Bloemenmarkt

The Basics

With canal houses as a backdrop, this market is beautiful, colorful, and incredibly fragrant. Vendors sell flower bulbs for cultivation, as well as freshly cut flowers and bouquets. The country’s famous tulips and geraniums are most prevalent, but indoor plants and greenery are also for sale. Visited by locals as well as tourists, the market is a stop on many Amsterdam sightseeing tours, with visitors arriving on foot and by boat.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Bloemenmarkt is a must-visit for those looking for a slice of Dutch culture and history.

• Bulbs make a great gift to take home, but make sure they have a customs-cleared stamp.

• Other souvenirs for sale include clogs, wooden tulips, and cheese.

How to Get There

Bloemenmarkt is located in the city center, on the Singel Canal. Tram lines 1, 2, and 5 stop at the Koningsplein in front of the market. Nearby in the Spui square, you will find the stop for tram lines 4, 9, 14, and 16. The nearest metro station is Waterlooplein, a 10-minute walk away.

When to Get There

The market is open daily, from 9am to 5:30pm Monday through Saturday, and 11am to 5:30pm on Sunday. One of the best times of year to visit is in December when the vendors sell Christmas trees alongside the rest of their wares. Early spring is the best time for tulips.

Nearby Attractions

The Bloemenmarkt is within easy walking distance of attractions such as the Royal Palace and National Monument. In Rembrandt Square, a five-minute walk away, Bruincafé ‘t Centrum is a historic café where locals enjoy big breakfasts, served until 3pm.

Ways to explore

With Amsterdam’s distinctive canalside houses as a backdrop, the colorful and incredibly fragrant market is a must-see sight in Amsterdam. Bloemenmarkt is a staple of Amsterdam walking and bike tours, which typically combine it with nearby attractions such as the Jordaan neighborhood and the quaint Herengracht canal. All manner of canal cruises sail past it, with options ranging from boats with open bars, unlimited pizza, or cheese platters.

Accessibility

While there may be some steps leading to certain shops and stalls, Bloemenmarkt is mostly accessible with ramps between levels.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Bring a recyclable tote bag if you plan to buy some souvenirs.

What to wear

Bloemenmarkt is one of Amsterdam’s most colorful attractions, so dress bright and beautiful for great photos among the flowers.

Not allowed

Smoking, antisocial behavior, taking photos without consent

Amenities

Souvenirs, food and drink kiosks

Address

Bloemenmarkt is located on the Singel Canal, which is part of Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed Canal Ring. Many hop-on, hop-off canal cruises stop for you to disembark at the famous market.

Driving

Leave the car at home if you’re visiting Bloemenmarkt, as most of Amsterdam’s historical center is pedestrianized and the closest parking lot is more than a 15-minute walk away. Bikes are the best way of getting around Europe’s cycling capital

Public transportation

Tram lines 1, 2, and 5 stop at the Koningsplein in front of the market. Nearby in the Spui square, you will find the stop for tram lines 4, 9, 14, and 16. The nearest metro station is Waterlooplein, a 10-minute walk away.

Best times to visit

Arrive as soon as the market opens around 9am for the pick of the crop and the fewest crowds.

Best days to visit

The market runs daily. From Monday to Saturday, opening hours are typically 9am to 5.30pm, while it opens two hours later at 11am on Sunday.

Best months to visit

One of the best times of year to visit is in December, when vendors sell Christmas trees alongside their wares.

Special events

Early spring (March–May) is the best time for tulips, which also coincides with the seasonal opening of Keukenhof Gardens, when seven million bulbs bloom.