dutch appeal discovering the best districts of amsterdam
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Photo cropped from original by Dennis Jarvis
Dutch Appeal : Discovering the Best Districts of Amsterdam
Photo cropped from original by Nuria I J.C
The Old Centre
Amsterdam was founded here 1000 years ago and it remains the cultural heart of the city.
Why stay there? The Old Centre is packed with medieval architecture, typically Amsterdam cafes and lively nightlife. It’s also very close to the main city train station.
What’s there to see?Dam Square, meeting place of locals for centuries. This grand plaza is home to the Royal Palace, as well as the gothic Nieuwekerk church and the national memorial to those who fought in the Second World War.
Photo cropped from original by Franklin Heijnen
The Grachtengordel
The Grachtengordel, or Canal Belt, is a district of crescent-shaped canals surrounding the old centre of Amsterdam.
Why stay there? Built during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th Century, the Grachtengordel landscape is picture perfect, with delicate bridges, cobbled paths and gingerbread-like terraces.
What’s there to see?The Anne Frank House, a museum located in the warehouse in which the teenage diarist hid with her family during WW2.
Photo cropped from original by FaceMePLS
The Jordaan
The Jordaan was built in the 17th century to house the poor and working class of Amsterdam. Today, it’s an undeniably chic gallery district.
Why stay there? The Jordaan is a joy to explore – hit the streets and discover narrow leafy lanes, pretty canals and hidden courtyards. Hip designers and galleries can be found on every street.
What’s there to see?Discover new contemporary art at the commercial galleries along the Prinsengracht Canal, or shop cool Scandinavian design in the gorgeous ‘Nine Streets’ shopping area.
Photo cropped from original by Roman Boed
Oud-Zuid (south)
The Oud-Zuid was built in the 19th century just outside the Canal Ring as a stately residential area.
Why stay there? This elegant district is popular with families for its wide tree-lined streets and proximity to the best museums in Amsterdam, as well as the ever-popular Vondelpark.
What’s there to see?The Rijksmuseum, centre of Dutch history and art, has recently re-opened after extensive renovations and the results are phenomenal. Be sure to see ‘The Nightwatch’, an incredible painting by Rembrandt that is the most precious work in the collection.
Photo cropped from original by Pablo
Oud-West
The Oud West isn’t as grand as the neighbouring Oud-Zuid, but it has a pleasant laid-back charm.
Why stay there? It’s not an area as frequented by tourists as some others. There are friendly local bars and cafes on every corner, and it’s popular with students and artists, so there’s always something on.
What’s there to see?Spend an afternoon in a ‘brown café’ a traditional wood-panelled bar serving local beers and tasty fried snacks.
Photo cropped from original by Alper Çuğun
Photo cropped from original by Alper Çuğun
Plantage and Oost (east)
Located just east of the city centre, these green and leafy districts have been named by trendspotters as the next big thing in Amsterdam food and nightlife.
Why stay there? It’s well connected to the rest of Amsterdam, but offers a chance to discover the local foodie culture, and try out new bars.
What’s there to see?Plantage has some lovely parks and botanical gardens, as well as the fascinating Tropenmuseum. If that isn’t your thing, head straight to a rooftop bar to watch the sun set with a cocktail in hand.
Photo cropped from original by Fred
From ‘ Dutch Appeal: Discovering the best districts in Amsterdam’
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