We don’t list malls!
Shopping in Amsterdam is all about bringing out the wanderlust spirit in full swing. Despite numerous malls in the city, we loved the authenticity of 9 streets, or the fascinating history behind Waterloopleinmarkt. Not to mention, new spaces like De Hallen is a great way for artists to showcase their creativity to crowds of traveling shoppers. Enjoy the hidden gems and happy browsing!
9 streets in Jordaan – cool local boutiques
A former area for the working class, 9 Streets is now stylish, trendy. Essentially, a burst of charisma. Local boutiques, galleries, beloved cafés/shops like Pluk have adoringly embroidered the area between Singel, Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht with immense color and personality in midst of twisty canals. If you’re looking from independent labels, popular Dutch brands, rare finds, vintage boutiques, this is where you’ll find them all!
Pijp Neighborhood – expat hub & pop-ups
Here’s the epicenter of expats in Amsterdam. De Pijp is an off-the-beaten-path gem of pop-up shops, adorable restaurants, and art galleries. With Van Gogh Museum close in proximity, this ‘hood also boasts the alluring Albert Cuyp. Hailed as one of the most beautiful street markets in the city, Albert Cuyp originated in 1905 and is open all year round. This Latin Quarter is where many expats call home today, they love to enjoy outside patios, and organic cafés welcome locals and travelers around every corner. Some exceptional boutiques include: Archive Store (young collector items), Anna Nina (concept store), All the Luck in the World (home décor)…and many more. While you lose yourself in De Pijp, you’ll also encounter students and bohemian free spirits.
Waterlooplein Market – oldest flea market
At Waterloopleinmarkt, there’s no shortage of stalls selling anything from food, clothing, to random stuff for your home. Open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (closed on Sundays,) this outdoor bazaar welcomes thrifty lovers with 300 vendors. This may be the oldest market in Amsterdam, it’s also a favorite among local youths hunting for old military uniforms, cool T-shirts, graffiti gear, and tons of curiosities. You’ve gotta have time to sift through in order to land on something marvelous. Typical market etiquette!
De Hallen – culture market & food hall
Highly popular spot, De Hallen is a cinema, art house, and a boutique hotel. Originally an ancient tram depot has been transformed into a craft market and a creative space for artisans to showcase their collections of exquisite products. Film geeks will love Filmhallen, where nine screening rooms take place. One of them – the Parisian Room – is home to one of the oldest theaters in Amsterdam and features an old-school art deco design. Attached to it is a food hall, where you can try various cultural cuisines, street food, local beers or opt for an outstanding gin bar.
P.C. Hooftstraat Street – luxury international brands
Every city has one! That ONE street where you can find international luxury brands. There’s Rue Saint-Honoré in Paris, and then there’s P.C. Hooftstraat in Amsterdam. This is where Chanel, Cartier, Tiffany’s…and every other high-end boutiques are located. Named after Pieter Cornelizoon Hooft – a Dutch historian, poet, and playwright during the 17th century – the street runs from Stadhouderskade to the Vondelpark. If you’re staying somewhere near Van Gogh Museum, then you’ll pass by P.C. Hooftstraat during your stroll towards central canals everyday.
