Other Neighborhoods

Oud-West & Westerpark

The Oud-West around Overtoom and Kinkerstraat is Amsterdam's most relaxed residential area: great restaurants (the Foodhallen — an indoor food market in a former tram depot!), cozy cafés, and the Westerpark with the Westergasfabriek complex (converted gas factory with cultural events, restaurants, and the Bogen Cinema).

Plantage & Oost

The Plantage district is green and quiet: the Artis Zoo (the oldest zoo in the Netherlands, 1838), the Hortus Botanicus (one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, since 1638), and the Tropenmuseum. The adjacent Oost (East) with the Dappermarkt (multicultural street market, cheaper than Albert Cuyp) and the Oosterpark is the least touristy central district.

Nieuwmarkt & Chinatown

The Nieuwmarkt with the imposing Waag (city weigh house, 15th century) is a lively square on the edge of the Red Light District. Amsterdam's small Chinatown (Zeedijk) with Asian restaurants and shops is right next door. Nam Kee is legendary for its oysters in black bean sauce.

Waterlooplein & Joods Historisch Kwartier

The Jewish Historical Quarter around Waterlooplein recalls the once thriving Jewish community of Amsterdam. The Joods Historisch Museum (€15), the Portuguese Synagogue (1675, one of the most beautiful in Europe), and the Waterlooplein flea market (daily except Sundays) are located here.