Westerstraat (markt)

The Westerstraat is one of the most convivial streets of the Jordaan and is known above all for the lively markets that have been held here for generations. On Monday there is the Lapjesmarkt, the oldest textile market of the Netherlands, where you find fabrics, haberdashery and needlework materials. On Saturday the street transforms into the Lindengrachtmarkt, which partly continues into the Westerstraat and is known for fresh produce, flowers, clothing and local delicacies. Between market days the Westerstraat is an atmospheric shopping street with cafés, specialty shops and typically Amsterdam conviviality. The combination of market vendors, local residents and visitors gives the street an authentic Jordaan atmosphere that has existed for centuries.
Where does the name come from?
The Westerstraat was laid out during the expansion of the Jordaan in the 17th century. The street lies to the west of the historic city centre and was therefore given the name Westerstraat. It soon grew into an important shopping and market street for the residents of the working-class district.
Fun fact
The Lapjesmarkt on Monday has existed since 1897 and is thereby the oldest textile market of the Netherlands. Tailors and seamstresses once came here to buy their fabrics; today the colourful stalls still attract both creative Amsterdammers and visitors from outside the city.