We were quite limited with time in Amsterdam as we’re there only for a weekend but we’ve managed to visit less touristy parts as well. Actually it’s essential part of our city breaks and this time we picked Jordaan and De Pijp. We always stroll around less known corners and try to find something which doesn’t make 10 must see places in given city. Taking a moment in this places gives you access to daily life of local people and let you feel authentic vibe.
Jordaan
Jordaan is a district in the West of Amsterdam divided from city centre with nothing else than a canal of course. Jordan is a bit hippie, beloved by artists and what comes with it, it’s in fashion. Property prices are skyrocketing but we don’t wonder we would happily leave there ourselves. The minute you cross over to Jordaan you feel like in different Amsterdam. Hoard of tourists suddenly dwindle and quirky pubs are full of local residents. It was a nice hot weekend when we visited Amsterdam and many locals where just chilling on sofas, armchairs or little tables just in front of their houses.
At first we couldn’t discern are these little tables on the pavement part of some hidden cafes or residents just decided to have a lunch outside. Peace and quiet of Jordaan’s streets was refreshing after hitting elbows on filled city centre streets. We sat down in a random pub on a corner where we finally found some space. All the people there knew each other there and the lady owner was a waitress, barmaid and a chef at the same time. It was hard to believe in a city like Amsterdam you need such a small effort to find a bit of piece and authentic local vibe.
De Pijp
We visited De Pijp district second day while cycling around as you should while in Amsterdam. We were going to see De Gooyer windmill which is outside city centre and it’s the only you can see within Amsterdam. De Pijp was on the way so we couldn’t resist to have a look. During hot Sunday afternoon De Pijp is an idyll place. Piece and tranquillity with parks full of resting people. No one seems to be in rush and traffic was non existing. Heat was onerous and while looking for refreshments we spotted a kid selling lemonade on the street. We got 2 cups and for a moment we felt like in American movie.
We really liked this laidback feel of De Pijp with apartment houses covered in lush ivy. It was so nice we completely forget regretting Albert Cuyp market was closed on Sunday. Even lack of the canals doesn’t downgrade De Pijp district it’s still super cool. We didn’t spot any other tourist there which surprised us as much as Saturday afternoon in Jordan. Most likely it’s connected with street market being closed on Sunday. For us tranquillity of the streets was enough compensation.
