Nieuwmarkt, Amsterdam - a castle like building with a clock tower at night
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Nieuwmarkt Amsterdam

4.6
·491k reviews·Amsterdam, Netherlands

Iconic Amsterdam square with daily/weekend markets, historic Waag building, and vibrant cafes and restaurants.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Freshest market finds

CrowdLow
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Nieuwmarkt, Amsterdam - a castle like building with a clock tower at night

Nieuwmarkt Amsterdam

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Freshest market finds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic Amsterdam square with daily/weekend markets, historic Waag building, and vibrant cafes and restaurants.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Nieuwmarkt is a must-visit for its lively markets and historic charm, offering a true taste of Amsterdam."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Explore the Markets

Don't miss the daily and weekend markets for unique finds and delicious street food!

🍻 Enjoy Evening Vibes

Nieuwmarkt comes alive at night with great restaurants and bars. Perfect for dinner or drinks!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Daily & Weekend Markets

Daily & Weekend Markets

Nieuwmarkt Square

A bustling hub for fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious street food. A true taste of Amsterdam life.

Waag Building

Waag Building

Center of Nieuwmarkt Square

Historic weigh-house, now a unique restaurant and bar, offering stunning architecture and a lively atmosphere.

Charming Cafes & Eateries

Charming Cafes & Eateries

Surrounding Nieuwmarkt Square

Enjoy diverse culinary options, from traditional Dutch snacks to international cuisine, with vibrant outdoor seating.

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Market Buzz

Nieuwmarkt Square is a vibrant hub, especially during its daily and weekend markets. Arrive early to snag the best finds and avoid the biggest crowds. It's a fantastic spot for authentic street food and local crafts.

Evening Ambiance & Dining

As the sun sets, Nieuwmarkt transforms into a lively dining and drinking destination. Many cafes and restaurants spill onto the square, creating a wonderful atmosphere. Consider it for dinner or evening drinks.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Freshest market finds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend Afternoons
Why
Lively market atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Evenings
Why
Great for dining & drinks
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Link in bio!🫶🏼 Best inspo from: @Helenemoo 🩵 #amsterdam #amsterdamguide #amsterdamcity #amsterdamlocal #amsterdamfoodguide #amsterdamtips #amsterdamlove
@flossys_wonderland
340.1K likes • 3.3M views

🎯 Explore the Markets

Don't miss the daily and weekend markets for unique finds and delicious street food! TikTok+1

🍻 Enjoy Evening Vibes

Nieuwmarkt comes alive at night with great restaurants and bars. Perfect for dinner or drinks! Instagram+1

Day 7/30 of Euro Summer: Guide to 24 hours in Amsterdam 🇳🇱 #amsterdamguide #amsterdamtips #amsterdamfood
@milesjones
160.8K likes • 2.7M views
Je kunt ons écht vertrouwen: de Nieuwmarkt is er altijd een plekje voor jou ✨ Of je nu zin hebt in pizza & cocktails bij Spargo, ultiem comfortfood en kaasfondue bij Villa Nieuwmarkt of streetfood & t...
spargoamsterdam
60 likes • 3.3K views

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Square

Take time to soak in the atmosphere and admire the historic Waag building. TikTok

💰 Budget-Friendly Eats

Street food at the market offers tasty and affordable options. TikTok

We hebben ze hoor: onze matrozen! SAIL in volle gang dus in de stad is het één groot feest en je weet: waar matrozen zijn, zijn wij. ⚓🍹 Dus kom een hapje of drankje doen op de Nieuwmarkt! Het dek is ...
villanieuwmarkt
58 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Explore the Markets

Don't miss the daily and weekend markets for unique finds and delicious street food! TikTok+1

🍻 Enjoy Evening Vibes

Nieuwmarkt comes alive at night with great restaurants and bars. Perfect for dinner or drinks! Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Square

Take time to soak in the atmosphere and admire the historic Waag building. TikTok

💰 Budget-Friendly Eats

Street food at the market offers tasty and affordable options. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Nieuwmarkt is celebrated for its lively atmosphere, historic Waag building, and diverse markets. Visitors love the abundance of food options, from street snacks to restaurant dining, and the vibrant energy of the square, especially in the evenings. Some find the markets can be crowded, and like many tourist areas, prices can reflect that.

What People Like

Vibrant market atmosphere
Historic Waag building
Diverse food options

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Tourist prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Nieuwmarkt is easily accessible by public transport. Take tram lines 4, 14, or 24 to the 'Nieuwmarkt' stop. It's also a pleasant walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station, about 10-15 minutes. TikTok

Absolutely! Nieuwmarkt is a pedestrian-friendly square, and the surrounding streets are perfect for exploring on foot. It's also a great area to cycle through, though be mindful of crowds during market days. TikTok

Parking in the immediate vicinity of Nieuwmarkt is limited and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport or park at a P+R (Park and Ride) facility outside the city center and take public transport in.

Nieuwmarkt is generally safe, especially in the evenings when the restaurants and bars are busy. Like any urban area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure. Instagram

From Schiphol Airport, take a direct train to Amsterdam Centraal Station (approx. 15-20 minutes), then walk or take a tram to Nieuwmarkt. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Nieuwmarkt Square itself is a public space and free to enter. You only pay for purchases at the markets or for food and drinks at the surrounding establishments. Instagram

The daily market typically runs from around 9 AM to 5 PM. Weekend markets, especially the Saturday organic market and Sunday antique market, have similar hours but can vary slightly. Always check local listings for specific times. TikTok

The Waag building is primarily a restaurant and bar. There's no entrance fee to walk around the exterior or enter if you're dining or having drinks. TikTok

Occasionally, special events or festivals are held in Nieuwmarkt, which may require tickets. It's best to check local event listings closer to your visit if you're interested in specific happenings. Instagram

The square is mostly flat, but market stalls can create uneven surfaces. Access to shops and restaurants varies. It's advisable to check with individual establishments if specific accessibility is required.

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Markets

The daily market offers fresh produce, flowers, and local delicacies. Weekend markets, like the Saturday organic market and Sunday antique market, feature a wider array of vintage items, crafts, and specialty foods. TikTok+1

Yes, the Nieuwmarkt flea market (often referring to the Sunday antique market) is a great spot for unique finds, vintage clothing, and collectibles. It's considered one of the oldest flea markets in the Netherlands. TikTok

While the Sunday market is a prime spot for vintage, the surrounding streets of the old city center, including areas near Nieuwmarkt, have several independent vintage clothing stores and antique shops. TikTok

Haggling is generally acceptable at the flea and antique markets, especially towards the end of the day. For fresh produce and food stalls, prices are usually fixed. TikTok

To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for weekday mornings, especially for the daily market. Weekend afternoons can get very busy. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Nieuwmarkt boasts a diverse culinary scene. Popular spots include Spargo for pizza and cocktails, Villa Nieuwmarkt for comfort food and fondue, and numerous cafes offering street food and international dishes. Instagram+1

You can find a variety of street food, from traditional Dutch snacks like stroopwafels and bitterballen to international options depending on the market vendors. TikTok

Yes, many restaurants and cafes in Nieuwmarkt offer vegetarian and vegan options. The Saturday organic market also often has stalls with plant-based foods. Instagram

In the evenings, Nieuwmarkt transforms into a lively dining and social hub. Many restaurants have outdoor seating, creating a vibrant and convivial atmosphere. Instagram+1

Yes, several cafes around Nieuwmarkt serve breakfast and brunch. It's a great spot to start your day before exploring the markets or the city. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The historic Waag building is a prime subject. The bustling market stalls, charming street scenes, and canal views nearby offer plenty of photographic opportunities. TikTok

It's generally polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their products, especially if you're not purchasing anything. Many are happy to oblige. TikTok

Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds for capturing the architecture and market setup. Evenings provide a warm, inviting glow from the streetlights and restaurant signs. Instagram

Consider the nearby Red Light District for its unique atmosphere (though be respectful and avoid photographing people without consent) or the canals for classic Amsterdam shots. TikTok

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide market scenes and details. A wider lens (e.g., 16-35mm) is useful for the Waag building and streetscapes. A fast prime lens is good for low-light evening shots. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Nieuwmarkt is a great spot for families, especially during market days. Kids will enjoy the colorful stalls, the variety of snacks, and the general buzz of activity. The Waag building is also an interesting historical sight. Consider visiting during the day when the markets are in full swing. TikTok

For a unique, budget-friendly activity nearby, check out the EYE Film Museum (accessible via a short ferry ride from behind Centraal Station), where you can create your own flipbook for a small fee. TikTok While Nieuwmarkt itself doesn't have dedicated playgrounds, the open square allows children some space to move around, and the abundance of food options means picky eaters are usually catered for.

💰 Budget Travelers

Nieuwmarkt is excellent for budget-conscious travelers. The daily and weekend markets are your best bet for affordable and delicious food. Grab a stroopwafel, some fresh fruit, or a savory snack from a market stall for a fraction of restaurant prices. TikTok+1

Exploring the square and browsing the market stalls is free. For a unique and inexpensive souvenir, look for handmade crafts or vintage items at the Sunday flea market. Many of the cafes offer reasonably priced coffee and pastries, making it easy to enjoy the atmosphere without overspending. Instagram

couples

Nieuwmarkt offers a charming and lively setting for couples. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the markets, perhaps picking up a unique vintage find or some local treats to share. In the evening, the square transforms into a romantic spot with numerous restaurants and bars offering outdoor seating. Instagram+1

Consider having dinner at the Waag building for a memorable experience in a historic setting, or simply enjoy a cocktail at one of the many cozy cafes. The vibrant atmosphere, combined with the historic architecture, makes Nieuwmarkt a delightful place for a date night or a romantic evening out. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Waag Building

The Waag is one of Amsterdam's oldest non-religious buildings, dating back to the 15th century. Originally a city gate and later a weigh-house for goods, it now stands as a prominent landmark in Nieuwmarkt Square. Its distinctive octagonal towers and imposing facade make it a must-see for history buffs and photographers alike. Today, the building houses a popular restaurant and bar, offering a unique dining experience within its historic walls. TikTok

Visitors often remark on the building's impressive architecture and the lively atmosphere it contributes to the square. It's a central point for meeting up and a great spot to people-watch, especially during market days or in the evening when its lights illuminate the square. The Waag truly embodies the historical charm of the Nieuwmarkt area. Instagram

Nieuwmarkt Markets: A Local's Perspective

Nieuwmarkt Square is renowned for its vibrant markets, offering a genuine slice of Amsterdam life. The daily market (Monday-Saturday) provides fresh produce, flowers, and local treats, perfect for a quick snack or picnic supplies. On Saturdays, an organic market draws crowds seeking high-quality, sustainable goods. Sundays are dedicated to an antique and flea market, a treasure trove for vintage finds, collectibles, and unique souvenirs. TikTok+1

Travelers often highlight the diverse range of goods available, from artisanal cheeses and baked goods to vintage clothing and handmade crafts. It's a fantastic place to practice your bargaining skills, especially at the Sunday market. Many visitors enjoy the lively atmosphere, the smells of fresh food, and the opportunity to interact with local vendors. TikTok Be aware that while the markets are a highlight, they can get quite crowded, especially on weekends. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended for a more relaxed browsing experience. TikTok

Culinary Delights Around Nieuwmarkt

The area surrounding Nieuwmarkt Square is a food lover's paradise, offering a wide array of dining options to suit every palate and budget. From cozy cafes to bustling restaurants, there's always something delicious to discover. Spargo is a popular choice for pizza and cocktails, while Villa Nieuwmarkt offers hearty comfort food and traditional Dutch fondue. Instagram+1

Beyond the sit-down restaurants, the markets themselves are a fantastic source of street food. You can find everything from classic Dutch snacks like stroopwafels and bitterballen to international flavors. Many establishments offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your meal or drink while soaking in the vibrant square atmosphere. Instagram Whether you're looking for a quick bite during market hours or a leisurely dinner, Nieuwmarkt provides a rich culinary experience. Instagram

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