day except Sunday. To get there, you can take lines 4, 16 and 25 of the Tramway.
The Floating Flower Market
The floating flower market (Bloemenmarkt) is a unique market. It is located on the Singel canal in the center of Amsterdam:
You will find a variety of flowers, plants but especially seeds, plants and bulbs. This is the perfect place to bring back souvenirs related to the flower culture of the Netherlands.
Amsterdam's Museum Quarter Market – Museumplein
Just opposite the Rijksmuseum, on Sundays there is a very nice little market. It offers a variety of handicrafts, including vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, and handicrafts.
Vintage shopping and sustainable shopping in Amsterdam
If you are looking to consume responsibly, here are the best addresses:
- Episode – Episode is a chain of vintage fashion stores present in several cities in the Netherlands, including Amsterdam. Here you will find a selection of vintage clothing, shoes and accessories for men and women. The store is known for its selection of unique pieces and its retro vibe.
- Vintage Marbles – Marbles Vintage is a vintage fashion store located in the nine streets district. It offers a selection of vintage clothing, shoes and accessories for men and women. The store is known for its selection of unique pieces and its bohemian vibe.
- Zipper – Zipper is a chain of vintage fashion stores present in several cities in the Netherlands, including Amsterdam. Here you will find a selection of vintage clothing, shoes and accessories for men and women. The store is known for its retro vibe and affordable prices.
- The Impact Shop – The Impact Shop is a sustainable fashion store located in the Jordaan district. It offers a selection of clothing, accessories and beauty products from ethical and sustainable brands. The store is known for its commitment to sustainability and its selection of top quality products.
- Geitenwollenwinkel – Geitenwollenwinkel is a sustainable fashion store located in the Pijp district. It offers a selection of clothing, accessories and beauty products from ethical and sustainable brands. The shop is known for its trendy atmosphere and its selection of quality products.
- MHOOM – MHOOM is a sustainable fashion store located in the nine streets district. It offers a selection of sustainable clothing, accessories and beauty products, as well as eco-friendly household items. The store is known for its commitment to sustainability and its selection of top quality products.
Souvenirs to bring back from Amsterdam
wooden tulips
The wooden tulips are a souvenir to bring back from Amsterdam. You can find them in many souvenir shops or in the markets of the city. They are available in a variety of colors and sizes and are a perfect keepsake to decorate your home.
Dutch Gouda
Gouda cheese is another famous Dutch product that you can bring home as a souvenir from Amsterdam. You can buy it in many specialty cheese shops in Amsterdam. It is available in a variety of flavors and sizes.
wooden clogs
Wooden clogs are a classic souvenir from the Netherlands. You can find them in many souvenir shops in Amsterdam. They are available in a variety of colors and sizes and are a perfect keepsake for friends and family.
Tips for shopping in Amsterdam
- Shops are generally open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 18 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 17 p.m. However, hours may vary by store and neighborhood.
- Bring ID with you when shopping, as some stores may require you to present it before letting you pay with a credit card.
- Prices displayed in stores include Value Added Tax (VAT), so you don't need to worry about paying additional taxes.
- If you're looking for cheap souvenirs, avoid souvenir shops in popular tourist areas. You can find cheaper souvenirs in stores outside the city center.