Ultimate Amsterdam Guide by Neighborhood

Take all the things you know about Amsterdam⁠—windmills, red-light districts, wooden clogs, and all⁠—and throw them away from your mind! The Dutch capital is way more than the stereotypes other people have on it. And you'll never really know it until you go here yourself. Sure, just like any other major city of its kind, Amsterdam has its own stereotypes. But once you actually go there yourself, you'll find that it also has some neighborhoods that you probably didn't know existed. If you're planning to stay here, whether for a few days or for the rest of your life, here are some key areas you need to know!

 

De Pijp

When you search for images of Amsterdam online, you'll probably see a lot of narrow residential buildings and similarly charming houses. They look so beautiful and well-put-together that they almost seem like toys. But nope, these structures are very real and they're mostly in the De Pijp neighborhood. Constructed in the 19th-century for working-class families, the area has since become an upper and middle-class haven. The famous Albert Cuyp Markt is here, the most famous open market in the Netherlands. And along it are countless cafes and restaurants where people brunch and socialize all day long. If you're a people person, it's best to stay here! 

Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

Jordaan

Part of what makes Amsterdam so picturesque are the canals. These beautiful waterways provide a nice added serenity to a country's capital. And if you want to live near one, Joordan is your neighborhood. Here, you can actually get a flat in a house or building that's literally right next to the canal. And as you wake up every day, you'll see people sailing on it, kids splashing about near it, or even some riding their bikes on the pathway right next to its. Your view from this place will be like a live postcard of Amsterdam if there ever was one. 

Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

Nieuwmarkt en Lastage

Want a little bit of culture? Stay at Nieuwmarkt en Lastage. This neighborhood is where the past meets the present, a generous mix of historic sites and modern structures, each more interesting than the next. On the northern side of the area, you'll a magnificent skyline full od modern buildings, innovative architecture, and more. It's a side of Amsterdam you probably didn't expect to see. While on the Southern side, you can visit all sorts of historically significant places. One of the best and definitely a must-visit is the Rembrandt House Museum, housing the iconic works of the greatest Dutch master of painting. 

Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

Noord

Out of all the neighborhoods on this list, Noord is probably the most up-and-coming area. It's slowly gaining traction and it's no surprise as to why. What was once an industrial area has become a beautiful residential place that's almost akin to country-style living. All while still upholding that signature Amsterdam city lifestyle. In fact, housing has become so abundant here that new places continue to pop up, further turning the neighborhood into a more peaceful yet still lively community. Though many have criticized the gentrification of the area, it's still a popular haven nonetheless. 

Source: Flickr.com/ Warren LeMay

 

Oud-West

For the most part, Amsterdam is a laid-back city compared to its international counterparts. And out of all of its neighborhoods, Oud-West upholds this lifestyle the most. It's still lively in the sense that it has a strong shopping district and a bustling nightlife. But overall, if you want a relaxing area to call your home in Amsterdam, here is where you should stay. Ultimately, the place has a good number of kitschy stores and other establishments that will melt any tourist's heart. Especially an independent cinema that shows great films you otherwise wouldn't have seen anywhere else! 

Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

Oud-Zuid

Amsterdam's Oud-Zuid neighborhood is great for two things: museums and shopping. Are you an art lover as well as a fashion lover? Then this place is where you should settle in the Dutch capital. The area is filled with museums, each more fascinating than the next. One that you should really see is the Rijksmuseum which houses a unique collection that's equal parts art and history. From medieval artifacts to the world of the great Dutch masters, you'll tire yourself out seeing all the amazing items here. And if you want to go shopping for the latest trends, head on over to the outskirts of the neighborhoods, where luxury stores like Chanel and Dior are located. 

Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

Westerpark

For people who live an active lifestyle, the Westerpark neighborhood is just for you. Mostly because of the park of which the area was named after. This large patch of luscious greenery is the perfect place for you to work out. Run across it or do yoga with a group of friends, there's almost no end to the possibilities fo what you can do here. Even if you just want to people-watch, the park is still one of the best places in Amsterdam to do so. But beyond the park? Marvel at the beautiful Dutch architecture that makes up the serene neighborhood! 

Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

Amsterdam is more than what you perceive it to be from magazines, websites, and more. It's actually a collection of interesting neighborhoods that offer different yet all equally pleasant experiences for people who want to stay here.