Jordaan

Overview

The Jordaan is Amsterdam's most beloved neighbourhood, a former working-class district transformed into a charming quarter of narrow streets, independent shops, cosy cafés, and hidden courtyards (hofjes).

Highlights

• Hofjes: Secret courtyard gardens tucked behind street-level doorways.
• Boutiques & Galleries: Indie shops, vintage stores, and small galleries along Haarlemmerdijk.
• Brown Cafés: Traditional dark-panelled Dutch pubs like Café 't Smalle and Café Papeneiland.

History

Built in the early 17th century as a working-class neighbourhood outside the canal ring. By the 1980s gentrification turned it into one of Amsterdam's most desirable areas.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Get lost in the side streets — the best discoveries are unplanned.
• Tip 2: Saturday mornings bring a farmers' market to Noordermarkt.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.