Acquaintance with the capital of the Netherlands usually begins with visiting museums and other places of interest, but many tourists are advised not to ignore the flea markets of Amsterdam in order to feel the atmosphere of this city.
Waterlooplein Market
Apart from onlookers and tourists, this market is popular with artists and musicians. Here you can buy a variety of things at very affordable prices: more than 300 tents sell books, military uniforms, film products, electrical goods, bicycles, interior items, toys, porcelain figurines, posters, magazines. This flea market attracts collectors and those interested in art objects - at the Waterlooplein flea market they look for rare things, and young people - for vintage and original clothes, shoes and jewelry.
Market De Looier Art & Antiques
Collectors go here (the market is open from 11:00 to 5:00 pm; closed on Friday) for antiques in the form of jewelry, furniture, paintings, silverware, and used watches at affordable prices. It is worth noting that everyone here can become a seller on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday - for this you need to rent a counter.
Amsterdamse Antiquarische Boekenmarkt
In this market, which unfolds on Fridays, you can get postcards, photographs, as well as rare prints, modern and old books (there are about 30 trade kiosks at the guests' disposal). It's worth noting that this market is great for collectors.
IJ Hallen Market
This flea market is located on the north bank of the River Ey (ferry goes here; departure point is Amsterdam Central Station). IJ Hallen is considered the most unique flea market in Europe - its territory is divided into zones (about 1500 counters), so everyone can prioritize when shopping (here you can buy anything - from antique lamps and beads of the century before last to paintings by contemporary artists) …
Note: the entrance to the market costs 4.5 euros; the market is open on Saturdays and Sundays (once every three weeks).
Shopping in Amsterdam
In memory of the capital of the Netherlands, tourists can buy souvenirs in the form of a small mill (from 4 euros), seeds and plant bulbs (3-5 euros / pack), wooden clogs (from 30 euros, but the “soft version” of Dutch shoes can be purchased for 10 Euro).
An attractive place for shopping is the 9 Streets district (all these small streets are located in the city center, a 5-minute walk from Dam Square): there are shops and second-hand shops where you can find modern and vintage clothes, including rare and little-known brands. And in the nearby cafes, shopaholics will be able to have a bite to eat before making another "run" for new clothes.
