Amsterdam · Flower market
Bloemenmarkt: Amsterdam's Floating Flower Market
Buckets of tulips in every colour, racks of bulbs and the smell of fresh flowers on the Singel canal — the Bloemenmarkt has been selling blooms here since 1862. Here's its story, what to buy and how to visit.
By the AllTrips Editorial Team ·
Bloemenmarkt at a glance
Area: Singel, between Muntplein and Koningsplein. Allow: 30–45 minutes. Entry: free — open-air market. Best time: weekday mornings; spring for tulips. Nearby: the Begijnhof, the Munttoren and the canal belt.
Why it is famous
The Bloemenmarkt began in 1862, when flower sellers moored their barges along the Singel and sold blooms straight from the water. The market supplied Amsterdam's homes and shops with fresh flowers every day, and the barges became one of the city's most photographed sights.
Today the stalls stand on permanent houseboats and pontoons along the canal bank, so the "floating market" no longer truly floats — but the name, and the tradition, survive. It remains the only flower market of its kind in the world and one of the most colourful corners of the city centre, whatever the season.
What to see and buy
- Fresh flowers — tulips in spring, peonies in early summer, dahlias in autumn, amaryllis at Christmas, all sold by the bunch.
- Tulip bulbs — the market's signature souvenir; look for certified pre-packed bulbs with a customs stamp if you're taking them abroad.
- Seeds and plants — racks of flower seeds, bonsai trees and houseplants.
- Dutch souvenirs — wooden tulips, clogs, Delft-blue ceramics and cheese to take home.
- The Singel itself — the market sits on one of the oldest canals in the city, with the Munttoren at its southern end.
Getting there
The market stretches along the Singel between Muntplein and Koningsplein in the city centre. Trams 2 and 12 stop at Koningsplein and Muntplein, and it is about five minutes on foot from the Begijnhof and ten from Dam Square.
Practical tips
- Come early in the morning for the freshest flowers and the fewest crowds.
- Taking bulbs abroad? Buy only certified pre-packed bulbs with a customs stamp — uncertified bulbs can be confiscated.
- Prices vary between stalls, so walk the full length of the market before buying.
- Combine it with the Begijnhof, five minutes away, and a walk along the canal belt.
- See every stop on our Amsterdam attractions map.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Bloemenmarkt free to visit?
Yes. The Bloemenmarkt is an open-air street market and completely free to browse. You only pay for whatever flowers, bulbs or souvenirs you decide to buy.
Is the Bloemenmarkt really floating?
Partly. The market began in 1862 with flower sellers moored on barges on the Singel canal. Today the stalls stand on permanent houseboats and pontoons along the canal bank, so the 'floating market' name survives even though the stalls no longer bob on the water.
Can I take tulip bulbs home from the Bloemenmarkt?
It depends on where you live. Bulbs for the US, Canada and most of Europe need a phytosanitary certificate — look for the certified pre-packed bulbs with a customs stamp, which reputable stalls sell for export. Uncertified bulbs may be confiscated at customs. Check your country's import rules before buying.
When is the best time to visit the Bloemenmarkt?
The market is open year-round, Monday to Saturday. Spring (March to May) brings the biggest tulip displays, while December is the time for Christmas trees and amaryllis. Come early in the morning for the freshest flowers and fewer crowds.
How do I get to the Bloemenmarkt?
The market stretches along the Singel between Muntplein and Koningsplein in the city centre. Trams 2 and 12 stop at Koningsplein and Muntplein, and it is about five minutes on foot from the Begijnhof and ten from Dam Square.