An Expat’s Guide to Amsterdam
March 9th, 2015
Well, here it is. A list of all that is necessary for you to see and do on your first visit to beautiful Amsterdam, from an expat's perspective. All listed in an easy to navigate order by neighbourhood and with a few recommendations and stops, in between. Check it out, make some changes, and don't be shy to tell me your thoughts or to ask any questions. Enjoy!
A few quick tips before you dive in:
Amsterdam Old Town is completely walkable and if you're up for it, I would recommend sticking it out by foot or biking so you don't just get to see point A and point B, but also everything in between. That's where the secrets are. But for those not so crazy about the idea, or if you plan to explore it's surrounding neighbourhoods, you can do a few things to make your life a bit easier getting around the city.
Download the App 9292. This is what all the locals use to get get around with public transportation. It will help you find the quickest route and how to get there.
Purchase a temporary transportation card for 7 euros at the station. Then upload however much money you think you'll need on to the card. Not purchasing the single tickets on every ride will be cheaper in the long run and starting this year (2018), you can't pay cash on the trams and buses.
Though they should be widely accepted, be prepared for your Visa Cards to not be accepted everywhere. Have plenty of cash in Euros with you. Many of the local markets only accept Cash anyways.
Looking for a fun event to attend such as a concert, festival, etc? Check on this website.
AMSTERDAM'S HISTORIC CENTER AND OLD TOWN
A trip to the train station is unavoidable as most likely, that is exactly how you are arriving in Amsterdam. Welcome. Take it in. It's the heart of the city. Every day 250,000 people go through this iconic structure, transporting tourists to and from their next destinations and accommodating locals through both, the city and country. There is so much going on at this location, you can't possibly capture it all unless you take the time to view it as a tourist sight and not just a transportation vessel. The building itself is a stunning architectural masterpiece, built with a secret "Queen's Room" for the royal and a mall in it's center. You'll find a canal with boat tours in front of the station, an enormous fietsflat to your right (parking garage for bikes), the entrance to every other sight you want to see in Amsterdam straight ahead, and the library and science museum, NEMO, to your left. All around you are buses, taxis, trams, and people. Behind the station you will find the largest waterway in the city, the IJ, and all of the ferries which will transport you to the north of Amsterdam.
A few things to check out in this area:
Sky Lounge for rooftop cocktails and panoramic views of the city. It's located at the top of the DoubleTree Hilton Hotel and while the rooftop is best enjoyed on a nice Spring or Summer day, it's still equally as beautiful from warm and inside. We went here to celebrate when Cas was first hired by the airline in 2013 with a giant airplane cake (get it? Sky. Flying). Not even our ridiculous cake took away from the class.
If you fancy a boat ride, this is a great place to hop on the Lovers Boat Tour or one of the various other companies in the same area. I picked this one because they put the windows down and the rooftops are glass so you don't feel so confined. You can see more from down on the canals. During the winter I would especially recommend this, as they’ll give you blankets and cruise you around the Amsterdam Light Festival which lasts through December and January, every year. For more information on boat rides for warm weather visits, keep reading!
Right as you exit the station, you won't be able to miss the beautiful church to your left. This is Saint Nicholas' Basilica, beautiful inside and out. It's the largest and one of the only Catholic churches in Amsterdam. They provide mass in various languages and are more than happy to offer peeks and pop ins to the respectful.
Hanneke's Boom is a cheeky hipster bar located on the water not far from the station. In the summer boats dock here to enjoy drinks and snacks, with friends swinging from a giant tree on the property or jumping in the water for a cool swim. It's a pretty safe choice for late night drinks if you're looking for a fairly authentic experience with a quick walk back to the trains or trams. It also has a view of the science museum, NEMO and the ships museum, Het Shceepvaartmuseum.
If a science museum sounds like something you could be interested in, especially on a rainy day or with kids, I can't speak highly enough about Amsterdam’s. NEMO (a much bigger, better OMSI, for all you Oregonians) is a blast, full of engaging activities for adults and kids, and has a great view from the rooftop cafe and outside terrace where you can play life-size chess and more.
The Amsterdam Toren is located across the water behind Central Station which means you'll need to take the free ferry. You can't miss the building, as you will see it lit up red at the top and it's one of the only buildings at it's height in the area. You can take the elevator to Lookout at the top for panoramic views. Inside there are some very nice restaurants such as the cocktail bar, Madam, and the rotating restaurant, Moon. It is also where you can do the infamous swing, Over The Edge, an amazing view of Amsterdam underneath you.
Right next door is the IJ Film Museum, where you can check for different film events or movie showings. The architecture, itself, draws tourists across the water, as it’s built to resemble an eye, just as the name says.
Every five years, along the Ij, Amsterdam holds SAIL. Ships of all sizes travel from around the world to celebrate the history of sailing and party the nights away with music and fireworks. It's one of Amsterdam's most beloved and biggest events. It was also one of the most impressive sights I've seen in my five years, here. The next one is expected to be in August 2020 so plan it into your days if you happen to be headed to Amsterdam the summer of 2020. Check out this time lapse if you need more convincing.
If you choose to walk straight out of Central station, you will walk along the Damrak, one of the busiest streets in Amsterdam. Here you will find various friet or fry shops (Manequin Pis being the most well known with supposedly the best friets), souvenirs shops, the Amsterdam Body Worlds, and more. If you follow this road, it will lead you directly to Dam Square and the Royal Palace which I will mention a bit later.
RENT A BIKE
There is truly no better way to experience this city than by getting lost on foot or bike. There is beauty in Amsterdam at every corner and my best advice is to indulge in the authentic lifestyle and happenings around you, as much as possible. The nice thing about a bike is that it allows you to see more in one day than if you walked. It also allows you to experience Amsterdam just as a Dutch person does. You can check that off your bucket list. If you are a nervous cycler in the city than just know that Amsterdam was made for bikers, not cars. Every major street has bike paths and traffic lights so it is safer and far less scary than you might think. With that said, you must be aware of your surroundings, cycle with intention, and remember to lock your bike.
You can find bikes to rent all over the city, including at the MacBike at Amsterdam Centraal Station. If you want to do a tour that is led by an expert, check out Yellow Bike Tours. They have two locations walking distance from the Central Station. Looking for your own bike tour to navigate? Check out some routes at Amsterdam Cycle Routes. However, if you're up for a day trip and quite a long cycle, you may be interested in reading my previous post about Amsterdam Day and Overnight Trips. Don't be scared to get lost! You'll see the best things in those moments.
THE RED LIGHT DISTRICT
From brothels to sex shops, live shows and museums, the Red Light District leaves nothing to the imagination. It is very likely that you have heard wild things about this neighbourhood and everything you have heard is most likely true. Though most of the sights don’t necessarily represent the Dutch Culture, as they are visited and used primarily by tourists, it does represent the culture's liberal attitude. De Wallen, as the locals call it, is where men and women, of all nationalities and sizes, parade their wares in red-fringed window parlours. Bachelor parties and large groups of friends, stumble around the streets, sporting strange costumes. If you enter this area at night, it makes perfect sense why the district has it's name, as the red lights light your walking path and women encourage bystanders to join them. Although odd in our eyes and maybe slightly "sad" to many people, it is incredibly fascinating if you keep an open mind and something you have to see when you come to Amsterdam. Perhaps read up on it, before, as the history is interesting. Prostitution in Amsterdam is a legal profession, with the workers equal tax payers in the country and with their own union, insurance, frequent monitoring and testing, professional standards, and police protection when necessary. This does not mean, however, that it hasn't had a dark side. Regardless, don't let the scandalous reputation of the red light district distract you from taking in one of the oldest and most beautiful areas of the city, with narrow, cobble stone streets and 14th century architecture.
A few things to check out in this area:
The vibrant Nieuwmarkt and De Waag which holds various markets throughout the week and also acted as the main entrance into the city in history. De Waag was the original gate. If you're looking for a romantic date night, De Waag acts a restaurants at night. We did this for Christmas dinner one year and it was spectacular.
Wander around the gothic Oude Kerk. Here you’ll find many red lit doors and hidden alleyways with ladies attempting to lure you in but ironically, right next to them you'll also find a daycare. Some of the oldest and most beautiful canal homes and cafes surround this area. See them lean and tilt, as if dancing.
Amsterdam’s Chinatown, the Zeedijk (also home to, He Hua, an impressive Buddhist temple) is home to many amazing restaurants that go so far beyond Chinese, highlighting amazing Thai, Malaysian, Indonesian, and more. It may not be the biggest of Chinatown's but it is the oldest in Europe, at over 100 years old. If you're lucky to be in Amsterdam in February, you may even be able to catch the Chinese New Year celebrations, including a traditional dragon dance and colorful procession.
Oudezijds Armsteeg is a line of six beautifully restored Delft Blue houses if you’re looking to learn a bit more about Dutch culture
The Bulldog, the first "coffeeshop" in Amsterdam is in the Red Light District. There are various locations of The Bulldog in the city so don't get confused- the Red Light District one is the original. You can't miss it's colorful front.
If you love Mexican food as much as I do, you can stop by Cafe Pacifico and dine at one of Europe's first ever Mexican restaurants.
For a good brew and nachos, stop by the De Bekeerde Suster Brewery. I often take beer lovers here when they visit.
There is also a small corner of Dutch Cafes where, if you're lucky, you can snag a seat on the water to have some Dutch bitterballen and a Cappucino or a beer. I don't know the name of all but Cafe Aent Water, De Baderij II V.O.F, Cafe Verhoeff are three options. They are what the Dutch call "bruin cafes" which are very typical Dutch.
Give your feet a two hour rest on the Friendship boat ride which you can catch in The Red Light District. For only 20 euro, you can cruise around the canals on this uncovered boat (which is always better than covered). They offer snacks and drinks, on board. In the presence of sun, canal boat rides are a typical Dutch activity so this is another bucket list item to check off and a moment you can say you lived, just as the Dutch do. I've done this ride at least three time with visitors and always love it.
Visit the museum of Prostitution: Red Light Secrets for some history on the area and a behind the scenes glimpse into the profession or check out the bondage exhibits and other eyebrow raising displays at the Red Light Erotic Museum.
The red light district is actually a strangely unseedy place but never fear. There are still plenty of spots where people will do the things that Urban Dictionary authors write about. If you're looking for a sex show or theater here are some recommendations I've found, though I haven't experienced them myself. You'll have to let me know! The Case Rosso is supposed to be the first Sex Theater and apparently has real life couples performing live sex. The Moulin Rouge is a place welcoming of varieties and a favourite of the ladies for it's male strip show. The Bananabar is said to have the best looking bunch and is best known for it's games and crazy sexual talents for. Le Vie En Proost is a bit less intense and known as one of the more classy strip joints, with the waitresses topless.
Take a break and play some games at the arcade club, De Ton Ton Club.
THE JORDAAN
I may be bias because it is where we lived for my first five months here, but this is my favourite area and one of the oldest part of Amsterdam, with brick streets and quaint homes and shops. The Jordaan houses the famous shopping streets, The 9 streets (negen straatjes), The Anne Frank House, The Westerkerk, and numerous other sights, art galleries, and restaurants. It is embedded along the most famous canals which is why it ends up being the centre piece of all of the photographs you see of Amsterdam. Do some shopping here, grab a coffee at an adorable Cafe, and stop at the canals for lots of pictures. My biggest advice is to set aside a large chunk of time to just wander the streets and sneak into the small shops of this area. Extended just a bit outside of the Jordaan is the Oud West part of Amsterdam. Here you'll find De Hallen, a large food hall, the best apple pie, and one of the biggest markets.
A few things to check out in this area:
Weave through the Negen Straatjes' shops, cafes, and more. It's the perfect spot for brunch if you're up for pancakes at the Pancake Bakery or omelets, crepes, and Bloody Mary's at G's Brunch. If you don't mind spending a little extra, you can even hop on G's brunch boat and eat your delicious meal on the water.
The views from the bridges leave the perfect opportunity for photo ops with sights on the Westerkerk and beautiful canal homes. If you stand at the crossing of Reguliergracht and Herengracht in Amsterdam's Jordaan, you can say that you stood where the most bridges can be seen at one time in the city. You will technically have 15 bridges in sight. If you look at a map of Amsterdam, you will notice it's spider-web like shape, which makes this view all the more special. It is not easy to see so many canals at one time.
Standing at only one meter or 39 inches wide on the Singel Canal is the narrowest house in the world (or so the Dutch say). An old system of taxation taxed the width of the houses on the canals which is why, for this family, they built their home so thin. The Singel canal is known as one of the biggest, busiest, and most beautiful canals, so take your time wandering in search of this little house.
Rent a water bike for 10 euro and cycle all around Amsterdam on the canals. You can rent them near the Anne Frank Huis in the Jordaan and return at the same location or different. You can also bring some snacks and drinks on board. (more on that below)
Book the Anne Frank Huis ahead of time or wait in line for anywhere from 45 minutes to a few hours (depending on the time of year). I would say it is worth it, if you have the time.
Listen for the chimes of the beautiful Westerkerk as you walk by, the same sounds Anne Frank wrote about hearing while hiding.
Try Amsterdam's Best Apple Pie at Winkel 43
Make a stop at the Homomonument to commemorate all the gay men and women who have been subjected to persecution because of their homosexuality. It was opened in 1987 and takes the form of three large pink triangles made of granite, set into the ground to form a larger triangle.
If you're looking for something to do in the evening, you can make your way to a Boom Chicago Comedy Club show.
If you have your heart set on a boat ride, here are a few others boat companies to check out which depart from the Jordaan: Flying Dutch Boats, Those Dam Boat Guys, Rederij De Jordaan. Rederij was a great evening dinner ride. Very romantic and a bit more fancy.
WATER CYCLING
At different locations in the city, including in the Jordaan, you can rent small boats for around 10 euro a person and water cycle yourself through the canals. Amsterdam is beautiful by bike and foot, but you get an even different perspective from water which makes it a must-do on a sunny, warm day in my opinion. We have always rented near the Anne Frank Huis or at Leidseplein. Each boat can hold up to four people and has plenty of space for a few beers, bottles of wine and snacks for the trip. You may find that navigating can get difficult in certain areas, as large tour boats will be attempting to make their way through the canals, as well as locals in their own boats. Don't be scared if you find yourself bumping in to boats and walls, it happens to us all and makes for a great laugh and story! Interested? Click here.
DAM SQUARE AND THE ROYAL PALACE
There is always something different to experience in Dam Square, so depending on the time of the year, I cannot give you specifics. However, you will never be disappointed. Dam Square is the location of the Royal Palace, the 15th century gothic Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), Madame Tussaud's wax museum, and the National Monument, erected to memorialize the victims of World War II. Also in the square is the dominating Grand Hotel and the upscale department store, Bijenkorf. There are always street performers dressed up and putting on a show and large carnivals and festivals being held throughout the year if you're interested in a ferris wheel rides or being slung shot into the sky. The square is also known for protests, the winter Christmas tree, tulip festival, and so much more. From Dam Square you can easily access the famous shopping streets Kalverstraat and Roken or begin your trek to either the Red Light District, Central Station, the Jordaan, or Rembrandtplein.
A few things to check out in this area:
Perhaps the first thing you will notice is the Amsterdam Royal Palace. You can even choose to go inside. Look for the Dutch flag waving above, to know if the King is in the palace that day.
The Kalverstraat is the main shopping street of the city, lined with popular shops and crowded with people. If you walk down the street you will end near Rembrandtplein and the flower market. Towards the end there is also a restaurant called Blue Amsterdamwhich is rumoured to have a lovely rooftop view. In the middle of this street, you will find the Amsterdam Museum, if you’re interested in learning a bit more about the city.
Rokin is the street over from Kalverstraat, also known for it’s shop but now also some delicious restaurants. On this street you’ll find the Madame Tussauds Wax Museum and the very interactive Amsterdam Dungeon which takes you into Amsterdam's darker past.
If you’re interested in trying some Dutch liquor, you can pop into a tiny alley way where you will find Wynand Fockink, a small bar where Jenever is tucked alway. They will teach you about how it’s best drank and give you a taste.
The World War II monument is worth visiting to appreciate what Amsterdam and the Dutch went through during Nazi rule. It was a country deeply effected. It’s also a popular place for events such as the World Pillow Fight Day and Remembrance Day.
STREET ART ON SPUISTRAAT
The Dutch government found a solution for controlling graffiti in Amsterdam. They designated small areas of the city where street art can be done legally and appreciated. Even if you don't have a thing for street art, it is truly a colorful sight and represents the liberalism and vividness of the Amsterdam's culture. You can look up some of last years art following the hashtag #ottograph2014 on instagram or go to the Amsterdam Street Art Website.
BLOEMENMARKT
Amsterdam's flower market is the only floating flower market in the world, making it the most well known in Holland. Every flower stall or store stands on a houseboat on the Singel canal during all seasons of the year. You can find both flowers and bulbs in each shop and, of course, you cannot leave without purchasing some tulips. Also along the flower market are many souvenier shops, some coffee and cheese shops, and my personal favorite: a Christmas store. To be honest, this is not something to set aside alot of time for, as you can simply walk through it on your way to Rembrandtplein or the Munttoren. Just behind the Bloemenmarkt is the Regulieredwaarstraat, which is the well known “gay” street of Amsterdam. There you will find some amazing restaurants and cocktail bars. If you follow this street for a bit longer, it will lead you right to Rembrandtplein.
REMBRANDTPLEIN
In my opinion, this square is a bit more eccentric than Leidseplein and is the best in the winter, when a small Christmas market is set up with yummy treats and shops. Then you can try the Dutch Olibollen and drink some warm Gluwijn. Nonetheless, it is the most popular area for nightlife and is worth going no matter when you are in Amsterdam. Of course, Rembrandtplein is named after the famous Dutch master painter, Rembrandt van Rijn, creator of works such as the Night Watch. In the middle of the square you can find a large statue of the man, gazing down on the late night revellers with a rather thoughtful expression.
A few things to check out in this area:
On a rainy day, duck into the Pathe Tushinski for a movie. It is a modern cinema housed in a classic building that has been a theatre since 1921
You'll also notice the Munttoren, or Munt Tower, just down the way, which was one of Amsterdam's original, medieval gateways to the city, built in 1420. Underneath you will find the Royal Dutch Museum.
Once in the square, you'll also find the largest interactive video screen in Europe that dominates one side of the square and can be interacted with using Bluetooth mobile phones.
If you're looking for a fun place for night life, this is also your place. Coco's Outback is a popular place for tourists and locals, alike. All around it are other bars to choose from. Escape is also a popular club.
LEIDSEPLEIN
From Rembrandtplein, you can walk down the beautiful Utrechtsestraat, a street of old clocks and art galleries) and wander back towards a popular place for bars, restaurants, and some shops. It is called Leidseplein. In the winter a small ice skating rink is set up in the center and the rest of the year it is the center of social activity for Amsterdam, with tables from the surrounding restaurants filling the terrace. These tables are always full. You will find small, hole in the wall beer bars in the neighboring side streets if you look and an easy route to any other destination in the city, as many trams stop at Leidse.
A few things to check out in this area:
Grab a drink and some Dutch snacks in the central Leidseplein. You can't miss it, as it's a square filled with tables and people chatting.
Also a popular square for night life and clubs, you can check out clubs such as Club Up, Melk Weg, or stick with the local pubs situated all around the small streets.
Paradiso is a venue for concerts and shows. Take a peek at their website to see shows and timings.
If you are looking to watch an American football game by chance, your only hope is going to be The Satellite Sports Cafe, also located in Leidseplein. It may be a long shot that they're playing your exact game with the 9 hour time difference, however. Be prepared.
For a cute coffee shop and a nice view of some canals on the way, try Back to Black. You'll walk for awhile before reaching the bridge with the view of the canals. You'll know it when you see it. I think I unknowingly take at least one photo a month here. The coffee shop will be just a bit further down. Owned by a boyfriend, girlfriend duo, it is calm, cute, friendly and simply everything you would expect from a local coffee joint.
VONDELPARK BBQ AND CYCLE
During my first trip to Amsterdam this is where I felt like I experienced the most authentic Amsterdam afternoon, BBQing with friends. Vondelpark is loved by both locals and tourists and although you think it may be an easy sight to see, it is actually quite large! So large, I got lost in it on my first run(for 2 hours). It is the largest park in Amsterdam and the most famous in the Netherlands, drawing 10 million visitors a year. In the summer especially, it is packed with people enjoying the sunshine: listening to music, having a picnic, sun bathing, playing soccer, BBQing, running, walking, cycling, or just lounging around in the grass. I was surprised to see how many exercise groups there were as well, from weight lifting to moms with new babies. Within the park there is also numerous beautiful fountains and gardens, free concerts at the open-air theatre, and plenty of playgrounds for children. No matter what you choose to do expect it to be busy and fantastic people watching! If you have bikes I would definitely recommend a cycle through it just to get the big picture.
MUSEUMPLEIN
You really don't have to be a history or art nerd to love the museums of Amsterdam. The atmosphere surrounding the whole area is worth the visit. Not to mention, the incredible architecture. But there are some incredible Dutch artists that are worth reading up on before you come. You will enjoy their art so much more when you are here if they are not complete strangers to you at first sight. Obviously, this includes Rembrant and Van Gogh. The most well known museum in museumplein is Rijksmuseum, standing at similar architecture as Amsterdam Centraal, the train station. The inside is even more fabulous, with four levels of artifacts to take in and one of the coolest libraries in the world. I'm not just saying that, it is listed on multiple websites as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. The library is a must-see in my eyes, as it was one of my favorite things to see in Amsterdam thus far.
A few things to check out in this area:
Most commonly visited in Musumplein is the infamous, IAMSTERDAM sign which you can, of course, take your photograph on, in, or around.
The Rijksmuseum is the main attraction of Museumplein and for good reason. There is so much to do and see inside that I would plan for most of the day or at least morning to give yourself ample time. Inside, there is also a library tucked away which is always one of my favorite corners.
The street to the left of the museum is lined by Diamond museums which you can pop into to see how they are carved and learn about Amsterdam’s deep history in the business.
The Stedelijk Modern Art Museum and Van Gosh Museum are located in the square, as well. Van Gogh is always recommended by visitors.
The Concertgebouw is the large concert hall at the opposite end of the square. It is where the national ballet and orchestra performs. If you’re looking for a romantic date night this is always something you can search tickets for, as well.
At the end of the square is an Albert Heijn. You could also go very Dutch on a nice day and simply grab some snacks at the store and sit out in the square for a picnic. In the summer weather, Museumplein is always packed full with friends and families.
If visiting in the winter, you will love to winter Museumplein's Winter Village to ice skate or have a warm drink to watch others on the ice. With music playing, snacks and markets all around, it's the perfect winter escape. The square also hosts Amsterdam's Annual Polo tournament
NDSM
Transformed from an industrial shipyard into a cultural hotspot, the NDSM neighbourhood in Amsterdam Noord has become a haven for creatives and a vibrant social space. Hop on a free ferry to a place where artists and musicians find inspiration and visitors find a place to have fun.
A few things to do in this area:
Plekk is a unique restaurant and bar, made completely out of train cars and with it's own beach on the water. In the summer, large bean bags and wood tables are set out to accommodate for the many large groups of friends who come to enjoy the sunshine and various concerts or events. From June until August, weather permitting, you can even watch movies with a view. The NDSM neighborhood offers outdoor movies on the beach.
The Noordelicht Cafe is another unique, outdoor dining experience if you fancy a more hippy, free atmosphere overlooking Amsterdam's city life from across the water.
The Ijhallen Flea Market is a fun event if you're looking to see what locals do once a month, rummaging through other's old goods to find new treasures.
Feeling brave? Bungee Jump from or actually sleep in an industrial crane in Amsterdam Noord. If you’re interested in one-of-a-kind experiences, look to Faralda Crane Hotel, one of the most exceptional and exclusive hotels in Amsterdam. Guests also get exclusive access to a sky-high hot tub, where they can soak in solitude under a starlit sky.
Keep an eye on what festivals might be going on, on this side of the water. All throughout the year the NDSM neighborhood of Amsterdam hosts festivals and events such as the three-day DGTL Festival, the Over het IJ theatre festival, or the family-friendly festival Hemeltjelief in the spring.
DE PIJP
Lose yourself for hours in Amsterdam’s lively Latin Quarter, with its colourful mix of cuisines, terraces and convivial cafés. From the beautiful landscaped gardens of Sarphatipark to the famous Albert Cuypmarkt street market, De Pijp oozes beatnik flair from every angle, and is has been popular haunt for creatives, students and bohemian spirits since the 60s.
De Pijp is home of the Heineken Experience, an interactive tour through the life and history of one of the most famous international beers. While it's not the top on my list of things to do, I have somehow managed to do it 4 times. It's perfect for a rainy day adventure.
If you're ready for a little escape from the city, Sapharti Park is the perfect place. Though it's just a small park, it tends to be quiet and the perfect place for a picnic.
De Pijp is also home to the largest open-air market in Amsterdam, the Albertcuypmarkt. With vendors, shops, fresh foods, cafes, and more, the Albertcupymarkt holds many surprises. Here you will find the typical Dutch snacks called Stroopwaffels, freshly made and also see Dutch locals chowing down on fresh Herring. You'll know this when you see a little fit hanging out of their mouths.
For some fabulous coffee check out Scandinavian Embassy or Bakers & Roasters and if you're looking for an incredibly yummy and beautiful milkshake, you won't want to miss Bull & Dogs and Corner Bakery. If you don't believe me, check out their website.
De Pijp is heaven for foodie's, with foods of all different varieties reflecting Amsterdam's vast diversity. You'll find Syrian, Moroccan, Surinamse, Turkish, Spanish, and more. For some amazing Turkish and North African cuisine, I recommend Bazar and to curb those sweet cravings try Taart Van Mijn Tante. For vegans or vegetarians, I also recommend Coffee and Coconuts (my favorite) and Sir Hummus. For those of you who are into Macha, they even just opened Macha Bar Amsterdam with drinks, desserts, and more.
THE PLANTAGE
Located to the east of the city centre, this elegant neighbourhood is a refreshingly green and spacious contrast to the traditional cobbles and canals image of Amsterdam, marked by leafy boulevards, elegant squares and 19th century pleasure gardens. Home to Artis Zoo and the city’s botanical gardens, the Plantage is an extraordinary place to explore and enjoy. It is now more than half a century since the dark years of World War II ended, but the dramatic dimension of the Holocaust should not be forgotten. The Plantage also holds the Jewish Quarter in Amsterdam which aims to preserve the memory of the past Jewish life and culture of the area. Of about 140.000 Jews that were living in The Netherlands in May 1940, about 101.800 were murdered either by gas, torture, starvation or illness in concentration camps. That is 87 % of the Jewish population and one of the highest percentages in Europe.
A few things to check out in this area:
Take a stroll or bike ride along the Amstel River, stopping at the grassy areas for a picnic or jumping in the water to cool down at the dock. You will also find cafes and restaurants situated along the Amstel, many families living on house boats, and some bridges you'll want to take some photos of.
Try some of the best microbrews in Amsterdam at the Brouwerij 't IJ, a brewery inside an actual windmill. It doesn't get much more Dutch than that. Better yet, buy a flight to taste all their most popular beers.
Continue on from the brewery and you can't miss the Amsterdam Ship's Museum to a peek into Amsterdam's very long history with water.
Whether with children or not, the Amsterdam Zoo, Artis, is a fun experience for all. If you're lucky enough to be in Amsterdam around the beginning of November, you may even make it for Museumnacht, a night when all the museums are open for free with drinks, music, and concerts. You can hop from museum to museum to see what they have to offer and even socialize with new, Dutch friends.
Take a peek inside the famous Dutch painter, Rembrandt's home called the Rembrandthuis.
The February Protest Monument
If you're interested in taking a World War II walk through the Jewish Quarter and/or Amsterdam, check here, on Trip Advisor for some options.
The Hollandse Schouwburg was originially a theater which in Nazi occupation was turned into a deportation site to the concentration camps. Today it stands as a monument to the Jewish lives lost in World War II.
The Portuguese Synagoge was built in 1675 and was the biggest Synagoge in the world, at the time. Just as it always has been since it was built, it remains lit by 1,000 candles with no electricity and it's floors are covered with fine sand. Inside you'll find a rich library from 1616, the oldest functioning Jewish library in the world.
Jewish Historical Museum highlights art made by Jewish artists, Jewish religious art, ceremonial objects and war documents.
OUD WEST
Bordered by Vondelpark on one side and De Clercqstraat on the other, the diverse, Oud West neighborhood is known to have many young people and families, creative and busy in their daily lives. The posh streets surrounding the Vondelpark are the perfect place to see some beautiful architecture and canals while the Kinkerstraat will welcome various shops and food markets, to enjoy. It is also the perfect place to wander if you're looking to experience a day in the life of a local Dutchie. From cute coffee shops, food halls, movie theaters, to shopping- you'll get to escape the chaos of tourists in the center among the canals of Oud West.
A few things to check out in this area:
Stop by Trakteren for a delicious coffee, handed to you with unique coffee art designs spun into the top. However, Trakteren isn't the only place for amazing coffee. Lox Sixty One is also well known for it's Cappucinos.
Grab a snack and Gin N Tonic at the Food Hallen, and stop by for a film in a small local theater at the Film Hallen.
Wander through or stop for a picnic in the Vondelpark.