The Waterlooplein Market is one of the oldest flea markets in both Amsterdam and the Netherlands, operating since 1885. This long-running outdoor bazaar is located in Amsterdam’s city centre, near the Rembrandt House Museum. The market draws both visitors and locals with its eclectic mix of vendors and street food, with people typically spending up to an hour exploring the market’s wares.

The Waterlooplein Market’s historic roots are based in what was once the Jewish Waterloo Market, which was disbanded due to intense Jewish persecution in 1941. After the war, the market once again became a lively hub within the community in the 1950s. Though the market’s location has shifted at various points during its history, it is now once again held in its traditional location in the heart of Amsterdam.

Waterlooplein Market in Amsterdam - one of the highlights of 10 Best Markets in Amsterdam (Read all about Amsterdam here)

foto door Txllxt TxllxT (CC BY-SA 4.0) bewerkt

Highlights of the Waterlooplein Market

At the Waterlooplein Market, you can expect to find over 300 different vendors offering a variety of goods. Antique booths offer a range of second-hand treasures from coins and postcards to jewellery, collectibles and furniture. Used and restored bicycles are available, as well as parts and bicycle repairs. A wide variety of clothes and accessories are offered, from vintage shoe shops to retro clothing, handbags, and hats. Music lovers will find everything from second-hand instruments to vintage albums, records, memorabilia and sheet music.

Additional offerings at the Waterlooplein Market range from collections of gemstones and jewellery to artwork and crafts, leather goods, and gift items. Many world trade vendors provide a selection of products from various other parts of the globe, from international artwork and textiles to handcrafted baskets, clothing and jewellery.

foto door Txllxt TxllxT (CC BY-SA 4.0) bewerkt

Good to know when visiting the Waterlooplein Market

You’ll also find a range of food and drink vendors at the Waterlooplein Market, offering both regional specialties and international flavours. Both ready-made meals and take-home treats are available, as well as fresh flowers and produce.

The Waterlooplein Market operates 6 days a week, rain or shine, closing only on Sundays. A dedicated metro stop serves the market at Waterlooplein, but it is also easily reached on foot, only a 15-minute walk from Amsterdam Square. Locals recommend bringing a reusable tote to carry your purchases in and suggest that many vendors are open to a bit of good-natured haggling over prices.

foto door Txllxt TxllxT (CC BY-SA 4.0) bewerkt

Waterlooplein Market in Amsterdam

Locatie: Waterlooplein 2, 1011 NZ Amsterdam, Netherlands

Openingstijden: Monday—Saturday from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm (closed on Sundays)

Telefoonnummer: +3 120-624-1111