Utrecht, with its picturesque canals and historic architecture, is a vibrant city that offers a unique shopping experience for expats and digital nomads. The city’s markets are a reflection of its diverse culture, offering everything from fresh produce to artisan crafts. Whether you’re looking for local delicacies, vintage clothing, or handcrafted jewelry, Utrecht’s markets have something for everyone. Here are some of the best markets in Utrecht that you should not miss.
Oudegracht Flower Market
Location: Oudegracht (the old canal)
Type of Market: Flower Market
Open: Saturdays, 8-5
Set along the beautiful Oudegracht canal, the Flower Market is a colorful and fragrant experience. It’s the perfect place to find fresh flowers, from tulips and daffodils to exotic orchids. The market is a feast for the senses and a great spot to pick up a bouquet to brighten your living space or as a gift.
We Recommend: The tulip bulbs for sale, which you can take home and plant as a lasting reminder of your time in the Netherlands.
Lapjesmarkt (Fabric Market)
Location: Breedstraat
Type of Market: Textile Market
Open: Saturdays, 8-1
The Lapjesmarkt is the largest and oldest fabric market in the Netherlands, dating back over 400 years. It’s a haven for anyone interested in sewing or fashion design, offering a wide range of textiles, from cotton and wool to more exotic materials. Even if you’re not a fabric enthusiast, the market’s vibrant atmosphere makes it worth a visit.
We Recommend: The Dutch wax fabrics, which are known for their vivid colors and patterns, perfect for making unique clothing or home decor.
Vredenburg Market
Location: Vredenburg square
Type of Market: General Market
Open: Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, 10-5
The Vredenburg Market is a bustling hub where locals and visitors alike come to shop for fresh produce, cheese, flowers, and a variety of other goods. With its central location, it’s an easily accessible spot to enjoy the local flavors and engage with the community.
We Recommend: The Dutch cheese stalls, where you can sample and buy some of the country’s finest Gouda, Edam, and other cheeses.
De Bilt Street Market
Location: De Biltstraat
Type of Market: General Market
Open: Fridays, 10-5
Located in the lively De Biltstraat area, this street market offers a variety of goods, from fresh fruits and vegetables to clothing and household items. It’s a smaller market compared to Vredenburg but offers a more intimate shopping experience.
We Recommend: The fresh stroopwafels, a delicious Dutch treat consisting of two thin waffles with a syrup filling.
Kanaalstraat and Damstraat Market
Location: Kanaalstraat and Damstraat
Type of Market: General and Ethnic Market
Open: Daily, varying hours
This market area is known for its multicultural vibe, offering a range of products from different parts of the world. It’s a great place to explore exotic spices, international groceries, and unique clothing.
We Recommend: The Turkish and Moroccan bakeries that offer a variety of savory and sweet pastries, perfect for an on-the-go snack.
Janskerkhof Flower Market
Location: Janskerkhof square
Type of Market: Flower Market
Open: Saturdays, 7-5
Every Saturday, Janskerkhof square transforms into a beautiful flower market. It’s smaller than the Oudegracht Flower Market but equally charming, with a wide selection of plants and flowers that can add a touch of nature to your home.
We Recommend: The seasonal blooms that are handpicked by local growers, ensuring you get the freshest flowers each week.
Twijnstraat aan de Werf
Location: Twijnstraat
Type of Market: Organic Food Market
Open: Saturdays, 10-5
Twijnstraat aan de Werf is Utrecht’s oldest shopping street and hosts an organic market every Saturday. Here, you can find organic produce, artisan bread, dairy products, and more. It’s a great place for health-conscious shoppers looking to support local farmers and producers.
We Recommend: The organic honey, which comes from local beekeepers and is a sweet addition to any pantry.
Utrechtse Bazaar
Location: Papendorpseweg, Utrecht (at the outskirts of the city)
Type of Market: Indoor Flea Market
Open: Saturdays and Sundays, 9-5
The Utrechtse Bazaar is an indoor market that offers a treasure trove of second-hand goods, antiques, and collectibles. It’s a perfect spot for bargain hunters and those looking for unique finds.
We Recommend: The vintage Dutch design items, which can add a touch of retro flair to your living space.
