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TLDR: Kalverstraat is Amsterdam’s busiest pedestrian shopping street, running from Dam Square to Muntplein. It features over 150 stores, including major international brands like Zara, H&M, and Uniqlo. The street is open 7 days a week, typically from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (with late opening on Thursdays).
If you’ve wandered through central Amsterdam, chances are you’ve already walked down Kalverstraat - and maybe didn’t even realize it. Stretching 750 meters through the heart of the city, Kalverstraat is the unrivaled main shopping street of Amsterdam. It attracts over 50,000 visitors daily who come to browse high-street fashion, beauty stores, and department chains.
This guide covers the best shops to visit, the current opening hours, and how to reach this pedestrian-only zone.
What is the story behind Kalverstraat?
The name Kalverstraat literally means “Calf Street.” In the 15th century, this stretch was part of a livestock market, where calves were traded just outside the old city walls near the Nieuwmarkt area. For nearly 300 years, it was a bustling cattle corridor.
That all changed in the late 1600s, as Amsterdam expanded and trade evolved. Livestock made way for shops, guild houses, and merchants. By the 19th century, Kalverstraat had transformed into a consumer paradise—and it hasn’t slowed down since.
Several historic events also mark its story:
- In 1345, a Eucharistic miracle supposedly occurred in a nearby home, sparking the Stille Omgang, a silent procession still commemorated today.
- In 1945, a tragic explosion on Dam Square killed dozens during celebrations at the end of WWII - just meters away from the street’s northern entrance.
What shops are in Kalverstraat?
Kalverstraat is home to more than 150 stores, covering international brands, local boutiques, and fast fashion staples.
Popular Brands on Kalverstraat:
- Fashion: Zara, H&M, Uniqlo, Mango, Primark, Pull & Bear.
- Sneakers & Sport: Snipes, JD Sports, Foot Locker, Nike.
- Beauty: Lush, Rituals, Douglas, Holland & Barrett.
- Department Stores: HEMA (famous for Dutch goods) and a direct entrance to De Bijenkorf near Dam Square.
Is Kalverstraat the most famous shopping street in Amsterdam?
Yes, Kalverstraat is Amsterdam’s most famous - and busiest - shopping street. It consistently ranks among the top retail streets in Europe in terms of foot traffic and rental prices. Its popularity is thanks to:
- Its central location, stretching from Dam Square to Muntplein
- Its pedestrian-only design
- The concentration of stores catering to a wide range of budgets
It’s also one of the oldest continuously active commercial streets in the country, dating back more than 600 years.
For comparison, other notable shopping streets in Amsterdam include:
- Leidsestraat – For slightly more upscale shops
- P.C. Hooftstraat – For luxury brands
- The Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) – For indie boutiques
But none match Kalverstraat’s historic weight and sheer footfall.
How to Get to Kalverstraat
Kalverstraat is located in the city center (Centrum) and is entirely pedestrianized.
- From Central Station: It is a 10-minute walk south to Dam Square, where the street begins.
- By Tram: Lines 4, 14, and 24 stop at Rokin or Muntplein (southern end). Lines 2, 11, and 12 stop at Koningsplein (near the middle).
- By Metro: Take the North-South line (52) to Rokin, which runs parallel to Kalverstraat.
Do shops on Kalverstraat open on Sunday?
Yes. Amsterdam’s central retail streets, including Kalverstraat, are open 7 days a week. General Opening Hours:
- Monday: 11:00 – 18:00
- Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 10:00 – 18:00
- Thursday (Late Night Shopping): 10:00 – 21:00
- Sunday: 12:00 – 18:00
Opening hours may vary slightly per store, especially during holidays or summer months. For up-to-date schedules, check platforms like iamsterdam.com or Google Maps listings.
Best Time to Visit for Shopping
As the main shopping street in Amsterdam, Kalverstraat gets incredibly crowded, especially on weekends and Saturday afternoons.
- Best Time: Tuesday or Wednesday mornings (before 12:00 PM) for a quieter experience.
- Busiest Time: Saturday afternoon and Sunday afternoon.
- Late Shopping: Visit on Thursday evenings when shops stay open until 9:00 PM.
Is Kalverstraat worth visiting?
Yes - but with context. If you're a shopaholic or need a quick retail fix, Kalverstraat delivers. But even if you're not, it’s worth visiting for its historical significance and as a cultural barometer of Amsterdam.
Pro tip: Go early in the day or on a weekday if you want to avoid the weekend crush.
What else is nearby Kalverstraat?
You’re at the historic core of Amsterdam, and many major landmarks are within a five-minute walk. Here are a few nearby highlights:
- Begijnhof - Just off Kalverstraat, this peaceful medieval courtyard hides Amsterdam’s oldest wooden house and two ancient churches. It’s a serene contrast to Kalverstraat’s energy.
- Bloemenmarkt - A five-minute stroll south brings you to the floating flower market on the Singel canal. You’ll find tulip bulbs, souvenirs, and a dash of nostalgia.
- Dam Square and De Nieuwe Kerk - While technically part of Dam Square, it deserves its own mention. This 15th-century church now hosts art, culture, and royal ceremonies.
- Nes – A street filled with theaters and cultural surprises, just a block away
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