Amsterdam deserves more credit as an artistic city. Everyone knows of it as the picturesque capital of the Netherlands with enchanting canals and eye-catching Baroque and Renaissance architecture, but creativity bursts at every corner, too. London and Paris are better known for their art scenes, but Amsterdam also has a vibrant industry, especially in Spiegelkwartier. Known for its chic galleries, antique shops, and other quirky spots, the district will give you a good sense of the contemporary and unique creativity that flourishes through this beautiful metropolis. It's fascinating enough that it's worth exploring!
Where is Spiegelkwartier in Amsterdam?
Spiegelkwartier is one of
Amsterdam's central neighborhoods that's southwest of the city center. Part of why it's one of the city's most popular districts is its proximity to the most famous areas. Though it's 4.3 kilometers away from Dam Square, which is largely considered the center of Amsterdam, Spiegelkwartier is still right at the heart of the Dutch capital. It's famously near Museumkwartier, the complex that has Amsterdam's iconic museums, while the likes of Oud West, Grachtengordel, Roeterseiland, and De Pijp are just nearby too. It's no wonder this is such a popular place for locals and tourists alike.
Is it Safe in Spiegelkwartier, Amsterdam?
Yes, it is. Firstly, it helps that
Amsterdam's crime rates are generally low. Currently, the city's general crime rate is less than 30%, making it one of the safest major capital cities in the world. Most of Amsterdam is largely safe overall, including Spiegelkwartier. At the same time, the district's location in Amsterdam-Centrum helps too. Spiegelkwartier gets lively from time to time, but it still has well-lit streets and ample security. Though petty crimes like pickpocketing still pose a problem here, they're not so rampant that they're a cause for concern.
What's The Vibe in Spiegelkwartier, Amsterdam?
Spiegelkwartier is the art lover's haven in Amsterdam. The place has everything an art lover will need to indulge in their passion, ranging from the city's most famous museums nearby to smaller art galleries that show off contemporary works. There are also antique shops that touch on the city's artistic history, perfect for collectors and decorators alike. Not to mention art studios where local artists do their thing and express their creativity in the most fabulous ways. Complete with Amsterdam's signature serene canals, staying in Spiegelkwartier will have you feeling like you're living inside an idyllic painting.
Is it Expensive in Spiegelkwartier, Amsterdam?
Spiegelkwartier is one of the more expensive neighborhoods in Amsterdam. While it's not exactly the most affluent area, it's still right up there. The art scene here makes it a place for the rich and famous to frequent, as well as a congregation for renowned artists in the city to hang out, show off their works, and more. It's no wonder Spiegelkwartier is pretty pricey, often having some of the highest
living costs in Amsterdam. Take eating out, for example. The average price for a meal here is about €20.00 to €50.00 per person in either inexpensive or mid-range restaurants.
What to See in Spiegelkwartier, Amsterdam
Whether you're an art lover or not, there's still a lot for you to see in Spiegelkwartier, Amsterdam. As already mentioned, the city's famous Museumkwartier is right around here. It's an entire museum complex made up of Amsterdam's most popular cultural attractions. No less than the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Stedelijk Museum are located here, among many others. The famous Kramer Arts & Antiques shop is also located here and is the defining institution of an antique shop that has helped make Spiegelkwartier the antique-collector's paradise it is now. Finally, since you're already in the area, why not stop by the iconic Anne Frank House that's nearby? Going there is an experience you will never forget.
What to Do in Spiegelkwartier, Amsterdam
Any art lover
moving to Amsterdam will find a home in Spiegelkwartier. This is where you'll experience as much art as you want in the Dutch capital, whether you're a fan of the Classic Dutch masters or you're interested in the works of the industry's current superstars and emerging talents. Beyond the art scene, let's not forget that Spiegelkwartier is still a city district that's right at the heart of Amsterdam. You can still live the quintessential cosmopolitan lifestyle here, shopping in the upscale boutiques, dining in trendy restaurants, and meeting friends in various hotspots nearby.
Spiegelkwartier's Best Restaurants in Amsterdam
Art isn't the only thing worth exploring in Spiegelkwartier in Amsterdam. The neighborhood's culinary scene is not to be overlooked, either! The place boasts a diverse array of places to eat, ranging from local diners to some of
Amsterdam's best Michelin-starred restaurants. There's De Spiegel on Lijnbaansgracht, for example, which is a renowned lunch spot known for its scenic terrace area and authentic Dutch cuisine. There's also Lombardo's on Nieuwe Spiegelstraat, which may be known for its fascinating burgers, but there are vegetarian options here too. These and any of Spiegelkwartier's awesome restaurants listed below that food is as much a star of the show as art!
- Arles on Govert Flinckstraat
- Café restaurant van Kerkwijk on Nes
- Castell: BAR-beque Restaurant on Lijnbaansgracht
- De Blauwe Hollander on Leidsekruisstraat
- De Spiegel on Lijnbaansgracht
- Kaagman & Kortekaas on Sint Nicolaasstraat
- Lastage on Geldersekade
- Lombardo's on Nieuwe Spiegelstraat
- Restaurant De Belhamel on Brouwersgracht
- Restaurant Wolf Atelier on Westerdoksplein
What to Know About Renting in Spiegelkwartier, Amsterdam
Staying in Spiegelkwartier is undoubtedly pricey, but it's far from the most expensive. Even the rent here is largely similar to the city-wide average, mostly ranging from €1,500.00 to €2,000.00 per month for smaller properties like studio flats or one-bedroom homes. The neighborhood also has some of the biggest
luxury apartments to rent in Amsterdam, but they'll naturally cost a lot more. So does this mean you need to spend a lot to get a larger rental here? It depends! Spiegelkwartier's rental real estate market is also vast and diverse enough that it's possible to find the right place that's the right size for you that you could still afford.
Spiegelkwartier shows off the more artistic side of Amsterdam. To say that it's the creative neighborhood in Amsterdam is an understatement, especially with its beautiful galleries, fascinating antique shops, indie boutiques, and a few museums nearby.
