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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest market finds
Nieuwmarkt Amsterdam
Best Time
Freshest market finds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Amsterdam square with daily/weekend markets, historic Waag building, and vibrant cafes and restaurants.
"Nieuwmarkt is a must-visit for its lively markets and historic charm, offering a true taste of Amsterdam."
🎯 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!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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
Evening Ambiance & Dining
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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!
🚶♀️ Wander the Square
Take time to soak in the atmosphere and admire the historic Waag building.
💰 Budget-Friendly Eats
Street food at the market offers tasty and affordable options.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 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!
🚶♀️ Wander the Square
Take time to soak in the atmosphere and admire the historic Waag building.
💰 Budget-Friendly Eats
Street food at the market offers tasty and affordable options.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
From Schiphol Airport, take a direct train to Amsterdam Centraal Station (approx. 15-20 minutes), then walk or take a tram to Nieuwmarkt.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for weekday mornings, especially for the daily market. Weekend afternoons can get very busy.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
You can find a variety of street food, from traditional Dutch snacks like stroopwafels and bitterballen to international options depending on the market vendors.
Yes, many restaurants and cafes in Nieuwmarkt offer vegetarian and vegan options. The Saturday organic market also often has stalls with plant-based foods.
In the evenings, Nieuwmarkt transforms into a lively dining and social hub. Many restaurants have outdoor seating, creating a vibrant and convivial atmosphere.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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. 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
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.
couples
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Waag Building
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.
Nieuwmarkt Markets: A Local's Perspective
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. 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.
Culinary Delights Around Nieuwmarkt
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. Whether you're looking for a quick bite during market hours or a leisurely dinner, Nieuwmarkt provides a rich culinary experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit