Those who love to spend hours in search of second-hand scores and couldn't care less about crowds should make it their mission to head to the IJ-hallen, Europe's biggest flea market. The flea market takes its name from the massive halls it occupies, once a part of the NDSM shipyard, and it seems to sprawl endlessly to the unfettered joy of diehard second-hand shoppers, who come from all over the country - and Europe - to treasure-hunt.

The IJ-hallen can accommodate up to 750 stalls, and is usually filled to capacity; moreover, no commercial vendors are allowed, only private ones. The market is usually held on the first weekend of each month, but check the web site for exact dates and times.

The IJ-hallen and its flea market are located on the opposite side of the IJ River from Amsterdam Central Station, but it's a cinch to reach the premises; just hop on one of the free, frequent ferries that shuttle visitors back and forth over the river. The ride is just 15 minutes, and the views of the IJ River and the architecture on its banks is worth the trip itself. Plus, there's lots more to explore in Amsterdam North, even after your capacity to shop is exhausted; do take note, however, that Amsterdam North is much more expansive than the compact city center, so a bicycle comes in handy for more extensive explorations. (Bicycles can even be taken onto the ferry.)

Do dress warm, because the capacious IJ-hallen are especially chilly in winter, and even in colder weather the stalls spill outside onto the vast front yard of the halls.

Shoppers can take refreshments and keep warm with traditional Dutch treats, like French fries and poffertjes (Dutch mini-pancakes, bathed in butter; my favorite), but the lines can be formidable at peak hours.

IJ-hallen Visitor Information:

Contact Information
T.T. Neveritaweg 15
1033 WB Amsterdam-Noord
Phone: +31 (0)229 581598 (from 3 - 10 p.m. only)
Internet: www.ij-hallen.nl

Dates and Times
Every first Saturday and Sunday of the month, from 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.

Admission Fee
€ 4.50 for adults; € 2 for children 11 and under.

Location
Amsterdam North, i.e. the city district north of the IJ River

Directions
From the rear (north) exit of Amsterdam Central Station - the exit that faces the IJ River and the EYE Film Institute - take the free GVB ferry line 906 towards the NDSM-werf (NDSM Wharf). The ferry ride lasts approximately 15 minutes. From the opposite side of the IJ River, it's a five-minute walk to the IJ-hallen; just follow the crowds.