The Bloemenmarkt is the world's only floating flower market, set on barges topped with glass greenhouses moored along the Singel canal between Muntplein and Koningsplein. Founded in 1862, it is a famous downtown Amsterdam sight for stalls of tulip bulbs, flowers, plants and Dutch souvenirs. As of 2026 it leans more toward bulbs, dried and wooden tulips, cheese and clog souvenirs than fresh bouquets and feels fairly touristy, but it remains a free, pleasant 30–60 minute stop on a canal-belt stroll. Colours peak during tulip season (March–May).
The one-of-a-kind setup itself: glass greenhouses on floating barges over the canal — the only floating flower market in the world
Rows of colourful tulip bulbs, including packs sealed and labelled as certified for export
Beyond tulips: daffodils, dried flowers, wooden tulips and potted plants
Classic Dutch souvenirs (clogs, cheese, ceramics) in a very central location
Views of the neighbouring Munttoren (Mint Tower) and the canal — an easy photo spot
Good to know
CautionBulb quality varies widely; many reviewers report picking mixed colours that all bloom as the same generic red tulip. Buy only sealed, export-certified packs and keep expectations modest.
RulesTo take bulbs or seeds home, planting material generally needs an official phytosanitary certificate from the Netherlands and must be declared at your home country's customs/quarantine; undeclared plants can be fined or confiscated. Check your own country's rules first (e.g. USDA APHIS for the US).
SafetyThis is a crowded tourist spot — watch for pickpockets and keep bags to the front. Don't stand in the red bike lanes out front; trams and cyclists pass close by.
MannersDon't handle the displayed flowers or bulbs, and don't block the narrow aisles for photos; be considerate of vendors who are trying to do business.
SeasonMost colourful from March to May (tulip season); in winter the stock shifts to Christmas trees and there are far fewer blooms.
Practical info
It sits on the Singel between Muntplein and Koningsplein. Take trams 1/2/5 (Koningsplein) or 4/9/14 (Muntplein), about a 3-minute walk; Rokin metro is also nearby. Entry is free and it is typically open Mon–Sat 09:00–17:30 and Sun 11:00–17:30, but individual stalls vary — always confirm current hours and any prices before you go. Pay for transit with a GVB pass, the I amsterdam City Card, or a contactless card.
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