Stores
Stores
Shopping in Amsterdam is rarely about one big mall or an afternoon all-in-one. It works better here if you know what you're looking for - or rather if you pick a neighborhood and see what you come across. From independent boutiques to specialty stores and well-known shopping districts, this page will help you choose where to go.
Amsterdam Now Shops
Shopping streets that always work
Some streets are regular addresses if you want targeted shopping. The Nine Streets for small boutiques and concept stores. The Utrechtsestraat for stores with their own signature. The P.C. Hooftstraat if you're looking for luxury or just want to check out what's going on.
These are not places where you do everything at once, but they are streets where you rarely leave empty-handed when you arrive focused.
Amsterdam Now Neighborhoods
Concept stores and independent boutiques
Amsterdam is strong in stores that are not on every corner. Concept stores where clothing, design and lifestyle intermingle. Boutiques where the owner is often on the floor himself. These are addresses where you can find something that doesn't hang massively in the streets.
Those who prefer to buy smaller and more specific are better off here than in the big chains.
Design, interiors and books
For design and interior design, you don't have to leave town. From minimalist home furnishing stores to places where vintage and new mix. Bookstores also hold their own here - not just the big names, but specialty stores where you can still get advice.
If you want to update your home or are just looking for inspiration, these are the categories where you should start.
Food stores and specialty stores
You don't buy everything in a supermarket. Amsterdam has plenty of specialty stores where product and knowledge come together: wine stores, cheese stores, delis and patisseries that go beyond the standard.
These are stores you go to if you need something specific - or if you just want to eat better.
Markets and temporary places
In addition to permanent stores, there are markets that define the street scene. The Albert Cuyp as a classic, but also smaller neighborhood markets and pop-ups that pop up temporarily. Here you buy differently: faster, more direct, often with some negotiation or a chat.
How best to shop here
Shopping in Amsterdam works best if you pick a neighborhood and keep it compact. Combine a shopping spree with coffee or lunch, walk around and leave room to step inside somewhere without a plan. The city is uncluttered enough to move from street to street without becoming a project.
This category brings together shopping streets, boutiques, design, specialty stores and markets. From here you click through to what you're looking for - whether you need something specific or just want to look around.
Amsterdam Now Neighborhoods