10 of the Coolest Neighborhoods in Amsterdam

10 of the Coolest Neighborhoods in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is cool, okay. A lot cooler than many people expect from a country that has sidewalk lanes to dictate walking direction. Exploring the city center is tons of fun, whether you take a guided walking tour or just meander on your own.

Here are 10 neighborhoods that you need to keep an eye out for: 

1. De Pijp in Amsterdam

De Pijp wasn’t always cool, considering its more of an outlying area compared to the city center. But over time, travelers and locals alike started to see the great potential and effortless charm in these narrow suburban streets. 

Albert Cuypmarkt – by Steven Lek – Wikimedia Commons

De Pijp is home to the Albert Cuyp Market, which attracts hundreds of visitors every day! I’m of the firm belief that the best way to see this part of Amsterdam is on foot, so keep an eye out for guided walking tours along the way. 

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2. Jordaan in Amsterdam

You can’t really miss Jordaan on your first visit to Amsterdam. This charming part of town is revered for its boutique shops, quaint eateries, wellness scene and enjoyable pubs. It’s a relaxing neighborhood, despite the buzz of people it attracts daily. This is also the location of the Anne Frank House. 

Jordaan – by Rodrigo Pereira da S – Wikimedia Commons

This is a super picturesque part of Amsterdam, so if photography is an interest of yours, this would be the best place to stroll. And for all foodies, a stop at the Lindengracht Market is an absolute must. 

3. Red Light District in Amsterdam

Very much the opposite of relaxing and calm, the Red Light District in Amsterdam has somewhat of a bad rep to those who don’t quite understand its significance to the city. This is actually a neighborhood of great history, and it’s the oldest in all of Amsterdam. 

De Wallen, Amsterdam’s Red-Light District Photo by Valasenko – Wikimedia Commons

In addition to the former prostitution windows, you’ll also find historic churches, fantastic breweries and vintage arcades. 

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4. The Museum Quarter in Amsterdam

For all things art and culture, there’s nowhere better to be than Amsterdam’s Museum Quarter. Situated just south of the city’s most buzzing square, Leidsplien, Museum Quarter is home to the renowned Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum and much, much more. 

Museumplein – by C messier – Wikimedia Commons

5. Nieuwmarkt in Amsterdam

Comprised of several very diverse areas, Nieuwmarkt is considered to be one of the most innovative parts of Amsterdam in terms of architecture. You’ll find the science museums and libraries in abidance, as well as preserved churches and the impressive Rembrandt House Museum. 

Nieuwmarkt – by Hay Kranen – Wikimedia Commons

Nieuwmarkt is also home to the Waterloopleinmarkt, an important market place for second hand goods and street food!

6. Westerpark in Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s greener and more spacious neighborhood. Westerpark is situated in Amsterdam West, and is considered to be a laid back, fun part of town where independent shops and restaurants come to thrive. 

Westerpark is also home to a booming club scene at De Marktkantine. Not for the faint of heart, this is one place you’re pretty much guaranteed a memorable night out in the Dam. 

If you’re visiting in the day, expect tons of picnic folk soaking up the sun beneath the blossom-filled trees. 

7. Amsterdam Noord in Amsterdam

Also known as Buiksloterham, Amsterdam’s northernmost shoreline has evolved significantly in the last few years, becoming a significant cultural center to the city. Here you’ll find cinemas, restaurants, museums and even some fabulous nightclubs. 

Amsterdam Noord – by Elekes Andor – Wikimedia Commons

Heading west of the neighborhood you’ll find even more thriving nightlife and impressive street art!

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8. Oud-West in Amsterdam

A short walk from Amsterdam’s city center will bring you to Oud-West, a laid back area filled with dozens of trendy eateries, bars and live music venues. The main streets in this neck of the woods are Overtoom, Kinkerstraat and De Clercqstraat. I highly recommend a visit to De Hallen on Kinkerstraat, where you’ll find a massive indoor food hall with gastronomic wonders, as well as an independent cinema. 

Oud-West – by Michal Klajban – Wikimedia Commons

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9. Oost in Amsterdam

It doesn’t get more cultural than this hub in the Dutch capital. Think artisanal coffee, art, coffee shops, museums, artifacts, and enough public green space to tie them all together. The perfect neighborhood for a picnic in the sun when the weather is good, and a stone’s throw away from one of the top museums in Amsterdam: Tropenmuseum. 

10. Haarlem in Amsterdam

Not actually situated in Amsterdam at all, Haarlem is a 20 minute train ride from the city center. It’s a medieval wonder town, full of quirky boutiques, cozy restaurants and major historical sites. 

Haarlem – by Edo de Roo – Wikimedia Commons

Here, you’ll also find the Cathedral of St Bavo; the second largest church in Holland, as well as the De Adriaan windmill, which dates back to 1778.