Bloemenmarkt is Amsterdam's floating flower market, founded in 1862 claims to be the only one in the world. Fifteen stalls selling flowers, bulbs and souvenir gifts stretch along the Singel Canal between Muntplein and Koningsplein. The series of shops rest on permanently moored barges and are open Monday to Saturday with a few shops open on Sunday.
The market is surprisingly small because at a snails pace, we took only about an hour to cover this tourist hotspot. Although Andy and I do not particularly have any 'green fingers', I can imagine what a gardener's heaven it is. What I found lovely about this
market were the huge range of bulbs, seeds, shrubs, herbs, flowers and potted plants for sale. I
certainly never knew that bulbs came in so many curious shapes and
colours! Some look just like huge sweet potatoes or gigantic onions. And all were tastefully presented like a vegetable grocery store with stacks of cartons laden with bulbs, each with a photo of the flower in full bloom and growing instructions.
There were also wooden tulips which were quite lovely as well. These we bought three and are now happily brightening our bathroom.
The Bloemenmarkt.
Other than tulips, flowers and bulbs, there were also some exotic plants and succulents for sale. Of course, no tourist destination are without its souvenirs. There were some interesting items such as these unique garden figurines!
Gay garden figurines.
Charming couple chatting next to the market.
Bloemenmarkt is definitely a charming and colourful market in Amsterdam, well worth visiting!
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