Jordaan Amsterdam: History, Canals, Food, and Things to Do

Of all Amsterdam’s neighborhoods, most people would agree that Jordaan is one of the coolest. With charming streets running alongside canals, narrow alleys connecting them, and beautiful historic hofjes tucked away in hidden corners, when you see it for yourself, you’ll get what I’m talking about.

Why Jordaan Is Amsterdam’s Most Charming Neighborhood

Jordaan’s artistic, slightly bohemian atmosphere really sets it apart, with galleries, music venues, creative studios, and some of Amsterdam’s food markets scattered throughout. 

Even though Jordaan, Amsterdam, is very well known, it doesn’t feel overly touristy. There’s a great mix of local residents running boutique shops and cool cafés alongside international visitors who come here looking for something a little different from the more typical districts.

If you want to experience the gentle ripples of the canals, the aromas drifting from cozy coffee shops, and the street musicians Jordaan is famous for, our Amsterdam food tours are a great way to do so. But if you’re not completely convinced yet, here’s our guide to this lovely neighborhood!

The History and Culture of Jordaan 

Jordaan might be one of Amsterdam’s trendiest districts in 2026, but it also has a deep history and culture that dates back to the 17th century, when it was mainly a working-class neighborhood. Many immigrants and craftsmen settled here, and their influence helped shape the area into what it is today.

A lot of the historic churches and landmarks from that time, like Westerkerk and Noorderkerk, are still standing and easy to spot as you wander around. Even better, much of the traditional architecture and the old stone tablets on the buildings have been carefully preserved, which makes exploring the neighborhood even more interesting.

Main Attractions and Landmarks

There are plenty of things to see and do in Jordaan, Amsterdam, that visitors will love. Iconic sites such as the Anne Frank House, where the famed Jewish girl hid during the Nazi invasion of the Netherlands, are located here, as is the Houseboat Museum, which provides some insight into the city’s canal houses.

On a self-guided walking tour, you may also spot notable attractions like the Renaissance-style Westerkerk Tower and the bustling Noorderkerk Square. No doubt you’ll also pass by some of the area’s most prominent canals, such as Brouwersgracht and Prinsengracht.

If you want to experience Jordaan’s markets, Lindengracht and Noordermarkt are perfect for watching every day life unfold. Cultural enthusiasts will enjoy the Tulip Museum to learn more about the famed flower and its relationship to the Netherlands, or swing by the Felix Meritis Cultural Center, one of the city’s popular UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Exploring Jordaan on Foot and by Canal

While Jordaan offers plenty of transportation and accessibility, the best way to see the area is on foot, just like the locals do. Walk along canal streets such as Egelantiersgracht, stop by major landmarks like the Van Gogh & Rembrandt in Amsterdam Museum, and explore peaceful hofjes like Suykerhofje. 

You can also take a canal cruise through the neighborhood’s waterways, passing classic grachtenpanden, and admire Amsterdam’s iconic architecture up close.

Dining and Nightlife in Jordaan  

It doesn’t get much better than Jordaan for food and nightlife. Evenings are often spent in traditional Dutch cafes (brown cafes), such as Cafe Chris, which has been serving the people of Jordaan for over 400 years. Mornings are best enjoyed at popular breakfast spots like Kessens, known for its local and international dishes made with incredibly high-quality ingredients. Don’t forget to visit the local bakeries, either, like Winkel 43, which is famous for its warm, sweet slices of apple pie.

Whenever you’re feeling thirsty, a wealth of wine bars, pubs, and casual cafes along the canals awaits, such as Cafe P96. They have outdoor seating and serve a range of delicious drinks and tasty bar snacks, including crispy bitterballen.

There also culinary tours of Jordaan to give you an inside look at authentic Amsterdam street food and other famous foods from this enchanting city.

Shopping and Boutiques 

Planning on doing some shopping while in Amsterdam? Jordaan is the place to be. The neighborhood is packed with boutiques selling clothes, antiques, and leather goods, often at pretty good prices. Local markets like Lindengracht Market and Westerstraat Market are great spots to hunt for some real bargains.

If you’re after something a little more creative, pop into one of the many art galleries or handcrafted goods stores around the area. Have a particular item in mind? You’ll also find plenty of specialty shops selling handmade items, vintage treasures, and even tulip bulbs to take home.

Accommodation Options in Jordaan

Jordaan has a mix of upscale hotels, including Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht by Hyatt, as well as affordable B&Bs such as Jackie O Bed & Breakfast. This part of Amsterdam also features plenty of boutique guesthouses, hostels, and Airbnb rentals near many of the main areas and canals in Amsterdam, so you’ll be conveniently located if you stay here.

Local Experiences and Tips 

• It might be tempting to go to the typical canals that everyone knows, but consider going beyond the typical spots. You may stumble across some hidden canals as well as secret courtyards with a serene atmosphere.
• Cycling around Jordaan is a popular way to see the area, but make sure you follow the rules, such as staying in the provided lanes and signaling with your hands when making a turn.
• When visiting neighborhood festivals or open garden days, make sure to double-check the dates and times to ensure they are correct, as they could change.
• Try sticking to small group tours in Jordaan, Amsterdam. They provide a much more insightful experience since guides can pay more attention to smaller numbers of people and go through the details more in depth, rather than speaking to a huge crowd.

Sources:

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Amsterdam food tours. Retrieved March 10, 2026, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/amsterdam/

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Amsterdam food markets. Retrieved March 10, 2026, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/blog/amsterdam-food-markets/

Café Chris. (n.d.). Café Chris – Het oudste café van de Jordaan. Retrieved March 10, 2026, from https://www.chrisopjordaan.nl/

Kessens. (n.d.). Kessens Amsterdam. Retrieved March 10, 2026, from https://www.kessensamsterdam.nl/en/

Winkel 43. (n.d.). Winkel 43. Retrieved March 10, 2026, from https://www.winkel43.nl/en/

Café P96. (n.d.). Café P96. Retrieved March 10, 2026, from https://p96.nl/english/

Hyatt. (n.d.). Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht, by Hyatt. Retrieved March 10, 2026, from https://www.hyatt.com/andaz/en-US/amsaz-andaz-amsterdam-prinsengracht

Jackie O Bed & Breakfast. (n.d.). Homepage. Retrieved March 10, 2026, from https://jackie-o.nl/en/homepage/