Before our trip, we hadn’t heard much about Amsterdam Noord, but we were curious to see what this up‑and‑coming neighbourhood was really like. Crossing the IJ felt like stepping into a completely different side of the city — creative, spacious, and full of surprises.
We’re so glad we made the time to explore it, because there’s so much to see, eat, and experience. Here are our top picks for the best things to do in Amsterdam Noord.
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our goal is to provide valuable and helpful content, and any commissions help us to mantain this site.
Where is Amsterdam Noord?
Amsterdam Noord sits directly across the IJ River, just north of Amsterdam Centraal Station. Although it feels like a separate world with its creative districts, quiet villages and waterfront views, it’s actually one of the easiest areas to reach in the entire city.
What ‘Noord’ Actually Means
‘Noord’ simply means North, and that’s exactly where the neighbourhood is located — the northern part of Amsterdam, separated from the historic centre by the IJ.
How to Get To Amsterdam Noord
The easiest way to reach Amsterdam Noord is by hopping on the free GVB ferries that run from the back of Amsterdam Centraal Station. They’re fast, frequent, and operate day and night.
Take the Free Ferry from Centraal
Just walk to the IJ-side (the waterfront side) of Amsterdam Centraal and follow the signs for “Ferries / Pont”. Several routes leave from here, but the two most useful for visitors are:
F3 to NDSM Wharf — About 14 minutes, perfect for visiting the street‑art district and STRAAT Museum.
F1 to Buiksloterweg — Just 2–3 minutes, ideal for A’DAM Lookout, Eye Film Museum, and Tolhuistuin.
Explore the NDSM District
The NDSM district is a must-see if you enjoy the industrial and alternative mood of Amsterdam. NDSM is one of the most vibrant and creative areas in Amsterdam Noord, a former shipyard now transformed into a colourful maze of murals, graffiti, artist studios and industrial architecture.
You can wander for hours discovering new artwork, quirky cafés and hidden corners, all while soaking up the edgy, urban atmosphere that makes this neighbourhood so unique. It’s completely free to explore and one of the most photogenic spots in the city.
Keep in mind that the area is much livelier in the warmer months, when the artists are out working and there’s more happening around the studios. In winter, things slow down and there isn’t as much to see, so the area can feel a little quieter and less ‘buzzing’ during this time.
📍 Location
NDSM‑plein 28, 1033 WB Amsterdam.
NDSM is located on the northern waterfront of Amsterdam Noord, directly across the IJ River from Amsterdam Centraal Station. You can reach it easily by taking the free F3 ferry from the back of Centraal, which drops you right at NDSM Wharf in about 14 minutes.
Wander the Straat Museum
Straat Museum provides an immersive look at large‑scale street art inside a massive industrial hall. The museum showcases huge murals created by international artists, many painted directly on site, giving the whole space the feel of an outdoor city brought indoors. It’s bold, colourful and unlike any other museum in Amsterdam, making it a must‑visit for art lovers and anyone who appreciates creative spaces.
The collection is ever changing, inspiring, thought provoking and unique. With thoughtful descriptions of each piece and a few video explanations (along with guide via QR code) this is an engaging contemporary “museum” experience. You can even buy spray paint at the gift store and create your own work of art on the building exterior!
📍 Location & Cost
NDSM‑plein 1, 1033 WC Amsterdam.
It’s located just a short walk from the F3 ferry landing
- Adults (18+): €21.50
- Students: €13.50 (valid ID/international student card required)
- Youth (13–18 years): €11.50
- Children (0–12 years): Free
- I Amsterdam Card: Free
Enjoy the View from A’DAM Lookout
Head to A’DAM Lookout for some of the best panoramic views in Amsterdam. From the top, you can see the historic canal belt, the IJ River and the modern skyline of Noord. The rooftop bar is a great place to relax, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try the “Over the Edge” swing, which sends you flying over the edge of the building. Even without the swing, the views alone are worth the visit.
On the way up, the high‑speed elevator has a light and sound show, which adds a fun little surprise before you even reach the top. Once you step out onto the viewing deck, you’ll find information boards along the parapet pointing out the landmarks and sharing bits of history — or, if that’s not your thing, you can simply soak up the views.
📍 Location & Cost
Overhoeksplein 5, 1031 KS Amsterdam, Netherlands
It’s right next to the Buiksloterweg ferry landing, making it one of the easiest attractions to reach in Amsterdam Noord.
- Adults (12+): €16.50
- Youth (4–12 years): €10.50
- Children (0–12 years): Free
- I Amsterdam Card: Free
Bike Along Niewendammerdijk
This is the best way to discover Noord’s charming village‑like neighbourhoods. Just a short ride from NDSM, these areas feel worlds away from the busy city centre, with wooden houses, quiet canals and small bridges. It’s a peaceful, scenic route that shows a completely different side of Amsterdam and makes for a perfect budget‑friendly mini adventure.
📍 Location
Nieuwendammerdijk, 1025 Amsterdam.
Visit the Eye Film Museum
📍 Location & Cost
IJpromenade 1, 1031 KT Amsterdam.
It’s right next to the Buiksloterweg ferry landing, making it one of the quickest and easiest spots to reach in Amsterdam Noord.
- Adults (18+): €16.00
- Students: €11.00
- Children (0-17): Free
- Museumkaart & I amsterdam City Card: Free
Browse IJ‑hallen Flea Market
if your trip lines up with its monthly dates, we highly recommend browsing the lJ-hallen Flea Market. As Europe’s largest flea market, it features hundreds of stalls selling vintage clothes, antiques, homewares, books and quirky treasures. It’s a paradise for bargain hunters and one of the best places in Amsterdam to find unique souvenirs. Arrive early for the best selection and bring cash for easier shopping.
📍 Location
T.T. Neveritaweg 15, 1033 WB Amsterdam, Netherlands
The market is located inside and outside the huge former shipyard halls at NDSM Wharf, just a short walk from the F3 ferry landing.
Relax at Pllek
A waterfront hangout built from colourful shipping containers, complete with a sandy urban beach out front. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with a drink, watch the sunset, or catch one of the live music or film nights. The vibe is laid‑back and creative, which is why both locals and travellers love it. And if you’re budget travellers like us, you don’t need to order a full meal — just grab a drink and enjoy the view.
📍 Location
T.T. Neveritaweg 59, 1033 WB Amsterdam.
It’s right on the waterfront at NDSM Wharf, just a short walk from the F3 ferry landing.
Well, there you have it — our favourite things to do in Amsterdam Noord. We hope this gives you plenty of inspiration for your own trip and helps you make the most of this creative, quirky part of the city. If you’re planning more adventures, be sure to check out our other Amsterdam guides for even more tips and ideas.
