Things To Do In Amsterdam Noord

Amsterdam Noord is a vibrant district of Amsterdam that is packed with things to do and sights to see. Located on the northern banks of the IJ river, Amsterdam Noord has become a hotspot for tourists, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and art. The district has an interesting history and is home to a variety of attractions, from museums to architectural wonders. Here is a guide to all of the things to do in Amsterdam Noord.

History and Culture of Amsterdam Noord

Amsterdam Noord is one of the oldest parts of the city, with a rich cultural and historical heritage. Its history dates back to the 13th century when it was part of the medieval county of Holland. During the Dutch Golden Age, Amsterdam Noord was an important trading area and home to many merchant ships, as well as being a center for industry and art.

Today, Amsterdam Noord is an eclectic mix of cultures and traditions, with its own distinct character. There are many museums and galleries in the area, as well as traditional Dutch restaurants and cafes. The district is also home to a variety of cultural events, including music festivals and art exhibitions.

Architecture and Landmarks

Amsterdam Noord is home to some of the city’s most impressive architecture, from classical Dutch buildings to modern structures. One popular landmark is the Scheepvaartmuseum (Maritime Museum), located on the banks of the IJ river. This museum houses a collection of maritime artifacts and ships, as well as interactive exhibits about Dutch maritime history.

The EYE Filmmuseum is another popular destination in Amsterdam Noord. This museum is dedicated to Dutch film history and is home to a collection of film-related objects and artifacts. The museum also offers screenings of classic Dutch films and hosts various events throughout the year.

The Tolhuistuin is another popular destination in Amsterdam Noord, located on the banks of the IJ river. This large cultural park offers a variety of activities, from outdoor concerts and markets to exhibitions and workshops. The Tolhuistuin is also home to several restaurants, cafes, and bars.

Outdoor Activities

Amsterdam Noord is a great place for outdoor activities, from leisurely walks along the banks of the IJ river to more adventurous activities such as cycling or kayaking. The IJplein is a great spot for leisurely activities such as walking or jogging, as well as for taking in the sights of Amsterdam’s skyline.

The NDSM Werf is another popular destination for outdoor activities in Amsterdam Noord. This former shipyard has been transformed into an urban playground with a variety of activities such as rock climbing, zip lining, and kayaking. The NDSM Werf also hosts various events throughout the year, including music festivals and art exhibitions.

Cycling is one of the best ways to explore Amsterdam Noord and its surrounding areas. There are several bike paths around the district, offering views of beautiful canals and green parks. Cycling is a great way to get around Amsterdam Noord, with plenty of bike rental shops located throughout the district.

Restaurants, Bars, and Cafes

Amsterdam Noord is home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes offering everything from traditional Dutch cuisine to international dishes. One popular spot is Brouwerij ‘t IJ, a craft beer brewery located on the banks of the IJ river. This brewery serves a variety of beers as well as traditional Dutch snacks such as bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs).

The Pllek restaurant is another popular destination in Amsterdam Noord. Located on the banks of the IJ river, this restaurant serves an eclectic mix of dishes from around the world. The Pllek also has its own beach bar where visitors can relax with a drink while taking in the views of Amsterdam’s skyline.

The Pllek also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, such as live music performances and art exhibitions. For those looking for a more traditional Dutch experience, there are plenty of cafes in the area serving traditional Dutch dishes such as poffertjes (small pancakes) and stroopwafels (syrup waffles).

Shopping

Amsterdam Noord is home to several shopping centers, offering everything from fashion boutiques to souvenir shops. One popular shopping center is NDSM Werfplein, located on the banks of the IJ river. This shopping center houses a variety of stores offering fashion items as well as souvenirs and gifts.

The NDSM Werfplein also hosts an outdoor market every Saturday where visitors can find a variety of items ranging from fresh produce to clothing and accessories. For those looking for more upscale shopping options, there are several designer stores in Amsterdam Noord, offering luxury items such as clothing, jewelry, and accessories.

Tours

One popular activity in Amsterdam Noord is taking a tour of the district’s many attractions. There are several tour operators offering guided tours of Amsterdam Noord’s sights, from its historical landmarks to its cultural attractions. One popular tour is the “Discover Amsterdam Noord” tour which takes visitors on a journey through Amsterdam’s northern district, visiting sights such as the Maritime Museum, EYE Filmmuseum, and Tolhuistuin park. The tour also includes a boat ride along the IJ river which offers views of Amsterdam’s skyline.

For those looking for a more adventurous experience, there is the “Noorderpark Adventure” tour which takes visitors on an off-road bike ride through Amsterdam’s northern district. This tour includes stops at several attractions such as the NDSM Werfplein shopping center and the Pllek restaurant before ending with a boat ride along the IJ river. On this tour visitors can explore Amsterdam Noord’s eclectic mix of cultures while getting some exercise along the way.

Conclusion

Amsterdam Noord is packed with things to do and sights to see. From its fascinating history and culture to its impressive architecture and landmarks, there are plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy in this vibrant district. Whether you’re looking for leisurely activities such as walking or cycling along the banks of the IJ river or more adventurous activities such as rock climbing or kayaking at NDSM Werf, there’s something for everyone in Amsterdam Noord. With its unique blend of cultures, history, and art, Amsterdam Noord has something for everyone to enjoy during their visit to this captivating city.