Amsterdam has that charming and vibrant atmosphere that we like so much, perhaps for its tree-lined canals, the sound of thousands bikes on the pavement, its old houses, squares, terraces, museums.
Each time you visit this Dutch city you will be intoxicated with that sense of modernity and respect for the old environment, the lively bars, this fantastic mixture of places where you can eat, shop, read or work at the same time. The combination of cultures and… shops.
These very romantic tiny shops full of charm, some vintage and others full of innovative design. And the air of freedom and that you can find anything you are looking for. We invite you to go shopping in Amsterdam and discover the commercial streets where to surely find something to take home.
Diamonds, your best friends
There is no need to spend a lot of money to find your diamond. However, if these gemstones are not your goal, visiting the Amsterdam Diamond Center enables you to watch stunning pieces and learn the steps to do the carving. On Kokin street, near Dam Square, there is a historical headquarters of one of the main diamond cutters of the world, Gassan, with over 400 years of history and available for tours.
Coster is another diamond factory in the city that you can visit, which is very close to the renovated Rijksmuseum in Paulus Potterstraat.
Endless glamour
Walk through Leidseplein, also near Rijksmuseum and to Hard Rock Café. This area concentrates on the most exclusive international shops: Armani, Chanel, Bulgari, Tom Ford, Louis Vuitton and more.
You will also see many small vintage fashion shops and bars with a bohemian style, especially on Van Baerlestraat street, near Stedelijk Museum.
Department stores
If you are not lucky with the weather or prefer to buy in a store or mall, we suggest to write down these addresses:
– De Bijenkorf (Dam 1): A visit that cannot be put off. Because it is right there on Dam Square, because it gathers exclusive brands and because there everything is beautiful… although expensive.
– Magna Plaza (Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 182): It occupies a former post office building that has been declared UNESCO World Heritage. It is very close to Dam Square.
– Maison De Bonneterie (Rokin 140): Another beautiful old building that houses luxurious brands. You can easily get there walking down the pedestrian Rokin street.
And if you want a modern mall with all the brands and shops that you are seeking, go to De Kalvertoren (Kalvertoren 220A).
Fashion
Leidsestraat, Kalverstraat and Nieuwendijk. The three most commercial sectors of Amsterdam where you will find all kinds of shops: from clothing brands known worldwide to small shops specialized in a particular kind of fashion. Lots of vintage and romantic clothing, but also classy, punk, goth or futuristic designers and trends.
Furthermore in the area of the ‘Red Light District‘ or De Wallen you will find specialized shops (yes, we could be meaning some sexy lingerie!) In addition, you can find decoration and alternative clothing shops.
Photos: albariltur, Jim Nix, brian_ytsu, manto1407, Ferdi de gier and Hans Bouman.
