BLOEMENMARKT IN AMSTERDAM

Not the only floating flower market in the world, but certainly the largest. In fact the 15 boats which comprise Bloemenmarkt are permanently connected to land although they are positioned on the water. The market was founded in 1862 but has grown significantly in size over the years. This market is definitely for the tourists but it also supplies the majority of the cut flowers required by Amsterdam city centre. The picture on the left shows a view of the Bloemenmarkt stalls from the rear. The range of bulbs, cut flowers and plants is enormous. We reckon the market is approximately 400 metres long. Almost any tulip bulb you can think of is on sale here. Amaryllis, snow drop, daffodil, lily and dozens of other types of bulbs are all for sale.

Walk further down Bloemenmarkt and a huge array cut flowers are available. The scent is delicious. Further down there are live potted plants which the Amsterdam locals buy for their window boxes. As well as flowers and bulbs the inevitable tourist souvenirs make an appearance but the tend to be along the lines of garden gnomes, windmills etc.

If you visit Bloemenmarkt in March or April at the peak season, many of the bulbs for sale have been treated so that they can be planted as soon as you get home and will then flower within six weeks or so. We tried haggling to reduce the prices but without result. Basically, the price you see is likely to be the price you pay.

Now, the practicalities:

Opening Times: Monday to Saturday from 9am to 6pm. There are some stalls open on Sundays but not as many as on other days. Bloemenmarkt is popular with the locals so if you want to avoid the crowds, visit it Monday to Friday.

Location: Singel Canal

Tram Lines: 1, 2, 4, 5, 9, 14, 16

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