Flower Market: reviews and practical tips

Flower Market at a Glance

Set along the canal surrounding the historic center of Amsterdam, Bloemenmarkt is a heavily touristed floating flower market that surprises visitors with vibrant colors and thousands of bulbs sold individually at prices well below what you would pay back home. Alongside the famous tulips that serve as the country symbol, you will find a seasonal rotation of daffodils, snowdrops, hyacinths, carnations, peonies, violets, orchids, and many other specimens.

While stalls were moored along the Amstel river back in the 19th century, florists now operate from fixed barges where miniature greenhouses continuously release delicate floral scents. Ideally positioned between the Muntplein (Mint Square) and the Koningsplein (Royal Square) along the city main thoroughfare, Bloemenmarkt is iconic without necessarily being a mandatory stop, offering a pleasant stroll right through the Dutch capital. As a genuine local institution, it has evolved its offerings over time and now stocks more affordable souvenirs than actual plants.

Since not every traveler gets to experience the spring events at the Keukenhof gardens, located about twenty minutes from Schiphol airport or the Flevoland festival less than an hour by car from the capital, the Flower Market serves as a convenient alternative while showcasing Dutch expertise in horticulture and floral design.

If you prefer a more authentic market atmosphere, head over to the Albert Cuypmarkt in the Pijp neighborhood just south of the center. There you will find fresh cut flowers alongside local specialties like pickled herring and cheeses in every color.