Shopping in Amsterdam
From flea markets to books markets, Amsterdam has it all. Dutch designers craft some of the world’s best products, from vintage home items to fashionable clothes. Some of the most common souvenirs purchased in Amsterdam are the typical traditional items: wooden clogs, tulips and Dutch cheese. The best spot for this kind of thing is Dam Square, where you will find as much Dutch merchandise as you could ever wish for in the souvenir shops.
If you are looking to make larger, practical purchases in Amsterdam, why not buy a bike? After all, it is how pretty much everyone gets around this vibrant city. You’ll fit right in as you zip up and down the narrow, elegant streets. If you are really looking to spend, you might consider purchasing a boat or even a house boat in Amsterdam. Now there’s a truly local experience!
The popular district of Jordaan is a great place to make purchases in Amsterdam. Well known among students and artists for its galleries, markets, boutiques, bars and pubs, it’s an interesting section of the city with a lot of character. Besides visiting the much-frequented Amsterdam Tulip Museum, which celebrates the national flower of the Netherlands, this area is ideal for making unique purchases.
Jordaan has a history of being considered the poor side of town during a time when the city’s immigrants suffered social unrest. Today, small, inviting cafés and bakeries line its narrow side streets. It is thriving with life and both budget eateries and high-end restaurants can be found and enjoyed here. You'll surely be peckish after all those purchases in Amsterdam!