
Where to shop in Amsterdam
When it comes to big brands and high street names, you'll find all the usual suspects in Amsterdam – often in beautiful surroundings.
But did you know the city has a thriving ethical shopping scene?
Whether you love hunting down designer labels, picking up handmade homeware or seeking out eco-friendly shops, grab your canvas tote and make a break for Amsterdam.
Shopping in Amsterdam
From artisan markets and bijou boutiques to glittering department stores and multi-storey malls, shopping opportunities abound in Amsterdam. Not sure where to start? Take a look at a few of our favourites…
Bringing together quirky pieces and innovative products by over 90 artists and designers, The Maker Store is a must-see indoor market.
Housed in a lovingly restored Victorian tram shed, it's light, bright and packed with everything from art and homeware to clothing, jewellery and wooden toys.
Just make sure you set aside plenty of time to explore every creative nook and cranny, factoring in a refuel at the food court next door.
If you're after the grande dame of Amsterdam shops, make a beeline for De Bijenkorf at number one Dam Square.
This landmark emporium – whose name means 'the beehive' – is shopping heaven for designer label-lovers.
Stop by to stock up on all the big names in fashion, homeware and beauty, as well as bits for the kids and a bite to eat at the stylish in-store restaurant.
De Negen Straatjes are nine narrow streets in central Amsterdam, dotted with everything from art galleries and boutiques to pavement cafés dishing up freshly made, sugar-dusted poffertjes. Perfect for a pancake-y power boost and a spot of people-watching.
A short stroll across a canal, you'll find the imposing Magna Plaza. It's worth visiting for the architecture alone, but step inside to browse three floors of local and international brands, along with – what else? – a luxury Dutch cheese shop.
Ethical and zero-waste shops in Amsterdam
It’s no surprise that this liberal city is a step ahead when it comes to eco-friendly and ethical shopping. Dutch Sustainable Fashion Week is held annually, manufacturer-monitoring NGO Made-By has inspired ethical consumption and there's even a clothes shop in Amsterdam that operates a borrowing ‘library’. If you’re just passing through, here’s our pick of the city’s top eco-friendly and zero-waste shops.
This innovative space aims to show off hemp’s lean, green versatility. The eco-friendly fibre has been worked into strokably soft separates, lotions and potions, furnishings, jewellery, artworks, insect-repellent and more.
The bright-white, light-flooded space they’re showcased in is a tranquil spot to stay a while. Stop at the on-site café for plant-based teas, smoothies and cakes.
From skincare and fragrance to clothes, bags and jewellery, Six & Sons is a treasure trove of beautiful products from a range of sustainable brands.
Their carefully curated list of partners each has a story to tell, whether they strive to use recycled materials, source organic fabric, donate to charity or come up with innovative manufacturing processes. Pop in for a peek.
With an ever-changing line-up of sustainable, ethically sourced clothing, accessories and beauty products, Verse is a must for dedicated followers of eco-friendly fashion.
Drop by the boutique to browse organic cotton hoodies and jeans, vegan bags, cruelty-free, non-toxic make-up and more, by designers committed to being earth-kind.
As well as all the bulk-buy organic wholefoods you could ever possibly need, this friendly spot has a deli counter for takeaway treats.
Pick up hot and cold plant-based dishes, along with delicious smoothies – all made daily using the freshest ingredients, and wrapped up in minimal, environmentally friendly packaging.
Their aim: to offer 'food your granny would make if she was vegan'. Yum.
If you're in the market for organic goodies and zero-waste staples, this place more than lives up to its name.
Perched on the outskirts of bustling Noordermarkt, Delicious Food champions produce from independent farmers and suppliers, and whips up all manner of incredible baked marvels.
Grab a slice of freshly baked apple pie, and pick up some homemade spread, luxury muesli or organic wine to take home. We challenge you not to buy everything in sight.
For an old-school zero-waste shopping trip, head to one of Amsterdam's markets.
Our favourite is Noordermarkt, with its colourful stalls packed with fruit, veg, herbs, honey, flowers and freshly baked pastries and bread.
Bring your own containers and join the crowd of locals on a Saturday morning, browsing to your heart's content before picking up picnic bits and foodie souvenirs.