Where to Stay in Amsterdam Centrum
Amsterdam Centrum consists of fourteen neighbourhoods which between them include most of the city’s major sights and landmarks. De Wallen is one of the most notorious areas - famous for its risque nightlife and a host of bars and clubs. However, towards the south of the area the pace of life quietens a little and the bars and clubs give way to cafes and bistros. Those looking to experience Amsterdam’s historic charm will find they are better suited to Die Negen Straatjes or Jordaan - both of which showcase the city’s famed crooked townhouses. Finally, Oosterdokseiland and Oostelijke Eilanden are both great locations for those looking to stay somewhere central, yet avoid the more crowded areas.
Facts About Amsterdam Centrum
Amsterdam has long been an important centre of commerce and trading, having been enriched during the Dutch Golden Age of the 17th century. Today’s city grew from Amsterdam Centrum, so most of the historic landmarks and important cultural sites fall within this region. In the 21st century, Amsterdam is a diverse and thriving city that is known for its liberal values, technological innovation, and distinct culture. Below are a few more interesting facts about Amsterdam Centrum:
- Residents in Amsterdam Centrum have the second-highest income per household in the city, after Amsterdam-Zuid.
- Amsterdam-Centrum was the last area in the city to be granted the status of a self-governing borough, having been established in 2002.
- Amsterdam has three times as many bridges as Venice.
- The narrowest house in the city is just 2.02 metres wide.
- Amsterdam has 165 different canals, with a combined length of over 60 miles.
- There are more bicycles than people in Amsterdam.
- Amsterdam has more museums per square metre than any other city in the world.
Things to Do in Amsterdam Centrum
Amsterdam is famous all over the world for its diverse range of landmarks and attractions. From quirky niche museums to cutting edge leisure facilities, the Dutch capital has everything the intrepid explorer could ask for. In fact, there are so many things to do in Amsterdam Centrum, it is simply impossible to fit everything in on a single visit.
What is the nightlife like in Amsterdam Centrum?
Amsterdam Centrum is known for its nightlife. However, whilst it is a popular place for more raucous nights out, the Dutch capital is also the perfect location for those seeking a more sophisticated evening on the town. There are plenty of upscale restaurants, late-night cafes, jazz bars, and theatres, meaning Amsterdam’s nightlife is not limited to the notorious bar scene of De Wallen.
Is Amsterdam Centrum a good destination for families?
Amsterdam is a wonderful place for families - especially during the summer, with its huge amount of parks and green spaces. There are also plenty of museums aimed at younger visitors, as well as more family-orientated versions of classic tourist activities such as boat rental and bus tours. Of course, the city’s incredible art galleries also provide a fantastic learning opportunity for children.
Are there any free activities in Amsterdam Centrum?
Amsterdam offers several free activities. Of course, there are plenty of free walking tours throughout the city - although attendees are often expected to tip at the end of it. However, these provide a great and very low-cost way of seeing the city. Amsterdam’s stunning parks are also free, as well as the beautiful floating flower market. There are also several museums in the city that offer free exhibits.
What is the best way to spend a day in Amsterdam Centrum?
Amsterdam Centrum is a reasonably small area that is entirely walkable in a day. Therefore, those looking to plan an itinerary will find they can see more or less whichever sights they choose. Of course, there’s far more to see than can be squeezed into a single day, so it is advisable to choose one or two museums that appeal, as well as some must-see landmarks. Fortunately, Amsterdam Centrum showcases much of the city’s classic architectural style, so sightseeing can easily be done in between attractions.
Places to Visit in Amsterdam Centrum
Amsterdam Centrum boasts many of the Dutch capital’s famous landmarks and attractions - most of which are within walking distance of each other. Each neighbourhood has its own unique appeal and people-watching in one of the many cafes is one of the most popular things to do in the city. However, those looking to explore the history of Amsterdam or peruse some iconic works of art will not be found wanting. Below is a list of the top places to visit in Amsterdam Centrum:
- The Van Gogh Museum - the city’s most famous resident is celebrated in an innovative and visually stunning museum.
- Anne Frank’s House - an important landmark that details the persecution of the city’s Jewish residents during World War 2.
- The Rijksmuseum - the Dutch national museum housing numerous works of art and historical artefacts.
- De Negen Straatjes - the Nine Streets are Amsterdam’s premier destination for quirky shopping and some of the city’s best artisan coffee houses.
- EYE Film Institute - just across the river from Amsterdam Centrum is this striking modern attraction that offers several cinema screens as well as a museum of film, offering numerous interactive exhibits.
- Leidseplein - one of the best places for nightlife in the city, with a buzzing atmosphere and plenty of great cafes and bars.
- Jordaan - the artistic heart of the city, famous for its bohemian atmosphere and beautiful townhouses.
- Bloemenmarkt - Amsterdam’s famous floating flower market, which offers a colourful walk along the Singel River. Many of the stalls now sell souvenirs as well as the country’s iconic tulips.
Places to Eat in Amsterdam Centrum
Amsterdam is one of Europe’s capitals of gastronomy and offers a huge range of culinary experiences - from Michelin-starred fine dining to quirky theme restaurants. What’s more, the city’s picturesque streets mean Amsterdam is the perfect setting for a romantic meal of lunch enjoyed in the open air.
For a more refined dining experience, Amsterdam Centrum has several options. Some noteworthy establishments are:
- Restaurant De Utrechtsedwarstafel.
- Spectrum.
- Bord'Eau Restaurant Gastronomique.
- Brasserie Ambassade.
- Restaurant Senses by Lars Bertelsen.
Alternatively, for something a little more low-key, Amsterdam is, of course, famous for its bistros and cafes, with highlights including:
- Bistro Neuf.
- Marie Amsterdam.
- Goldfinch Brasserie.
- Brasserie De Groot.
However, whilst Amsterdam exhibits its own unique cuisine, there are also plenty of international restaurants in the city. Some of the more popular are:
- Maenam Thai Restaurant.
- Ashoka Restaurant- Amsterdam Centrum.
- Gandhi Restaurant.
- Sumo Leidseplein Amsterdam.
Street Food Amsterdam Centrum
Whilst Amsterdam’s many bistros and cafes have traditionally bridged the gap between restaurant dining and casual snacking, demand for more diverse cuisine in recent years has seen Amsterdam’s street food scene flourish. As such, street food in Amsterdam Centrum offers some of the best flavours anywhere in the city, with more vendors popping up every day. As a starting point, some of the best places to try street food in Amsterdam are:
- Happyhappyjoyjoy.
- THO Vietnamese Streetfood.
- Vijfnulvijf Asian kitchen Cafes.
- Benny’s Chicken.
- Food Crib.
- Pier-62.
Shopping in Amsterdam Centrum
Amsterdam Centrum is home to many of the city’s best shopping areas. Whilst some of the larger malls may be further from the city centre, Centrum is the place to go for more independent and artisan retailers -, especially around the famous Nine Streets. There are also plenty of places to shop in and around Central Station, as well as in the streets in the immediate vicinity.
Amsterdam Centrum also has several dedicated areas and malls for shopping, including:
- Magna Plaza.
- Kalverpassage.
- IJpassage.
- Shopping Center Reigersbos.
- De Hallen Amsterdam.
Transportation in Amsterdam Centrum
As a city, Amsterdam has just about every kind of transport imaginable. Its extensive public transport network includes trams, metro, overground rail, buses and ferries. Further to this, there is, of course, the famous symbol of the Dutch capital - the bicycle. Many people prefer to explore Amsterdam Centrum by bike or on foot. However, for journeys further afield - or perhaps for those short on time - the tram and metro provide a quick and inexpensive means of getting around the centre whilst buses and trains are ideal for reaching the suburbs and other areas of Amsterdam. Some key locations for both tram and metro in the city are:
- Central Station.
- Leidseplein.
- Rembrandtplein.
- Dam.
The OV-chipkaart (‘chip card’) system, similar to London’s Oyster, operates across trams, buses, and metros. These cards can be purchased at ticket vending machines at stations, various tobacco specialty shops, at many supermarkets. They can then be loaded with credit and used to pay for journeys, offering better value than paying for a separate ticket each time.
Weather Amsterdam Centrum
Amsterdam is a great city to visit all year round - with each season offering its own festivals and attractions. However, it should be noted that Amsterdam, as with anywhere in Northern Europe, can be wet and prone to chilly spells, throughout most of the year - so sensible packing is essential. The springtime is arguably the best time of year to visit, as Tulip season runs from about mid-March to early May but there are still fewer tourists than there are in the summertime. August is peak season and temperatures can reach over 30 degrees - making it the ideal time to visit for those looking to enjoy Amsterdam’s many green spaces and parks.
