From the water
The square near the Amstel river is named after the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. Here you find the oldest flea market in town. The daily flea market on the square is very popular and known for the vintage items you can buy there. The market currently has some three hundred stalls and is open every day except Sunday. So if you are a fan of vintage things, this is the right place to visit. And if you are looking for an original souvenir, you might find one there, because they sell a lot of things that you do not really need. And in case you are looking to get a stolen bike back, you also know the place.
The story behind it
Waterlooplein was created in 1882 by filling in two canals. It became the centre of the former Jewish Quarter and home to a lively daily market where you could find almost anything.
The flea market is still held here six days a week. Next to it stands the Stopera, the combined city hall and national opera house, opened in 1986.
On your cruise
This is stop 12 of 23 on the Friendship route. Before this you passed De Sluyswacht, and the boat continues towards The Amstel. Your skipper will point it out as you pass — keep your camera ready, because from the water you see details that are easily missed from the street.
Want to see it in person? All our cruises follow the heart of this route, and with a private cruise you can even ask your skipper to linger a little longer at your favourite spots.
