For more than 100 years Amsterdammers have come to the Albert Cuyp Market for cheeses, meats, fish and fresh fruits and vegetables. Today the market of over 300 stalls stretches for several blocks along Albert Cuypstraat. The street is named after 17th-century Dutch landscape painter, Aelbert Cuyp, whose work can be found in the Rijksmuseum. Visit this iconic spot, a hive of activity even on rainy days.
If you’ve forgotten to pack your scarf or you want some windmill souvenirs or tulips, this is the place to get them at a good price. Wander along, tasting the delicacies of Amsterdam. You haven’t had a stroopwafel until you’ve had one from a market stall with the caramel steaming hot and gooey. Fish-lovers will enjoy the little herb-crusted fish bites known as kibbeling. Take a closer look at the candy stalls. You’ll see some very amusing shapes of chocolates that would be very appropriate in the Red Light District.
The smells of roasting nuts and buttery poffertjes will tempt you, but don’t forget to save room for the fare in the cafés on the side streets off Albert Cuypstraat. Enjoy some of the city’s best coffee in small nooks along these streets. Here you’ll also find plenty more fashion shopping, from boutiques with decently priced items to interesting antique and nostalgia stores.
The area around the Albert Cuyp Market is great for meeting with friends in the evenings. One of Amsterdam’s most atmospheric and inexpensive Turkish restaurants is located on Albert Cuypstraat. For a locally brewed beer or a cocktail, choose from a plentiful array of bars and pubs.
The Albert Cuyp Market is open Monday to Saturday, from mid-morning to sunset during summer, with shorter hours during bad weather or particularly slow winter days. It’s located between the Heineken Experience and Sarphatipark.
