Living in Amsterdam: An Expat's Journey

Neighborhood Strolls

Jordaan: Picturesque canals, charming streets, unique boutiques and local markets. The farmers market is open only on Saturday, while the clothing and fabrics market is open only on Monday morning.

De Pijp: Culinary delights from brunch spots that serve pancakes to the longstreet local market, Albert Cuypman (open everyday except Sunday)

Amsterdam Noord: Refreshing escape with its industrial-chic vibe. With a free ferry ride from Central Station to “NDSM” you can explore the avant-garde part of Amsterdam, filled with street art and galleries, waterfront bars and restaurants.

Amsterdam Oost area: Where the city's vibrant energy meets local charm. A dynamic neighborhood with cultural hubs, cafes and green areas. The most charming streets are located around the Oosterpark.

Insider tip: The best spots where you can catch the last rays of sun are in the Noord!

Must-do

Boat cruise: On Amsterdam’s canals will provide a unique perspective over the city. Not only a must-do as a tourist, but it’s the locals favorite activity during the sunny days.

Boat House Museum: A miniature floating museum that shows the living space of a traditional Dutch houseboat. They serve cake and tea that you can have on the houseboat.

Vintage hunting: Dutchies love vintage shops, whether it is about clothes, furniture or antique art. A relief for my inner child, since I grew up surrounded by voices considering second-hand stores as being for the poor only. My favorite vintage clothing stores are: J’adore Vintage, Kilo Store, Betty Jane and Marbles Vintage.

Insider tip: There are many vintage stores in Amsterdam. If you go on Haarlemmerstraat (5 minutes from the Central Station), you will see all of the names mentioned above on the same street.

Music and art performances

Mezrab: A local artistic center, where you can find open-mic nights, professional storytelling and a lot of music. The best part is that most of the events have free entrance.

Shelter: A fine underground club with electronic music: the best choice for the techno lovers. Only open on Friday and Saturday night.

Lab111: Cinema venue in the West of Amsterdam, which was formerly an anatomy lab. Here you can see films from the latest to classics. The pizza from their restaurant is a must try.

Insider tip: must-try and plan as much as possible, especially when it comes to local events or museum entrances. Not only to avoid line crews, but to make sure your spot is secured, as many events here are quickly sold out.

Breakfast/brunch

Moak: The healthiest version of pancakes, as it’s sugar-free and made with organic ingredients. They have a variety of options to choose from, but the one I loved the most was “Pink lady”, with salmon and avocado- Yummy! Check the location from De Pijp.

SAINT-JEAN Bakery: Fresh and tasty bakery with that hard-to-find pistachio croissant! Also, one of the best cappuccinos with coconut milk I’ve ever tried. The space inside is quite small, but they also have a cute bench outside in front of the canal. In short, it's that bakery where you go for the delicacies, and stay for the vibes.

Oakberry açaí: The place to be for the fitness enthusiasts, or simply lovers of açaí. You can customize your own bowl with a variety of topping options and the taste is heaven, just like in Brazil.

Lunch/ dinner

Foodhallen: With an easy-going approach, this international food hall has a concept of street food that offers a variety of cuisines under one roof. I tried different foods every time I went, such as dim sum, tacos or oysters. There is also a cinema and sometimes a vintage market in the same venue, which creates the ideal date scenario.

Delhi-cious: I am a fan of Indian and Central Asian cuisine, and I have tried quite a few places everywhere I have traveled. However, this new restaurant is in my top three recommendations in the entire world. The tastiest and freshest ingredients and the friendliest staff.

Margherita Tutta La Vita: I love Indian food as much as I love Italian, and here you can find the best price-quality ratio. With an intimate atmosphere and a unique brand story, the restaurant is popular among locals, making everyone feel at home.

Drinks

Gebrouwen door Vrouwen: The name translates as “Brewed by Women '' and means it’s local brewery led 100% by women (2 sisters from Amsterdam). Having their beer “Bloesem blonde” in a place I don’t remember, sparked my interest and led me to their origin location in the West, which ends up being a super cozy bar with a terrace and tasty snacks.

Zoku Amsterdam: Skybar and restaurant with rooftop garden and city views from the terrace. I found myself there during a live music night with local artists sipping on white wine.

Satchmo: Restaurant in the center of Amsterdam with delicious XXL Pornstar Martini. The best spot for cocktails and girls nights.