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The IJ-Hallen Flea Market (Vlooienmarkt IJ-Hallen) is one of Europe's largest flea markets and a great spot for second-hand shoppers. This monthly event attracts people from all over Europe to the massive IJ-Hallen, a structure that was once part of the historic NDSM shipyard in Amsterdam. It's a great blend of history and vibrant market life.
The IJ-Hallen is huge, with room for up to 750 stalls. It usually reaches its maximum capacity each month. What makes this market stand out is that it only allows private sellers to display their wares, not commercial vendors. This policy makes sure there's a great variety of items, including antique furniture, retro collectibles, vintage fashion, handbags, vintage toys, silverware, jewellery, books, kitchenware, and more. The market truly captures the essence of different eras and styles. The combination of dedicated shoppers, curious tourists, and the range of unique and diverse items creates a lively and captivating environment.
The easy access and scenic ferry ride add another layer to the overall experience, making it a holistic adventure. The market's location across the IJ River from the NDSM quay in Amsterdam-Noord is another fantastic feature. It's easy to get to this hidden gem! Just hop on a quick and free ferry from the 906 stop outside Amsterdam Central Station. The 15-minute ferry ride offers incredible views of the IJ River and the unique architecture lining its banks, which makes the journey as enjoyable as the market itself!
The market is open once or twice a month on weekends. You can find the dates on the official website. Tickets are €6 for adults and €2.50 for children up to age 11. You can get Early Bird Tickets for €10, which let you in as early as 6 a.m. Regular entry is from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but arriving early helps you beat the crowds and find the best items.
Once you've finished shopping, the fun doesn't have to end! Amsterdam-Noord has so many other attractions that will keep the fun going even after you've finished shopping. There's plenty to do here, whether you want to get a feel for the local culture, taste some delicious food, or just enjoy the scenery.
For instance, why not make your shopping trip even more fun by visiting the nearby Straat Museum? This museum has an amazing collection of street art from all over the world. You can get a combined ticket for €20 that gives you access to both the museum and the flea market. There's also a lot of street art and waterfront cafes in the NSDM shipyard area, like Café Pllek and Noorderlicht Café, which are great for a post-market lunch.
To make the most of your trip, set aside at least three hours to explore the huge market. Treat yourself to some delicious Dutch street food like poffertjes and stroopwafels at the market's food stalls to refuel during your treasure hunt. Don't miss the chance to chat with sellers—many are private individuals clearing out their belongings, so prices are often open to discussion.
If you're on the hunt for something truly special, look no further than the IJ-Hallen flea market! The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with the charm of the NSDM shipyard and Amsterdam Noord, makes this flea market an unforgettable highlight of the city.
Chad Fitzgerald
13th June 2015 at 21:19Spent nearly an entire day browsing the market. There was literally a little bit of everything – antiques, vintage, furniture, clothing and everything else. For me, I was happy nothing was new… it’s a bit of a treasure hunt. It reminded me of the Rose Bowl Flee Market in California.
It was really easy to catch the 5 minute ferry ride over to the flee market grounds. It was just in back of the main train station in central Amsterdam. Once you get to the market you need to pay €5 to get in, which was really worth a day of fun. Take a back pack since many of the vendors do not have bags for your purchases. Also, make sure and take plenty of cash since I don’t recall seeing an ATM. I was there for the July sale and there must have been well over 700 dealers!
Jochum Stoetten
5th October 2015 at 02:57De drukste en grootste rommelmarkt van Amsterdam
Francis Peters
21st October 2015 at 20:56One of the must see hip (-ster) attractions of Amsterdam, also a cheap place to get clothing and just all kinds of stuff ranging from lamps to soviet honor medals.
Bas Wijten
9th February 2016 at 04:59Largest flea-market in the Netherlands. Lot’s of stuff, merchants and normal people sell here. Prices can be modest if you know how to bargain.
Saul Roy
14th May 2016 at 06:30This happen only once a month, if I recollect right from my visit. Overall worth a experience right from boarding the ferry from behind the central station to reaching the place. This happens in some warehouse and the whole place around gives a very charming and relaxing feel. There are some very nice graffiti on the wall of these warehouse.
You get some unique and some regular stuff at very good bargain price. Should not miss visiting the place if it tends to fall during your visit to the city