Meet Amsterdam Noord

It’s edgy, it’s cool, and it’s got an industrial vibe.

Amsterdam Noord only started pulling in visitors within the last few years. But it’s one of the most interesting neighbourhoods in all of Amsterdam. It’s constantly evolving, adding new things to do, and the best part is that it’s easily accessible by the free ferry from Central Station. One of the best parts of Amsterdam Noord is NDSM Wharf - a former shipping wharf that’s been transformed into an insanely cool and exciting hub for culture, art, community, food, and everything you could imagine. There’s also plenty of museums, great restaurants along the waterfront, and more to do in the neighbourhood. It’s definitely not as popular with tourists, but locals tend to swarm in the Noord, and for a good reason! For your next Amsterdam exploration head to Amsterdam Noord - we guarantee you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Learn Something New

As if the area itself wasn’t cool enough, the museums in the north district of Amsterdam have a special flare to them. From Central Station you’re likely to see the A’DAM Lookout from across the water. The massive building is a sight to behold, but it’s what’s at the top that’s really exciting. Reach new heights from Europe’s highest swing. Yup, you get a panoramic view of the city while swinging yourself off the top of the building! For a cultural adventure, This is Holland takes you on a 5-D flying tour of the entire country in just under an hour. Get a view of all the clogs, windmills, and other traditionally Dutch things possible. For our art lovers, you can take your pick between NXT and Wonder. NXT is a visual art museum with funky light installations that will transport you out of this world. Or if you’re in need of your next Insta selfie, Wonder is an interactive selfie museum with decorative rooms with all different kinds of themes. We wonder which will be your favourite!

Get Outdoors

Just like most Amsterdam neighbourhoods, the North district also has a big, green space for you to take a break from all the hustle and bustle. Noorderpark is a wide open area where you can walk, cycle, or sit along the grass and enjoy a moment of peace. During the summer months there’s often concerts and festivals that take place in the park. But we think it’s pretty great year round!

Sip N Dine

Just as the northern area has seen a transformation, the food and drink scene has also come alive in Amsterdam Noord. If you happen to visit NDSM, you’re in luck - as there’s tons of great options all along the wharf. Noorderlicht Cafe is an eco-friendly cafe and restaurant, IJver Amsterdam has an open industrial feel to it, where you can easily spend a few hours eating or catching up with friends. And let’s not forget Cafe de Ceuvel - an eco-conscious waterfront cafe with Bohemian vibes, with an incredible vegetarian menu.

Feel like hitting the beach? Pllek will make you feel like you’re in a tropical oasis at their sandy, beachfront bar and restaurant. During the summer you’ll find most locals lounging around in their beach chairs! Oedipus Brewing is the formation of 4 friends who have come together to create a local brewery based on their passion for beer. Walhalla is also a great brewery, but a little hidden away in the eastern part of Noord. Lastly there’s Tolhuistuin, which used to host the Shell workers from 1941-2011 - but now it’s a combination of a bar, restaurant, and event space. Plus, there’s a balcony that’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset.

Shop Til You Drop

Once again, NDSM pretty much has everything you could possibly need. Once a month the Wharf hosts a massive outdoor flea market. No really, it’s giant. There’s around 750 stalls selling clothes, shoes, antiques, and even furniture. It only cost 5 euros to get in, which is definitely worth it to spend the day wandering up and down the stalls. If you manage to visit during the monthly market, consider yourself lucky.

Play

Try to find your way out of the Escape Room NDSM! Follow clues and work together with your team to see if you can manage to solve the puzzles and escape. At the A’DAM Lookout there’s a floor dedicated to just games - yup, there’s the A’DAM VR Game Park where you can find thrill-seeking simulation rides, one player shooting games, as well as their own escape room! There’s so much to play, you’ll surely find your new favourite game.

Stick Around for a While

If you manage a visit to Amsterdam Noord, it’s likely you won’t want to leave. We don’t blame you. If we could hide out in NDSM Wharf, we totally would! Luckily they’ve got some great options for accommodation, so that won’t be necessary. ClinkNOORD used to be a laboratory dating back to the 1920’s. Nowadays it’s a designer hotel/hostel with a super welcoming atmosphere. Creativity thrives in this social accommodation setting. They’ve got daily walking tours, yoga and meditation in their atrium, beer tastings in the glow in the dark Zinc bar, and meet ups for solo travellers. Plus you’re in a great location in the north so you can wake up and continue on your neighbourhood exploration!