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Aalsmeer Flower Auction
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Industrial site
The Aalsmeer Flower Auction, operated by Royal FloraHolland, is the largest trading center for ornamental plants in the world. The main building in Aalsmeer ranks as one of the largest structures on Earth by footprint, covering more than 500.000 square meters of floor space. Every day, millions of cut flowers and potted plants from across the globe arrive here to be sorted and sold via the famous Dutch auction system. The cooperative was established in 1911 to empower local growers through a centralized marketplace. The logistical efficiency is extraordinary; flowers auctioned in the early morning often reach international markets via nearby Schiphol Airport on the very same day. The site serves as the global epicenter of the floral trade, setting benchmarks for digitalization and sustainable logistics within the international horticultural industry.
- Location: North Holland, Netherlands
- Top sights: Stommeermolen · Kinderboerderij Boerenvreugd · De Ezelkeet
- Nearby: Hoofddorp (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 4 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 15 | 12 | 8 | 5 |
| Rain mm | 75 | 64 | 53 | 40 | 57 | 63 | 81 | 90 | 70 | 78 | 76 | 81 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The flower auction in Aalsmeer is the largest of its kind worldwide and the logistics center of international flower trade. Millions of cut flowers and plants are handled daily.
Visiting
The auction hall is open to visitors who can watch the auction process from a visitor gallery. Guided tours are available but advance booking is recommended.
Where to view it
The visitor gallery inside the auction hall provides the best view of the action. From there you see countless flower pallets and the hectic activity of buyers.
Local products
In the Aalsmeer region, cut flowers, potted plants and flower bulbs are grown. Visitors can buy fresh flowers and plants at surrounding shops and farmers' markets.
Active season
Main auction times are early morning, usually between 7 and 9 AM. The highest activity occurs before Valentine's Day, Mother's Day and other flower holidays.
Nearby
Combine the visit with the Aalsmeerder Lake and the nearby flower fields. Amsterdam is also a short drive away, offering many other attractions.
Geography
Facts
- The building complex has a floor area of roughly 518,000 square meters.
- More than 20 million flowers and plants are traded here daily.
- The auction uses the 'Dutch clock' system where prices start high and drop.
- About 60% of the global flower trade is handled by Royal FloraHolland.
- The site originated in 1911 from the merger of local cooperatives.
- Tourists can witness the auction process from specialized viewing galleries.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Aalsmeer Flower Auction (10)
Roy's Magic Theater
Theatre in Aalsmeer, specializing in magic shows and illusions.
Chimpie Champ
Attraction in Aalsmeer. A play and entertainment centre for children.
Aalsmeerderbrug
Bridge between Aalsmeer and Haarlemmermeer. It spans a canal, connecting the two municipalities.
Historische Tuin Aalsmeer🏛 museum
Museum in Aalsmeer. It showcases the history of flower cultivation and horticulture in the region.
De Leeuw
Octagonal stellingmolen in Aalsmeer. This gallery windmill is a local landmark.
GlowGolf
Attraction in Aalsmeer. An indoor mini-golf course with blacklight effects and glowing obstacles.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When should you visit the flower auction?
As early as possible! Ideally between 7:00 and 9:00 AM.
Is the auction open to tourists?
Yes, there is a special visitor route on galleries above the action.
How much does the entry cost?
The entrance fee is around 10 euros per adult.
Can you buy flowers there?
No, it is strictly wholesale, but there is a small shop for souvenirs.
How do you get there from Amsterdam?
By bus from Amsterdam Centraal or Schiphol station.
Aalsmeer Flower Auction: where is it located?
Aalsmeer Flower Auction is located in North Holland, Netherlands.
Aalsmeer Flower Auction: what is there to see?
Highlights include Stommeermolen, Kinderboerderij Boerenvreugd, De Ezelkeet.
Aalsmeer Flower Auction: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Aalsmeer Flower Auction: why is it worth visiting?
The Aalsmeer Flower Auction, operated by Royal FloraHolland, is the largest trading center for ornamental plants in the world.
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