Waterlooplein Flea Market in Amsterdam
Waterlooplein Flea market is a big outdoor bazaar, best for the second hand clothing and full of general bric-a-brac. Traditionally oldest and most interesting market of Amsterdam, Waterlooplein has been during the last decennia’s connected with the youth culture. You can buy here trendy t-shirts, old military uniforms, Che Guevara posters, cheap canned spray paints for the graffiti’s, objects from underdeveloped countries of Africa and Asia as well as get a tattoo.
A bit of history
The square itself has been created in 1880, on the place of the two canals, Leprozengracht and Houtgracht. Since 1893, a Jewish market has been created there, the biggest and the most important Jewish market in Amsterdam. This has been ended in 1941, with the persecution of Jews by the Nazi Germany. After the World War II, the Waterlooplein market was reborn, first as a general bazaar, then in the 60s and 70s of the XXth century, as a trading place connected with the youth culture. Amsterdam has been a magnet for the hippies from all over Europe and the Magic Center of the alternative Provo’s culture. Between 1977-1984, the market had to move, as on the Waterloo square, the huge white building of the town hall and the opera has been built. After construction has been completed, returned to its present location behind the Town hall (Dutch: het Stadhuis) the Waterlooplein market regained its importance.
Today
A big outdoor day market; 300 stands; new and second hand clothes, old military uniforms, old books, video’s and DVD’s, electronics, curiosa, a lot of garbage. Prices differ, but they remain competitive.
The feel
Touristy, often crowded, but worthy a visit. Among all these tacky things, there is always something you cannot do without.
As on any market in any country: be avare of pickpockets.
Open
Monday - Friday 9.00 am - 5.30 pm; Saturday: 8.30 am –5.30 pm.
How to get there
By foot: ca. 15 minutes from the Dam square, east. Located behind the Red Light district, in a direct proximity of the Rembrandt house.
By tram: 1, 2, 5, 13 from Magna Plaza or 14 from Central Station (stop: Stadhuis)
By car: You should reach the Waterlooplein arriving from the IJtunnel or the Wibautstraat and park your car in a big, underground parking under the Town hall (het Stadhuis). The entry to the parking has been clearly indicated.
Waterlooplein Parking: Valkenburgerstraat 238; hourly rate: € 3,40 (capacity 220).
If the Waterlooplein Parking happens to be full, drive further across the bridge over Amstel, take left and try your luck on one of the canal streets. Remember to pay for your parking at the machine, and to place a ticket behind the windshield.
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Waterlooplein Flea Market in Amsterdam |