Amsterdam, with its charming canals, rich history, and vibrant culture, is also a shopper’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs, stylish clothing, or delicious local treats, the city’s diverse shopping scene has something for everyone.
If you’re planning a visit to this beautiful city, here are six of the best shops you should add to your list.
The Cheese Store – Reypenaer
If you’re a cheese lover, then Reypenaer is a must-visit during your time in Amsterdam. The shop offers some of the finest Dutch cheeses, aged to perfection and full of rich flavors.
The cheeses here are handmade and matured in a special warehouse that gives them their unique taste. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and will guide you through the different varieties, even offering tastings so you can find your favorite.
While Reypenaer has several branches, their flagship store on Singel Canal is the one to visit. It also hosts cheese-tasting workshops where you can learn about the aging process and discover how to pair cheese with wines and other foods.
You’ll leave with a new appreciation for Dutch cheese, and perhaps a few wedges to bring home.
De Kaaskamer – A Cheese Lover’s Paradise
If Reypenaer whets your appetite for cheese, then you must also visit De Kaaskamer. This iconic cheese shop is another haven for lovers of all things dairy. Nestled in the Jordaan district, De Kaaskamer boasts a large selection of Dutch cheeses, as well as cheeses from other parts of Europe.
Whether you’re in the mood for Gouda, Edam, or a soft and creamy brie, you’ll find it here.
The knowledgeable staff will gladly help you choose cheeses and suggest accompaniments like crackers, jams, or sausages, making this the perfect place to gather supplies for a picnic by the canals.
De 9 Straatjes – A Collection of Trendy Boutiques
De 9 Straatjes, or The Nine Streets, isn’t a single shop but rather a collection of narrow streets that form one of Amsterdam’s best shopping districts. This area is home to an array of charming boutiques, vintage stores, and specialty shops. It’s a paradise for anyone who loves fashion, art, and one-of-a-kind treasures.
From designer clothing and handmade jewelry to quirky gifts and unique home decor, the Nine Streets are perfect for spending an afternoon browsing through Amsterdam’s finest local shops.
Each store has its own character, making it a fantastic place to find special items you won’t see anywhere else. Plus, the streets themselves are picturesque, offering great views of the canals and historic buildings.
Waterlooplein Flea Market – For Treasure Hunters
If you enjoy hunting for hidden gems and unique vintage finds, Waterlooplein Flea Market is the place to be. This bustling open-air market is one of the oldest and most famous in Amsterdam.
Here, you can find everything from second-hand clothing and antique furniture to rare vinyl records and retro cameras.
With over 300 stalls, the market is a treasure trove for bargain hunters. While the prices are generally affordable, it’s common to haggle for the best deals, so don’t hesitate to negotiate!
Whether you’re searching for a one-of-a-kind souvenir or just want to browse through the eclectic offerings, Waterlooplein offers a fun and lively shopping experience.
Bloemenmarkt – The Floating Flower Market
Amsterdam is famous for its tulips, and there’s no better place to buy them than the Bloemenmarkt. This floating flower market is located along the Singel Canal and is the only one of its kind in the world. The market is a feast for the senses, filled with vibrant colors and the sweet scent of fresh flowers.
Here, you can buy not only fresh bouquets but also flower bulbs and seeds to take home. Many visitors pick up tulip bulbs as souvenirs, which can be planted back home as a reminder of their trip to Amsterdam.
In addition to flowers, the market also offers Dutch-themed gifts and souvenirs, making it a great spot to pick up mementos.
Condomerie – A Quirky, Unique Shop
For something a little more unusual, head to Condomerie, the world’s first condom shop. Located in the Red Light District, this quirky store is dedicated to sexual health and education, but with a fun and creative twist.
Condomerie sells an array of condoms in different shapes, colors, and designs, many of which are handcrafted and can be purchased as novelty souvenirs.
While the store’s lighthearted atmosphere makes it a fun place to visit, Condomerie also takes sexual health seriously. The staff is knowledgeable and ready to answer questions, and the shop promotes safe sex practices. Even if you’re not in the market for condoms, a visit to Condomerie is an interesting and memorable experience that showcases Amsterdam’s open-minded spirit.
Final Thoughts
Amsterdam’s shopping scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. From delicious cheeses and trendy boutiques to vintage markets and quirky stores, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re on the hunt for unique souvenirs, high-quality local products, or just want to experience the best of what the city has to offer, these six shops will give you a taste of Amsterdam’s charm.
So, as you wander through the picturesque streets, take the time to explore these must-visit shopping spots – you won’t be disappointed!
