Amsterdam has a reputation for crowds, but the city has many calm corners. If you want to find some Amsterdam secret spots, the trick is to go early, walk one street away from the main sights and pay attention to doorways and gates. Here are places worth seeking out.
Amsterdam secret spots: hidden courtyards
The Begijnhof
Tucked behind the Spui, the Begijnhof is a quiet courtyard surrounded by houses, built in the Middle Ages for a community of religious women called beguines. Number 34 is one of the oldest wooden houses in the city. It is a place where people live, so keep your voice low and follow the posted rules. The entrance is easy to miss, through a small passage near Spui.
Hofjes in the Jordaan
Small almshouse courtyards with gardens, such as the Sint Andrieshofje, hide behind plain doors. Some are open during certain hours. Be respectful, and do not enter if the gate is closed.
Quiet green spaces
- Hortus Botanicus: one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, with a greenhouse and a café. It is a calm place for an hour.
- Westerpark: a former gas works turned into a park with cafés and events.
- Sarphatipark: a small park in De Pijp, popular with locals for picnics.
- Amstelpark and the Amsterdamse Bos: larger green areas that are well suited to cycling or walking.
Water and boats
The free ferries
Ferries behind Centraal Station cross the IJ river to Amsterdam Noord, and they are free for foot passengers and cyclists. Take one for a view of the city skyline and the harbour. Check which routes are running on the day you go.
The Westelijke Eilanden
This group of small islands north of the centre has old warehouses and bridges. It is a lovely walk, and residents are used to a few visitors but not to crowds.
Small museums and curiosities
- Museum Vrolik and the Allard Pierson: museums linked to the university, with collections that surprise.
- Our Lord in the Attic (Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder): a hidden church built in the attic of a canal house during the time when Catholic worship was not allowed in public. It is one of the city’s most unusual museums.
- Electric Ladyland: a small museum of fluorescent art, if you like odd things.
- Houseboat Museum: a short visit to a real houseboat that shows how people live on the water.
Opening times for small museums can be short, so check online first.
Neighbourhoods off the main path
Amsterdam Noord
Across the water, this area has former industrial buildings turned into culture hubs, such as the NDSM Wharf. Here you will find street art, cafés and flea markets, especially on certain weekends.
Oost
East of the centre, areas such as Indische Buurt and the Dappermarkt are authentic and diverse. The Dappermarkt is a busy street market with food and goods.
De Pijp
Known for its Albert Cuyp Market, De Pijp has a young, international feel. Walk away from the market and you find quiet streets and small cafés.
Views without crowds
Climb the OBA library’s top floor café for a free city view, or take the lift at A’DAM Tower for a paid, higher view. The Westerkerk tower, when open, offers a lovely panorama. Early morning light on the canals is free and beautiful.
How to find your own secret spot
1. Go early, before 9 a.m.
2. Take side streets rather than main roads.
3. Look for open gates and courtyards, but respect closed ones.
4. Ask a café owner for a favourite nearby place.
5. Use a bike or walk to explore at your own pace.
Be a good guest
People live in the places you visit. Keep noise low, avoid taking pictures of private homes and do not block bike lanes. Tourists sometimes make a mess of quiet corners, and some are now closed to visitors as a result.
Timing makes the difference
The same place can feel completely different at 8 a.m. and at 2 p.m. If a courtyard or park looks busy, come back at a quieter hour, or visit on a rainy weekday when many people stay inside. Bring a small umbrella and a flexible plan. Many of the best Amsterdam secret spots are only secret because they are easy to walk past, so keep your eyes open as you go.
Amsterdam’s secret spots are not secret in a mysterious way. They are simply places that need a little time and attention. Slow down, look around and enjoy the quiet side of the city.
More like this: browse our Amsterdam section.
