Food
Cheese – always a great Dutch gift, though it can be heavy to pack. While many swear by market stalls or specialty shops, I often find them pricey for what you get. Local supermarkets like Albert Heijn or Jumbo have solid options — their own brands are fine, and Beemster is always a safe bet. Good cheese doesn’t have to be fancy here.
Stroopwafels – caramel waffels. Iconic. Nice ones can be found in a city market.
Kruidnoten – tiny spiced cookies. Very addicting. Usually sold starting from late August to beginning of December (after that they instantly disappear).
Items
Antique items – I’ve seen in Amsterdam shops with antique plates, cutlery, butter dishes, milk pitchers, tulipiere (tulip stands) with all kinds of art and scenery. They come in the iconic Delft blue and also in red and green. Souvenir shops sell these, but why not get a real antique one?
Tulips – Dutch tulips are so nice. I remember buying my first bouquet for my room and it became such a vibe. Waking up to the smell of tulips. Sparked some neurons I haven’t felt before. There are also tulip bulbs being sold, out of everyone I’ve gifted them to no one has managed to grow them.