Have you ever had the feeling that all of the world’s shopping streets pretty much have the same stuff on offer? Well then, you need to visit Amsterdam’s Haarlemmerstraat – it’s hip, it’s quirky and it’s the perfect spot for hours of relaxed browsing, dining and bar-hopping! Independent entertainment Located in Amsterdam’s Jordaan district, the Haarlemmerstraat – and its extension, the Haarlemmerdijk - is a gem. Offering independent boutiques and speciality stores, little salons, trendy but affordable restaurants and bars and the oldest cinema in Amsterdam, this area will appeal to even the most jaded of world travellers. You are guaranteed to find a special little something from Amsterdam in this alternative shopping district. And with a constant passing parade along the Haarlemmerstraat, you can spend a very entertaining time just watching the world go by. Wide variety With 235 stores offering fashion and accessories, toys, gifts, jewellery, books, electronics and speciality delicatessens– the biggest problem in the Haarlemmerstraat and Haarlemmerdijk will be deciding what to spend your money on. On Wednesdays, this decision gets harder as the area’s assortment grows with the organic farmer’s market on the Haarlemmerplein. For more socially-conscious shopping, head to Nukuhiva boutique, whose stylish urban wear proves it's hip to be Fair Trade. Shops are open until 9 p.m. on Thursday evenings, meaning you can perfectly combine a bit of shopping with a bite to eat. If you think you’ve seen it all, then you haven’t been to Amsterdam’s Haarlemmerstraat yet!