During the 17th century, Amsterdam was the warehouse of the world, stuffed with imperial riches from far-off colonies and nearby neighbours. The Dutch empire has since crumbled but its capital remains a shopper's paradise. In particular, Amsterdam's speciality shops and markets truly stand out. Sure, you can probably find glowing Mexican shrines or banana-flavoured condoms back home, but Amsterdam has whole shops devoted to such items.

Well-heeled shoppers head for the expensive shops and boutiques along PC Hooftstraat, and antique and art buffs check Nieuwe Spiegelstraat and Spiegelgracht. The Jordaan neighbourhood is full of quirky shops and galleries, as are the radial streets in the canal belt, especially in the western section. Souvenirs are sold everywhere, most of them tacky, but try a Delft-blue tulip vase or bulbs to plant back home (home legislation permitting).

Most stores are open seven days a week (at least in the city centre) but many start late on Monday. Hours are normally 1pm to 6pm on Monday, 10am to 6pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 10am to 9pm on Thursday and, in the city centre, noon to 6pm on Sunday, but there are many variations.

The Albert Cuyp market is Amsterdam's largest and busiest market. It is held from Mondays through Saturdays along Albert Cuypstraat, between Van Woustraat and Ferdinand Bolstraat. The emphasis is on food of every description and from every corner of the globe, but clothes and other goods are on sale too, often cheaper than anywhere else. If any one want to experience the 'real' Amsterdam at its multi-cultural best, this market is not to be missed. Also beware of pickpockets at at busy markets.