Amsterdam
The Netherlands
By Nathalie
Neighborhood Guide
Amsterdam center kept its village size. It was built for traveling by horse. As there are fewer horses around, grab a bike and cycle through the mazes of our neighborhoods.
Centrum
This is the postcard-perfect area. Old storage houses and mansions are the backdrops for a good day or night out. You may notice that some houses are sloped because most buildings are built on poles.
De Pijp
Formerly a working class quarter, de Pjip has become a trendy area. It is home to a cosmopolitan and vibrant crowd. The Albert Cuyp market is surrounded by hipster cafés and a mix of global cuisines.
Noord
Right across central station and the IJ, the area is known for its run-down buildings, cool bars, and big spaces to hang out. Once a month, the biggest ea market in Europe is held next to a former shipyard crane.
West
Good for a nice stroll in the Wester- park and the events hosted at the Westergasfabriek. If it is sunny bring your picnic basket. Take a look at De Hallen and its many food stalls, and check out the Ten Kate market.
Oost
Often referring to Watergraafs-meer back in the day, the Indische Buurt started to ourish in the past few years but still has undiscovered hotspots. Don't miss Plantage area, Javastraat, and Dappermarkt.
Zuid-Oost
A slum turned into a colorful paradise. The large-scale cultural events held here are one big delicious party. Otherwise, check for concerts, watch a game at the Arena, or put 3D glasses on for an IMAX movie.
See & Do
Concert at Nedpho Koepel
Visit the Nederlands Philharmonisch Orkest when they are practicing. The old church where they rehearse makes a gorgeous stage with amazing acoustics. They also show themed movies from time to time.
Hortus Botanicus
Inspired by the VOC travels, most plants of this botanical garden come from former Dutch colonies. A dark sky viewable through the huge glass construction has its charm in between the bright, big foliage.
The Canals by Boat
Book yourself a boat trip to see the city that has been living in harmony with water for centuries. I especially love the ones that provide a good breakfast or cheese and wine pairings. Perfect for cold evenings.
Night Walk by the Amstel
Besides having quite a few nice bars to pop in for food or drinks, all the lights, bridges, and buildings of all forms and sizes make a lovely view. Especially when they reflect in the water of the Amstel.
De Hermitage
If you are up for some history, this museum is all about the relationship between Amsterdam and St. Petersburg. The temporary exhibitions are great and the building's history has always been one of my favorites.
Stedelijk Museum
Also known by locals as the giant bath tub. It is dedicated to modern and contemporary art and design. Usually it is not as crowded as the Van Gogh museum or the Rijksmuseum so it's worth checking out.
Foam
Foam is the go-to place if you have a thing for contemporary photography. Located in one of Keizersgracht's mansions, it hosts amazing expositions. The library and store in the attic definitely deserve a peek.
Museum Vrolik
A huge collection of medical oddities and curiosities of the Academic Medical Center has been transformed into a museum. Named after a famous professor of anatomy, this makes for a great visit, if you have a taste for the obscure and macabre.
Artis: The Zoo
Artis is a small zoo but what it lacks for grandeur on space, it makes up with its atmosphere and events. Take a walk in the butterfly garden or go to the evolution hall. Enjoy the architecture of the old zoo with its colorful inhabitants.
Het Verzetsmuseum
The invisible fourth cross on our city symbol is WWII. This rather unknown, multi-lingual museum will tell you all about Amsterdam, the Netherlands, and our colonies in WWII. Maybe not the most cheerful trip, but hey, it is part of our history.
One Thing
Take a Ferry
To get a good taste of Amsterdam without having to ght the huge crowds of tourists and coffee shops, I suggest you make your way to Central Station and hop on the ferry to Buiksloterweg. Once your feet step on Noord, turn left. This area will be your playground for the day.
Visit an exposition in the Tolhuistuin, enjoy the view of Amsterdam on the A'DAM tower, and if you dare take a seat on the roof-top swing. Walk to NDSM for music, food, street art, or markets. Take the ferry back and enjoy the ride!
Food & Drink
Doka
This eccentric nightclub opens at 3 a.m., when everything else closes. It is known for having yummy cocktails instead of just lagers.
Café GolLem
If beer is your thing, you must visit this place and its 400 varieties. The barkeeper knows his beers, so don't hesitate to ask for recommendations.
Edelwise
Every month they have a new chef and a new menu. They have a great terrace where you can watch boats passing by. Only if the sun is out.
Vleminckx
A hole in the wall with the best Belgian (not French) fries in town, along with 25 sauces to pick from. Just saying.
Brouwerij 't Ij
With an extensive menu of home-brewed beer, this is the hangout for a chat with friends and laughter underneath an old mill!
La Perla Pizzeria
If you didn't visit Italy, or if you are a pizza lover, this is your place. They have a variety of starters, pizzas, and a good wine cart.
Hofje van Wijs
A store specialized in importing tea and making their own blends. After popular demand, they added a small lunchroom to their store.
Bar Basquiat
This place has everything from finger-food and hangover treats to big lunches. At night it turns into a bar with samosas to die for.
Bar Oldenhof
Ring the golden bell to be shown the way into this old-fashioned, high-end cocktail bar. Warning: you're probably not leaving sober.
De laatste kruimel
The Dutch can't cook? Take a seat on their water-side balcony when the weather is nice. Enjoy homemade cakes, quiches, and cookies to die for.
't Smalle
Cutest typical bruin café in the Jordaan. Don't leave this place without trying their delicious and greasy bitterballen – a must try Dutch delicacy in this city.
Moeders
Typical Dutch food. The perfect place to go if you are traveling with your mom. Make a good impression, and they might even hang your picture on the wall.