Aalsmeer Flower Auction, Amsterdam - a bunch of flowers that are in a planter
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Aalsmeer Flower Auction Amsterdam

4.5
·1k reviews·Aalsmeer, Netherlands

Witness the world's largest flower auction, a vibrant spectacle of global trade and millions of blooms sold daily.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

See the full auction buzz

CrowdHigh
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Aalsmeer Flower Auction, Amsterdam - a bunch of flowers that are in a planter

Aalsmeer Flower Auction Amsterdam

Best Time

Weekday mornings

See the full auction buzz

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness the world's largest flower auction, a vibrant spectacle of global trade and millions of blooms sold daily.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"A truly unique and colorful experience, seeing millions of flowers traded at lightning speed!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Before 7 AM

The 'clock auction' is the main event! Get there by 6 AM to see it in full swing.

🎟️ Book 'Aalsmeer Flower Auction Tour'

Tours from Amsterdam simplify transport and offer insights.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Clock Auction

The Clock Auction

Main Auction Hall

Witness millions of flowers sold in minutes as the clock descends. A truly unique and fast-paced spectacle.

Vast Flower Displays

Vast Flower Displays

Trading Floors

Marvel at endless rows of diverse, fresh flowers from around the globe. A feast for the senses.

Global Flower Trade

Global Flower Trade

Observation Decks

Understand the scale of the international flower business and how it operates.

Planning Your Visit

Arrive Early for the Action

The Aalsmeer Flower Auction is a bustling marketplace that starts before dawn. Arrive by 6 AM to witness the full spectacle of the 'clock auction' and the vibrant trade. It's a unique glimpse into the global flower industry.

Book Tours in Advance

While you can visit independently, booking an 'aalsmeer flower auction tour' or 'aalsmeer flower auction tour from amsterdam' is highly recommended. These tours often include transport and guided insights, making the experience smoother.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
See the full auction buzz
Crowd
High
When
Early morning (6 AM)
Why
Witness the clock auction
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Don’t skip this magical place when in Amsterdam 🌷✨🇳🇱 Follow @melis.andreea for more travel destinations, stays, experiences, inspo & tips 💐 #tulip #tulips #tulipseason #amsterdam #amsterdamtravel #tra...
@melis.andreea
445.8K likes • 5.3M views

🎯 Arrive Before 7 AM

The 'clock auction' is the main event! Get there by 6 AM to see it in full swing. Reddit

🎟️ Book 'Aalsmeer Flower Auction Tour'

Tours from Amsterdam simplify transport and offer insights. TikTok+1

Spring time in the Netherlands is an actual fairytale 🌷🌸 the best time to visit the tulip fields is the month of april #amsterdam #thenetherlands #springtime #tulipfields
@haylsa
166.9K likes • 1.1M views
Don’t go to Amsterdam without visiting these 2 places nearby ⬇️ And can you believe that they are only 15 min from central Amsterdam?! 😍 📍Zaandam 📍Zaanse Schans #amsterdam #netherlands🇳🇱 #zaandam #tr...
@helloangelia
135.9K likes • 3.2M views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the vast auction floor. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Colors

The sheer volume and variety of flowers make for incredible photos. :camerawithflash:

One of the best getaways if you live in Amsterdam or if you’re visiting!! Zaandam and Zaanse Schans are a must 🇳🇱 #amsterdam #amsterdamguide #amsterdamtips #amsterdamtiktok #amsterdamlocal #netherlan...
@aligoingabroad
59.2K likes • 804.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Before 7 AM

The 'clock auction' is the main event! Get there by 6 AM to see it in full swing. Reddit

🎟️ Book 'Aalsmeer Flower Auction Tour'

Tours from Amsterdam simplify transport and offer insights. TikTok+1

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the vast auction floor. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Colors

The sheer volume and variety of flowers make for incredible photos. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently amazed by the sheer scale and vibrant spectacle of the Aalsmeer Flower Auction, especially the unique clock auction. While the early start and wholesale nature can be a bit overwhelming, the experience offers an unparalleled glimpse into the global flower trade.

"For a one and done, it is totally justified. The enchantment of flowers along with the organized system of operations is interestingly captivating. The guided tour was great too."

quasarthemechanical

"This is a must see in The Netherlands- not just tourists. Although the auction is now completely virtual and online, the logistics of supply and demand is so impressive."

Ton V

"Flowers are collected and sent to the buyer here. You can see it with your own eyes. Want to take a photo? Then be sure to take a telephoto lens. Keep in mind that people work from 6 o'clock."

Andrey Klimov

What People Like

Incredible scale and color
Unique clock auction
Insight into global trade

What People Dislike

Very early start
Wholesale environment

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most convenient way is to book an 'aalsmeer flower auction tour from amsterdam', which often includes transportation. Alternatively, you can take a train from Amsterdam to Schiphol Airport and then a bus (like line 300) towards Haarlem, getting off at the Aalsmeer market stop. Public transport can take around 45-60 minutes. TikTok+1

Yes, there is ample parking available for visitors who choose to drive. However, booking a tour is often recommended for a hassle-free experience. TikTok

For the best experience, consider an 'aalsmeer flower auction tour' that departs from central Amsterdam. This saves you the trouble of navigating public transport early in the morning. TikTok

Yes, taxis are available, but they can be quite expensive for the journey from Amsterdam. Tours or public transport are generally more budget-friendly options. :taxi:

While there isn't a single direct bus from central Amsterdam, you can take a bus from Schiphol Airport (e.g., line 300) which is easily accessible by train from Amsterdam. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It's highly recommended to purchase 'aalsmeer flower auction tickets' or book a tour in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak season. This ensures entry and can sometimes offer better pricing. Reddit

The auction typically starts very early on weekdays, around 6 AM. It's best to check the official website for the most current hours, as they can vary. Reddit

Entry fees can vary, but expect to pay a modest amount for admission. Booking an 'aalsmeer flower auction tour' might include the entry fee. Check official sources for current pricing. :moneybag:

While the auction is primarily for wholesale buyers, some areas might offer retail opportunities or you can purchase through tour operators. It's not a typical retail flower market. :tulip:

Generally, there are no age restrictions, but the early hours and busy environment might be challenging for very young children. It's more of an industrial setting than a typical tourist attraction. :child:

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed in designated visitor areas. However, be mindful of the fast-paced environment and avoid disrupting the auction process. TikTok

The observation decks offer panoramic views of the auction floor. Try to capture the vibrant colors and the scale of the operation. TikTok

It's best to avoid using flash photography, especially during the active auction times, as it can be disruptive to the traders and the lighting conditions. :no_flash:

A camera with good low-light performance and a versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) would be ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness. :camera:

Yes, drone photography is strictly prohibited within the auction premises due to safety and operational regulations. :noentrysign:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Aalsmeer Flower Auction can be an exciting, albeit early, outing for families. The sheer color and volume of flowers are captivating for children. Consider booking a family-friendly tour that provides context and keeps little ones engaged. The early start might be a challenge, so ensure kids are well-rested. TikTok

Focus on the visual spectacle – the vibrant colors, the different types of flowers, and the bustling activity. It’s a great opportunity to teach children about where flowers come from and the global trade involved. Pack snacks and drinks, as options within the market might be limited during early hours. :lollipop:

🌸 Florists & Flower Enthusiasts

For anyone in the floristry industry or a passionate flower lover, Aalsmeer is a pilgrimage. Witnessing the 'clock auction' firsthand is an unparalleled experience, offering insights into pricing, trends, and the sheer diversity of available blooms. Reddit

Booking a specialized 'aalsmeer flower auction tour' can provide deeper knowledge about sourcing, logistics, and the business side of the industry. It's a chance to see the backbone of the global flower trade and perhaps even discover new varieties or suppliers. The 'flower market holland aalsmeer' is truly a professional's paradise. :bouquet:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Clock Auction Explained

The Aalsmeer Flower Auction is famous for its unique 'clock auction' system. This is where the magic happens, and it's a sight to behold. Instead of prices going up, they go down. A large clock face displays the price, and a hand moves backward from a high starting price. Buyers signal their interest by pressing a button, which stops the clock and secures the flowers at that price for them. It's incredibly fast-paced, with millions of flowers being sold in mere minutes. TikTok

This system is designed for efficiency, allowing a massive volume of flowers to be traded quickly. For visitors, it's a fascinating spectacle of commerce in action. Arriving early, around 6 AM, is crucial to witness this core part of the 'flower market holland aalsmeer' experience. Many 'aalsmeer flower auction tours' are timed to ensure you don't miss this pivotal moment. Reddit

Understanding this rapid-fire trading is key to appreciating the scale and speed of the global flower industry. It’s a testament to Dutch innovation in logistics and trade, making Aalsmeer a pivotal hub for florists and buyers worldwide. :clock3:

Navigating the Vast Market

The Royal FloraHolland Aalsmeer is the world's largest flower auction, covering an immense area. It's not just a single building but a sprawling complex where millions of flowers are processed, sorted, and traded daily. Visitors typically access the market via designated observation decks or through guided tours that navigate specific pathways. TikTok

When you visit, especially if you're on an 'aalsmeer flower auction tour from amsterdam', you'll likely be guided through areas that showcase the sheer volume of blooms. You'll see trolleys laden with everything from roses and tulips to exotic orchids and chrysanthemums. The air is thick with the scent of fresh flowers, a truly sensory experience. TikTok

It's important to remember that this is a working wholesale market. While visitors are welcome, the primary activity is trade. Stick to marked paths and follow the guidance of your tour leader or any posted signs to ensure a smooth and respectful visit. The scale of operations is truly impressive, offering a unique insight into the 'flower market aalsmeer's' global reach. :shopping_cart:

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