Noord
For centuries the north section of the city was an area that
most Amsterdammers weren't too keen on. It seems that
everything unwanted was 'dumped' here, from the gallows
in medieval times to the polluting ship building industry
much later. Extensive social housing projects attracted large
numbers of financially challenged people exacerbating the
stigma that was already attached to Amsterdam's largest
administrative district. Today Noord, or simply North, is one
of the most vibrant areas of the Dutch capital. More and
more people have begun to appreciate the unique merits
of this territory beyond the River IJ. With this in mind we've
put together a small guide to this interesting urban and rural zone that's usually overlooked by most tourists. All you
need to do is to take one of the free ferries behind the Central Station and 10 minutes later you'll be able to explore
Noord and its surroundings. Take a small river cruise on a
boat that offers an all-you-can-eat pancake buffet, do some
cycling in the pristine countryside, bring a towel and swim
trunks and take a dip at one of the area's swimming pools
or visit a festival and see why Noord has become the sizzling new hub of Amsterdam's creative community. There
are three different ferries that will take you over the River IJ
in just a few minutes and bring you to Amsterdam-Noord
completely free of charge. The departure landing is located
just behind the Central Station.
ACCOMMODATION
From botels and cosy B&Bs to camping and luxury hotels,
the north side of the River IJ has plenty to offer.
UPMARKET
NH GALAXY AMSTERDAM
The NH Galaxy Hotel is true to its name, because the
world’s at your feet in this four-star hotel. The breakfast buffet is well stocked and the spacious rooms not only have
cutting-edge interior design, but are also fitted with kingsized beds and luxurious bathrooms. The friendly staff and
its private parking also add extra value to this design hotel
and thanks to the shuttle bus, which is free of charge, the
centre of Amsterdam is only a short ride away. .QM-2, Distelkade 21, tel. (+31) 206 34 43 66, www.nh-hotels.com.
PHAUFLBKXwW hhhh
SYMBOL KEY
A Accepts credit cards P Air conditioning
O Casino T Child-friendly U Facilties for disabled I Fireplace
V Home delivery E Live music B Outside seating
X Smoking section
S Takeaway
W Wifi
THE FARALDA NDSM CRANE HOTEL AMSTERDAM
Crane 13 is a renowned industrial landmark and during
its heyday the 300-tonne monument could lift up to 40
tonnes of materials. However, after a complete restoration it has a new function as a hotel and TV studio. The
first of its three high-end design suites hovers at a height
of 13 metres, but a Jacuzzi offers incredible views of Amsterdam’s city centre from a height of 50m. Naturally, all
of this luxury comes at a premium, but believe it or not
you’ll have to add your name to a waiting list if you’d like
to spend the night here.QM-2, NDSM-Plein 78, www.
faralda.nl. AULGW
MID-RANGE
BASTION DELUXE HOTEL AMSTERDAM / CENTRUM - NOORD
Located next to the Volewijkspark and the Vliegenbos nature area of Amsterdam Noord, you’re never far from flora
and fauna when you stay at the Bastion Hotel. Standard
rooms live up to their modest name and include TV, safe,
private bathrooms and coffee/tea sets, while deluxe rooms
offer a bit more space and have the added advantage of a
mini-bar. Although wi-fi is available throughout the hotel
for free, guests also have access to a computer in the lobby
if they don’t have their own laptops. A restaurant, bar and
smoking lounge are at your disposal, not to mention free
parking – a rarity in Amsterdam.QM-3, Rode Kruisstraat
28, tel. (+31) 206 32 31 31, www.bastionhotels.nl. 68
rooms (68 Total rooms ). ALGKXW hhh
BOTELS
The EYE Film Institute by night
36Amsterdam In Your Pocket
Iwan Baan
AMSTEL BOTEL
This ship is safely moored at the NDSM pier. If you simply
need somewhere to crash after a night on the town and
you’re looking for free parking, this is the place. Small cabins with thin walls and claustrophobic bathrooms come
standard at this botel. The lack of luxury and privacy may
not be to everyone’s liking, but if you need relatively cheap
accommodation and you don’t mind living on the water,
book a room at the back where you have a great view of
the River IJ. QM-2, NDSM-Pier 3, tel. (+31) 206 26 42 47,
www.amstelbotel.nl. 175 rooms (157 doubles €60 - 120,
18 triples €89 - 150). PTALGBKXW
amsterdam.inyourpocket.com
Noord
Noord
BOUTIQUE HOTELS
CAFÉS
BROOKLYN HOTEL
Opened in 2014, this wonderful design hotel is hard to miss
as it rises above the other structures on the NDSM wharf
that juts out from Amsterdam Noord far into the waters of
the River IJ. You can expect exceptional accommodation
decorated in neutral brown, beige and grey colours that
includes leather furniture, big beds, wireless internet access,
mini-bar and all of the other modern amenities no to mention incredible views. We particularly liked the room where
you can shower and look out the floor-to-ceiling glass window.QM-2, NDSM-Plein 28, tel. (+31) 207 22 06 66, www.
brooklynhotel.nl. 88 rooms (standard doubles from €89,
deluxe rooms from €129). PALKW
Noord is very popular with Amsterdam hipsters, so it will
come as no surprise that the area has loads of great cafés.
BED & BREAKFAST
B&B HET OUDE DIJKHUIS
Located on one of Amsterdam’s most attractive cycling
routes, this spacious apartment can accommodate up to
four people. The furnishings are not exactly modern or cosy
and could best be described as old fashioned and boring.
On the other hand, the friendly owners and the more than
reasonable prices make up for the lack of décor. The Old Dike
House even has a private entrance and a full sized kitchen. It
also rents bikesQN-3, Nieuwendammerdijk 443, tel. (+31)
204 94 18 42, www.hetoudedijkhuis.nl. 1 apartment (1
person €70, 4 persons €130). TLNGB
B&B HET ZUNDERDORPSKWARTIER
Het Zunderdorpskwartier is a new addition to the expanding list of excellent B&Bs in rural Amsterdam. The hosts
have transformed a shed in the garden of their farmhouse
into an attractive guest room, which features a living room
with a well equipped kitchen and a separate bedroom. Although a bit cramped, the house can be rented for up to
four guests and the attached garden makes it a good option for families with children. If it’s full you can try your luck
with the neighbours at B&B Biest-Stro.QM-4, ‘t Nopeind
10b, tel. (+31) 623 74 05 60, www.zunderdorpskwartier.
nl. 1 rooms (€70 - 75). iTLGBXW
CAMPING
CAMPING VLIEGENBOS
If you’re tired of steep prices for accommodation in the city
centre, we suggest you take a 10-minute bus ride to Vliegenbos, a 62-acre forest across the water from the Central
Station. You can pitch a tent, park your camper or rent
one of its cabins for a reasonable price during the spring
and summer months. A gift shop, restaurant, laundry and
other services are also available. During the day take bus
No.32 or 33 (06:00 - 24:00) or bus No.361 at night (24:00
- 06:00) from the Central Station to Vliegenbos. The campsite is only 200m from the bus stop.QN-3, Meeuwenlaan
138, tel. (+31) 206 36 88 55, www.vliegenbos.com. 30
cabins (4-person cabin €71 -74; tents €2 - 5; camper
sites €23 - 25). Open April - September. ALK
38Amsterdam In Your Pocket
CYCLING IN NOORD
BROOD NDSM
Three floors have been decorated with a mix of graphic
art, bright, splashy colours and an abundance of fresh
flowers. The rooftop terrace offers great views of the IJ
and the Russian submarine that’s moored right outside.
Downstairs at the counter you’ll encounter the addictive
aroma of freshly baked buns, pastries and bread and we
recommend the sandwiches slathered in typically sweet
Dutch fillings like hagelslag and pindakaas.QN-2, Ms van
Riemsdijkweg 30, tel. (+31) 206 33 10 89, www.bbrood.
nl. Open 07:45 - 18:30, Sat, Sun 09:45 - 18:00. iT�
JA6LGBKXSW
KOFFIEHUIS DE KLAPROOS (THE POPPY)
For over 50 years the De Klaproos coffee house has been
serving food and drinks on the Klaprozenweg, one of the
busiest roads in Amsterdam-Noord. But for the past few
years this nostalgic living room-like pub, which you might
expect to find in the middle of the Jordaan instead of next
to a public racetrack, has been run by Anita and Nancy.
The kitschy lights, bottles of Heineken and particularly
the loudspeakers that blast out the latest Dutch hits, create a fun local atmosphere typical of Amsterdam. Hungry
guests can try the homemade meatball sandwich or the
steak Stroganoff served with bread.QM-2, Klaprozenweg
60, tel. (+31) 206 37 65 12. Open 07:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00
- 18:00. Closed Sun. 6LNBX
ONS VERLANGEN
Ons Verlangen (Our Desire) is a restful oasis far from the
noise and traffic of the city. There’s a small army of animals at the farm which could almost rival the collection
of fauna at the Artis Zoo, but thanks to the cows most
Amsterdammers come here to buy fresh milk or something even tastier. This farm, which is spread out over 125
hectares, also makes delicious organic ice cream! Enjoy
the entire selection of flavours in the spacious garden.
QM-4, Broekergouw 5, tel. (+31) 623 94 90 17, www.
zorgboerderijamsterdam.com. Open 10:00 - 16:00, Sat,
Sun 11:00 - 16:00. Closed Wed. TLNBS
A bike ride through North is essentially a trip back
through the centuries. Four centuries to be exact. Due
to the extensive peat lands and dangerous swamps, this
area remained uninhabited for ages. This unprecedented
and unspoiled piece of wetlands is the Netherlands at its
purest. The route along the Waterland Zeedijk dike from
Schellingwoude to the old fishing village of Durgerdam
takes in the impressive IJsselmeer and the buiten-IJ with
its historic, sailing ships. Durgerdam is the most impressive part of this magnificent landscape; a beautiful ancient fishing village where the multi-coloured wooden
houses opposite the marina lean against one another
and offer views of the vast distances of the IJsselmeer
Lake. When the Zuiderzee was closed off in 1932, a large
part of the fishing industry disappeared. Today the village is a protected conservation area.
RESTAURANTS
Noord has a little something for everyone from ultra hip
fine dining to a boat that serves pancakes.
ASIAN
WOK KING
The two statues of lions at the entrance, or shishi as Mandarin speakers call them, make it plain that this massive
restaurant specialises in cuisine from the Far East, or to
be more precise, Chinese stir fried dishes. Although the
menu has plenty on offer, you can make things easy on
yourself and choose a set menu or the unlimited buffet,
which includes free drinks. There is not much of a selection beyond the stir fried stuff, but the friendly atmosphere and service make this restaurant quite popular,
particularly for large groups.QM-3, Buikslotermeerplein 15, tel. (+31) 206 36 35 68, www.wokking.nl.
Open 16:30 - 22:30. (€17 - 20). GK
FAST FOOD
Ransdorp is one of those typical wetlands villages with
historic wooden houses and beautiful, traditional Dutch
stolp farmhouses tranquilly located on vast peat meadows. It’s unbelievable that this patch of peace and quiet
can be found within Amsterdam’s city limits! The village
is marked by a large, blunt tower visible on the horizon.
Ransdorp was home to Geertje Dircx, housekeeper and
later mistress of Rembrandt. One long bicycle route runs
to Holysloot, a picturesque village consisting of one
street, the Dorpsstraat. Along the way you can see all
kinds of farms with traditional Dutch farmhouses called
stolp. Here the houses, barns and sheds are all located
under one high, single roof in the shape of a pyramid.
Make sure to visit the Holysloter Die marina, owned
by the John family, which offers a famous bicycle ferry
to the other side in the direction of Broek in Waterland
(there are daily ferries between 09:00 - 17:00 in July and
August). Take the opportunity to stretch your legs at the
outdoor café or hire a rowboat, canoe or whisper boat.
The nearby restaurant Het Schoolhuis and John marina
provide information about various tourist destinations.
FEBO
Looking for something cheap, fast and a step above the
stuff you’d get at typical fast food joint? With more than
20 outlets in Amsterdam, FEBO is the undisputed king of
snacks in town. It’s also easy to spot as it still offers the
now legendary coin operated automated wall of food. We
recommend the unbeatable satekroket made with a substance which is hard to describe. You’ll just have to take
our word for it.QM-3, Buikslotermeerplein 54, tel. (+31)
204 94 21 20, www.febo.nl. Open 11:00 - 20:00, Sun
12:00 - 20:00. Also at M-2, Vuurwerkerweg 15. Open
10:30 - 20:00, Thu 10:30 - 21:00, Sun 11:30 - 20:00. S
PIETJE FRIETJE
In our opinion there’s nothing wrong with evening out
your cholesterol level after a long day of walking and
sightseeing. Pietje Frietje, an old-fashioned snackbar conveniently located in a grass field at the corner of Schaafstraat and the busy Meeuwenlaan, is a good place to start.
All of the usual fries, croquettes and other deep fried foods
can be enjoyed in the open air.QN-3, Meeuwenlaan. (€2
- 3). 6BS
Last, but not least, is the Volgermeer polder, which
functioned as Amsterdam’s city dump in the 20th century. Since 2003, the area is part of a massive clean-up
effort that will eventually result in a scenic park area. If
nothing else, make sure to visit the beautiful church here.
Noord’s latest boutique accommodation: the Brooklyn Hotel
amsterdam.inyourpocket.com
Noord is a unique combination of the old and the new
facebook.com/amsterdaminyourpocket
Summer 2014
39
Noord
Noord
THT
Although there are many reasons to visit this trendy
eatery, its fantastic patio overlooking the River IJ would
have to be at the top of the list. There’s nothing better
than enjoying a cold craft brew on this amazing terrace
on a hot and sunny day. That said, THT also serves small,
tasty international dishes which are meant to be shared
among friends. This interesting concept allows each diner to taste more than one dish.QN-2, Buiksloterweg 5c,
tel. (+31) 207 60 48 20, [email protected], www.tht.nl. Open
10:00 - 01:00. (€6 - 10). AB
Relax at a café by the water in Amsterdam Noord
INDONESIAN
PUSPITA
Virtually every Indonesian restaurant in Holland is stuffed
full of wooden carvings, ‘authentic’ wajang dolls and pictures of rice fields. Fortunately Puspita is one of the rare exceptions. On the other hand, the interior puts one in mind
of a bourgeois Dutch pub with old fashioned chairs and horrible lace curtains. As far as food goes, however, this small
restaurant gets top marks and the rice table is brilliant and
better than what passes for traditional Indonesian cuisine
in the centre of town. We recommend the bakso ikan fish
soup.QN-3, Purmerplein 5, tel. (+31) 206 36 82 15. Open
16:00 - 22:00. (€8 - 15). TLGS
INTERNATIONAL
DE IJ-KEUKEN
In the Third World it’s not unusual to have dinner at someone’s house for relatively little money. Although this is a
way for the people of those nations to make ends meet, in
Holland people do it because it’s trendy, yet practical and a
good way for locals to show off their love of food without
opening an expensive restaurant. One such Amsterdam
home chef is Tinda. In a pleasant terraced house in Noord
you can choose from Mediterranean, Far Eastern, North African or Dutch cuisine. It’s not particularly cheap, however,
as a four-course dinner will set you back about €45, but it’s
definitely something different.QN-2, Koperslagerij 51, tel.
(+31) 206 71 17 28, www.ij-keuken.nl. (€45). TLG
EYE BAR-RESTAURANT
This restaurant is located inside the impressive EYE film
institute. The terrace provides incredible views of the River
IJ and the wait staff are friendly and attentive, but the food
isn’t as impressive as the building in which this establishment is housed. The EYE Bar-Restaurant is in fact more of
a restaurant than a bar, although we’d feel more comfortable recommending it as a good place to have a beer or a
cocktail. In any case, even if you’re not planning to eat or
drink here, the modern building in the shape of an eye is
worth a visit.QN-2, IJpromenade 1, tel. (+31) 205 89 14
02, www.eyebarrestaurant.nl. Open 10:00 - 01:00, Fri,
Sat 10:30 - 23:30. (€10 - 15). PTAULBXW
40Amsterdam In Your Pocket
VERONICASCHIP
As the name would suggest, this restaurant, café and live
music venue is hidden aboard a ship named Veronica,
which is conveniently moored at the NDSM-Pier. You can
stop by for a cup of coffee, a beer and some snacks or a
proper lunch. The chefs specialise in Dutch and international cuisine, but you can also just enjoy a sunset over the
River IJ with a glass of wine or Champagne. The vessel is
also available for weddings and special events. Although
we enjoyed the classic uitsmijter, the Japanese yakitori
also looked tempting. QM-2, NDSM-Pier 1, tel. (+31)
203 70 71 42, [email protected], www.
veronicazendschip.nl. Open 12:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon,
Tue, Wed, Thu. B
NEPALESE
MT. EVEREST
The Nepalese are among the most hospitable people
in Asia and this holds true for the staff of this genuine
Nepalese restaurant. Anyone who’s ever visited the Himalayas will realise that only a handful of the spicy dishes
on the are suitable for the western palates. Try delicious
thalis and curries or the kukhura ko masu (with chicken
bones) and wash it down with a refreshing Gurkha, the
dark beer enjoyed by some of the world’s best trained
soldiers. The décor of Mt. Everest is typically Nepalese
and the room is decorated with hundreds of colourful
prayer flags, pictures of the highest mountain in the
world and loads of burning candles.QN-2, Spreeuwenpark 3, tel. (+31) 206 32 60 55, www.mteverest.nl.
Open 15:00 - 22:30. TLGS
PANCAKES
NIGHTLIFE
DE PANNEKOEKENBOOT
The Pancake Boat can’t be compared in any way to the
traditional tour boats that roam the busy Amsterdam canals. Even its route is completely different from those of its
competitors. This floating double-decker doesn’t follow the
usual ring of canals, but takes you past all of the architectural masterpieces of Amsterdam North instead. But most of
the people on board probably couldn’t care less where the
boat’s headed as their focus is on the enormous servings of
pancakes on offer. The main draw of this floating food factory is the all-you-can-eat pancake meal. Bon voyage and
bon appétit!QM-2, Ms. van Riemsdijkweg, tel. (+31) 206
36 88 17, www.pannenkoekenboot.nl. Tours begin at
13:30, 16:30 and 18:00 and cost as low as €10 depending
on the tour. Closed Mon, Tue. TALGB
Nothing can beat central Amsterdam for nightlife, but if
you’re looking for a laid back local pub devoid of tourists,
Noord might be the place for you.
SEAFOOD
STORK
Classic dishes like oysters, swordfish, sea bass, lobster and
all kinds of other delicacies from the aquatic world are
given a new dimension here and the industrial furnishings
add to its potential. The lighting from the large windows
is beautiful and almost artistic and the massive outdoor
terrace is super trendy. Unfortunately, at times the waiters seem to get lost in this enormous space, which may
mean that your delicious oven-baked dish might have to
be sent back to the open-plan kitchen for a re-heat.QN-3,
Gedempt Hamerkanaal t/o 96, tel. (+31) 206 34 40 00,
www.restaurantstork.nl. Open 11:00 - 22:30. Closed
Mon. (€19 - 23). TA6LGBXW
STEAKS
LOETJE AAN HET IJ
Located in the heart of a brand new yacht marina, this futuristic building has been transformed into an elegant eatery
by a popular chain of Dutch steakhouses. A giant terrace on
a wooden platform offers views of the river and an excellent
place to tuck into a juicy sirloin or t-bone.QM-1, Werfkade
14, loetjeaantij.loetje.com. PALBXW
TURKISH
ORGANIC
BITE ME
Located in the trendy, arty Tolhuis Tuin, this concept café
is all about fresh, seasonal, preferably organic produce. But
that’s not all. Its inventive staff, none of whom are professional chefs, shun convention and the shackles of traditional recipes by creating unique combinations of ingredients that most cooks wouldn’t consider mixing together.
Drop by its buffet during the day or try one of its takeaway
picnic lunches, which can be enjoyed at the tables outside
or anywhere you choose. Catering for parties and events
is also available.QN-2, Tolhuisweg 2, tel. (+31) 634 01 55
69, www.biteme.co.nl. BS
amsterdam.inyourpocket.com
ELMAS
There are exactly 110 dishes listed on the menu at Elmas,
a modern Turkish restaurant in a multicultural neighbourhood that offers the best cuisine the Anatolian peninsula
has to offer. Luckily the menu’s neatly ordered, so it’s easy
to find your favourites among the many options. The only
typically Turkish elements found here are the large number of plates depicting well-known towns east of the Bosporus, which adorn the walls. Elmas is also a good option
for the daily all-you-can-eat buffet for €6.50 is available till
noon.QN-2, Spreeuwenpark 1, tel. (+31) 206 36 33 29,
www.restaurantelmas.nl. Open 09:00 - 01:00, Fri, Sat
09:00 - 03:00. (€9 - 15). TALBXS
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CAFE KOFFIEHUIS BLOKKER
Despite the fact that its name means ‘coffee house’, its
popularity has nothing to do with a good cup of Joe. This
pub is a meeting place for guys from the neighbourhood
who enjoy a game of cards, a spin at the slot machine and
a chat about the latest news from the area over a few pints.
Friendly folks and a pleasant atmosphere are the hallmarks
of this place, but you probably shouldn’t disturb the card
players in the heat of a game. The terrace provides a view
of the Mosveld Square outside, which sounds more picturesque than it actually is.QN-2, Mosveld 49, tel. (+31) 206
36 97 39. GBX
CAFE ‘T EITJE
If there were prize for the ugliest bar exterior, Cafe ‘t Eitje
would be a strong contender. That’s also the reason why
you’ll be so astonished by the classic interior, which features three dart boards and a pool table. In fact, a local
dart club plays its matches at this friendly establishment
and despite the unattractive location it can get quite busy
here. Cafe ‘t Eitje literally translates as ‘Cafe the Egg’ and
it’s located right next to Cafetaria de Kip, which means
‘Cafeteria the Chicken’. For a moment we wondered which
of the two came first, but we decided to leave this age-old
question alone.QN-3, Motorwal 280, tel. (+31) 206 34 17
38, www.cafeteitje.nl. G
CAFE VAN BELLE
Like most other bars in the neighbourhood, the clientele of Cafe Van Belle consists of regulars who seem to
know each other very well. Outsiders are not particularly
welcome and as a result you’ll need to know something
about Dutch billiards to impress the locals here. The interior of the bar is pleasant enough and features a large
wooden counter, not to mention quite a few photographs of Laurel and Hardy. The TV is usually tuned in
to a sports channel in case the regulars don’t feel like
fraternising with you, the enemy.QM-2, Mosplein 26,
tel. (+31) 206 36 16 75. G
Sailing vessels at Oranjesluizen
Summer 2014
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Noord
Noord
SIGHTSEEING
PARKS & GARDENS
Fancy a day spent picnicking in a park or wandering around
a sculpture garden? Curious why Amsterdam Noord has
only one official museum? Read on.
NOORDERPARK
For decades the heart of Amsterdam North was a messy
combination of two parks (the Florapark and Volewijkspark),
a canal and a busy through road. The two parks were harmoniously merged to create a green oasis nearly the size of
the Vondelpark in the Museum district (45 hectares). The
landscape of trees and fields is perfect for picnics.QM-2/3,
Wingerdweg, www.noorderpark.amsterdam.nl.
BUILDINGS & ARCHITECTURE
EL MOUSSHINE MOSQUE
Just a short walk from the IJ-plein ferry landing you’ll find
this stunning blue-green Moroccan mosque designed by
architect Gerard Rijnsdorp in 2005. Although not open to
the general public it’s still worth a look from the outside.
Further down the street on a lawn on the right is a colourful work of art by Alfred Eikelenboom (1987) entitled De
Muur.QN-2, Meeuwenlaan.
HET KRAANSPOOR
It’s usually standard practice to construct buildings vertically, but in Amsterdam-Noord the world of architecture
has been turned upside down. With Het Kraanspoor architect Trude Hooykaas designed the largest, and possibly the most beautiful block of flats in the Netherlands.
The narrow track of land where shipbuilding cranes once
swayed back and forth has been transformed into a giant
transparent building. The 270m-long horizontal structure
is an impressive mixture of the old NDSM shipyard and a
modern glass structure suspended above concrete pillars
forgotten by time.QM-2, Kraanspoor.
THE GREEN DRAGON (DE GROENE DRAECK)
The old dutch name ‘De Groene Draeck’ (The Green
Dragon) is derived from the historic flat-bottomed yacht
used by the Dutch royal family. It’s located on the premises of the former shipyard owned by a famous family of
shipbuilders where the first polyester yachts in the Netherlands were designed and constructed. Today, the building is home to a variety of young and dynamic companies.
QM-2, Grasweg.
TROMMELWONINGEN
Twiske West is part of a new development that consists
of 12 circular residential buildings. Each so-called ‘drum’
contains seven dwellings surrounding an open central
courtyard. All of the homes occupy three floors and have
a garden. Because each of the three storeys is comprised
of one seventh of a circle, each apartment has abundant
sunlight and a panoramic view of almost 160 degrees.QL2, Schelvisch Hoofd.
WOODEN HOUSES
Bundled together in little photogenic streets alongside
picturesque dikes like the Buiksloterdijk, Schellingwouderdijk and the beautiful Nieuwendammerdijk, all of
Noord’s 160 classic wooden homes are easily accessible
by bike. Most of these forgotten testaments to an Amsterdam nearly lost were built in the 17th and 19th centuries,
the two eras in which the dikes flourished.QM-3, Nieuwendammerdijk.
42Amsterdam In Your Pocket
The charming village of Zunderdorp and its famous church
CHURCHES
KERK ZUNDERDORP
If someone ever organises a competition for the Most
Beautiful Church in the Netherlands, this white-brown
building will be a strong contender if not for its architectural splendour, then at least for its idyllic location. This
place is remarkably quiet, although the bleating sheep
and clucking chickens nearby create a very Dutch atmosphere. But a plaque commemorating World War II victims
and the bricked up windows hint that this place hasn’t always been so peaceful. If you’d like to enjoy this beautiful
spot permanently, it’s possible to reserve a space under
the poplars and chestnut trees in the cemetery. Services
are held every Sunday morning at 10:00.QM-4, Achterlaan 20, Zunderdorp, www.kerkzunderdorp.nl/.
SCHELLINGWOUDERKERK
Due to limited space in the wetlands surrounding Amsterdam, buildings are usually built on top of the remains of a
former structure and the Schellingwouderkerk is no exception. Like many other 19th-century churches, it’s built on
a mound at the bottom of an embankment. The church’s
interior boasts a blue-green wooden ceiling and white plasterwork.QN-4, Wijkergouw 6, Schellingwoude.
MUSEUMS
AMSTERDAM NORTH MUSEUM (MUSEUM DE
NOORD)
There are over 40 museums in Amsterdam, yet there’s only
one in Noord. Even though the history of Amsterdam North
stretches back much further than that of the settlement on
the other side of the River IJ, Amsterdam’s largest district
didn’t get its own museum until 2009. Located in the former
public baths of the Vogeldorp, one of the characteristic garden cities of Noord, the museum tells the interesting story
of this part of the capital. The museum also offers plenty of
maps for guided or independent walking and cycling tours
that will help you explore the attractions of North and its
surrounding wetlands. An exhibition on a changing part of
the history of Amsterdam North is held every three months.
QN-3, Zamenhofstraat 28a, tel. (+31) 630 97 56 02, www.
museumamsterdamnoord.nl. Open 13:00 - 17:00. Closed
Mon. Admission: €4. TLNG
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TOLHUISTUIN
This lovely garden used to be reserved for employees of
the petroleum giant Shell until it was returned to the city a
few years ago. Now the Tolhuistuin has become a cultural
centre in Amsterdam Noord, where you can enjoy food
and drinks, watch and artistic performance or just chill out
on the lawn.QN-2, Tolhuisweg 5, tel. (+31) 207 63 06 50,
www.tolhuistuin.nl.
PLACES OF INTEREST
DURGERDAM
Durgerdam is a tiny hamlet on the shores of the IJsselmeer,
where you can view some traditional wooden houses, a
Protestant church dating from 1687 and a landscape of wetlands and polders. Another attraction is Durgerdam’s marina, where you can gaze at luxurious yachts and envy the
people entering the private sailing club.QN-5, Durgerdam.
EYE FILM INSTITUTE
EYE is the only institute in the Netherlands that collects and
displays film-related ephemera like photographs, posters,
soundtracks, equipment and directors’ archives. It’s collection spans the entire length of film history from silent
films to the newest digital productions. Called the ‘heart
of film’, the huge white spaces covering over 1200m2 provide numerous interactive and educational film projects,
while four theatres – each different in size and theme –
bring you the latest art-house films and old classics. Many
people take the free ferry here for the gorgeous view from
its café and outdoor terraces.QN-2, IJpromenade 1, tel.
(+31) 205 89 14 00, www.eyefilm.nl. Open 09:00 - 22:00,
Sat, Sun 10:00 - 22:15. TJAULGBKXW
MARITIME QUARTER
What do boats like the Pollux, a magnificent steel threemasted schooner, the Amstel Botel, a former riverboat
cruise ship that was transformed into a 3-star hotel, and
the Sirius, a famous Greenpeace ship, have in common?
Nothing, despite the fact that they’re all moored adjacent
to the NDSM shipyard in the Maritime Quarter, a striking
collection of ships and buildings situated around a long
jetty. Other impressive vessels include the red Irish lightship Finley that attracts cultural party-goers from around
the city, the old Russian submarine and the wooden Mahu
M880 minesweeper. Right next to the ferry is the platform
for De Pannenkoekenboot where you can enjoy a cruise
and an all-you-can-eat pancake buffet.QN-4, NDSM-Pier.
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NAUTICADAM YACHT CLUB
If you’re sailing to Amsterdam Noord on a yacht and you’re
looking for a place to dock, then sail straight to this marina where you can even have your vessel repaired after
a rough journey on the sea. Unfortunate souls who don’t
own a ship can also stroll around Nauticadam and admire the luxurious yachts in the harbour. Some people
are usually at work on the small marine wharf as well.
The Sail Café is located in the back and offers refreshing
drinks and a pleasant piece of lawn to lie down on.QN-3,
Nieuwendammerdijk 284, tel. (+31) 206 32 06 16. Open
14:00 - 22:00. 6LGBKX
NDSM-WERF (NDSM SHIPYARD)
An excursion just west of the NDSM shipyard is a must
for anyone with a taste for modern architecture. For 60
years a massive shipping industry called the NDSM-shipyard wharf home. Countless vessels left these legendary
wharves, a part of the Dutch seafaring tradition that had
lasted for centuries and made Amsterdam one of the
planet’s economic powerhouses. But nothing lasts forever
and the shipping industry suffered greatly during the economic recession of the 1970s, which had a profound effect
on Amsterdam-Noord and its residents. In 1984, the shipyard finally closed its doors, but the misery caused by unemployment and the loss of a proud livelihood sowed the
seeds of today’s rebirth. The shipyard has been converted
into a cultural venue that has become one of Amsterdam’s
hottest entertainment centres. Concerts, festivals and theatre are held amid a landscape of monumental industrial
buildings.QM-2, NDSM-werf.
STATUES & MONUMENTS
THE BUTTON (DE KNOOP)
The Button is one of the most celebrated works by deceased artist André Volten (2002). Inspired by the industrial environment of Noord, the ex-welder specialised in
creating large brass and stainless steel objects. Whenever
he had the time he would experiment with materials he
found in the former shipyard. Although this steel giant
seems to be a simple piece of art, a closer look will reveal a
work full of depth.QM-2, Grasweg.
Visit the tiny church at Schellingwoude
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Noord
SHOPPING
BEEKHOVEN BIKES
This huge bike shop has been selling all manner of bicycles
and accessories for over 25 years. It also specialises in racing and electric bikes.QM-2, Draaierweg 16, tel. (+31)
206 31 71 20, www.beekhovenbikes.nl. Open 09:00 18:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. A
BLOM&BLOM
The two Blom brothers, Kamiel and Martijn, have a passion
for old industrial relics that most people see as junk. They
restore or repurpose these forgotten artefacts and create
incredibly stylish lighting fixtures and furniture, which you
can buy at their showroom in Amsterdam Noord.QM-2,
Chrysantenstraat 20A, tel. (+31) 207 37 26 91, hello@
blomandblom.com, blomandblom.com. Open 10:00 18:00. Closed Mon, Sun.
KASTINO MOLENWIJK
Kastino offers a huge selection of cheeses including organic brands by local producers.QL-2, Molenwijk 29, tel.
(+31) 206 33 01 09, www.kastino.nl. Open 08:30 - 18:00,
Sat 08:00 - 17:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. A
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Noord
KERAMIEK ATELIER MARJOKE DE HEER
If you’re interested in ceramics you can watch the artist at
work here or have a look at the gallery of finished products. The gallery is open on weekends or by appointment.
QN-4, Schellingwouderdijk 243, tel. (+31) 204 90 49 39,
www.marjokedeheer.com. Open Fri 13:00 - 18:00, Sat,
Sun 11:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu. A
LANDMARKT AMSTERDAM
Local organic farmers and horticulturists sell their produce to Landmarkt. This spacious indoor hall is heaven
on earth for foodies and anyone who appreciates fresh
food, but unlike similar organic markets the bread, meat,
fish, vegetables and other daily necessities are hardly more
expensive than the stuff you’ll get at a regular shop. QN4, Schellingwouderdijk 339, www.landmarkt.nl. Open
08:00 - 20:00, Sun 12:00 - 18:00. TAULG
NEEF LOUIS
Find vintage furniture, designer chairs and lots of industrial
lamps in this enormous warehouse. Although you can find
some real gemse, don’t expect to find any bargains.QM-2,
Papaverweg 46, tel. (+31) 204 86 93 54, www.neeflouis.
nl. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun.
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SPORTS & LEISURE
NOORD FOR KIDS
9 GHOLES VOETGOLF AMSTERDAM
Leave it to the Dutch to come up with a new way to utilise
farmland. 9 Gholes is essentially a 9-hole golf course just
outside of Zunderdorp, but for football enthusiasts. Instead
of a club and a small ball, participants kick footballs from
one hole to the next while trying to avoid obstacles along
the way. You can also order lunch, snacks and drinks as part
of the experience.QM-4, Broekergouw 2, tel. (+31) 619 23
43 03/(+31) 628 97 44 38, www.9gholes.nl. Open 13:00 22:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon, Tue.
ÁMSTERDAM MARINA
This beautiful harbour, which opened in 2013, offers slips
for 350 sailing vessels. As long as your home on the water is
between 7 and 30 metres long you can drop anchor at this
historic harbour where huge ships have been built for centuries. Extras like free internet and a good steakhouse on
the premises are a couple more reasons to choose Ámsterdam Marina as your home away from home.QM-1, Werfkade 4, tel. (+31) 206 31 07 67, www.amsterdammarina.
com. Open 08:00 - 20:00. JALKW
PIRATES TOUR
Children can also be adventurous and search this wetlands
area for real treasure. Up to five children and one adult can
take a rowboat and look for clues until they find the pot
of gold. QKanaaldijk 32a, Landsmeer, tel. (+31) 880 06
44 55, www.landschapnoordholland.nl/Piratentocht.
Open 10.00 - 17.00. Closed Mon. (€20/boat for 2 hours).
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Charming houses on the Buiksloterdijk
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