Did you know that
Amsterdam was built to surround one specific building? Oude Kerk is the oldest building in the city, dating as far back as the 13th century. The district surrounding this historic landmark is the Old Centre of Amsterdam, one of the most fascinating parts of the city. True to its name, this is also the Dutch capital's oldest neighborhood and is right smack at the city's center. This alone makes the district worth exploring, especially with its centuries-old spots, lively establishments, and more. Learn more about Amsterdam's Old Centre.
Where is The Old Centre in Amsterdam?
True to its name, Amsterdam's Old Centre served as the city's historical center. As already mentioned, the Dutch capital was purported to have been built to surround Oude Kerk, a 13th-century church, and is believed to be the oldest building still standing in the city. Naturally, this means that the district it has become has one of
Amsterdam's central neighborhoods. Even more so since this is also where Dam Square is located, the actual city center. This is the liveliest part of the city and is a must-see for locals and tourists alike.
Is it Safe in The Old Centre of Amsterdam?
Without a doubt, the Old Centre is one of the safest parts of Amsterdam. For one thing, it's the city center. Since it's one of the liveliest districts in the city, the place is well-lit, has ample security, and there are very few dark corners nearby. Now, there's no denying that pickpocketing and other petty crimes are still a problem here, but they're not so rampant that they're a major cause for concern. Let's not forget about how low
Amsterdam's crime rates are, as well. The city's general crime rate, for instance, rarely goes above 30%. So it’s no wonder the Old Centre is largely safe overall.
What's The Vibe in The Old Centre of Amsterdam?
The Old Centre of Amsterdam is historic, lively, idyllic, and often festive! As its name says, this is the old-world district of the Dutch capital, that signature Medieval neighborhood where classic architecture still reigns supreme and the businesses here have been around for decades, possibly even centuries. Unsurprisingly, this is also the most touristy part of Amsterdam, complete with historic landmarks, shopping streets, and more. It's the best place for visitors to revel in the centuries-long beauty and legacy of the city, as well as to indulge in some of its most luxurious offerings.
Is it Expensive in The Old Centre of Amsterdam?
There's no doubt that the Old Centre is one of Amsterdam's most expensive neighborhoods. This is part of the city center, after all, so it's no surprise that the prices here are high.
Amsterdam's living costs are also already generally high, and while the Old Center isn't exactly the most affluent area, it's still bound to be pricey. Just take a look at how much it costs to eat out here. The average price for a meal in Amsterdam's Old Centre ranges from a minimum of €15.00 to a maximum of €50.00, just for inexpensive and mid-range restaurants. Fine dining spots, on the other hand, will cost you a lot more.
What to See in The Old Centre of Amsterdam
An easier question to answer would be what is there
not to see in the Old Centre of Amsterdam! As the historic center of the Dutch capital, the Old Centre is a sight-seer's paradise. The district boasts some of the city's most remarkable landmarks, and many of them are architectural marvels! Firstly, there's Oude Kerk, Amsterdam's oldest building and the very reason why the city was built in the first place. The Royal Palace gloriously stands at the heart of the district, too, offering some old-world opulence amidst an ever-evolving metropolis. There's also Museumkwartier nearby, an entire museum complex made up of the city's most prominent galleries and other cultural attractions.
What to Do in The Old Centre of Amsterdam
Anyone who has
moved to Amsterdam and has lived here for quite some time knows that the Old Centre is mostly reserved for tourists (or for playing tourist). It's a beautiful neighborhood filled with old-world beauty and fascinating history, sure, but it's not exactly a place that locals would frequent—unless, of course, they already live here. With the nearby landmarks and popular public squares drawing in millions of tourists each year, locals are better off avoiding the district altogether during their everyday lives. But if you want to eat at some of the city's best restaurants or hang out near its most famous spots, then have at it!
The Best Restaurants in The Old Centre of Amsterdam
Since Amsterdam's Old Centre draws in most of the tourists descending on the city, it's no surprise that it has a tremendous culinary scene. It's not far-fetched to say that the neighborhood has some of the best places to eat in the city, be they local diners or
the finest Michelin-starred restaurants. With all the foot traffic it receives, any restaurateur would want to set up their space here. There is, however, stiff competition. There's the famous Café-Restaurant Amsterdam on Watertorenplein, for example, which is a chic brunch favorite known for its authentic Dutch snacks and sweets. This and the Old Centre's other noteworthy spots listed below are a must-try!
- Café-Restaurant Amsterdam on Watertorenplein
- Restaurant Ambassade in De 9 Straatjes on Herengracht
- Hollands Hap Hmm Restaurant on Eerste Helmersstraat
- Il Vicolo on Taksteeg
- Moeders on Rozengracht
- Restaurant De Belhamel on Brouwersgracht
- The Pantry on Leidsekruisstraat
- Senses Restaurant on Vijzelstraat
- Loetje on Stationsplein
- Gartine on Taksteeg
What to Know About Renting in The Old Centre of Amsterdam
Part of what makes the Old Centre among the most expensive parts of Amsterdam is its rental prices. The average rent here is about €1,500.00 to €2,500.00 per month, which is largely the city-wide average too, but that's only for the smaller properties in the area. If you want to rent a bigger place here, expect you pay about €3,000.00 per month or beyond. Fortunately, whatever kind of home you get here, they're bound to be some of the best
luxury apartments to rent in Amsterdam. The Old Centre's rental real estate market is also diverse enough that it's more than possible to get a high-quality place that you could still afford.
History is alive and well in the Old Centre in Amsterdam. While the rest of the city has largely caught up with the present day, this beautiful neighborhood stands out for its old-world beauty, centuries-long landmarks, and other fabulous hotspots that you shouldn't overlook!
