Introduction
The floating flower market enjoys a perfect
location on Singel, one of the oldest three-lined canals of
Amsterdam. This fascinating floating garden, popularly known
as Bloemenmarkt, started its business in 1862 and is the only
floating flower market in the world till date. Holland is famous
for flower transactions and successfully runs one of the most
renowned flower industries of the world. The flower market of
Amsterdam adds to the grandeur of this industry with its wide
range of fresh and bright flowers. Initially, flowers and plants
were brought to the market from the horticultural areas around
Amsterdam by barges; but now, vans are being used to carry these
fresh plants to the market instead of boats.
This ambrosial and chromatic market offers
to the visitors vibrant flowers like tulip bulbs and other local
flora within the market area that is divided into four blocks
with 15 florists and hundreds of garden shops. Dutch tulips,
black tulips, geraniums, indoor cypresses and manhole plants,
you will find the rarest of species here in this colourful market
that carries on the merchandise on floating barges. Christmas
trees of all shapes and sizes can be purchased from this vivid
flower market. Cheap souveniers like fridge magnets and key
chains are also available in the tourist shops here. You can
avail all kinds of seeds in the floating stalls of the market.
People need special export certificates to carry products from
this market abroad.
Visitors can just stroll around the market
even if they do not intend to buy anything. It is a great place
and offers an alluring beauty to the visitants.
Location
The flower market is located on the corner
of the Singel and the Koningsplein Square at Grachtengordel
South. The Bloemenmarkt is known as one of the major attractions
of Amsterdam enjoying a perfect location on the southern side
one of the most picturesque three-lined canals of the city.
The Singel is one of the oldest canals of Amsterdam. Muntplein
is very near to this wonderful market. The famous Kalverstraat
and Leidsestraat areas are within easy reach from here.
Transport
Tram 4, 9, 14, 16, 24 or 25 will take you to
Bloemenmarkt from all parts of the city.
Direction
Coming from the centre of Amsterdam drive southwest
at Broekermeerdijk. After about 270 metres from there you will
come to the road at Slochterweg. Drive another 110 metres from
there to take a right turn into the first street, Slochterweg
(N247). Drive for 1.8 kilometres to head straight to S116 or
Nieuwe Leeuwarderweg following the sign Noord-Centrum/ S116.
After traveling a distance of 4.3 kilometre from there will
lead you to exit Prins Hendrikkade at sign Amsterdam Centraal.
Drive along for another 150 metres to keep right into Prins
Hendrikkade. After another 80 metres drive into Prins Hendrikkade
at sign reading, Centrum, Amsterdam. You will have to drive
for 1.2 kilometre from there and then have to take a left turn
to reach Martelaarsgracht. From there drive for 130 metres keeping
left into Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal. Another 620 metres drive
and you will be reaching the 7th street Raadhuisstraat on taking
a right turn. Drive for another 95 metres and then turn right
into the 2nd street, Singel. After driving for 20 metres you
will finally reach Bloemenmarkt in Singel.
Timings
Monday – Friday: 9.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m.
Saturday: 9.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m.
Sunday: 11.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m.
Conclusion
Amsterdam is known to the rest of the world
as the most dynamic and fascinating cities of the world. The
charm of the city lies in its 17th century houses, the artery
of canals and the presence of an array of popular attractions
within the city. The flower market is one such major tourist
spot of Amsterdam that caters uniquely to the interest of
the tourists. Situated on the Singel canal the floating Bloemenmarkt
plays an integral part in making Holland one of the major
exporters of tulip. As far as tulip cultivation and export
are concerned the Dutch are still the world leaders with their
huge network of supply in Europe and North America. Bloemenmarkt
has developed as the most popular flower markets of the Netherlands
since 1862 adding to the picturesque beauty of the place.
The flower bulbs available at Bloemenmarkt are subjected
to be exported following certain rules. Japan allows a maximum
of 100 certified bulbs from here, whereas, Australia and New
Zealand have put a ban on bulb importation. In Canada and
the USA unlimited entry of bulbs can be enjoyed on a certificate
provided to the importers. Ireland and UK, however, permits
open import without any limitation.
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