No visit to the Netherlands is complete without seeing the infamous Amsterdam. Visiting The Nine Streets is definitely one of the most iconic things you can do while in town. This picturesque area is just a 20-minute walk from the central station and it is filled with boutique shops and cafes. While some people choose to just pass by and snap some perfect Amsterdam pics, others could literally spend the whole day there. This area is one of the safest in the whole city, so it's a good idea to book accommodation nearby as well.
Whether you're into designer clothes or vintage furniture - there is something for everyone who appreciates good taste somewhere in The Nine Streets. While (window) shopping, don't forget to stock up on some Dutch deserts and take a rest at one of the cozy cafes. Here are some suggestions if you want to make your time fly by.
10 Start Your Day In A Lovely Café
Having a great morning ritual in a foreign city can set the tone for the rest of the day. That's why you should start your day on The Nine Streets in the morning with a hot beverage of your choice. Even though top-rated hostels in Amsterdam serve free coffee in the morning, it's usually not that great. Head to one of the following cafes to start your day right: coffeecompany, Cafe De Pels or Cafe De Doffer.
9 Candles From Kramer-Pontifex Are A Great Souvenir
When we travel, we are often expected to bring gifts to our loved ones, while sometimes we just want to treat ourselves. The Nine Streets is a great place to do some souvenir shopping. You won't find any tacky magnets and key-chains in this area. Head to Kramer-Pontifex, marvel at the sight of this unique candle shop, and get some shopping done, so you don't have to worry about it for the rest of your day.
8 Explore Music Gems At Waxwell Records
The Nine Streets are filled with numerous charming establishments, one of the most beloved ones being the Waxwell Records shop. They regularly have sales and sell records at cheap prices, so you can find some real musical gems in there. They also have a record player, so you can give that vintage vinyl a spin when you're not sure whether you should get them or not.
7 A Quick Lunch At The Lebanese Sajeria
Just because you're in one of the most expensive cities in Europe, doesn't mean it has to break your bank. If you're on a tight budget, you can treat yourself to some street food, for example a yummy wrap at the Lebanese Sajeria. Vegan friendly, light, and cheap: exactly what you need to preserve your energy before going on a cruise or hiring a boat.
6 Book A Canal Cruise At Rederij Kooij
A canal cruise is the most obvious, yet a legitimately awesome way to see Amsterdam from the best angle. After spending a few hours browsing the shops and eating lunch, you will appreciate some time to sit back and enjoy the ride. There's a tour agency close to the Nine Streets called Rederij Kooij. An hour-long tour will cost you €13 and they run all day. They also offer candlelight and private cruises.
5 Local Tip: Renting A Boat At Canal Motorboats
This boat rental service brings joy to numerous locals and an increasing amount of tourists who prefer to create their own adventure rather than take a hassle-free cruise. The first hour costs €50 and one boat can hold seven people. When you're planning on hiring a boat on a sunny day, it's best to make a reservation. Consider yourself warned, though: rowing a boat can be hard work!
4 Sampling Cheese At De Kaaskamer
As creators of gouda, the Dutch sure know how to make mouthwatering cheese. At De Kaaskamer, you can sample some of the best cheese you will ever have in your life. If you're a sandwich person, this is the place to get a bite to eat. There's no way you will miss it: there are cheese wheels stacked all the way to the ceiling and there are always tourists around.
3 Treat Yourself To A Carrot Cake At PLUK
This insanely Instagrammable cafe on Reestrat serves hot drinks and vitamin-filled juices and shakes of all sorts. They also serve breakfast, pancakes, and colorful poke-bowls. Just like most places in this modern city, they offer more vegan options than you can count. While in Amsterdam, everyone should definitely treat themselves to a piece of carrot cake. This is definitely the place to try it. Their stellar reviews speak for themselves.
2 Episode: Heaven Of Vintage Shopping
Street fashion in Amsterdam is teeming with second-hand and vintage clothes. If you want to blend right in, visit Episode. Not only are second-hand stores ecological, but they are also incredibly fun. Treat yourself to a wacky shirt or some edgy shoes - no one will judge you in Amsterdam. If you want to visit more than just this one store on The Nine Streets, head to Bij Ons Vintage or Episode's other locations in the city.
1 Mendo: A Must For All Bookworms
Mendo is an independent publishing house that sells its own creative and visually stunning books. They also have a bookstore right on The Nine Streets. After a day of fun shopping, cruising, and boating you might want to get some rest and browse through some books. If you think of yourself as a passionate bookworm, make sure you don't skip this gem while in the area.