Amsterdam, known for its charming canals and lively atmosphere, offers more than just beautiful sights—it’s a great place for unique shopping experiences. Whether you’re exploring local markets, browsing high-end boutiques, or discovering handmade crafts, the city has something special for everyone. In this guide, we’ll highlight the top items to bring home from Amsterdam, from tasty Dutch treats to unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of this amazing city.
1. Tulip Bulbs – A classic Dutch Souvenir:
Tulip bulbs have been a popular Dutch souvenir since the 17th century. The Netherlands is the world’s top exporter of tulip bulbs and cut tulips. In Amsterdam, you’ll find many options for high-quality tulip bulbs and tulip-themed gifts. The Keukenhof Gardens, with its 4.5 million tulips in over 100 varieties, highlights the country’s tulip tradition. DutchGrown offers a variety of bulbs, including unique colors like black, white, red, and blue.
2. Wooden Clogs (klompen)- Iconic Dutch footwear:
Wooden clogs, or klompen, have been a staple of Dutch footwear for centuries. Made from beechwood or willow, these sturdy, waterproof shoes are both practical and comfortable. At Hollands Klompenhuis, you can find a range of clogs, including classic yellow, traditional red and blue, and decorative designs. Authentic clogs from North Brabant are available, including traditional and sanded styles. As souvenirs, wooden clogs come in various forms, from keychains to wall decorations, making them a great way to bring home a piece of Dutch culture.
3. Hagelslag – Dutch chocolate sprinkles for bread.
Hagelslag, a favorite Dutch breakfast treat, consists of chocolate sprinkles often served on buttered bread. First introduced in 1936, it’s a beloved cultural symbol in the Netherlands. Available in milk, dark, and white chocolate, hagelslag can be found in most Dutch supermarkets. Popular brands like De Ruijter and Venz offer various flavors, including fruity options. You can buy hagelslag at large Albert Heijn stores or get premium versions at Puccini Bomboni.
4. Stroopwafels- Delicious caramel-filled waffle cookies
Stroopwafels are a classic Dutch treat made of two thin waffles with a caramel syrup filling. The name means “syrup waffle” in Dutch. These cookies are often enjoyed with coffee or tea, letting the warm drink soften the caramel. You can find stroopwafels everywhere in the Netherlands—from street vendors to specialty shops and grocery stores. For something different, there’s also stroopwafel liqueur, which blends the cookie’s flavor with a spirited twist.
5. Dutch Cheese – Gouda and Edam are popular choices.
Dutch cheese, famous for its creamy texture and strong flavor, is a highlight in Amsterdam. Gouda and Edam are popular choices, with flavors ranging from young (jong) to very old (overjarig). Gouda comes in various flavors like Green Pesto and Jalapeño and can be sampled at Old Amsterdam shops in the city center. Edam, another well-known cheese, is celebrated in a nearby cheese village, where traditional cheese market reenactments occur in the summer.
6. Cheese Slicers – Practical and uniquely Dutch:
Cheese slicers are practical and charming souvenirs from Amsterdam. They come in various designs featuring Dutch motifs. Gift sets with cheese slicers and graters are available for €12.45. For more variety, 5-piece cheese knife sets with designs like “Delft Blue” or “Red Tulips” are priced at €12.95. These slicers add a touch of Dutch flair to any kitchen while being useful tools.
7. Jenever – Traditional Dutch gin:
Jenever, the precursor to gin, has been enjoyed in the Netherlands since the 16th century. Made from grains and malt wine, it has a distinct flavor. Served in small tulip-shaped glasses, it’s meant to be sipped slowly. There are two main types: Jonge (young) jenever, which is mild with a hint of juniper, and Oude (old) jenever, which is more aromatic and malty. Popular brands include Bols and Wynand Fockink. For a deep dive into jenever’s history, check out The House of Bols.
8. Gin Mayonnaise – A quirky and tasty condiment:
Gin mayonnaise is a unique Amsterdam treat with a light orange color and a slightly sweet, tangy flavor. It has a subtle gin taste that enhances the mayo. Packaged in a blue tube with a retro design, it’s priced around $2 and pairs well with fries, eggs, burgers, and more. Available in local shops, it’s also exported to the U.K., South Africa, and the U.S.
9. House Magnets – Miniature Versions Of Amsterdam House:
House magnets shaped like Amsterdam’s famous canal houses are popular souvenirs. These mini replicas, usually about 8-10 cm wide, are made from MDF with a magnet on the back. You can find designs featuring historic spots like the Anne Frank House and the Straw Market, as well as Amsterdam shops like flower stores and cheese shops. Prices range from €1.99 to €2.19 per magnet. You can also buy sets of 4 or 6 to capture the city’s unique architecture.
10. Windmill Memorabilia – Miniature windmills or related items:
Windmill memorabilia is a favorite souvenir for visitors to Amsterdam, representing Dutch heritage. These mini replicas come in different sizes, materials, and designs. Polystone models, ranging from 6 cm to 16 cm, feature intricate details of traditional Dutch windmills, with some having rotating blades and music boxes. Delft Blue versions, often decorated with Dutch motifs like kissing couples, add an authentic touch. You can also find practical souvenirs like windmill-themed fridge magnets, Christmas ornaments, and salt and pepper shakers. These miniatures remind us of the Netherlands’ long history with wind power, dating back to the 1200s.
11. Delftware Ceramics – Traditional blue and white pottery:
Delftware is a special type of Dutch pottery that has been made since the 17th century. It’s famous for its blue and white designs on tin-glazed earthenware, representing traditional Dutch craftsmanship. Originally used daily, Delftware became more decorative as people became wealthier and more skilled. Royal Delft, established in 1653, is the oldest company still making it. You can find real Delftware at specialty stores in Amsterdam, like Aronson Antiquairs and Jorrit Heinen
12. Bicycle Accessories – Bells, lights, or even a mini bike model:
Amsterdam is a great place for cycling fans, with lots of bike accessories that make great souvenirs. Popular items include colorful Ding Dong bells with Dutch designs like windmills and tulips. These bells are fun and useful, adding a bit of Dutch flair to any bike. For practical options, there’s the Amsterdam ABUS ringslot (€38.00), ABUS plug-in chain (€18.00), and ABUS chain lock (€68.00). You can also find carriers, waterproof bags, helmets, and phone holders to enhance your ride.
13. Van Gogh Prints – Art from the famous painter:
The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam offers high-quality prints of the artist’s famous works. These prints capture Van Gogh’s vibrant colors and unique patterns, making them perfect souvenirs. Popular pieces include “Almond Blossom,” “Sunflowers,” “Irises,” and “Starry Night.” The museum also offers custom print options for different sizes. These reproductions let art lovers take home a piece of Van Gogh’s legacy.
12. Books About Anne Frank – Learn more about her story:
Amsterdam offers a variety of books about Anne Frank for those interested in her story. The Anne Frank House publishes titles like “All about Anne” (€17.99) and “Anne Frank, dreaming, thinking, writing” (€17.95). You can also find “The Diary of a Young Girl” in English (€27.50 or €12.95) and Dutch (€12.99 or €27.50). For more details about her life, check out “Who was Who In and Around the Secret Annex?” (€8.75) and “After the Annex” (€35.00). Translations of her diary in languages like German, Spanish, French, Italian, and Portuguese are available from €7.90 to €18.00.
15. Dutch Stein – A traditional beer mug:
Dutch steins are a unique Amsterdam souvenir that mix art with use. These beer mugs show off Amsterdam landmarks and Dutch culture with detailed designs. Hand-painted options might feature scenes like Dam Square and Zaanse Schans, with decorations such as tulips. Choices include the “Dutch Mill Landscape” (17 cm) and “Amsterdam Canal Houses” (14 cm). There’s also a large Delft blue mug standing 30 cm tall and holding 3 liters. Made by famous craftsmen like King-Werk of Germany, these steins are both useful and decorative.
16. Dutch Mustard – Perfect for food lovers.
Dutch mustard is a tasty souvenir from Amsterdam, known for its strong flavor. It’s great with sausages, sandwiches, and cheese, especially Gouda. Locally recommended, Zaanse Schans mustard is a popular choice. Marne Limburg mustard is made with natural ingredients like mustard seeds and spices. Traditional options include a mustard ground in a windmill since 1786, blending brown and yellow seeds with vinegar and horseradish. Sweet mustard varieties offer a mix of spicy and sweet flavors.
17. Coffee Mugs- With Amsterdam-themed designs.
Amsterdam-themed coffee mugs combine practicality with Dutch charm. These mugs feature landmarks like the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, and famous canals, showcasing Amsterdam’s unique architecture and culture. Made from durable, dishwasher-safe ceramic, they come in various designs—from classic gabled houses to whimsical windmills. Prices range from €10 for simple designs to €40 for larger, detailed mugs.
18. Flower Seeds – Bring a piece of Dutch flora home:
Amsterdam lets visitors take home a bit of Dutch flora with flower seeds. At the Floating Flower Market (Bloemenmarkt) along the Singel canal, you can find a wide range of seeds and bulbs at great prices. Popular choices include sunflowers, marigolds, and unique blooms like Nigella and Cosmos. For a charming souvenir, wooden clogs filled with flower seeds come in four colors and include instructions. Make sure the seeds are labeled as “cleared” for US Customs to avoid import issues.
19. Banksy Souvenirs – From the Moco Museum.
The Moco Museum in Amsterdam features a notable collection of Banksy’s artwork, offering a unique chance to buy souvenirs inspired by the famous street artist. Banksy, an anonymous artist from England known for his satirical and politically charged street art, uses a distinctive stenciling technique. His impactful works have appeared worldwide. At the Moco Museum, you can see Banksy’s art up close and purchase replicas and merchandise showcasing his iconic designs, bringing a piece of contemporary art history home.
20. Dutch Beer – Try local brews from Amsterdam.
Amsterdam is known for its vibrant beer scene, offering a mix of traditional and craft brews. You can visit unique breweries like Brouwerij ‘t IJ, near a historic windmill, known for its Zatte tripel and Columbus IPA, or De Prael, which combines brewing with a social mission, employing people with disabilities. Popular Dutch beers include Heineken, La Trappe, Jopen, De Molen, and Grolsch. For a beer-tasting experience, Arendsnet offers tastings every Monday and has 50 Dutch beers on tap.
21. Dutch Licorice – A unique taste experience.
Dutch licorice, or “drop,” is a popular treat in the Netherlands known for its strong, salty-sweet flavor due to ammonium chloride. Loved by 80% of Dutch people, it’s been a favorite since the 17th century, with the average person consuming about 2 kilograms per year. Available in many flavors and shapes, from small pieces to large bars, it can be an acquired taste for newcomers but makes a unique souvenir. The Netherlands is Europe’s largest licorice producer.
22. Speculaas Cookies – Spiced shortcrust biscuits.
Speculaas are spiced shortcrust biscuits from the County of Flanders, known for their crispy, caramelized texture and blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and cardamom. Traditionally enjoyed during St. Nicholas’ feast, they’re now popular year-round. These cookies are often shaped into designs like windmills and snowflakes. Available in various forms, including tiny pepernoten and kruidnoten in winter, speculaas can be found at bakeries like Bakkerrij Simon Meijssen in Amsterdam, a well-known spot since 1910.
23. Clothing – Local fashion or branded items:
Amsterdam has a great variety of clothing options. Visitors can find unique Dutch designs at Typisch Hollands, which includes items like Amsterdam-themed hoodies and orange T-shirts. For high-end fashion, G-Star RAW offers innovative denim, and Patta brings urban style.
24. Dutch Apple Pie- A tasty treat to enjoy.
Dutch apple pie is a must-try dessert in Amsterdam, known for its crumbly crust and chunky filling. Visitors can enjoy this treat at various cafes in the city:
- Winkel 43: Famous for its apple pie served with generous whipped cream.
- Café t’ Papeneiland: Offers a cozy pub atmosphere with some of the best apple pie in town.
- De Laatste Kruimel: Known for its traditional deep-dish Dutch apple pie and other pastries.
- Café de Jaren: Adds a thick dollop of whipped cream to their delicious pie.
For something unique, try apple pie-flavored liqueur, a great addition to coffee or desserts.
25. Tattoo – A permanent souvenir from Amsterdam.
Amsterdam is known for its vibrant tattoo scene, with a variety of studios catering to different styles and preferences:
- Dermadonna Custom Tattoos: Established in 1999, this studio in Old Amsterdam welcomes walk-ins and specializes in various styles, including cover-ups.
- Ink District Amsterdam and The Blue Blood Studios: Both are known for hosting talented guest artists and offering unique designs.
- Classic Ink & Mods: Renowned for its color tattoos.
- Hachi.ink: Specializes in dotwork and blackwork styles.
- Black Rose Tattoo and Gallery, Tattoo Hysteria, and Salon Serpent: Offer distinctive styles and experienced artists.
Whether you’re looking for custom work or classic designs, Amsterdam’s tattoo studios have something for everyone.
26. Stuffed Animals – Great for kids.
In Amsterdam, stuffed animals offer both comfort and Dutch charm:
- Typisch Hollands: Features cuddly toys, including some with Dutch-themed sweaters and packaging.
- Miffy: Available in various styles, including gift sets with infant slippers and outfits like a yellow dress with tulips.
- Delft Blue Bears: Come in different sizes and make great keychains or decorative items.
These stuffed animals are not only fun to play with but also help children develop social and emotional skills.
27. Shot Glasses- Collectible and practical.
Shot glasses are small, cylindrical glasses are perfect for serving spirits in a single gulp and come adorned with Dutch-themed designs. In Amsterdam, shot glasses make great souvenirs with their Dutch-themed designs. You can find glasses featuring Delft Blue patterns, canal houses, tulips, and bicycles. Unique options include Vincent van Gogh’s Sunflowers and Amsterdam Wodka logos. Prices range from €2.99 to €3.99 each. For a complete set, you might choose collections like “Amsterdam Bicycle” or “Dutch Vintage.”
28. Puzzles – Featuring Dutch landscapes or landmarks.
Amsterdam offers a range of puzzles showcasing Dutch landscapes and landmarks, making them perfect souvenirs. You can find jigsaw puzzles of Amsterdam’s iconic bridges and canals, as well as puzzles with Dutch-themed shapes and irregular patterns for an added challenge. Options include tulip fields, windmills, and vibrant sunsets, with pieces ranging from 108 to 1000. These puzzles often come in attractive packaging, making them great gifts. Some puzzles feature specific landmarks like the Zaanse Schans windmills and Amsterdam cafes.
29. Vintage Books – From local markets like Boekenmarkt Op Het Spui.
Amsterdam’s Boekenmarkt Op Het Spui, open every Friday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, is a haven for book lovers. This market, running for over 30 years, features around 25 booksellers from across the Netherlands, offering a diverse selection of second-hand and antique books in Dutch, French, German, and English. Visitors can also find prints, pamphlets, posters, and documents. Located in the city center, the market is easily accessible by tram or a 15-minute walk from Central Station.
30. Upcycled Products – Unique items made from recycled materials.
Amsterdam celebrates upcycling with a range of unique souvenirs made from recycled materials. Eco-friendly products like bags from discarded bicycle tires, jewelry crafted from reclaimed metals, and home decor made from repurposed wood highlight Dutch creativity and sustainability. Local markets and specialty shops offer these innovative items, giving visitors one-of-a-kind mementos that blend Dutch ingenuity with environmental awareness.
Conclusions
Amsterdam is a fantastic place to find souvenirs that truly reflect Dutch culture and history. From delicious local treats and traditional crafts to innovative, eco-friendly items, there’s something for everyone. These souvenirs aren’t just mementos—they capture the essence of Amsterdam’s rich heritage and dedication to sustainability. Whether you choose a tasty Dutch delicacy or a unique artisan piece, you’ll be bringing home a slice of your Amsterdam adventure.
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