Amsterdam is known for many things - being one of the most liberal cities in the world, its canals, and its racy red light district. Shopping, however, is not often associated with it. Shopaholics, however, need not worry that they won’t get to indulge in their favorite hobby, because there are a number of department stores that they can choose from. Options include those that sell a little bit of everything to those that offer unique curios. Many of these establishments are located near each other so you can shop to your heart’s content in one day. Take a look at this list of the best department stores in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
1. De Bijenkorf
This department store was established in 1870, making this somewhat of an institution for locals. Products sold here tend to lean towards the higher end of the price scale, with products ranging from cosmetics to designer bags. If you’re lucky, you may even catch an event being celebrated in the mall during your visit, but it will depend on what time of the year you visit. Pro tip: make sure to try the chocolate being sold here. If you’re a tourist, you’re in luck, because attendees here speak both Dutch and English.
De Bijenkorf
Address: Dam 1, 1012 JS Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Website: De Bijenkorf
Opening hours: Sun & Mon: 11am - 9pm; Tue - Sat: 10am - 9pm
2. Hudson's Bay
It may seem strange to find a Canadian department store in Amsterdam, yet that is exactly what the company did, establishing its first branch outside the country right in this Dutch city. Besides fashion-related products, visitors are also likely to see luggage and other travel items, home and kitchen accessories, and some things for the bath and bed. There are some food options offered here if you’re feeling peckish.
Hudson's Bay
Address: Rokin 21-49, 1012 KK Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Website: Hudson’s Bay
Opening hours: Sun _ Mon: 11am - 9pm; Tue - Sat: 10am - 9pm
3. Gelderlandplein
Gelderlandplein is less of a department store and more of a mall. It houses just about every establishment to cater to your needs, whether you’re looking for food to eat, a new outfit, or accessories to dress up for an event. Located at the heart of Amsterdam, Gelderlandplein leans toward high-end brands, so if you’re particular about the items you buy, this is the place to go to.
Gelderlandplein
Address: Van Leijenberghlaan 43, 1082 GC Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Website: Gelderlandplein
Opening hours: Mon: 12pm - 7; Tue - Fri: 9:30am - 7pm; Sat: 9:30am - 6pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm
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4. Magna Plaza
From the outside, you might mistake Magna Plaza as a castle that houses someone who’s royalty (especially since it’s located behind the Royal Palace), but it’s actually a shopping mall that houses high-end and well-known brands. If you’re an art aficionado, there’s an art gallery that features remastered versions of Rembrandt’s works.
Magna Plaza
Address: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 182I, 1012 SJ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Website: Magna Plaza
Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)
5. Big Bazar
If you’re looking to shop ‘til you drop without breaking a hole through your wallet - or your bank account - head over to Big Bazar, which offers just about everything under the sun. Word of warning though: Big Bazar, as the name implies, is spacious and is filled practically wall to wall with goods, so make sure to allot enough time for your visit here to allow you more freedom to browse through their wares.
Big Bazar
Address: Kalverstraat 230, 1012 XC Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Website: Big Bazar
Opening hours: Mon: 11am - 7pm; Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat: 10am - 7pm; Thu: 10am - 9pm; Sun: 12pm - 6pm
6. HEMA
You can’t talk about department stores in Amsterdam without featuring HEMA, which takes pride in selling products, including designer items, at lower prices compared to other stores. Just about everything that you need can be found here, whether you’re looking for clothes, furniture for your home, electronics, or party items. There are even ready-to-eat food items here should you find yourself getting hungry while you’re browsing in the store. Pro tip: make sure to try the hotdog before leaving.
HEMA
Address: Kalvertoren Shopping Center, Kalverstraat 212, 1012 WP Amsterdam
Website: HEMA
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 7pm; Sun : 11am - 6:30pm
Shop to your heart's content
Amsterdam offers a variety of options for shoppers in its department stores, which range from budget-friendly clothing and souvenirs to luxury brands. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes when going shopping in the city, because you’ll literally be covering a lot of ground to see what these stores have to offer.