The Amsterdam Jordaan Neighborhood Guide

If you only have time for one Amsterdam neighborhood, make it the Jordaan.

Built in the 17th century as a working-class district on the western edge of the canal ring, the Jordaan has evolved into Amsterdam's most desirable address — while somehow retaining the character that makes it feel lived-in, not staged.

Getting There

The Jordaan sits west of Prinsengracht, bounded by the Brouwersgracht to the north and Leidsegracht to the south. From Amsterdam Centraal, it's a 15-minute walk or a short tram ride.

What to Do in the Jordaan

The Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) — Arguably the best shopping in Amsterdam. Nine narrow streets connecting the main canals, lined with vintage boutiques, bookshops, cheese stores, and design studios. Ideal without luggage.

Noordermarkt — Amsterdam's best outdoor market. On Saturdays it's a full organic farmers' market; on Mondays it's a flea market. Either way, arrive hungry.

Anne Frank House — Located right on the Jordaan's eastern edge at Prinsengracht 263. Book tickets in advance — the queues are real.

Westerkerk — Amsterdam's largest Protestant church, with a tower you can climb for views across the city. The bells ring every 15 minutes and can be heard throughout the Jordaan.

Hofjes — Hidden courtyard gardens tucked behind street-level doors. Look for Karthuizerhof and Claes Claesz Hofje — peaceful escapes from the tourist crowds.

Where to Eat

Café 't Smalle — A genuine brown café (bruine kroeg) on Egelantiersgracht, serving Dutch beer and bitterballen since 1786. The canal-side terrace is one of Amsterdam's best seats.

Brouwerij 't IJ — Not technically in the Jordaan but worth the short walk. Amsterdam's best craft brewery, housed in a windmill.

Winkel 43 — Noordermarkt's most famous café, known for what many locals claim is the best apple pie in Amsterdam.

Traveling Light Through the Jordaan

The Jordaan's narrow streets and steep bridges were designed for pedestrians and cyclists, not rolling suitcases. The cobblestones are particularly unforgiving.

If you're arriving in Amsterdam with luggage and heading to a Jordaan hotel, consider using Postnaut to send your bags ahead — walking through the Jordaan should be a pleasure, not a workout.