Bloemenmarkt Guide: Amsterdam’s Floating Flower Market

TLDR: The Bloemenmarkt is the world's only floating flower market, located on the Singel canal in central Amsterdam. It is free to enter and open 7 days a week. While famous for its history, today it primarily sells tulip bulbs, souvenirs, and garden supplies rather than fresh bouquets.

There’s something irresistibly romantic about flowers, and nowhere embraces that better than Amsterdam’s Bloemenmarkt. Floating on the Singel canal since the 19th century, this quirky cluster of flower stalls and souvenir shops has long charmed both tourists and locals alike.

But this isn’t just any flower market - it’s the only floating flower market in the world, and one with a story rooted in trade, tradition, and a whole lot of tulip mania.

What is the story behind Bloemenmarkt?

The Bloemenmarkt was established in 1862 as a way to bring flowers into the city center by boat. Back in the day, growers from around the region would load their wares onto barges and sail down the Amstel and Singel canals to meet the morning crowds. This made sense - Amsterdam was (and still is) a city built on waterways.

Over time, the market moved to floating barges moored permanently along the Singel canal, between Muntplein and Koningsplein. These weren’t just makeshift stalls - they were boats turned boutiques, making the Bloemenmarkt the only floating flower market in the world.

Historically, the market was where locals bought fresh flowers daily - especially tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils in spring. While today the market caters more to tourists than florists, it remains a symbol of Amsterdam’s long love affair with flowers.

What does Bloemenmarkt mean?

In Dutch, "bloemen" means flowers and "markt" means market. So, quite simply, Bloemenmarkt translates to “flower market.”

But don’t let the name fool you - this floating attraction sells more than just flowers. You’ll find:

• Tulip bulbs (some certified for export, others... not so much)
• Pre-packaged souvenirs like Dutch clogs and Delftware
• Faux flowers and seeds
• Seasonal items (like Christmas ornaments in December)

That said, it’s still one of the most photographed spots in Amsterdam, thanks to its vibrant displays and picturesque location along the Singel canal.

Is the Bloemenmarkt open all year?

Yes, the Bloemenmarkt is open year-round, typically from Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, and Sundays from 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM. However, hours may vary slightly depending on the season or public holidays.

If you're hoping to see the market at its most colourful, visit during tulip season (March to May). While fresh flowers are available throughout the year, springtime is when you’ll see the most spectacular blooms.

Where to see tulips close to Amsterdam?

While the Bloemenmarkt sells bulbs year-round, you’ll want to head outside the city to see tulips in full bloom.

Here are the top spots:

1. Keukenhof Gardens – Located in Lisse, just 40 minutes from Amsterdam, this is one of the world’s largest flower gardens. Open from mid-March to mid-May, it showcases over 7 million flowers. 
2. Bollenstreek (Bulb Region) – Stretching from Haarlem to Leiden, this region offers scenic tulip fields and bike routes through colorful flower landscapes.
3. Tulip Festival Amsterdam – Held throughout the city each April, this urban festival plants over 850,000 tulips across parks, museums, and public squares.

Are the tulip bulbs at Bloemenmarkt safe to bring home?

This is a common question - and the answer depends on where you live.

Some of the bulbs sold at the Bloemenmarkt are certified for international export, especially to countries like the USA, Canada, and the UK. These will be sealed in clear packaging and labelled with a phytosanitary certificate.

However, not all stalls are created equal. Some sell decorative bulbs that may not bloom, or aren’t approved for import. Always ask before buying, and if you’re flying internationally, check your country’s customs rules regarding plant products.

Is it worth seeing Bloemenmarkt?

Yes - but go with the right expectations.

Bloemenmarkt is not a lush, garden-like flower paradise. It’s a charming, historic strip of barges filled with flower bulbs, souvenirs, and a slice of old Amsterdam charm. What it lacks in authenticity these days, it makes up for in atmosphere, accessibility, and its location right in the heart of the city.

If you're short on time, it’s easy to pop by, grab some tulip bulbs, and snap a few canal-side photos. But if you want the stories that made the market legendary - from the tulip bubble to floating barges - walk it with the StoryHunt Discover Amsterdam audio tour.

What else is nearby Bloemenmarkt?

You’re right in the middle of Amsterdam’s historic core, so there’s plenty to explore:

• Muntplein & Munttoren – Just steps from the market, this 17th-century tower was once part of the city’s medieval gate.
• The Amsterdam Museum – Dive deeper into the city’s past just around the corner.
• Begijnhof – A peaceful hidden courtyard dating back to the Middle Ages, tucked away off Spui square.
• Kalverstraat – The city’s main shopping street, filled with Dutch and international retailers.‍
• Rembrandtplein – A lively square with outdoor cafés and nightlife, only a 5-minute walk away.