Jordaan Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Amsterdam's Jordaan district with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food, and more.


Introduction to Jordaan

Jordaan is a historic district in Amsterdam that dates back to the 17th century. It was once a working-class neighborhood, but it has since been transformed into a trendy part of the city. The district is known for its picturesque canals, narrow streets, and beautiful buildings.

List of Places to Visit in Jordaan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Anne Frank House: This museum is dedicated to the life of Anne Frank, a Jewish girl who went into hiding during World War II.
  • Van Gogh Museum: This museum houses the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings and drawings in the world.
  • Westertoren: This tower was once the tallest building in Amsterdam and provides stunning views of the city.

Natural Attractions of Jordaan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Westergasfabriek: This former gas plant has been transformed into a park and cultural center.
  • Brouwersgracht: This canal is one of the most picturesque in Amsterdam.
  • Noordermarkt: This market is held on Saturdays and offers a variety of fresh produce, flowers, and other local products.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jordaan

  • Jordaan Walk: This self-guided walking tour takes visitors through the historic district, highlighting the best landmarks along the way.
  • Amsterdam Bike Tour: This guided bike tour takes visitors through the city, including the Jordaan district, and provides a unique perspective on Amsterdam’s architecture and history.

Best Things to Do in Jordaan: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Tour: A boat tour of Amsterdam’s canals is a must-do activity. Jordaan is no exception, and a canal tour allows visitors to see the district from a different perspective.
  • Tulip Fields Tour: During the spring season, visitors can take a tour of the tulip fields near Amsterdam, which are famous for their vibrant colors.
  • Food Tour: A food tour of the Jordaan district is a great way to try local specialties and learn more about Dutch cuisine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jordaan

Day Activity
Day 1 Anne Frank House, Westerkerk, Noordermarkt
Day 2 Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, Vondelpark
Day 3 Jordaan Walk, Westergasfabriek, Lindenmarkt
Day 4 Canal boat tour, Red Light District, NEMO Science Museum
Day 5 Brewery tour, Brouwersgracht, De Pijp neighborhood
Day 6 Tulip fields tour, Keukenhof Gardens, Flower Market
Day 7 Food tour, Albert Cuypstraat market, Jordaan neighborhood

Food and Drink Scene of Jordaan

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stamppot: A traditional Dutch winter dish made from mashed potatoes and vegetables.
  • Poffertjes: Small, fluffy pancakes served with butter and powdered sugar.
  • Herring: A popular local snack that’s usually served raw with onions.

Local Beverages

  • Heineken: The famous Dutch beer is available throughout the city.
  • Jenever: A traditional Dutch alcoholic beverage similar to gin.
  • Koffie verkeerd: A popular coffee drink in the Netherlands, made with steamed milk and espresso.

Where to Stay in Jordaan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Toren: This boutique hotel is located in the heart of Jordaan and offers luxurious accommodations.
  • The Flying Pig Uptown Hostel: A popular hostel with a lively atmosphere and affordable rates.
  • Bed and Breakfast WestViolet: This guesthouse offers cozy rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.

What to Buy in Jordaan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Delft Blue Pottery: This distinctive blue pottery is a Dutch specialty.
  • Cheese: The Netherlands is famous for its cheese, and visitors can find a variety of local cheeses in the markets and shops in Jordaan.
  • Stroopwafels: A sweet waffle cookie filled with caramel-like syrup, stroopwafels are a Dutch treat that make a great souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Jordaan

  • Bicycles: Amsterdam is a bike-friendly city, and locals use bikes as their primary mode of transportation. Visitors should be aware of the rules of the road and watch out for cyclists.
  • Tipping: Tipping in restaurants and bars is not mandatory in the Netherlands, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is appreciated.
  • Language: Dutch is the official language of the Netherlands, but most locals speak English fluently.

Best Time to Visit Jordaan

The best time to visit Jordaan is in the spring or summer, when the weather is mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. The tulip fields are in full bloom in April and May, and the canals are bustling with activity throughout the summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jordaan

Do:

  • Do rent a bike and explore the city like a local.
  • Do try traditional Dutch dishes like stamppot and herring.
  • Do visit the local markets, like Noordermarkt and Albert Cuypstraat.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter. The Netherlands has strict laws regarding littering, and visitors can be fined for improper disposal of trash.
  • Don’t take photos of the locals without asking permission first.
  • Don’t use drugs in public places. Though drugs are tolerated in certain areas of Amsterdam, using them in public can result in fines or arrest.

Safety and Health

Safety in Jordaan

Jordaan is a relatively safe area, but visitors should still take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Pickpocketing can be a problem, especially in crowded areas like the markets and public transportation hubs.

Health in Jordaan

The Netherlands has a high standard of healthcare, and visitors can expect quality medical care if needed. However, visitors should make sure they have adequate health insurance coverage while traveling.

Getting to Jordaan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Jordaan

The closest airport to Jordaan is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. It’s located about 20-30 minutes away by public transportation or taxi.

Bus Stations Near Jordaan

Amsterdam’s central bus station is located just outside of the Jordaan district. Buses are a convenient way to travel around the city and to nearby destinations.

Other Options

Amsterdam is an easy city to navigate on foot or by bike, but public transportation is also available. Trams and buses run throughout the city, and the Metro provides easy access to other parts of Amsterdam.

How to Get Around in Jordaan

Walking and biking are the best ways to get around the Jordaan district. There are several bike rental shops in the area, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Where to Go Next from Jordaan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Zaanse Schans: A historic village famous for its windmills and traditional Dutch architecture.
  • Haarlem: A picturesque city located just outside of Amsterdam, with stunning architecture and a thriving food scene.
  • Utrecht: This charming city is home to beautiful canals and historic buildings, and is located about an hour away from Amsterdam by train.

Conclusion

Jordaan is a historic and vibrant district that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or outdoor adventures, you’re sure to find something to love in Jordaan.

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