What is
Amsterdam known for? If you answered canals, you're correct! As fascinating as the Dutch capital is for many things, there's no denying that its scenic canals are the stars of the show. They're what makes Amsterdam a popular destination, the same way cafes draw people to Paris or how tall skyscrapers define New York City. Hence, it's no surprise that Grachtengordel, known as the Canal District, is among Amsterdam's best-known neighborhoods. Explore this fabulous city district and its collection of picturesque man-made waterways, charming hotspots, and more. You'll find that it's one of the most fascinating parts of the city.
Where is Grachtengordel in Amsterdam?
Grachtengordel is known as the “girdle of canals” of Amsterdam. Hence, not only is it one of
Amsterdam's central neighborhoods, but it's quite literally the heart of the Dutch capital. There's no denying that Amsterdam is best known for its scenic canals, so the “Canal District” is the ultimate neighborhood in the city. Not only is it popular among tourists, but the neighborhood's proximity to the city center and equally famous districts make it a go-to spot for locals as well. Grachtengordel is near places like Negen Straatjes, Museumkwartier, De Wallen, and Westerpark.
Is it Safe in Grachtengordel, Amsterdam?
As the massively popular canal district of Amsterdam, it's easy to think that Grachtengordel is one of the less safe parts of the city. Such a place is bound to attract pickpockets, scammers, and the like, right? Well, that's only one side of the neighborhood. Though Grachtengordel has its fair share of petty crimes, it's still largely a safe place overall. It helps that
Amsterdam's crime rates are low to begin with, with the current general crime rate only at 29%. Such a number proves that most of the city is safe, and naturally, this includes Grachtengordel.
What's The Vibe in Grachtengordel, Amsterdam?
Grachtengordel is the place to be if you want to bask in the scenic glory of the city's famous canals. Practically every major canal in Amsterdam flows through here, and they connect the neighborhood to the city's other, equally popular districts. With other famous spots located along the canals or further into the area, Grachtengordel never fails to draw in locals and tourists alike. As a result, the place tends to be busy most of the time, so much so that it tends to be among the most bustling parts of the Dutch capital. Anyone
moving to Amsterdam, hoping to live a quiet life, will want to settle down somewhere else.
Is it Expensive in Grachtengordel, Amsterdam?
Yes, it is. Not only is Grachtengordel a pricey part of town, but it's possibly among the most expensive. Don't forget that it's the ultimate tourist destination in the city, the definitive canal district that the rest of the world knows about. Any place with such popularity is bound to be expensive, and that's on top of how high the
living costs in Amsterdam already are. Let's look at how much it costs to eat out here, for instance. The average price for a meal in Grachtengordel is already about €30.00 to €50.00 among mid-range restaurants. Those are already much higher compared to the rest of the city.
What to See in Grachtengordel, Amsterdam
Grachtengordel's scenic canals are undoubtedly some of the best sights to see. These are the iconic waterways that the Dutch capital is known for, each more enchanting than the next. Most are lined with Dutch Baroque and Renaissance houses, while some feature flower-laden bridges that add a romantic touch. The world-famous Anne Frank House is also within the area, a heart-wrenching museum that details the beloved girl's time in the exacty same house where she and her family hid from the Nazis during World War II. And of course, don't overlook the Museum of the Canals, an informative gallery where you can learn more about the city's beloved waterways.
What to Do in Grachtengordel, Amsterdam
Whether you're a local or a tourist, there's no doubt that enjoying the scenic beauty of Grachtengordel is the best use of your time here. You're in one of the most charming neighborhoods, not just in Amsterdam, but in the entire world. Millions would kill to walk along these scenic canals, dine in the canal-side restaurants, and check out the historic landmarks in the district. Many would argue that the neighborhood is too touristy, but there's no denying that such a lovely area deserves all the recognition it has. There's arguably no better place to take in Amsterdam's unique beauty than here in Grachtengordel!
The Best Restaurants in Grachtengordel, Amsterdam
Grachtengordel's best restaurants are arguably the best places to eat in all of Amsterdam, too. Firstly, it's a diverse culinary scene. They range from cool cafes and local diners to some of
Amsterdam's best Michelin-starred restaurants. No matter your budget, you'll still find a place that you can afford in Grachtengordel. Check out Secret Garden on Reguliersdwarsstraat, for example, which is a feast for the eyes that serves amazing feasts itself. The place offers Nikkei cuisine (Japanese-Peruvian fusion) within a fairytale-like setting. The Pantry on Leidsekruisstraat, on the other hand, is a more humble hotspot that serves affordable traditional cuisine. What’s not to love?
Discover many of Grachtengordel’s best places to eat listed below:
- Secret Garden on Reguliersdwarsstraat
- Restaurant Klein BREDA on Utrechtsestraat
- Roux Amsterdam on Westerstraat
- The Pantry on Leidsekruisstraat
- Café De Klepel on Prinsenstraat
- Senses Restaurant on Vijzelstraat
- Lumbini Restaurant on Amstel
- Moeders on Rozengracht
- Grillhouse Nàder on Kerkstraat
- Pianeta Terra on Beulingstraat
What to Know About Renting in Grachtengordel, Amsterdam
When people say that Grachtengordel is one of the more expensive parts of Amsterdam, they're telling the truth. Many can argue that practically all of Amsterdam is pricey, but the prices in this specific neighborhood are especially high, especially the rent! The average rent in Grachtengordel is about €3,000.00 to €4,000.00 per month, which is considerably higher than the city-wide average. And that's just for the smaller to medium-sized rentals in the area! If you want to get a bigger
luxury apartment to rent in Amsterdam, expect to pay a lot more per month!
As the canal district, Grachtengordel in Amsterdam is as popular a destination as the rest of the city. Not only is it a picturesque neighborhood, but it's also a fun and fabulous area with much to explore.
