Description: DE PIJP. Bustling, vibrant, and a great source of local color, this century-old street market is a visual extravaganza. Not really frequented by visitors, it offers (both in stalls and on the sidewalk) a legion of goods, including ethnic foods, textiles, fresh produce, flowers, meats, and practically anything else imaginable. More than 250 vendors ply their wares to townsfolk, and you'll encounter folks of all nationalities and origins while you browse. Hours vary depending on weather, and most of the action takes place between Van Woustraat and Ferdinand Bolstraat.

 

Description: CENTRAL CANAL RING. If you've a green thumb or just admire those who do, you'll want to visit this extravagant 'floating' market, most of which actually occupies houseboats moored on the water. Cut flowers, bulbs, potted plants and the like are all available to beautify house and office, and even if you're traveling, you'll want to pick up a bouquet to brighten your room or at least snap a few photos. Souvenirs are also available from nearby vendors if you want to pick up a clog or two for the folks back home. Located between the Koningsplein and the Muntplein.

 

Description: WESTERN CANAL RING / JORDAAN. Every Saturday (except in bad weather), this charming organic farmers' market takes over the Noordermarkt square, setting up shop at the foot of the Noorderkerk church. Just over thirty years old, it was the country's first organic market and all manner of 'biologisch' products can be found here. It's a delight wandering amongst the traders and bohemian shoppers, picking out delicious cheeses, meats, olives and fresh bread, and sampling free goodies while buskers play quality music. There's also a small playground if you're traveling with children, and the café on the corner (Café Winkel) sells the best apple pie in town!

 

Description: CENTRAL CANAL RING. The Nine Streets are just that: nine little streets and alleys in the heart of the historic canal district which, together, form a square-shaped shopping area stretching from the Singel to the Prinsengracht. They encompass: Reestraat, Hartenstraat, Gasthuis Molensteeg, Berenstraat, Wolvenstraat, Oude Spiegelstraat, Runstraat, Huidenstraat and Wijde Heisteeg. Brimming with charm, they are filled with speciality stores that purvey everything from vintage clothing and retro 1950s toasters to toothbrushes and candles galore. A wealth of coveted designer boutiques also congregate along here. It's ideal for present-hunting for others or treating yourself to a pair of unique new shoes. Dotted along the way are plenty of places to enjoy a cup of coffee, cake or a healthy lunch. Beats malls any day.

 

Description: OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. This narrow pedestrianised street runs between Dam square and the Muntplein (where the Kalvertoren shopping center can be found), and is probably Amsterdam's busiest commercial shopping area. Along here, you'll come across pop music stores, fashion stores and shoe stores; the Bodyshop and English-language bookstore, Waterstone's, are also along this stretch. If you feel your sugar levels plunge along with your bank account, head to Australian Homemade on the corner where the street meets Spui for delicious chocolate or ice cream. Or put your feet up with something more substantial on the Spui square where a local book market sets up every Friday and (from March to December) also the site of an art market on Sunday.

 

Description: OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. At the top of the Kalverstraat, by the Muntplein, this modern three-level shopping center is pretty much a one-stop shop for all your needs - whether it's a strong coffee, a deli treat, garden furniture, paint and, of course, clothes. Thirty brand stores located across three floors include America Today, H&M, Hugo Boss and the much loved Dutch department store Hema. Best of all is its café and brasserie at the top with great views across the center of Amsterdam.

 

Description: OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Formerly a post office, this grand edifice was initially built in 1899. Its ornate interior and exterior provoked some ridicule when first built, but now, the grand structure is a familiar presence in the city. Nowadays, shopping and dining venues spread across four floors, and you'll find everything from a music superstore to clothing boutiques for men, women and children. Also included are shops for accessories, home interiors, cosmetics and toys.

 

Description: MUSEUM QUARTER / VONDELPARK. This street, along with Van Baerlestraat and Beethovenstraat, comprises some of Amsterdam's most upscale shopping. Along PC Hooftstraat, you'll find a number of the world's top names in fashion and accessories. Along with men's and women's clothing, there are also venues for jewelry, shoes and the like. Among the more recognizable names are Hugo Boss and Calvin Klein.

 

Description: CENTRAL CANAL RING. Beginning near the Rijksmuseum, this fashionable district is arguably the city's best destination for antiques and art. Upscale shops line the streets, offering everything from sculpture and porcelain to high-quality furniture and other decorative goods. Many of the pieces are one-of-a-kind and make ideal mementos of time spent in the Netherlands. Give yourself some time for browsing; you won't want to miss everything that's available.

 

Description: OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. On the site of a once-thriving Jewish market which ceased trading during World War Two, this sprawling flea market now occupies this enormous square. Coveted by locals but aimed at tourists, all manner of things are purveyed from trendy new club gear to second-hand clothing (including vintage gems and army surplus), bicycle parts, electrical goods, jewelery and books. And, of course, there's the obligatory box of cheap vinyl records, broken lampshade and scruffy sofa (much of which is abandoned by the sellers at the end of the day). Note the market closes a little earlier on cold winter days, and won't open on especially blustery days.