Description: This “floating” market on the Singel began in the 1860’s when nurserymen would sail up the Amstel to sell flowers and plants directly from their boats.
Today, the 15 stalls are permanently moored and sell a huge variety of flowers, bulbs, and tourist trinkets.
Photographing This Landmark:
Visit early in the day! The light is nice and the crowds are light. This is a popular attraction and by late afternoon, it’s difficult to photograph the market without people walking in front of your camera.
Look for colorful displays of mixed flowers! The market is open year-round, so even if you’re visiting Amsterdam in the winter, you’ll be able to capture photos of the colorful flowers that are such a huge part of Dutch heritage.
The tulips! Holland is synonymous with tulips. Every year, millions of tulips transform parts of Holland into colorful fields, but unless you’re visiting in late April or early May, you may never see these flowers growing in the countryside. Thankfully, the Bloemenmarkt makes it easy to take tulip photos no matter what time of the year you visit! Fresh flowers are brought in each day and displayed in colorful bouquets.
Look for interesting details! These buddha palm nuts have a unique texture and provided an interesting close-up shot with a telephoto lens.
Photograph the souvenirs! Pictures are the best way to remember popular souvenirs without filling up your suitcase!
Photograph the back side of the market! Singel is a beautiful canal and including the Bloemenmarkt in your shot will provide a visual element that you won’t find elsewhere.
Enjoy your visit! If you have a chance, return to the market later in the day and wander through when it’s really busy. It’s a fun way to experience the bloemenmarkt and it may yield another photo or two!
Location: Singel between Koningsplein and Muntplein. Open Monday – Saturday.