Top Rated Shopping in Rest of The Netherlands

Since 1915, the Hajenius House has been one of the best-known cigar houses in Europe and boasts of a stately location on the Rokin. Along with cigars, Hajenius also offers a stylish room, a special cigar try-out tool and private lockers where specialists can store their expensive cigars under controlled conditions. The beautiful art-deco interiors of the historic building create a perfect ambiance for cigar enthusiasts to admire the store's premium collection.

Housed right next to the one-time Heineken brewery, The Albert Cuyp market is the busiest and the largest in Amsterdam. Open six days a week, local shoppers make a daily routine out of browsing the ample stalls. It's not just fresh local produce, though. You can find just about anything at Albert Cuyp, from a new pair of casual shoes to some bolts of fabric to create your own market-ready item. The market's vendors are as diverse as their products, meaning you can find exotic spices and souvenirs from all around the world.

"De Bijenkorf" literally translates to "the beehive" and is one of Amsterdam's largest department stores, spread over six levels. From humble beginnings in 1870, the company now has a dozen outlets across the country. The historic building it lies in is an architectural marvel in itself and features an array of merchandise. On sale are clothing and apparel by international designers and high-end labels, branded cosmetics, exquisite jewelry and trendy shoes. Also on offer are furniture, kitchen appliances and home decor. Books, stationery, music and toys make their way on the fourth floor. Despite the upscale prices, every shopper will find something of interest at this state-of-the-art shopping complex. Please check the website for hours of operation.

The Flower Market (Bloemenmarkt) is located in the heart of the city, near Kalverstraat, Leidsestraat and the Munttoren en Muntplein. Have a look inside the shops floating on barges on the Singel Canal; they sell everything from seeds and bulbs to unique flowers. Don't be surprised if you find floral items in colors you have never seen before; flowers like black tulips and purple roses are very common here. This is a great place to visit, even if you don't plan to make a purchase and a charming spot if you have arrived with someone special. If you want to take these products out of the country, be sure that they have export certificates.

Indulge your sweet tooth with the heavenly chocolates on offer at this specialty boutique located in Jordaan. Established in 2010, the expansive boutique delights with an enticing display of artisan chocolate bars and other creations by well-known chocolatiers. Taking things further, the boutique conducts regular chocolate tasting sessions for enthusiasts. Apart from chocolate, the store also offers premium coffee and tea. A must-visit for chocolate lovers.

Patisserie Holtkamp Amsterdam is an Amsterdam tradition when it comes to baked goods and pastries; Dutch people reserve birthday cakes from Holtkamp for loved ones. Of course, the prices are somewhat high, but the flavor is more than worth the penny paid. Chocolate flavors are brought out with complementary liquors and molded into artistic creations. Fruit tarts feature fresh sweet and tart flavors that are as visually attractive as they are delicious. For those who prefer snacks above sweets, Holtkamp also has a quick turnover rate for their quiches and ragouts. Their croquettes are famous, and if you don't know what that is, all the more reason to try one from a shop whose recipe is famous!