Mystical and magical shops to visit in Amsterdam

A past connection

Tucked between Amsterdam’s canals, historic façades, and bustling shopping streets are small stores where the city’s past meets its more mysterious side, carrying traces of a long relationship between Amsterdam and the world of mysticism. This longstanding association with mysticism is rooted in Amsterdam’s history of relative religious and intellectual tolerance. In the 17th century, the Dutch Republic, shaped by its fight for independence, developed a reputation as one of Europe’s most open societies. Driven by commerce as much as conviction, Amsterdam welcomed merchants, scholars, and religious minorities from across the continent, creating an environment where unconventional ideas could circulate more freely than elsewhere.

Hermeticism and witchcraft

Among the philosophical currents that flourished was Hermeticism, an esoteric tradition inspired by writings attributed to the mythical Hermes Trismegistus. Blending philosophy, astrology, alchemy, and spirituality, Hermetic thought explored the hidden relationships between the cosmos, nature, and the human soul. Amsterdam became an important centre for the publication and exchange of these ideas, leading some historians to describe the city as a European capital of Hermetic thought. This was also the time when witch persecutions were the order of the day, but the courts of the Netherlands were generally more sceptical than those in neighbouring countries. That pragmatic approach helped preserve a climate in which alternative spiritual traditions could survive, even if they remained on the fringes of society. Today, echoes of that history can still be found in Amsterdam’s independent esoteric bookshops, botanical apothecaries and even museums like the Embassy of the Free Mind.

Mystic shops

One of the best-known examples is Black Moon Botanica on Spiegelgracht, housed in a restored 17th-century building just steps from the Rijksmuseum. Founded by astrologer and herbologist Brooke Mackay-Brock, who handcrafts many of the items alongside her husband, the shop offers vegan ritual candles, herbal blends, and more. "These shops serve as anchors for connection and exploration," Mackay-Brock notes. "They provide approachable entry points for those interested in these traditions, sustaining the city’s open-minded heritage." These spaces are more than retail stores: they function as community hubs where you can explore herbalism, astrology, tarot, folklore, and ritual practices through books, workshops, and conversation. In a city known for its museums and canals, they offer a quieter connection to a centuries-old tradition of curiosity and intellectual openness.

Black Moon Botanica

With its carefully chosen decorations inside and out and a friendly staff happy to answer questions about the projects and esoteric tools, Black Moon Botanica is where you can find all things tarot, handmade candles, crystals, runes, and herbal tea blends. Great for beginners and workshops, the store feels like a miniature museum.

Spiegelgracht 30H | open daily, 12:00-18:00

Fabula Rosa

A cosy spiritual shop that is your go-to for crystals, extensive tarot/oracle cards, books, and incense. They also stock yoga mats, meditation cushions, Palo Santo, sage, singing bowls, and salt lamps, making it a peaceful spot to browse and pick up tools for mindfulness or magic. 

Rozengracht 15D | open Tues-Sat 11:00-18:00, 17:00 on Sat

Fantasyshop Chimera

Open since 1991, this store feels like stepping into an enchanted forest with dragons, unicorns, trolls, witches and fairies, accompanied by clothing, jewellery, and fun accessories.

Damstraat 7 | open daily from 10:00, closing times vary

Gems by Shy

Near Central Station, Gems by Shy offers personalised crystal selections based on energy and aura. Owner Shy helps you choose stones tailored to your physical and mental needs, with a focus on ethically and sustainably sourced gems. The small shop also carries jewellery and candles.

Haarlemmerdijk 33 | open daily, Mon-Fri 12:00-18:00, Sat + Sun 13:00-18:00

Elements of Energy

This magic store centres on Feng Shui and Nine-Star-Ki astrology. They have a great selection of crystals, candles, and teas, plus workshops and consultations for self-development, as well as shamanic supplies and plant medicine.

Nieuwe Kerkstraat 1H | open Tues-Sat, 12:00-17:00

Sosoul Inner Sanctuary

A ritual space for crystals, cacao ceremonies, and guided sessions, this serene sanctuary near Noordermarkt also offers a curated shop with incense, jewellery, journals, and ceremonial matcha or cacao. 

Anjelierstraat 46H | open Mon-Sat, times vary