Welcome to Amsterdam Zuid — full of peaceful, tree-lined streets and stately mansions Amsterdam Zuid (South) offers charming cosmopolitan and plenty of cultural experiences.

Take one look at the green canopies, elegant streets, and stately mansions, and it’s evident that Oud-Zuid was built for those with money. So it’s no surprise that this neighborhood is famous for its shopping opportunities and the pinnacle of opulence For a grand entrance, make your way – on bike or foot – through the Rijksmuseum tunnel. If this feels reminiscent of your entry via Central Station, you’ve been paying attention – both landmarks were created by Dutch architect Pierre Cuypers. The walkway of this thoroughfare, adored by locals and tourists alike, is often a stage for street performers whose tunes are boosted by natural acoustics. As is the ever-present sound of bells that ricochets off vaulted ceilings as cyclists whizz by.

amsterdam-city-guide-zuid-©-lily-heaton-8.jpg

Curious for more? Read all my Amsterdam City Guide posts or browse my Amsterdam Zuid City Guide Map to explore further on your own.

I love to hear about new locations. Have a great addition or want to be featured? Let me know in the comments below or get in touch.

DISCOVER THE BEST OF AMSTERDAM ZUID

De Pijp Explore Amsterdam’s Latin Quarter, a neighborhood made of tightly wound streets that are home to spirited, creative residents. Here you’ll find a concentration of art, culture, and unique shops. Don’t miss the famed Albert Cuypmarket bustling with flavors, the city’s largest street market stretches across the heart of De Pijp. Wander through to pick up fresh tulips, assorted nibbles, and souvenirs. Try fresh stroopwafels (Dutch caramel waffle cookies) made by hand and served warm. On sunny days, do like the locals—pick up nibbles at the market and enjoy a picnic in nearby Sarphatipark.

Museumplein Amsterdam’s art epicenter is home to distinctive three museums: Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk, Moco and Van Gogh Museum (my favorite!). The expansive grassy area in between is the perfect spot to chill. If classical music is your thing, enjoy a live performance at the historic Concertgebouw, home to classical performances since 1881. Bonus: the orchestra offers free lunchtime rehearsal concerts on Wednesdays! Pro tip: check out Van Gogh’s colorful work on a Friday night when the museum is open late with cocktails and live music.

Vondelpark The city’s most famous green space was formerly a private garden for the wealthy whose opulent estates line the perimeter. It’s worth a visit any time of year, wander, and people-watch swarms of cyclists, roller-skaters, and even equestrians ride by, or pick up snacks nearby and settle in for a picnic with friends.

WHERE TO EAT IN AMSTERDAM ZUID

Dignita Stop by for breakfast, bunch or lunch, including savory bites and fluffy pancakes, this mindful café serves coffee and seasonally inspired dishes paired with a social initiative. Dine at one of two cozy locations in Zuid (near Vondelpark) and a garden oasis behind the Hermitage Museum in Oost.

ZuiderMRKT On Saturday mornings, local vendors set up shop in a quaint square, at just a few streets down from Museumplein. Sample a smorgasbord of tasty bites at this neighborhood market filled with farm-to-table produce and freshly baked goods.

Cavateria: Holy Spanish Food As the name suggests, cava and sangria flow in abundance. Munch sinfully delicious tapas with a modern twist, including piping hot garlic shrimp, spicy patatas bravas, and crispy chorizo croquettes.

Sopa Sora Ramen Tuck in for a bowl of warm, hearty ramen and assorted izakaya dishes made from authentic recipes. Originally from Sapporo (as the name indicates), Chef Fujita spoons out hearty broth with a generous serving of meat, seafood, or extra veggies for those who crave it.

De Japanner An Izakaya-style bar and restaurant with an Amsterdam twist, featuring cocktails and small dishes. It’s a great spot to begin your night out in De Pijp with a shot of Japanese whiskey.

WHERE TO DRINK IN AMSTERDAM ZUID

Labyrinth Bar Art, music, and a taste of the tropics mix at this bar nestled along the south side of Vondelpark. Share a plate of Afro-Caribbean soul food with friends—from jerk chicken to fried cassava, samosas, and more. Quench your thirst for new flavors with bespoke cocktails crafted by creative mixologists. Bonus: They host weekly open-mic nights and spoken-word poetry events.

Café Schinkelhaven: Drink with the locals at this neighborhood favorite, bite into a burger, or sip a local brew on the terrace with a view of the bustling corner as bicycles zip in and out of Vondelpark. The menu offers lunch, dinner and a wide assortment of beers, with new flavors every Friday.

Café Wildschut Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, this long-standing, grand café on the Roelof Hartplein features a charming 1920s interior. Large windows open up to a roomy, rounded terrace – the perfect spot to enjoy a Dutch crispy kroket and cocktail after exploring Museumplein nearby.

Brouwerij Troost Juicy burgers, noteworthy beers, and satisfying bar snacks are abundant at Brouwerij Troost, and all can be sampled at their tasting room in De Pijp (one of three locations in the city). From ale to weizen, craft beers, spirits, and sodas are made in-house at their spot in the Westergasfabriek.

amsterdam-city-guide-zuid-©-lily-heaton-9.jpg

WHERE TO SHOP IN AMSTERDAM ZUID

Museum District Stylish, high-end boutiques with everything from apparel to beauty salons, art, design, wine, and more can be found around Museumplein, along the chic Van Baerlestraat, Willemsparkweg, and Beethovenstraat.

P.C. Hooftstraat Glitz and glamor unfold along this famed shopping street frequented by trendsetters, fashionistas, design lovers, and celebrities. Catering to affluent clientele who find delight in brands like Louis Vuitton, Hermés, Dior, Chanel, and the whole luxurious lot.

&Klevering Artistic, contemporary products for the kitchen, home, and family fill the vibrant interior of this colorful boutique. Frequented by locals for its funky, inspiring designs from Dutch and international brands, this shop has multiple locations in and out of Amsterdam, including one in Oud-Zuid near the Willemsparkweg.

Studio Jux Focused on creating a positive impact in fashion, this local clothing brand takes sustainability seriously using eco-friendly materials and ethical production in Nepal. This conscious lifestyle brand expanded into a concept shop in De Pijp, selling brands with a similar philosophy alongside their own label.

Indianaweg This vintage boutique is a treasure trove of colorful boho chic dresses, silky kimonos, accessories, jewelry, and organic home goods. Plus, another location in Amsterdam West.

EXPLORE MORE IN AMSTERDAM ZUID

Tramway Museum Learn more about the trams that have helped move locals and tourists around the city since 1900. Vintage trams still zig-zag across Amsterdam so step back in time and take a seat on varnished teak. Hitch a ride beginning at the historic Haarlemmermeer station, tours run every Sunday, from April through October.

Amsterdamse Bos This forest on the outskirts of Amsterdam is a recreational area offering an escape from the busy city. There are all types of outdoor fun, including a treetop obstacle course and even a petting zoo. Lucky springtime visitors may catch a pastel petal explosion during the two-week Japanese Sakura Cherry Blossom Festival, when the cherry trees bloom from late March to early April. Japanese food, drinks, and culture.

My Amsterdam Guides are always evolving alongside the city itself.
Have something to share or want to be featured? Leave a comment or get in touch.