Amsterdam 9 streets: the famous little shopping streets

The 9 little streets (in Dutch: 9 Straatjes) are very popular, both with locals, tourists and expats, and are located in the canal belt area right behind the Royal Palace on the Dam (click here to read my blog about the Royal Palace). It actually consists of 9 small picturesque shopping streets: the Gasthuismolensteeg, Hartensteeg, Reestraat, Berenstraat, Wolvenstraat, Oude Spiegelstraat, Wijde Heisteeg, Huidenstraat, Runstraat. Over the years many of the authentic and specialized shops have disappeared because the rent for these shops has gone through the roof (reportedly easily up to €4,000- €8,000 a month), but you can still find some real gems. Here is the ultimate guide to my favorite shops in the 9 little streets of Amsterdam.

#1 Gasthuismolensteeg

At NicNic Fashion and Design Socks We Love you probably find the largest collection of tights and socks in Amsterdam. They have hundreds of different colors and patterns which makes it a typical feel good shop. Opposite NicNic you’ll find Waxwell Records selling new and used vinyl. Flip through the vinyl just like you used to! They specialize in Soul, Hip-Hop, Funk, Jazz, Blues, Disco, Rock, Reggae and Pop records. Another place I really like is Sas Design Jewelry. It is a tiny little shop selling jewelry made by goldsmiths in India using beautiful (semi-)precious stones.

NicNic Fashion and Design Socks We Love

#2 Hartensteeg

Eddy Varekamp is one of the few artists you will find in the 9 Streets. He has a cute little gallery selling aquarel paintings, stencil prints and lino cuts with themes like music, animals and Amsterdam scenery. Peek inside Fabienne Chapot, a Dutch designer, whose signature is bright and lively colors and extremely happy prints.