Noord
Discover an exciting world on the other side of the River IJ – Amsterdam-Noord (Amsterdam North). Noord is not only spacious and green, but also inspiring and vibrant. Here you will find an exciting mix of experimental festivals, picturesque country villages and stylish restaurants on the water. Explore Noord on a bike!
Free Ferry across the IJ
To explore Noord, take the free GVB ferries situated behind Amsterdam’s Central Station. These run every few minutes and carry people, bikes and scooters. Just watching people getting on and off the ferries is fascinating in itself. Large digital timers count-down the minutes till the ferries depart – and there seems to be a sport in whizzing on at the last minute. If you have some time to spare, ferry-hopping is also a great – and very economical – way of doing a bit of cruising along the river IJ.
Creative hotspot
Take the ferry in the direction of the NDSM shipyard and disembark in the most creative and active parts of Amsterdam. Until the 1980s there was a shipyard here; nowadays the warehouses are a breeding ground for cultural entrepreneurs – like music channel MTV. Regular cutting-edge festivals and exhibitions are held here and adding to the alternative feel is a large indoor Skatepark. More quirkiness is added to Noord by the presence of the Amstel Botel – a hotel on a boat.
Eat on the water
The rejuvenated vibe of Noord is reflected in the IJ-Kantine. This large buzzing restaurant was the former canteen of the NDSM shipyard. It occupies a wonderful spot at the water’s edge and is great for families. Another family favourite is Noorderlicht (Northern Lights) a relaxed restaurant in a transparent dome with a fabulous terrace. Close to the Buiksloterweg ferry you will find the aptly-named De Pont (The Ferry) with a panoramic view of the River IJ. Or hop on the Pannenkoekenboot (Pancake Boat) to enjoy all-you-can-eat pancakes while cruising.
Rural chic
In direct contrast to the cutting-edge vibe, Noord also has loads of lovely little villages that are ideal for exploring on foot, by bicycle or by water. Historic villages like Nieuwendam, Ransdorp and Zunderdorp have authentic ‘stolpboerderijen’ (traditional Dutch farmhouses built in the shape of a cheese-cover), wooden houses, locks and impressive views. Stop off at the exceptional cafés and restaurants along the way. Het Schoolhuis (The Schoolhouse) is a charming restaurant and terrace in Holysloot. Watergang is home to the nostalgic ’t Dijkhuis - in a former horse-stable.
Explore Noord for a refreshing view of Amsterdam!
Interactive map
Open the interactive map with an overview of well-known and lesser-known hotspots in Amsterdam.
Amstel Botel
Amstel Botel is located at the former NDSM-shipyard in Amsterdam North, at the NDSM-Pier 3. This colourful and vital dockside area now houses workshops and artists' studios, with.. Read more... »
IJ-Kantine
The IJ-Kantine is more than just a canteen on the IJ. This striking and transparent brasserie with its fabulous terrace on the NDSM harbour has just about everything: in the.. Read more... »
Hotel de Goudfazant
With a name like Hotel de Goudfazant this place sounds like it might be an old-fashioned family hotel but actually it's a hip restaurant on the water’s edge in Noord (North.. Read more... »
Noorderlicht Café
A must! The ferry departs from the jetty behind the Central Station twice an hour to the NDSM shipyard. Once disembarked its only a five minute walk to the ‘Noorderlicht’. Enter.. Read more... »
De Pont
Café/restaurant De Pont is right on the River IJ, on the spot where the Buiksloterweg ferry arrives and departs. You can come here for a cup of coffee and piece of cake, a.. Read more... »
Eetcafé 't Dijkhuis
In the small village of Watergang is ’t Dijkhuis ('The Dike House'). This cosy café and eatery is situated in a former horse stable and has been furnished in such a way as to.. Read more... »
Al Ponte
Take the IJplein ferry from Central Station to Noord and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee at one of the prettiest spots on the sunny side of the IJ. Owned by Silvia Salani, coffee.. Read more... »
Chef's Table
You'd never guess that culinary delights await diners at this surprising business park location, but foodies are flocking to Chef's Table. Owner Jeffrey Verwey and Chef Maarten.. Read more... »
Restaurant Stork
Housed in the cavernous hall of a former aircraft manufacturing facility, you'll find this large seafood restaurant and grand café located on the banks of the IJ River in Noord.. Read more... ».jpg&type=ecmp&cache=290ba5d8-2aa0-4d65-93cc-47a663f3f6dc.jpg&template=doctype_overview)
Skatepark Amsterdam at the NDSM hangar
Amsterdam Noord (north Amsterdam) has an indoor skatepark in the former NDSM hangar. his is a large indoor skate park of about 1750 square metres on a platform of about 7 metres.. Read more... »
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