Amsterdam terraces on the River IJ
Hours can be spent along Amsterdam’s IJ River just watching life going by – boats sailing past, couples strolling by, families cycling along on one bike... And what better way to watch the passing parade than relaxing on a terrace? The IJ has some fabulous terraces, each with a unique character. Here are some suggestions.
The River IJ
The IJ is one of Amsterdam’s main arterial rivers. The cruise ships docking at Amsterdam’s passenger terminal delicately navigate their way up its waters, police boats criss-cross up and down and barges ferry cars, coal and more. The banks of the river are lined with wonderful terraces to sit in the sun along the waterside and have a drink or bite to eat. Whether you’re looking for a casual café or an upmarket dinner location, you’re sure to enjoy the view!
Lunch or dinner on the IJ
The super-fresh fish at restaurant Nevy complete the nautical setting. The raw bar of this sleek and hip restaurant glistens with oysters and delicious sashimi on ice. The terrace has a really great vibe with inviting lounge seats and great music. If you’re with the little people, then the cheery IJ-kantine is the place to head to. With a huge sand-box and children’s play-corner outdoors, the kids will enjoy this brasserie just as much as their parents. Getting there is fun too, as you can cross the IJ on the free ferry between the NDSM wharf and Amsterdam Centraal station.
Unusual locations on the IJ
Situated in an abandoned 1920’s railway bridge in the recently revamped Westerdok area, you'll find Restaurant Open. The restaurant is almost entirely made of glass, which means there is a spectacular view of both the water and passing trains. Although there is an outside terrace, the windows can be completely opened too, making it a very airy location. Pier 10 is another restaurant making good use of a disused space – this time an old shipping office has been turned into one of Amsterdam’s hippest eateries on the river.
Great sunsets on the IJ
Undoubtedly one of the best sun-downer terraces in Amsterdam is the Star Ferry Terminal at the Muziekgebouw aan ’t IJ. Here you have an unparalleled view of the sun sinking down over the water-line and the city bathed in a golden light. The sight of a cruise ship sailing past while you’re sipping or supping is very memorable. Cruise ships can be seen from Wilhelmina Dock too, whose terrace is so close to the river that a ship once bumped into it! Great for drinks and snacks.
The terraces of Amsterdam’s IJ are a great place to enjoy a drink and soak up the sun on the water’s edge! Cheers matey!
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