If you need a grocery store Amsterdam makes it easy, once you know the main chains: Albert Heijn, Jumbo, Dirk, Lidl and Aldi cover most neighbourhoods, and smaller shops fill the gaps. This guide explains what each is good for, how opening hours and Sundays work, and how to shop cheaply without losing time.
Grocery store Amsterdam: the main chains
- Albert Heijn (AH): The biggest Dutch supermarket brand, found almost everywhere. Standard stores have a full range; AH to go branches are small, convenient and often at stations, but usually pricier.
- Jumbo: A large chain with a wide range and often generous opening hours. Many branches are larger than the average central AH.
- Dirk: A budget supermarket with a smaller selection and lower prices on staples.
- Lidl and Aldi: German discounters with simple layouts, own-brand products and good value, especially for travellers on a budget.
- Ekoplaza: Focused on organic and natural products, handy if you want vegan or specialist items.
- Spar and small shops: Neighbourhood stores that stay open late, though they cost more.
Where to shop depending on where you stay
In the centre, around Central Station, the Nine Streets and the Dam, you will find compact supermarkets that are quick but pricey. For a better price, walk or cycle a bit into neighbourhoods like De Pijp, the Jordaan or Oost, where the standard branches are larger.
If you stay near Amsterdam Centraal, the AH to go in the station is useful for a quick sandwich or snack, but a larger store a few tram stops away is better for a full shop.
Markets for fresh food
For fruit, vegetables, cheese and fish, a street market is often better than a supermarket. The Albert Cuyp Market in De Pijp is the best known, and the Dappermarkt in the east of the city is popular with locals. Markets usually run on set days; check opening days before you go. Most stalls take cards, but some prefer cash.
How shopping works
- Bring a bag. Plastic bags cost extra, so bring a tote or buy a reusable bag.
- Bonus cards. Chains have loyalty apps and cards with weekly deals. Tourists may not need them, but they can save money on longer stays.
- Self-checkout. Many stores have scan-it-yourself stations, which are quicker at busy times.
- Bottle deposit. Plastic bottles and cans often carry a small deposit; return them at the machines in the store.
- Cards. Most stores prefer debit cards over cash. Check whether your foreign card works before relying on it.
Opening hours and Sundays
Many supermarkets are open into the evening, and larger stores in the city commonly open on Sundays, though hours can be shorter. Some smaller shops close earlier or close on Sundays, and public holidays can change things, so check the opening hours on the store’s official site or app.
What to buy: Dutch groceries worth trying
- Stroopwafels, the thin caramel waffles
- Hagelslag, chocolate sprinkles for bread
- Gouda, Edam and other Dutch cheeses
- Dutch herring, if you like it, from a market or fish stall
- Speculaas biscuits and pepernoten around autumn
- Fresh bread and pastries from a local bakery
Many of these make good gifts and are cheaper at a supermarket than in tourist shops. Pack cheese in a sealed bag if travelling home, and check customs rules on dairy or meat if you leave the EU.
Tips for visitors on a budget
- Buy breakfast items and snacks at a discounter or a standard supermarket, not at station kiosks.
- Look for ready meals and salads in the deli sections; they make a cheap dinner.
- If your hotel has a fridge, pick up drinks and fruit for the day.
- Shop in the afternoon on weekends for markdowns on bakery goods in some stores.
For more practical city advice, see the Amsterdam travel guides. You can also read more about the city on the official tourism site I amsterdam.
FAQ
Are supermarkets open on Sunday in Amsterdam?
Many larger ones are, often with slightly shorter hours. Check the store’s own listing.
What is the cheapest chain?
Lidl, Aldi and Dirk are usually the budget options, with Albert Heijn and Jumbo sitting in the middle.
Can I pay by card?
Yes, in most places. Cards are the normal way to pay, so keep cash for markets and small stalls.
