Shopping in Amsterdam

Retail Chains in Europe

One of the most well-known and affordable chains in Europe is Primark. Originally an English store, it quickly expanded across many European countries and became a chain of giant department stores known for their low-to-medium prices. Today, you can find Primark branches in the UK, Ireland, Germany, Austria, France, Spain, Portugal, Belgium, the Netherlands, and more.
The stores are usually large and very popular (as evidenced by the long queues at the checkouts...), spanning several floors with each floor dedicated to a different department: women, men, children, homeware, cosmetics, and more.

Another large fashion chain in Europe is C&A, which was founded in the Netherlands in 1841. Today, the chain has more than 1,500 stores across Europe: Germany, Belgium, Spain, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Turkey, Italy, Romania, Croatia, Denmark, and many more. About 200 branches are dedicated exclusively to children, but most branches offer fashion, clothing, and accessories for the entire family: women, men, boys, and girls.

A "smaller" chain (though everything is relative...) is the successful and classic brand Promod. The chain was founded in France in the 1970s, originally as a boutique catering to women. The boutique grew into a women's and men's clothing chain in France and expanded from there to all of Europe. Today, across 50 countries in and outside Europe, you will find more than 1,060 stores: France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Spain, Romania, and even China, the USA, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates. The stores are ideal primarily for those looking for quality clothing at reasonable prices.

Another chain has positioned itself as ideal for young adults, students, and fans of the smart-casual look. The brand A.P.C was founded in the late 1980s and is now spread across many countries in Europe such as the Netherlands, Portugal, France, Germany, Spain, and even opened a branch in Tel Aviv. As mentioned, the store is very popular among students worldwide and mainly offers innovative casual wear.

♦ Recommended Accommodation in Amsterdam:

NH Amsterdam Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky - A luxurious 5-star hotel in the heart of Amsterdam, at the edge of Dam Square and opposite the Royal Palace. The hotel is housed in a 19th-century building and offers rooms with unique features alongside modern and indulgent amenities. The hotel features an impressive winter garden where breakfast is served.

Hotel Estheréa - A 4-star hotel situated along the Singel canal in central Amsterdam, just 300 meters from Dam Square. Some rooms feature canal views. An ideal location for shopping and brand lovers.

Hotel Sebastians - A 3-star boutique hotel located less than a 10-minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station and about a 10-minute walk from the Anne Frank House. The hotel offers bicycle rental services and features air-conditioned rooms designed for 2-4 guests.

Dutch Masters Short Stay Apartments - An aparthotel offering 11 luxurious and exquisitely equipped apartments, located next to the Keizersgracht canal in a central location. Each apartment is uniquely decorated with motifs related to a different famous Dutch artist. Great location for shopping. Popular nearby brands: H&M, Nike, Apple. The apartments come in various sizes and are suitable for 2-6 guests.

Shopping in Amsterdam

Just like in other European countries, in Amsterdam you will also find shopping streets, malls, and markets. During the winter and summer sale seasons, various stores offer discounts of 50% and even more, making these the most cost-effective periods for shopping.

♦ Booking guided tours in Amsterdam (via Viator):

Market in Amsterdam

The central Dam Square serves as a starting point for major shopping streets, such as Nieuwendijk and Kalverstraat. Along these streets you will find well-known brand stores alongside local shops, selling clothing, shoes, music, books, accessories, homeware, and of course - Amsterdam's famous coffeeshops.

Near Dam Square is also the Magna Plaza shopping mall, where you will find many stores and cafes. Even if you are not a huge fan of shopping, the building itself is considered particularly beautiful and impressive, making it well worth touring inside or at least admiring from the outside.

Canals in Amsterdam

The department store Debijenkorf is also located near Dam Square. This is a higher-end department store considered a pilgrimage site for shopping enthusiasts in the city. It is recommended to head up to the top floor of the store, which will provide you with a stunning panoramic view over the city.

For those looking for an authentic and more modest shopping experience, a visit to the Albert Cuyp Market is highly recommended. This is a well-established and famous market in the city, offering a wide range of goods at lower prices compared to the larger city stores. The market has numerous stalls selling fashion accessories and apparel, alongside stalls with food, fruit, chocolate, and cheeses. The market operates daily, except Sunday. The market is located about a half-hour walk from Dam Square.

The Flower Market is also a colorful and pleasant destination to visit, with a wide variety of flowers, seeds, bulbs, and gardening supplies.

Flower Market in Amsterdam

Written by: O. E. Bar