Amsterdam Neighborhood
Oud-Zuid
Polished, museum-rich, and beautiful. Amsterdam at its most elegant.
Oud-Zuid is where Amsterdam gets polished. The Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Concertgebouw are all here, plus the upscale shopping streets around Cornelis Schuytstraat and PC Hooftstraat. My friend Lisa lives here and her daily walk includes Vondelpark and museum-district architecture that looks like it belongs in a movie. It is more expensive and more quiet than other neighborhoods, but the quality of everything — the restaurants, the parks, the streets — is noticeably higher.
Things to Do
3 spots
Museumplein — The Big Three
Local FavoriteRijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum — all on one square. Yes they are touristy, yes they are worth it. My friend's dad cried at the Night Watch.
Museumplein — The Big Three
Local FavoriteThe Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk are worth the effort — just book ahead or you’ll miss out.
Amsterdamse Bos
Local FavoriteThe Amsterdamse Bos is a massive forest park just outside the city, perfect for running, cycling, or a peaceful day outdoors. It’s free, and you can grab a giant Dutch pancake afterward.
Eat & Drink
2 spots
Wils Restaurant
Local FavoriteWils is a Michelin-starred fire-cooked restaurant in Oud-Zuid. My coworker Anna’s dad called it the best meal he’d ever had. Book weeks ahead.
UTAGE Sake Bar
Local FavoriteIf you want a quiet, romantic night with top-tier sake and small plates, UTAGE is your spot. Book ahead — it’s that good.
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.
Noord
Amsterdam's creative frontier. Street art, craft beer, nightlife, and zero tourist crowds.
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.
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.