Visit NDSM district in Amsterdam is a breathtaking meeting place.

The city's nomads, artisans and artists have transformed the former NDSM ship dock into a breeding ground for creative talent.

Restaurants, bars, cafés and clubs with stunning views over Amsterdam's IJ Lake make NSDM the perfect place to eat, relax and explore all night long.

Amsterdam's NDSM district: article summary

How to get to NDSM

The NDSM district is located in Amsterdam Noord, on the other side of the IJ. It's easily accessible by free ferry. The ferry leaves from behind Central Station and takes you to the old shipping dock in 15 minutes.

One of the first buildings you see when the ferry docks at NDSM is IJ-Kantine. Back in the days when huge cargo ships and warships were built at NDSM, workers used to come here, to the "canteen", to have their lunch.

The large building with its high ceilings, industrial interior design and breathtaking view of the IJ River recall the days when the place was still in business. Today, IJ-Kantine is a large restaurant and café serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.

NDSM Straat: the museum of graffiti and street art

Visit museum Straat presents over 150 giant graffiti and street art works in one of the NDSM's industrial buildings.

On display are huge works of graffiti and street art. The works are immense, hanging on the walls of the former industrial hall. The walls are over 25 meters high. A true visual spectacle.

What festivals and exhibitions are on at NDSM?

NDSM's main hall is now home to small creative businesses and regular exhibitions.

The vast NDSM shipyard is a breeding ground for creative talent. Inside the warehouse, numerous shipping containers house the workspaces. of over eighty artists and craftspeople.

Throughout the year, there are many special events at NDSM.

The flea market at the old NDSM landing stage.

Every two weeks, there's a big flea market in Amsterdam, the IJ Hallen. In summer, the flea market is outdoors, in winter indoors.

Sales focus on household goods and second-hand clothing, but you can also find some design elements.

Amsterdam's NDSM district: the Pllek

Pllek is located along the IJ waterfront. It's a large restaurant and café with a large outdoor terrace. It has a breathtaking view of the IJ. In summer, you can dive into the water and the whole area becomes a beach.

Pllek offers concerts, DJ nights and dance workshops on weekends, yoga on Sunday mornings, films and much more. It's the perfect place if you want to spend some time away from the city.

The emblematic NDSM crane houses a hotel.

How would you like to spend your mission in the NDSM neighborhood? It's possible! The crane still standing today was the last remaining crane at the shipyard. It was dismantled in 2013, shipped out and converted into a luxury hotel: Faralda Crane Hotel.

Inside, you'll find spacious rooms and all the amenities you need for a great vacation. What's more, you're onlyjust a stone's throw from the neighborhood's main areas of interest.

Amsterdam's NDSM district: the Noorderlicht café

It's always sunny at NDSM's Café Noorderlicht. The walls are made of glass, and the place looks like a greenhouse. Sitting outside the complex also offers the perfect moment, with a breathtaking view of the IJ.

There's a small open-air stage where bands perform in summer. In winter, music is played indoors. What's more, you won't lose much time finding the Noorderlicht. It's just a few steps from the ferry.

The history of Amsterdam's NDSM district

In 1937, NSM, the forerunner of NDSM, was the world's largest shipbuilding company. NSM built tankers as well as huge passenger ships.

Later, NSM merged with the Dutch shipbuilders NDM, becoming NDSM (Nederlandsche Dok en Scheepsbouw Maatschappij). The huge ship dock found its home in Amsterdam Noord, on the other side of the IJ. The NDSM ship dock built cargo ships, bulk carriers and warships for the Dutch navy.

A shortage of new orders led NDSM to stop building new ships for good in 1978. The company continued to repair vessels until 1984, but the glorious era of Dutch shipbuilding had come to an end.

A place left to its own devices

Empty buildings were left to rot in Amsterdam's NDSM East Wharf. Prostitutes and junkies dotted the area. It was almost a derelict area until craftsmen, artists and budding artists moved in and set up shop. started to improve the premises, calling themselves the Kinetisch Noord Foundation.

The city council was won over by the idea of this new "broedplaats". Even today, Kinetisch Noord receives subsidies from the Amsterdam city council. They are still in the process of making good use of these funds. the large boathouse, the outdoor area and the ramps.

If you're ever in Amsterdam, you'll want to spend some time in the NDSM district. Here you'll find plenty of nightlife and street artists all in one place. What you need discover more primitive art in Amsterdam.

Visit brown coffees are small institutions in Amsterdam.

During your visit, I'm sure you'll come across a few.

Today, I'm going to tell you all about it and show you the best addresses in town.

Amsterdam brown cafés: article summary

Brown coffee in Amsterdam: what is it?

Firstly, a brown cafe is just a traditional Dutch pub that usually serves tasty snacks and drinks, including cold draught beers, spirits and wines. However, and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea.

Brown pubs are an integral part of Amsterdam life. These traditional bars and cafés are known for their dark, comfortable interiors, darkened by the sun. by years of cigarette and cigar smoke and wooden interiors.

Le Café Hoppe

Café Hoppe is one of Amsterdam's most popular brown cafés and an ideal place to relax and enjoy a drink with friends. This Amsterdam staple is located in Spuiin the heart of downtown Amsterdam.

The atmosphere here is unreal, with a fun overflow of people on the terrace, whatever the weather. Despite its location in the heart of the city, this bar remains a must for many locals.

At Café Hoppe, they also distill their own ginIt's an ideal place to enjoy this type of beverage. You can see the old barrels lined up behind the bar.

In summer, take a seat outside and enjoy the moment with the beautiful architecture around you. In winter, grab a large table in the back for make yourself comfortable and enjoy traditional Dutch dishes.

Brown coffee in Amsterdam: Café In 't Aepjen

Café in 't Aepljen translates as "Coffee with the monkeys. It's Amsterdam's oldest brown café and tells an incredible story.

It got its name because when sailors returned from their round-the-world voyages, they brought back exotic animals, especially monkeys, to pay off their unpaid bills at the bar.

This historic building is well worth a visit to marvel at its history. You can even see several monkey statues inside.

This one is more popular with tourists, as it's in the middle of De Wallen, and many tours of the area stop in front of the bar.

If you are arriving by train from Amsterdam Central StationIt's easy enough to stop here for a drink on the way to your hotel if you're staying in the city center.

Le Café De Dokter

 

It's one of my favorite places to have a beer at the bar and relax. Café De Dokter also has a fascinating history.

First of all, the French translation is "le café du Docteur". It bears this name because it was opened by a former surgeon from the nearby hospital. It's become a not-to-be-missed for medical students and doctors after work.

The interior of this brown café features an incredible number of old knick-knacks on the walls, dusty lamps and a warm environment. The place is ultra-typical and offers a comfortable environment for friendly conversation.

As the coffee is rather small, I recommend you try to arrive early in the evening to get a seat in this incredible bar.

Brown coffee in Amsterdam: Café de twee Zwantjes

The Two Swans, or De Twee Zwaantjes as it's known in Dutch, is a cozy brown café located just across the street from Anne Frank's house. It first opened its doors in 1780. Today, it still features this charming canal-side setting.

Offering a wide selection of Dutch beers, this café is the ideal place to relax and enjoy a drink with friends. With its traditional Dutch decor and tobacco-stained wallpaper, it's no wonder that The Two Swans is a favourite among locals. one of Amsterdam's best brown cafés.

Le Café Chris

Café Chris is a popular pub located in Jordaan. This cozy, rustic brown bar continues to be a favorite with travelers. It's one of my favorites for its relaxed atmosphere, great food, delicious drinks and friendly service.

It's a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam, offering a peaceful place to relax with friends or family. Sample some of their tasty classic Dutch beers, wines, Dutch gins and snacks. while enjoying the view.

Like most brown cafés, you won't find any music, just newspapers, magazines, a pool table and a crowd lost in conversation.

Brown coffee in Amsterdam: Café 't Mandje

Café 't Mandje is a brown bar with an illustrious history. The iconic Bet van Beeren opened the bar when she was just 25.

From the moment she took possession, Bet made sure the bar was a safe place for gay men and women not to be persecuted.

In fact, in the 1950s, when many hate crimes occurred, Bet lit a porcelain owl behind the bar to warn customers of a potential belligerent.

Today, Café 't Mandje is a haven of peace for all. The staff are helpful and friendly, and the customers are welcoming. You'll find ice-cold Gulpener on draught, as well as other beers, wines and cocktails.

Arrive early if you want a seat. The café is very popular and fills up fast.

If you're visiting Amsterdam, I recommend you try one of the brown cafés above. You'll discover the unique atmosphere of Dutch bistros. What you need a change of scenery and a great evening out.

There are many statues of famous people in Amsterdam.

On your trip, you won't be able to avoid its monuments.

Today, I'm talking about it.

Statue in Amsterdam: article summary

Statue in Amsterdam: Kokadorus on the Amstelveld

Kokadorus, born in Leeuwarden, moved to Amsterdam when he was very young. He used to sell matches in Kalverstraat, but when he realized he was selling well, he set up a street-selling stall.

The story goes that he was invited by King Willem III to speak at the Paleis Het Loo (palace). When he got there, he fell silent because of all the luxury, and couldn't speak as he used to. Since 1906, his name was Professor Kokadorus.

There are many mysteries surrounding the origin of this name. It may be a combination of the names of his grandfather Ko, his grandmother Ka and his father Dorus, but in reality these people seem to have had other names. The statue shows Kokadorus praising the quality of his suspenders.

Thorbecke statue on Thorbeckeplein

Johan Rudolph Thorbecke is the founder of democracy in the Netherlands. In 1848, King Willem II ordered Thorbecke to rewrite the constitution.

Through direct elections, the people gained more power, leading to the modern state and democracy as we know it today.

Thorbecke was Foreign Minister on three occasions. The statue appeared four years after his death, on May 18, 1876. Thorbecke holds a briefcase under the arm and the Constitution in hand. The statue stands on Thorbeckeplein, opposite Reguliersgracht.

Statue in Amsterdam: De Volksvrouw Marnixplein

Tonia Sluyter modeled this statue called De Volksvrouw (The Folk Women). It represents all the women who have made it through the crisis. The woman looks on a strong look at the Lijnbaansgracht and radiates strength with crossed arms.

Because of her modest lifestyle, Tonia Sluyter was unable to create anything other than a plaster statue. However, in 1967, the plaster model was cast in bronze and placed on the Marnixplein.

Anne Frank at the Westermarkt

Just a few metres from the Frank family homeOn the corner of Prinsengracht and Westermarkt, this bronze statue commemorates the life of 15-year-old Anne Frank, murdered in the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp. during the Second World War.

The statue was unveiled on March 14, 1977 by Mayor Samkalden. People suspect that March 14 is the day of Anne Frank's death.

The statue shows Anne with her hands on her back as she looks up hopefully, as we know it from the newspapers.

Statue in Amsterdam: Theo Thijssen Lindengracht

On the occasion of writer Theo Thijssen's 100ᵉ birthday, his statue was unveiled by then Mayor Wim Polak. Theo Thijssen is best known for the novel "Kees de Jongen".

Theo Thijssen was much more than a writer. He was a teacher, trade unionist, Social Democrat MP and a true resident of Jordaan. Born here as the son of a cleaning lady, he went to the Rijkskweekschool voor Onderwijzers at Haarlem with a government grant.

Woutertje Pieterse and Femke Noordermarkt

The statue was erected in honor of "Woutertje Pieterse", a Dutch bestseller written by Multatuli. It was Multatuli's second novel and one of his best-known after "Max Havelaar".

Initially, Multatuli didn't want to publish the book. His widow did so after his death, so it was never a success.

Woutertje Pieterse is an Amsterdam boy with lots of dreams and curiosity. In the book, he protects Femke from a gang of bad boys and receives a kiss as a reward.

This took place on the Noordermarkt, which is why the statue of the two figures is here. 

Statue in Amsterdam: Multatuli on the Torensluis Amsterdam

The statue, unveiled by Queen Beatrix, was erected to mark the 100th anniversary of the death of Eduard Douwes Dekker, who wrote under the pseudonym Multatuli. His most famous work is "Max Havelaar".

Just a few blocks away is the address mentioned by Dekker in Max Havelaar. At that time a monastery was located at this address, so there was no café.

Here, you'll find houses with a sign next to the door bearing the name of the coffee merchant. A sort of nod to the novel.

Place Johnny Jordaan

This square is entirely dedicated to Amsterdam's most famous folk singers. After Johnny Jordaan's death in 1989, local residents set up a fund to raise money for a statue. The statue was erected a few years later.

In 1991, an initiative was launched to name this part of the River Jordan after the folk singer. Shortly afterwards, the Johnny Jordaanplein was a reality.

Later, other statues were added, including those of Tante Leen (1994), Johnny Meijer (1996), Manke Nelis (2005) and Bolle Jan and Mien Froger (2010).

There are many statues to see in Amsterdam. You won't want to miss them on your visit. What you discover the heroes who gave the city its soul.

A breathtaking view of the canal, Amsterdam youth hostels offer a wide range of budget accommodation.

But whatever hostel you choose, you'll always find a friendly, welcoming community.

Today, let's discover some of them.

Cheap hostels in Amsterdam: article summary

Cheap hostels in Amsterdam: Stayokay

Located in the heart of the city, the Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark Hostel is perfect for groups, families and solo travelers looking for budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

The hostel has a lively bar, restaurant and terrace, where you can relax and meet other travelers. The dormitories are spacious and clean, and the staff are friendly and helpful.

ClinkNOORD

Have you heard of ClinkNOORD?

This is a great, modern youth hostel in the north of the city, just a short ferry ride from the bustling city center.

Whether you're a solo traveler or part of a group, ClinkNOORD has you covered with their variety of room options. They have everything from private rooms to dorms, and all are equipped with super-cool modern facilities that make your stay even more comfortable.

One of the coolest things about ClinkNOORD is their bar and restaurant. You can have a drink and a bite to eat without even leaving the hostel!

They also have a comfortable lounge area where you can spend time with other travelers, and a pretty courtyard where you can relax in the sun. you can relax and soak up the sun.

Cheap hostel Amsterdam: the Meininger

This place is super stylish and modern and located in Amsterdam's trendy and lively West End!

Whatever type of traveler you are, the Meininger Hotel Amsterdam City West has a room for you. You can choose from our private rooms or dormitories, all equipped with the latest modern facilities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

But the fun doesn't stop there. The Meininger also boasts a quality bar and lounge where you can relax after a day's sightseeing.

You can enjoy a drink, relax on the comfortable sofas and get to know your fellow travelers. Who knows, you might even make new friends to explore Amsterdam with!

And if you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bike from the hostel and set off on a pedal-powered adventure around town.

The Dutchies

Dutchies Hostel is a comfortable and welcoming hostel located in the west of Amsterdam.

The hostel has a variety of rooms, including private rooms and dormitories with their own reading lamps, all decorated in a charming Dutch style. They also have free luggage storage.

The youth hostel has a shared kitchen, garden and lounge area, where you can relax and socialize.

But that's not all, Dutchies Hostel is one of the best budget hostels in Amsterdam, and they offer a range of facilities to all residents.

Cheap hostel Amsterdam: the Bunk

Discover the Bunk Hostel, a unique hostel located in a converted church. This hostel isn't your typical backpacker hangout. It's a beautiful, unique space that will leave you breathless.

At Bunk, you can choose from a variety of room types, from dormitories to private rooms and even a suite. Each room is uniquely designed, offering a comfortable and cosy stay.

You'll get a good night's sleep and wake up refreshed and ready to take on the city.

But the Bunk Hostel isn't just a place to sleep. The hostel has a restaurant and bar, so you can indulge in delicious food and drink while socializing with fellow travelers.

Bunk also features a chapel that has been converted into a concert hall, where you can attend concerts, one-man shows and other performances.

Hans Brinker Hostel

Hans Brinker Hostel is a hostel that prides itself on offering no-frills accommodation for those looking for a good time.

The hostel has an on-site bar with happy hour and an underground club. open until 3 a.m.. They also have free wifi throughout the hostel.

It's located in Leidseplein, Amsterdam's favorite nightlife area for tourists and locals alike. Dormitory rates starts at €35 per night.

Cheap hostel in Amsterdam: the Flying Pig

The Flying Pig Downtown is a backpacker hostel in Amsterdam that offers a comfortable place to rest, as well as excellent social activities.

With a lively bar offering happy hour deals, outdoor terrace, smoking area and fully functional kitchen, customers have everything they need to have a good time.

The hostel is in a prime location, just a 10-minute walk from the central station and close to numerous bars and pubs.

If you're looking for a cheap hostel in Amsterdam, you'll be spoilt for choice. Following my advice, you'll find magnificent places that will welcome you for a few nights.

I'm often asked how to get from the airport to Schiphol to Amsterdam by train.

It's easy enough to fly independently from Schiphol to Amsterdam (and vice versa).

The train will hold no secrets for you.

Train from Schiphol to Amsterdam: article summary

The train from Schiphol to Amsterdam: at a glance

The train is the best way to get from Schiphol airport to the city of Amsterdam. I don't recommend taking cabs, as they have quite a bad reputation in the city for taking advantage of tourists who don't know the prices.

The train from Schiphol airport runs every 10-15 minutes direct to Amsterdam Centraal. The journey from the airport to the heart of Amsterdam takes around 15 minutes.

It's clean and simple. Sometimes the trains can be crowded, but you can wait for the next one if you like!

Gather your luggage and head for Schiphol

After immigration, collect your luggage, if any, and leave the airport to enter the terminal. From here, look for the train signs. There's a large open area with stores, where you'll find train ticket machines!

To get to Amsterdam, you'll need to buy a ticket for Amsterdam Centraal from the ticket machine.

If someone tries to call you to ask if you need a cab, sell you a ticket and/or exchange money, avoid these peopleThese are common scams.

Only buy your ticket from the machine. Similarly, the "cabs" that approach you in this area are very often unlicensed.

Take your one-way ticket to Amsterdam

Once you've arrived at the machine, you'll need to select your destination. By default, Amsterdam Centraal appears. You can select this stop or press the A if you're going to one of Amsterdam's other train stations.

Amsterdam Centraal is just one of Amsterdam's train stations. Many tourists make the mistake of buying a ticket for the wrong station and/or getting off at the wrong station.

Check your GPS app to find the best station for your hotel! Amsterdam Sloterdijk or Amsterdam Amstel may be your destination.

If you arrive at the main station, don't worry. You can always take a bus to these destinations.

Train from Schiphol to Amsterdam: paying for your ticket

Finally, simply pay for your ticket. If you're using a card, press Debit/credit card. You'll need to insert the card into the card reader.

You may have to push it a little further for the machine to recognize your credit card correctly. Then, all you have to do is all you have to do is enter a PIN code.

Afterwards, you can choose whether you want a receipt. Be sure to check the bottom of the machine for your ticket and receipt. Above all, don't leave without your ticket!

Finding the right path

This may change, but for many years now, trains to Amsterdam Centraal from Schiphol airport have run on tracks 1 and 2. However, I advise you to check the signs for up-to-date train information.

If these tracks are no longer allocated to the train to Amsterdam, you could lose precious time.

Don't forget to stamp your ticket

Before entering the train, you must register to activate your ticket! This means briefly pressing your new paper card against a yellow machine before hearing a beep. Just like when you take the train in France, this means you've successfully registered. From there, you down the escalator and wait for your train.

Don't lose your ticket! You'll need to show up with your train ticket, which can be checked by the ticket inspector. I therefore recommend that you put your ticket in a secure pocket!

Arrival at Amsterdam Centraal

After fifteen minutes, you'll arrive at Amsterdam Centraal. Your train can then continue on to other cities. make sure you get off at the right stop!

From here, take the stairs out of the station. The city of Amsterdam is on your right. You'll need to tap your paper ticket against the door to exit the station.

The train from Schiphol to Amsterdam is a quick and easy way to get to Amsterdam city center. During your stay, if you don't have a lot of luggage, I advise you to opt for this means of transport. You'll reach your destination in no time.

Amsterdam is full of unusual places.

During your visit, you'll be taken on a tour of some of them.

Today, I'm putting together a list of the places you need to see on your trip to this city.

Unusual places in Amsterdam: article summary

Unusual places in Amsterdam: Python Bridge

The Python Bridge is an interesting bright red bridge spanning the canal between Sporenburg and Borneo Island. in the eastern docks.

The bridge is officially known as the High Bridge (Hoge Brug) and one of the craziest things to do in Amsterdam is to walk across it. on this eccentric snake-shaped footbridge.

Eye Film Museum

Eye Film Museum is a modern museum linked to the world of cinema and is known as the "home of film". It boasts a collection of 37,000 film titles, 60,000 posters, 700,000 photographs and 20,000 books. since the start of the film industry in the Netherlands in 1895.

To be able to enjoy this place, you must count :

• 11 € per person

Children under 17 enjoy free admission.

The venue opens :

• 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday to Thursday
• from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday to Saturday

Unusual places in Amsterdam: Barge Museum

The Woonboot Museum is a traditionally furnished barge that gives visitors a glimpse of canal life in Amsterdam's bygone days.

A 1914 freighter, the Hendrika Maria, houses the museum and displays exhibits and models for depict life before modernization.

To visit this unusual place, you must count :

• 4.50 per adult
• 3.50 for children between 3 and 15 years

The venue opens :

• 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Monday.

Unusual places in Amsterdam: Blijbourg Beach

Blijburg beach is Amsterdam's best-known urban beach. Although it's not a real seaside beach, visitors come here to spend time sunbathing and swimming. What's more, it also boasts a bar and lounge. which offers a variety of dishes and drinks.

You can visit us on site:

• Every day from from 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. 

The NDSM dock

NDSM is the former shipping quay in the northwest of Amsterdam. Across the river IJ, this historic center of Amsterdam is currently used by artists to exhibit their work.

Numerous exhibitions and festivals are also held here. There are also offices and student residences. Last but not least, a ferry takes you there free of charge. So there's no excuse to ignore this exceptional and unusual place in Amsterdam.

Unusual places in Amsterdam: Pianola Museum

One of the most unusual places to visit in Amsterdam is the Pianola Museum. This 17th-century museum houses a collection of automatic pianos and related objects, all still in working order.

The place boasts 30,000 music rolls. One of the craziest things to do in Amsterdam is to try playing these instruments at the museum.

To get in, you'll need :

• 9 € per adult
• 5 € per child

The museum opens :

• Friday and Saturday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Museum of Torture

Visit Museum of Torture offers exhibitions on punishment in the Middle Ages. The museum's engravings illustrate some forty instruments from different parts of Europe.

Each engraving has an illustration offering historical information in eight different languages.

To visit this place, you must count :

• 7.50 per adult
• 4 € for children under 12 years

The venue opens :

• Every day 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

The cat museum

The KattenKabinet, as its name suggests, is dedicated to cats. It's one of the most unusual places to visit in Amsterdam. The place is filled with works of art depicting cats in their various moods and acts in the form of posters, sculptures, photographs, lithographs, posters, paintings and drawings.

To enter this place dedicated to cats, you must count :

• 7 € per adult
• 4 € for students

As regards opening times, the venue opens :

• Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Saturdays and Sundays from 12 pm to 5 pm.

Unusual places in Amsterdam: Ladyland

Electric Ladyland is the first fluorescent art museum to feature a fluorescent environment where visitors discover a new concept in "participatory art".

The museum also boasts fluorescent minerals from all over the world, which suddenly burst into color when exposed to the sun. are exposed to different light waves.

To visit this magical place, you'll need :

• 5 € per adult

The museum opens :

• Wednesday to Saturday 2 to 6 p.m. by appointment only

Micropia Museum

One of the most unusual places to visit in Amsterdam is Micropia, a museum in Amsterdam that presents all possible types of microbes. Unique in its kind, visitors interested in the science of microbes and young students will find this place highly instructive.

To visit this exceptional site, you will need :

• 16 € per adult
• 14 € for children aged 3 to 9

You can visit this site :

• Sunday to Wednesday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Thursday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

There are many unusual places to discover in Amsterdam. During your visit, I recommend you take a tour of these different places to discover during your vacation.