Another Dutch tradition is outdoor shopping in open-air marketplaces. This can be a fun and invigorating experience, particularly in the Waterlooplein Flea Market. This market encourages lively price negotiations. The Albert Cuypmarkt, Amsterdam's largest and busiest market, sells an exotic array of food, herbs and spices. The Farmer's Market (Boerenmarkt) is a trendy setting that draws shoppers from throughout the Netherlands in search of healthy, organic foods.
There are 12 daily outdoor markets in Amsterdam and another 15 that are open only on certain days of the week. The city's love affair with open-air markets started in the late 18th Century when the first merchant stall was set up in the Jewish Quarter.
Antiques, books and miscellaneous decorative items and collectibles can be found sprinkled liberally throughout the city's shops. However, the Antiekmarkt, Boekenmarkt and Poszegelmarkt open-air marketplaces cater specifically to those interests.
