A cruise on the canal, hours shopping in boutiques and busy streets or soaking up culture and art in museums, it's all possible in Amsterdam. But if you want to do what the locals do, then visit one of Amsterdam’s markets. With many to choose from you’ll discover so much more of the city’s personality. You’re also very likely to find the perfect authentic souvenir to take home. Here is a brief overview of the best and most famous markets in Amsterdam.

The Nieuw Markt is a daily market. Every Saturday this market sells organic produce and products and during the summer months, on Sundays, the market is filled with antiques, household curios and second-hand book stalls. In April, the market holds various festivities which include a neighbourhood breakfast, a traditionally styled carousel and children’s theatre.

Every Friday you’ll find a book market on the Spui. Bookworms can indulge themselves between meters of second-hand classics and antique books. On Sunday, the Spui transforms itself into a market for art.

The beautiful colours and fragrances of the Amsterdam Flower Market on the Singel makes this market really worth a visit. Much like in the old days, when goods were transported on the waterways, tulips, narcissus, geraniums and many other types of flowers

are displayed on floating barges. The market is opened from Monday to Saturday from 09:00 to 17:30 and Sunday from 11:30 to 17:30.

From organic cheeses to leather bags, the Noordermarkt flea market offers something for everyone. This is where the locals do their weekend shopping. On Saturday, the Noordermarkt holds an organic farmers’ market. With much on offer you can sample: nuts, cheese, sausages and fresh juices, but what you’ll mainly get a taste of is, the delightful atmosphere of the Jordaan area.

The Albert Cuypmarkt, is where you’ll discover a typical Amsterdam atmosphere. Vendors trying to convince passers-by to stop for a look and locals chit-chatting at the fish stall. Enjoy a stroll along the whopping two hundred and sixty stalls selling, freshly made stroopwafels, Dutch cheese and fresh flowers. If you dare, try a typical Dutch delicacy, raw herring with onions or play it safe with a few Vietnamese spring rolls. For cheap underwear, socks and other basic items you've come to the right place. The market is situated in the heart of the De Pijp district, one of Amsterdam's liveliest areas, filled with trendy cafés, restaurants, and bars. Be sure not to miss the Badcuyp jazz venue on the corner.

Often the ‘unofficial’ book markets are the best. Here you can find true classics, textbooks or sheet music for a bargain. The book market in the Oudemanhuispoort near the Oudezijdsachterburgwal is one of them. The market is open every day from 9:00 to 17:00, except on Sundays. Times are subject to change, because there is not always someone present, however the market is also partly covered, so if you find yourself faced with a typical rainy day in Holland, both the books and you can stay dry.

The Ten Katemarkt is situated in the residential neighbourhood, Old Amsterdam West. The Ten Katemarkt is a bustling market with over a hundred stalls selling products such as freshly cut flowers, cheese, wine, clothes and fresh produce. Near the market are a number of small cafés, bars and clothing shops.

FaLang translation system by Faboba