Best Shopping in Amsterdam

The Magna Plaza, located across the street from the Royal Palace and Dam Square, is absolutely stunning. That same feeling will carry over as you step inside. The archways add an extra element of luxury. The building, formerly the Amsterdam post office, is now home to three floors of shopping. Whatever you're looking for, Magna Plaza has a little bit of everything: jewelry, clothing, souvenirs, skin care and cosmetics. You can even purchase Dutch cheese to take home. When you cannot shop anymore, head to Grand Café Ovidius or The Views. Rejuvenate yourself with a refreshing beverage and light snack. After, you can always continue shopping.

De Bijenkorf, a chain of high-end department stores, is definitely a Dutch favorite. The store in Amsterdam, which opened in 1870, was the first of De Bijenkorf's stores. The majestic building towers over Dam Square, ready to welcome shoppers. The name literally translates to the "beehive," which is fitting because the store is always buzzing. Shoppers can browse a wide range of brands from Gucci and Bjorn Borg to Diesel and Ralph Lauren. Ladies, if you're looking for a new pair of skinny jeans or dyed denims, drop by the Premium Denim Department. You can also shop for shoes, household items, accessories and beauty products. De Bijenkorf is a one-stop shop.

Waterloopleinmarkt is one of Amsterdam's many open-air markets. This market, located on Waterlooplein, exudes an energetic atmosphere, brimming with vendors who offer an assortment of items, everything from bicycles and furniture to second-hand clothes, art, books, electronics, quirky knick-knacks and more. With such a variety, Waterloopleinmarkt provides the perfect opportunity to sift through the many objects for sale. Take your time and wander up and down the aisles. Keep your eyes peeled as you browse. Not only is the market packed with unique finds, it is also known for its great bargains. After, replenish your fluids at one of the cafes nearby. Be aware the market is open every day except Sunday.

Spend the day hunting for one-of-a-kind treasures in the Spiegelkwartier. If you're an antique aficionado or art lover, you will feel right at home. The area, whose name literally translates to "Mirror Quarter" in English, is home to more than 70 specialty shops. From furniture and chandeliers to Oriental art, old scientific instruments, music boxes and Delftware, one of the many dealers is sure to have what you are looking for. The Spiegelkwartier is conveniently located across from the Rijksmuseum and is close to numerous other museums, such as the Allard Pierson Museum and FOAM. When you need to take a load off and rest your feet, there are also numerous cafes and restaurants nearby.

The Kalverstraat is a busy shopping street where you can easily spend a whole day. The street, which is lined with numerous stores such as V&D, Zara, H&M, Nike, Rituals and Lush, starts at Dam Square and winds its way to Muntplein. From clothing to shoes and toys to books, you'll find just about everything. The street is even home to one of Amsterdam's malls, the Kalvertoren. The Kalverstraat caters to every style and budget, both men and women. Even if you just want to do some window-shopping or people watch, the Kalverstraat promises a fun day out. To top off the entire experience, the Kalverstraat is said to be over 600 years old. You'll be strolling through a piece of history.

The Maison de Bonneterie's eye-catching, elegant exterior doesn't even begin to describe the luxury inside. The family-owned center is a complete shopping experience filled with fine fashion, home to brands such as G-Star, Marc Jacobs, Hugo Boss, Scotch & Soda and Ralph Lauren. Book a personal shopper and shop till you drop. On the second level, the center offers a hair salon and spa, as well. After all that shopping, treat your feet to a pedicure. Spend a day at Maison de Bonneterie; you'll be living the good life. Numerous restaurants are located nearby, so you'll always have a place to grab a bite to eat when you're absolutely famished.

Break away from the norm and head to the Haarlemmerstraat and Haarlemmerdijk for an enjoyable and quirky shopping experience. You'll find a wide array of independent boutiques and specialty shops. From environment-minded fashion to kitchen gadgets and everything in between, this shopping area has a little something for everyone. When you're worn out (let's face it, there are a lot of fascinating stores to browse) and need to rejuvenate, there are plenty of hip but cost-effective restaurants and cafes in the area to have a drink or grab a bite to eat. End a successful day of shopping at the oldest cinema in Amsterdam, "The Movies." After a full but fun day, you're guaranteed to walk away happy and satisfied.

The PC Hooftstraat is one shopping street in Amsterdam that fashionistas will certainly not want to miss. Whether you're searching for a new outfit or just want to window shop, you must take a stroll down this internationally renowned street and soak in the stylish grandeur. The PC Hooftstraat is the most expensive shopping street in the Netherlands. You'll find top brands, such as Lacoste, Mulberry, Gucci, Chanel, Hugo Boss, Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren, Hermes and Tiffany & Co. The Museum Quarter is located nearby, so if you need a break, you are close to top Amsterdam attractions such as the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh museum. You'll also find delicious restaurants and cafes in the area.

The Albert Cuypmarkt is one of the largest open-air markets in Europe and provides numerous shopping and food-tasting opportunities. This vibrant, colorful market is a destination of its own. The market is home to numerous vendors who offer goods such as clothes, accessories and flowers. Many of the vendors even sell fresh produce, such seafood, cheese and vegetables. Make sure to browse all the stalls. You'll find great bargains. Throughout the day, don't forget to taste international treats. Try typical Dutch foods, such as kroketten, stroopwafels, cheese and fresh herring. These foods make for a tasty mid-morning snack.

The Negen Straatjes, which translates to "Nine Little Streets" in English, is a quaint shopping area situated in the heart of Amsterdam. This quiet area is a boutique lover's haven. Just as the name implies, the Negen Straatjes is comprised of nine little streets: Reestraat, Hartenstraat, Gasthuismolensteeg, Berenstraat, Wolvenstraat, Oude Spiegelstraat, Runstraat, Huidenstraat and Wijde Heisteeg. The Singel forms the border to the East, while the Prinsengracht marks the western most point. From jewelry stores to art galleries and shoe shops to fashion boutiques, the Negen Straatjes has it all. With such variety, you're sure to locate at least a few great finds. Make sure to take a break and enjoy a cup of coffee, a cold beer or delicious slice of apple pie at one of the cute cafes or pubs.