IJ-Hallen is a flea market which takes place monthly over a weekend at NDSM wharf in the north of Amsterdam. With around 750 outdoor stalls (400-500 indoor stalls in winter) it is the largest regular flea market in the Netherlands and one of the biggest in Europe.
NDSM wharf can be easily reached from the back of Amsterdam Central station by hopping on the free GVB ferry. The trip takes about 15 minutes and offers some great views of the IJ river and Amsterdam’s waterfront development.
On arrival it is a short walk from the ferry towards the former shipyard area. The market is normally hosted in a large former ship building warehouse and the area outside.
Note that an admission fee is required to enter the market.
We would estimate that about 2/3 of the stalls are selling second-hand and vintage clothes; but you will also find assorted bric-a-brac for sale in the form of accessories, furniture, homeware, vinyl records, bikes, antiques and so on.
It is actually quite reminiscent of the King’s Day free market in April.
Prices are cheap and open to negotiation. This is not really the place to look for high-end antique pieces though you might find that gem of a bargain if you get there early.
Do bring cash with you as not all sellers will accept card payments. And bring spare bags if you plan to purchase a few items.
Most of the stall-holders are hobbyists and amateurs – a standard stall is 4m by 1.10m and is available to rent for €33 per day whilst corner stands go for €39 per day
As a visitor, if you wish to temporarily leave the market then get a stamp on your hand which will allow you to re-enter later on that day.
There are a number of good cafés around NDSM wharf such as IJKantine, Noorderlicht and Pllek; the area has a unique, eclectic atmosphere. The market itself has a few food trucks inside but queues can be long.
The market is popular with both locals and visitors alike. Just a couple of things to watch out for – obviously it can get crowded so beware of pickpockets; also mind your step as the floors can be uneven in places – both indoors and outdoors.
If you enjoy browsing flea markets then a visit to IJ-Hallen will make for a fun-filled few hours.
The IJ-Hallen market runs on these dates:
27 Apr 2023 – Children’s market on King’s Day
13-14 May 2023
17-18 Jun 2023
1-2 Jul 2023
5-6 Aug 2023
26-27 Aug 2023
See our what’s on in Amsterdam section for IJ-Hallen dates or check IJ-Hallen’s site here.
IJ-Hallen Essential Info
| Opening Times | The market runs approximately once per month on a weekend, open 0900-1630 (Sat-Sun). |
| Admission Prices (2023) | Standard entrance is €6, children 4-11 pay €2.50. Free entrance to children 0-3. Early bird tickets for entry from 0600 costs €10. |
| Getting There | Located at NDSM wharf in Amsterdam North. Take the free GVB ferry from the back of Amsterdam Central station. For those coming by car there are paid parking facilities nearby which costs €8.40 for a day ticket. From the A10 Amsterdam ring road take exit S118 (Oostzaan). |
IJ-Hallen Flea Market, T.T. Neveritaweg 15, 1033 WB Amsterdam-Noord
Last update 21 April 2023 (originally published in 2016).
