The Bloemenmarkt lines the Singel between the Koningsplein and the Muntplein, in the centre of Amsterdam. It has stood here since 1862 and stands out for its fixed stalls set on the water, like the boats that once brought in the goods. It is often described as the only floating flower market in the world. Today, many of the stalls sell tulip bulbs, seeds and souvenirs rather than cut flowers. Entry is free and the walk is short: the stalls run from one square to the other, facing the shops on the other side of the street.
Highlights
The greenhouses on the Singel
From the street, the stalls look like ordinary shops. To see that they sit on the water, look at them from the opposite bank of the Singel: their glass greenhouses lined up right at the canal's edge are the market's best-known image.
Tulip bulbs
Packets of bulbs, seeds and young plants fill most of the stalls. Bulbs are planted in autumn to flower in spring. If you are travelling home outside the European Union, check your country's import rules before buying: some require a phytosanitary certificate.
Towards the Munttoren
Walking east along the market, you have the Munttoren straight ahead. The tower marks the Muntplein, at the other end of the market, and is a good landmark for carrying on to the Rokin or Rembrandtplein.
Infos pratiques
Tips
Not all stalls keep the same hours, so it is best to come between 10am and 5pm. For bulbs, compare the packets and read the variety, colour and flowering period shown. The walkway in front of the stalls is narrow: at busy times, walk rather than cycle.
How to get there
From Amsterdam Centraal, allow 20 to 25 minutes on foot. Trams 2 and 24 stop at Koningsplein, at the western end of the market; trams 4 and 14 stop at Rokin, and metro line 52 serves Rokin station, a few minutes' walk from the Muntplein. Singel, between the Koningsplein and the Muntplein, 1017 AZ Amsterdam.
Opening hours
Nearby
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