Famous for its bikes, beers, drags and canals, Amsterdam is known as one of Europe's coolest capitals. Here, nothing is taboo and each neighbourhood has its own vibe, making it a true playground for us global citizens. If you're after a place to crash or just curious about which spots to hit, we're here to sketch out Amsterdam’s best bits in a nutshell!
Once upon a time, Jordaan was a working-class district, but now it’s the most charming Instagrammable spot in the city. Think post-card perfect canals, window shopping, hip bars and buzzing local cafés. Jordaan is the neighbourhood to wander around if you want the mix of culture, charm and proper taste of local life. Start with a stroll through De 9 Straatjes (the 9 streets) and follow the sweet smells of the restaurants to a cosy lunch spot.
Looking to stay in a popping area in Amsterdam near museums and luxury shopping? Oud-Zuid will tick all your boxes. This classy and cultural neighbourhood is home to the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and the Stedelijk Museum - all clustered around the appropriately named Museumplein. Stroll along the bustling streets where you can find a stylish café or a relaxed park like Vondelpark to unwind. Still got a hankering to shop? Head to P.C. Hooftstraat to fish out your favourite big-name fashion brands. Remember that here in Oud-Zuid, all that you dreamt of is at your fingertips. And what’s nearby you ask? (We know you’re dying to know). Our citizenM Amsterdam Amstel hotel is just minutes away from the hubbub in Museumplein!
De Pijp is Amsterdam’s answer to bohemian paradise. Once home to the city’s working class and artists, it's now packed with a melting pot of cultures from lively terraces, delicious restaurants, and quirky indie shops. The Albert Cuyp Market is a must – here, you can grab fresh stroopwafels, street food, and everything in between. After walking around the busy market, relax on a blanket at the peaceful Sarphatipark being surrounded by precious sculptures and luscious greenery. Or, you can head to your bed at the citizenM Amsterdam Amstel hotel to slip into a comfy bed. De Pijp is where the cool kids hang, so expect to stumble upon hidden gems at every turn.
Oud-West is known for being the neighbourhood for serious foodies. One of the most notable food halls is located in Oud-West, known as De Hallen. Former tram depot turned foodie hotspot with street food stalls, boutique shops, and an indie cinema all under one roof - you won’t want to leave. On the outside of De Hallen, you’ll find cosy brunch staples, global eats, and even more stylish boutiques. So here’s your itinerary: grab a bite, catch a film, and then stroll to Vondelpark for some r&r (rest and relaxation, duh). This is local life with a refined twist.
Where is Amsterdam Noord? Well, you guessed it - just north of Amsterdam! Behind the central station, you’ll stumble on the free ferry that takes you across the breezy canal within minutes to Amsterdam Noord. This neighbourhood is known as the city’s creative playground. Once an industrial zone, it’s now home to multiple museums, like the Eye Film Museum and the NDSM Wharf, rooftop bars, like the A’Dam with a rooftop swing hanging off the edge of the building, and shipping container house bars floating in the docks. But whether you want to wander calmly through the flea markets and quirky shops or be a dare devil and swing into the Amsterdam sky, Amsterdam Noord caters to your wants and needs.
De Wallen, or the Red Light District, is known for its glowing red lights. But we promise, there’s way more to this historic district than meets the eye during the day and at night. Medieval churches, crooked canal houses, and hidden courtyards - just like the Oude Kerk, Amsterdam’s oldest building. Other than history, you can find packed bars, late-night munchy spots, and one-of-a-kind shops, making this neighbourhood a must visit!
When people think of Amsterdam, they’ll think of this neighbourhood in Amsterdam - Grachtengordel or The Canal Belt. With picture-perfect townhouses, arched bridges, and glistening boats gliding down the water, The Canal Belt offers the perfect walk-about. This neighbourhood is also noted as one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, wrapping around the city with iconic canals like Prinsengracht, Herengracht, and Keizergracht (gracht meaning canal - some Dutch for you). The Canal Belt should be your first stop in your neighbourhood journey, packed with history, storybook setting views, and classic canal shots.
Looking to wind down, slow down, and maybe even lay down? Westerpark is the perfect escape. This green, open neighbourhood is loved by locals for its lazy picnic spots and Sunday markets. A popular hotspot in Westerpark is Westergas, a cultural complex that was once a gasworks factory now packed with galleries, shops, cafés and exciting live music events. Whether you wander under the trees with a coffee in hand, catch a rock band gig, or sip on a craft beer at the notorious Brouwerij Troost, this neighbourhood is chill just for you.
Right next door to The Canal Belt is Haarlemmerbuurt - a gem that is full of character and buzzing with local charm. The stars of the show are Haarlemmerstraat and Haarlemmerdijk, lined with vintage shops, trendy boutiques, record stores, and cute shops to grab a mid-day latte. If you are into movies and films, the oldest working cinema is here in Haarlemmerbuurt called The Movies. This neighbourhood is here for your craving for cool finds, good coffee, and a proper neighborhood vibe.
There you have it citizens, a guide to Amsterdam’s coolest neighbourhoods. Popping in for a weekend or staying a bit longer? Book one of our hotels in Amsterdam City centre, Zuid or Schiphol Airport. We'll sprinkle some extra magic on your Dutch trip. You won't regret it - pinky promise.