Amsterdam North (Amsterdam-Noord) has been rapidly transforming from an industrial area to one of the city’s most vibrant and trendy neighborhoods. Just a quick ferry ride across the IJ River from Central Station, Amsterdam North offers a blend of modern culture, historic charm, and innovative spaces. Whether you are a local or a visitor, this burgeoning district is brimming with exciting things to see and do.
Getting to Amsterdam North
Reaching Amsterdam North is easy and convenient:
- Ferry: Free ferries run frequently from Amsterdam Central Station to various points in Amsterdam North, including Buiksloterweg and NDSM Wharf.
- Metro: The North-South line (Metro 52) connects the center of Amsterdam to North in just a few minutes.
Getting around
Cycling in Amsterdam North is a popular option, with dedicated bike lanes and scenic routes. You are permitted to bring your bicycle onto the metro, near doors that have a blue bicycle sticker and outside of rush hour. On the ferry bicycles are always allowed.
Visit Café ‘t Sluisje, a brown café in an authentic building from 1565 on the Nieuwendammerdijk. They have a large terrace on the water (a side canal of the IJ), with a view of the harbor of Nieuwendam. Outside Amsterdam North, the contrast with the big city could hardly be greater. Rural North is an extensive agricultural area, with many ditches, canals, meadows, traditional farmhouses, and several lakes. There are villages and hamlets, among which Durgerdam, Holysloot and Ransdorp have a protected village view, particularly due to their churches, history, and wooden houses.
Historical background
Originally, Amsterdam North was primarily an agricultural and fishing region. Its significance grew with the industrial revolution in the 19th century, when shipyards, factories, and warehouses began to dominate the landscape. The area became essential for Amsterdam’s economy, with notable shipbuilding activities at the NDSM Wharf.
Following World War II, Amsterdam North faced economic challenges and urban decline as industries moved away or closed down. However, the late 20th and early 21st centuries marked a period of revival for the area. The local government and investors, initiated redevelopment projects to transform the industrial zones into residential, cultural, and recreational spaces.
Today, Amsterdam North is a thriving cultural hotspot. Iconic landmarks like the A’DAM Tower and the EYE Filmmuseum define the skyline, offering panoramic views and artistic experiences. The NDSM Wharf has been repurposed into a creative hub, home to artists’ studios, event spaces, and vibrant street art.
Top attractions in Amsterdam North
A’DAM Tower
- Lookout: The A’DAM Tower is 100 meters high and offers one of the best panoramic views of Amsterdam from its observation deck, A’DAM Lookout. The 360-degree views allow you to see the city skyline, the IJ River, and beyond.
- Swing: For the adventurous, the tower features “Over the edge,” Europe’s highest swing, which lets you swing out over the edge of the building.
- Dining and nightlife: The tower houses several restaurants and bars, including the revolving restaurant Moon and the chic rooftop bar, MADAM.
Eye Filmmuseum
- Cinema: The Eye Filmmuseum, housed in a striking modern building, is dedicated to the art and history of film. It screens a diverse range of films, from classics to contemporary releases.
- Exhibitions: The museum features rotating film-related exhibitions and interactive installations that appeal to all ages.
- Terrace and restaurant: The waterfront terrace and restaurant offer stunning views of the IJ and Amsterdam’s skyline, making it a perfect spot to relax before or after a film.
This is Holland
- 5D flight experience: This is Holland offers a thrilling 5D flight simulation that takes you on a virtual journey across the Netherlands. Special effects like wind, mist, and scents make it a fully immersive experience.
- Educational displays: Learn about Dutch landscapes, culture, and history through interactive exhibits and displays.
NDSM Wharf
- Art and culture: NDSM Wharf is a creative hub set in a former shipyard. The area is known for its street art, graffiti, and numerous artist studios.
- Events: The wharf hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including flea markets, music festivals, and art exhibitions.
- Restaurants and cafes: Enjoy a meal or a drink at one of the many trendy spots, such as Pllek, Café de Ceuvel, IJver or Noorderlicht Café.
NoordOogst
- Urban farm: NoordOogst is an urban farming initiative that combines agriculture with community activities. Visitors can explore the gardens, meet farm animals, and learn about sustainable living.
- Local produce: The farm hosts markets where you can buy local produce and artisan products. Or eat at restaurant Pof, the menu consists of daily fresh dishes prepared in a traditional way.
- Activities: Participate in workshops, events, and seasonal celebrations that bring together the local community.
STRAAT, museum for street art and graffiti
At the backside of Amsterdam Central Station, you can take the free ferry on the left side, towards the NDSM wharf. STRAAT resides in a former warehouse on the NDSM wharf. The museum showcases more than 180 artworks by 170+ artists, all artworks were created here. Every Saturday and Sunday, tour guides will introduce you to the world of street art and graffiti.
IJ-Hallen
One of the largest flea markets in Europe takes place once a month (a whole weekend) in this enormous industrial building on the NDSM wharf. The NDSM ferry from Amsterdam Central Station takes you there for free, from the ferry stop it is only a five-minute walk to the IJ-Hallen. They charge a small entrance fee, but once inside you are sure to find a bargain in the five hundred or so stalls selling everything from records to vintage clothing and antiques.
Dining and nightlife
Pllek
Located at NDSM Wharf, Pllek is a bustling beachfront restaurant and bar set in reclaimed shipping containers. It offers an eclectic menu, mostly vegetarian, with a focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients. The outdoor beach area is perfect for relaxing with a drink while enjoying live music or DJ sets.
Next
This cosmopolitan cocktail bar/restaurant, created by the owners of Pllek, is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They serve international and inventive dishes, inspired by seasonal ingredients. Or you can try their tasting menu of five dishes. To reach Next, take the ferry from Amsterdam Central Station to NDSM.
IJver
Here you will find a spacious but cozy, industrial café-restaurant where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner, serving Dutch-French cuisine. For beer enthusiasts, there is an extensive beer list. IJver has a large indoor and outdoor terrace.
Café de Ceuvel
Part of a sustainable urban development project, Café de Ceuvel is located on a former shipyard. The café serves delicious food made from organic and sustainable ingredients, and its innovative design includes a greenhouse and floating gardens.
Hangar Amsterdam
This stylish waterfront restaurant offers a diverse menu with dishes ranging from seafood to vegetarian options. The industrial-chic interior and views of the IJ make it a popular spot for dinner and drinks.
Tolhuistuin (THT)
Take the ferry behind Amsterdam Central Station to Buiksloterweg, after arrival turn left and you will see a staircase leading to the restaurant of Tolhuistuin. They are open every day for lunch and dinner, and are highly recommended. The menu features delicious small dishes from various regions that invite you to share.
Noorderlicht
This trendy, bustling café along the river is housed in a greenhouse and serves seasonal dishes, a vegetarian/vegan menu with non-industrial fish and meat dishes.
Parks
The Vliegenbos, which was for a long time Amsterdam’s largest park, is a well-known day out for many Amsterdam residents. Other parks in North are: Baanakkerspark, Schellingwouderpark, and Noorderpark, located on either side of the Noordhollandsch Kanaal (canal/river).
Amsterdam North’s journey from an industrial backbone to a trendy neighborhood showcases its resilience and adaptability. A dynamic and evolving district that offers a blend of old and new, arts and culture, and urban and natural environments. With its rich array of attractions, eateries, and activities, it is no surprise that this area is becoming a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. So, hop on a ferry or take the metro and get ready to explore Amsterdam North.
