The 9 Best Things To See and Do in Jordaan Neighborhood, Amsterdam

It is no secret that central Amsterdam is one of the most historic parts of the Netherlands, but this particular attraction is without question its central highlight. Established in 1957 as a historical landmark, this building is indeed where the little girl, ever so famous for her esteemed memoir, The Diary of a Young Girl, spent her days in hiding as the Nazi regime swept through Europe. We highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance and planning ahead to avoid disappointment.

The amount of cafes, breakfast spots, and brunch restaurants in the Jordaan area is truly staggering. Whether you’re in search of Bloody Mary’s, pancakes, crepes, omelets, cappuccinos, or simply patio seating and a cup of tea, the neighbourhood has more than enough to offer. There are many good venues located on or nearby Westerstraat, and weekend brunch is a local tradition. We recommend outside seating; Jordaan’s light foot traffic and assortment of bikers are intriguing to watch during a nice early morning meal in the sleepy city of Amsterdam.

The best way to see more of Amsterdam is by getting around like the locals do – on two wheels! And as arguably the city’s most picturesque district, Jordaan looks particularly pretty as you whizz beside the canals, down narrow alleyways and across tiny little bridges. It really is a gorgeous way to get around, but do be wary that for locals the bike lanes are a way of getting from A to B, so try not to get in the way and don’t take it too personally if the odd stressed-out commuter gives you some side eye. The best way to explore Jordaan, and the rest of Amsterdam, by bike is to join a guided tour with a local who can give you the lowdown on cycling etiquette in the city. Recommended by Gethin Morgan.

If you’d rather not work up a sweat, then the other classic way to see Amsterdam is by hitting the waters and joining a canal cruise. There are loads of these in the city – some a little more tourist trappy than others – but it can be a super serene, quite romantic way of gently taking in the city’s prettiest streets. Inevitably, then, any decent canal cruise is likely to float through Jordaan. Recommended by Gethin Morgan.

Westerstraat is one of the biggest streets in Jordaan, and its market opens on Monday mornings every week. With nearly 200 stands, the market has evolved considerably from its humble beginnings as a textile trading area. Often the market contains out of date or slightly defected products from designers such as Versace, and Nike and Adidas sportswear abounds. With no shortage of food carts and surrounding eateries, guests often spend all morning milling through this highly desirable marketplace.

One of the more intriguing options for activity in Jordaan is to visit the Woonbootmuseum. This unique museum is actually located within a 1914 freighter converted into a houseboat. Climb aboard as the ship navigates Amsterdam’s seasoned canal system and absorb all of the mesmerizing history that comes with it. The only houseboat museum in the world, the Woonbootmuseum is reasonably priced and is located just five minutes’ walk from the Anne Frank House.

Though there are many spots around the neighbourhood that serve tasty cakes and other confectionaries, it is always worth stopping by Winkel43 when in de Jordaan as this cosy café makes some of the finest apple pie in the entire city. The pie in question is served with thick dollops of whipped cream and has a smooth, almost crumbly crust which contains thick chunks of caramelised apple. There are many other dishes available at Winkel43 aside from its famous apple pie including light snacks and larger meals, that can be enjoyed inside the café’s charming bar area or outside on its street-side terrace.

Lindengracht transforms itself from a typical street block into one of the most jubilant marketplaces in Amsterdam every Saturday. Overwhelmingly local in nature, the market and its many stalls feature cheeses, fresh fish, and picturesque bouquets. These handcrafted items are all available for sale by hometown vendors, and there are plenty of snacks to feast on the whole stroll through. Lindengracht’s is also conveninetly located next to many good bars and restaurants.

Escape from the high energy of Amsterdam’s urban maze and take a seat at Bar Oldenhof. Serving as a sort of shelter from the outside world, this faintly lit, yet wondrously designed traditional cocktail bar mirrors something of a speakeasy or relaxed jazz club. No noise, no rush, and a haven for any worn out travelers, Bar Oldenhof is a perfect way to end a tiring day.