Despite its location near the city center, Oud West is far from a tourist trap of
Amsterdam. Many tourists still go here since it's undoubtedly a trendy and lively place, but it's not the type of city district that tends to draw such visitors. Oud-West is more of a local oasis of homegrown shops, indie boutiques, unique design studios, and more. Art-house cinema theaters and craft markets convey just how much creativity is at the heart of the district, all while presenting a lovely neighborhood that's equal parts bohemian and slightly suburban. There's truly no place quite like it!
Where is Oud West in Amsterdam?
True to its name, Oud West is located to the west of the city center. Bordered by Vondelpark on one end and the city's famous canals on the other, this is one of the
central neighborhoods in Amsterdam. While the place itself isn't exactly touristy, its proximity to the city center and other popular areas makes it popular among locals and tourists alike. The former like it here since it's one of the more peaceful corners in Central Amsterdam, while the latter like it for a more affordable option to stay that's not too far from the famous landmarks.
Is it Safe in Oud West, Amsterdam?
Not only is it considered a generally safe place, but Oud West is widely regarded as one of the safest neighborhoods in Amsterdam. For starters,
Amsterdam's crime rates are already low to begin with, which means that practically every part, especially the city center, will be safe overall. Oud West also stands out as one of the more peaceful districts near the center, almost as if it's one of the city's suburbs, but located in Amsterdam-Centrum. The largely suburban vibe of the area gives it a below-average crime rate, making it one of the best places for families to settle down in Amsterdam.
What's The Vibe in Oud West, Amsterdam?
Oud West is beloved as one of the trendiest, hippest, and chicest neighborhoods in Amsterdam. Anyone
moving to Amsterdam to relish in the cosmopolitan lifestyle here will find that this is the place for them. Indie boutiques and homegrown shops offer a unique retail scene for shoppers in the area. Gastropubs, cool cafes, and a few upscale restaurants give Oud West a must-try culinary scene, perfect for any true-blue foodies in the city. And of course, there's De Hallen, a popular cultural center that's the social heart of Amsterdam. This is where popular events are held, cool shops are located, and more.
Is it Expensive in Oud West, Amsterdam?
Before anything else, it's worth noting that
Amsterdam's living costs are generally high. They're not exactly the highest among the world's major capital cities, but generally speaking, the prices in the city are high. Hence, all of the city's neighborhoods are bound to be pricey, including Oud West. With that said, however, Oud West does offer a more affordable option compared to the other central neighborhoods. Not only is rent here comparatively lower compared to the equally popular districts nearby, but even something like eating out is less expensive here. The average price for a meal in Oud West in Amsterdam ranges from $10.00 to $25.00 per person among inexpensive to mid-range restaurants.
What to See in Oud West, Amsterdam
Though Oud West is one of the less touristy parts of Amsterdam's city center, this doesn't mean that there's nothing worth seeing in the neighborhood. The area still has its fair share of notable sights to see, not the least of which is the already-mentioned De Wallen. It's the ultimate cultural center of the contemporary scene, often hosting fashionable events and housing popular shops, trendy eateries, and more. Don't miss De Filmhallen, too, which is the largest independent cinema in the Netherlands. Once a tram depot, it's now the ultimate cinephile destination in the city. And when all else fails, go to the iconic Rijksmuseum that's just nearby!
What to Do in Oud West, Amsterdam
It should be pretty clear by now that Oud West is perfect for any cosmopolitan living it up in the city. As the trendiest neighborhood near the city center, the place allows you to indulge in all of the urban luxuries that Amsterdam has to offer. Want to eat out and bring out your inner foodie? Oud West has a diverse culinary scene that satisfies any craving. Cinephiles will also love the many film-centric spots in the area, namely De Filmhallen, Het Documentaire Paviljoen, and Lab111. Want live music and entertainment instead? Then go to places like the Vondelpark Open-Air Theater, or find out if venues like Orgelpark or OCCII have any cool shows on offer.
The Best Restaurants in Oud West, Amsterdam
As already mentioned, Oud West boasts a diverse culinary scene where any craving can and will be satisfied. Do you prefer to have Japanese for lunch? Try Umami by Han Amsterdam on Overtoom or Signore Goyza on Eerste Helmersstraat! Are you a vegan? Then the award-winning Meatless District on Bilderdijkstraat is right for you! Any or all of the hotspots listed below prove that Oud West is on its way to becoming a bona fide foodie destination. The best places to eat here range from local diners to some of
Amsterdam’s best Michelin-starred restaurants. What’s not to love?
- Kazik Amsterdam on Bilderdijkstraat
- Meatless District on Bilderdijkstraat
- Bosco on Eerste Constantijn Huygensstraat
- Signor Gyoza on Eerste Helmersstraat
- Staring at Jacob on Jacob Van Lennepkade
- Night Kitchen Amsterdam on Jan Pieter Heijestraat
- Pastai on Jan Pieter Heijestraat
- Oresti's taverna on Overtoom
- Parallel on Overtoom
- Umami by Han Amsterdam on Overtoom
What to Know About Renting in Oud West, Amsterdam
Renting in Oud West is pricey, but it's far from the most expensive. The average rent here is about €1,427.00 to €4,750 per month, ranging from small studio or one-bedroom properties to some of the biggest
luxury apartments to rent in Amsterdam. The good news is that Oud West's rental real estate market is diverse enough that you can get a high-quality place that you could still afford, even more so if you choose to rent it with a roommate. Even the smaller rentals are worth the fairly high prices attached to them.
Amsterdam's Oud West neighborhood offers a nice break from the more touristy parts of the city center. This beautiful district is largely local and residential, complete with homegrown shops, indie boutiques, and some of the loveliest homes you'll ever find in the Dutch capital.
