Amsterdam Neighborhood
Noord
Amsterdam's creative frontier. Street art, craft beer, nightlife, and zero tourist crowds.
Noord used to be the part of Amsterdam nobody talked about. Now it is the part everyone talks about. A free five-minute ferry from Centraal takes you to street art, NDSM wharf, industrial-cool restaurants, and some of the best nightlife in the city. My neighbor moved there last year and genuinely will not shut up about it. If Brooklyn had canals and a windmill brewery, it would be Amsterdam Noord. The vibe is creative, a little rough around the edges, and completely different from the rest of the city.
Things to Do
8 spots
Monk Bolderhal
Climb at Monk Bolderhal in Noord—great for all levels, especially if you're new to indoor climbing.
Street Art Museum Amsterdam (SAMA)
Local FavoriteMy neighbor dragged me here expecting graffiti and left speechless. A massive warehouse in Noord filled with world-class street art. Take the free ferry and combine with NDSM exploring.
A'DAM Toren Lookout
Local FavoriteBest view of Amsterdam, plus Europe's highest swing on the roof. My coworker proposed up here at sunset. Take the free ferry from Centraal.
Monk Bouldering
Local FavoriteMonk in Noord is the best rainy-day activity — big gym, beginner-friendly, and easy to reach via free ferry.
A'DAM Toren Lookout
Local FavoriteThe best sunset view in Amsterdam. Go just before golden hour, and don’t skip the swing if you’re not scared of heights.
IJ-Hallen & Vintage Markets
Local FavoriteIJ-Hallen is Europe’s biggest flea market, held every few weeks in Noord. Show up early, bring cash, and expect to haggle.
EYE Film Museum
Eye Film Museum is a sleek waterfront spot in Amsterdam’s Noord district with rotating film shows and free foyer views. Go early or Thursday for less crowds.
Street Art Museum Amsterdam (SAMA)
Local FavoriteThe Street Art Museum is in a former shipyard with massive murals. Take the free ferry from Centraal, and don’t skip the guided tour.
Explore other neighborhoods
Jordaan
Charming canals, cozy cafes, boutique shopping, and the most Amsterdam feeling you can get.
De Pijp
Foodie paradise, vibrant street life, multicultural energy, and the best market in Amsterdam.
Oud-West
Trendy without trying too hard. Great food, Vondelpark nearby, and a proper local vibe.
Centrum
The historic heart. Tourist-heavy on the main streets, but full of secrets one block over.
Oost
Multicultural, unpretentious, and completely off the tourist radar. The real Amsterdam.
Oud-Zuid
Polished, museum-rich, and beautiful. Amsterdam at its most elegant.
Plantage
Green, historic, and peaceful. Wide boulevards, world-class gardens, and room to breathe.
IJburg
Modern, waterfront, and surprisingly fun. Amsterdam's beach neighborhood.
Zuid
Residential, green, and well-connected. Amsterdam for people who like a bit of calm.