Shopping in Amsterdam
Originally settled in the 12th century, the simple fishing village called ‘Aemstelredamme,’ or ‘dam in the river Amstel,’ has grown into a world capital and the third-most visited city in Europe. You will certainly want to drink in all of that old charm and visit some of the world’s best museums, but be sure to set aside a little time for some retail therapy as well. The city has several great shopping districts, each with its own character and personality.
The Nine Streets
One of the most popular shopping districts in Amsterdam, the Nine Streets – ‘De Negen Straatjes’ in Dutch – is located in the city’s historic western canal ring. As the name implies, the area comprises nine streets that are simply brimming with art galleries, boutiques, shoe shops, jewellery stores, vintage shops and more. Many smaller Dutch labels have found a home here, and with a wide range of styles, trends and prices, you are sure to find something that strikes your fancy as you browse the establishments lining the charming 17th-century streets. Be sure to take a break to enjoy a coffee, beer or delicious slice of apple pie at one of the many cafés or pubs.
The Haarlemmerdijk
This long street stretches from east to west towards Amsterdam Central Station. A wide array of specialty shops and trendy boutiques lines the sidewalks, and you can shop independent labels, shoes, kitchen gadgets, second hand clothing, specialty foods, Dutch collectibles and much more. Take a short break at one of the many charming cafés or pubs, or rest your feet as you watch a film at The Movies, Amsterdam’s oldest cinema.
The Spiegelkwartier
After the Rijksmuseum was built in 1900, the Spiegelkwartier emerged as Amsterdam’s centre for antiques and art. Now home to more than 70 specialty shops, the district – whose name translates to ‘Mirror Quarter’ – is the place to go if you are looking for ceramics, glass, jewellery, antiques, furniture, art, sculpture, porcelain, Delftware or something a bit more esoteric – like old scientific instruments, music boxes, Asian collectibles or unique chandeliers. The Spiegelkwartier is located across from the Rijksmuseum and is close to several other museums, including the Allard Pierson Museum and FOAM.
P.C. Hooftstraat
The P.C. Hooftstraat arose at the end of the 19th century, at the same time as the construction of the Vondelpark. In the early days hardly any luxury stores were situated here. When the seventies arrived the urge for a luxury shopping street increased, partly due to the impoverishment of the Kalverstraat. Many luxury shops moved from the Kalverstraat to the P.C. Hooftstraat and this street transformed from an ordinary neighbourhood into a chic shopping street. Nowadays the famous luxury shopping street is home to exclusive national and international fashion brands.
De Pijp
De Pijp is one of the most cosmopolitan and bohemian areas of Amsterdam. With an impressive range of top eateries, concept stores, vintage shops and unique boutiques it offers a great shopping destination away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Through these unique shops and boutiques De Pijp captures the essence of Amsterdam’s creative spirit. Also, this area is bursting with diverse restaurants and bars, so be sure you take some time to explore the charming hotspots.
