Start Your Amsterdam Adventure in Nine Streets

​When traveling to Amsterdam for the first time, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. The “Dam on the River Amstel” is one of the prettiest European cities, with attractions spanning the remarkable Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. 

Find your feet in the Dutch capital with a wander around the picturesque Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) district. Located between the Prinsengracht and Singel canals, this petite area is inclusive of the following streets: 

• The Hartenstraat
• Wolvenstraat
• Huidenstraat
• Reestraat
• Runstraat
• Berenstraat
• Gasthuismolensteeg
• Oude Spiegelstraat 
• Wijde Heisteeg 

The district is known for its evocative scenery, atmospheric cafes, and high-end shopping. While there are fewer cultural institutions within the borders, several of Amsterdam’s major sights are right on the cusp. 

What to See and Do in Amerstam’s Nine Streets

The lure of Nine Streets is to stroll, sip coffee, and peruse unique apparel and concept stores such as Things I Like, Things I Love on Gasthuismolensteeg. However, you can visit the following tourist attractions in conjunction with your exploration. 

Anne Frank House – Overlooking the Prinsengracht Canal, the Anne Frank House Museum is located within the building where the Frank family hid for two years during World War II. The diary written by teenager Anne is on display alongside other items belonging to the Frank, Van Pels, and Fritz Pfeffer families. Visiting the museum is a sobering yet important experience

Museum of the Canals – The waterfront Grachtenmuseum walks you through the history of the waterways that have played such a vital role in Amsterdam’s city. Highly interactive, displays include a dollhouse recreation of the area while the audio tour is thoughtful and engaging.

Torensluis Bridge – Of all the beautiful bridges in Amsterdam, the Torensluis Brug is one of the most sublime. Named for the watch tower that once stood in this location, this mid-17th-century bridge is a joy for photography. Although, what you might not know is that those lovely arches are hiding a string of prison cells that once contained the city’s most notorious criminals!

Where to eat in Nine Streets

De Negen Straatjes is the perfect choice for a casual lunch in between sightseeing or a gourmet supper. These are the best places to eat in the neighborhood. 

Chocolaterie Pompadour (Huidenstraat) – This is the place in Amsterdam for chocolate! The counter of the patisserie is stocked with truffles, torte, poffertjes, and beyond. Opt to dine in at the tearoom and sample their hot chocolate. 

Vinkeles (Runstraat) – This Michelin-starred restaurant serves spellbinding French cuisine in a former 1700s bakery at the Dylan Hotel. Interior and courtyard seating covers you for all seasons and you’ll want to book the signature tasting menu with a wine pairing for the best experience. 

Restaurant Jansz (Reestraat) – Reserve a table at this canalside eatery on Reestraat with antique decor staffed with knowledgeable sommeliers to help you navigate the wine list. Modern European dishes typically include a fleet of sharable small plates, fish of the day, and steak frites dressed with housemade béarnaise sauce.

Cafe de Pels (Huidenstraat) – Open from early until late, this Nine Streets long-stay covers you for coffee, breakfast and light meals, and an evening beer. 

Where to stay in Nine Streets

Opt to stay in the Nine Streets district at one of Amsterdam’s most luxurious hotels. One for traveling foodies and bibliophiles, the Ambassade Hotel contains the Library Bar where signed books of writers who have stayed at the hotel are exhibited. Overlooking the Herengracht Canal, the brasserie is appointed with work from CoBrA artists. Contact me and we will find the perfect base for your Amsterdam vacation. 

Image by Michelle Raponi from Pixabay

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