IJ-Hallen & Vintage Markets

If you’re into hunting for vintage treasures, IJ-Hallen is the place to be. It’s held every few weeks in the industrial heart of Noord, at NDSM-werf, and it’s easily the biggest flea market in all of Europe. My roommate always says she’s going to stick to her rule — show up at opening, bring exactly 50 euros, and spend no more than three hours. But she’s never followed it. Last month, she came home with a leather jacket from the 80s, a pair of mid-century glasses, and a lamp she insists is designer. I’m not even sure if it’s real or just a really convincing fake. That’s the vibe here — you never know what you’re going to find.

The market takes over two massive halls, with hundreds of stalls. You’ll find vintage clothing, furniture, vinyl records, books, cameras, jewelry, and even art. It’s a mix of professional dealers and people selling things they found in their attic or inherited from their grandmother. That’s what makes it fun — the unpredictability. The best stuff is usually gone in the first hour, so show up at 9 AM sharp if you want to get anything decent. The entry fee is five euros for adults, two for kids, and it’s worth it. You can take the free NDSM ferry from behind Centraal Station — it’s a quick and scenic ride to the area.

One thing to keep in mind: many vendors don’t take cards, so bring plenty of cash. It’s not just a suggestion — it’s a necessity. I’ve seen people walk away with a whole outfit, or a lamp, or a vintage record collection, and they all had the same plan: show up early, be ready to haggle, and be ready to pay in cash. Haggling is expected here, and you can usually get 10 to 20 percent off if you’re polite and patient. It’s not about being pushy — it’s about being respectful and knowing how to negotiate.

The market is chaotic, and it gets crowded. Especially on weekends, it’s a bit of a madhouse. If you’re not used to it, it can be overwhelming. But if you’re patient and ready to wander, you’ll find something. I’ve seen people walk away with a 1970s chair, a vintage camera, or a pair of boots they’d never seen before, just because they were there at the right time.

If you’re in Amsterdam and looking for a weekend activity that’s a little different, this is one of those places that feels like a treasure hunt. My friend Sara once spent an entire afternoon there and came home with a vintage dress, a book of old postcards, and a hand-carved wooden box. She said it was her best shopping trip ever. So, if you’re into vintage, history, and a little bit of chaos, IJ-Hallen is worth a visit. Just make sure you’re ready to spend some time wandering, and maybe even bring a friend to help you negotiate.

Check if that deal’s still on — the market runs every few weeks, so it’s not always open, and the schedule can change. If you’re planning a trip, it’s worth checking the official website ahead of time to confirm the dates.