Things to do in Jordaan

Jordaan is more than just a tourist destination. It’s a place where you can truly experience the soul of Amsterdam. Let’s dive into its winding streets and discover the magic that lies within.

Exploring the neighborhood

Jordaan – a paradise in the heart of Amsterdam. Image by Liam McGarry

Jordaan is a charming neighborhood nestled within the canals of Amsterdam. So, don’t forget to discover this historic district, it offers a delightful escape from the bustling city center, providing visitors with a glimpse into traditional Dutch life.

Anne Frank House: A house of history

Visiting the Anne Frank House in Downtown Amsterdam is a haunting, heartbreaking, yet essential experience. As one of over 107,000 Jewish people in the Netherlands sent to concentration camps during World War II, Anne Frank’s story is both tragic and inspiring.

Originating from grief and loss, the Anne Frank House Museum was founded in 1957 by Otto Frank, the only father to survive the Holocaust. With the desire to preserve his daughter’s spiritual legacy and warn future generations, he decided to open the former hiding place to the public.

The Anne Frank Museum is a building combining exhibition space, bookstore and characteristic offices rebuilt in the 1940s, which preserves the painful evidence of war through the diary that Anne Frank – a 13-year-old girl recorded her life while hiding from the Nazi army during the Holocaust, World War II.

  • Location: Westermarkt 20, 1016 GV Amsterdam.
  • Opening hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Tickets:
    • Aldutl: €16.00
    • 10 – 17 years: €7.00
    • 0 – 9 years: €1.00
      Including € 1.00 booking fee
  • Find out more about Anne Frank House Museum Tickets

Discover local markets

Noordermarkt is a delightful market nestled in the Jordaan district. On Mondays, it transforms into a treasure trove of antiques, vintage finds, and unique collectibles at its bustling flea market. On Saturdays, it becomes a vibrant organic farmers’ market, overflowing with fresh, locally-sourced produce, artisanal breads, cheeses, and more. The market’s picturesque setting, surrounded by historic buildings and canals, adds to its enchanting atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination.

  • Address: Noordermarkt, 1015 MV Amsterdam
  • Opening hours: Mondays 9am to 2pm and Saturdays 9am to 4pm

Westerstraat: This market is held on Mondays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. It sells fabrics, clothing, and various bric-a-brac. You can find it at Westerstraat 1015 LZ Amsterdam.

The Jordaan Museum

This is a place where visitors can visit and learn about the lives of fishermen, artisans and immigrants. The museum has interactive exhibits through games, videos, hands-on activities and many other artifacts.

  • Address: 22-110, Willemsstraat, 1015 JD Amsterdam
  • Hours: Open 24 hours
  • Phone: +31 6 40227265

Discover the Pianola Museum

Step into the smallest museum in Amsterdam, the Pianola Museum, and marvel at the collection of self-playing pianos and related objects.

  • Address: Westerstraat 106, 1015 MN Amsterdam
  • Opening hours: From Friday to Sunday, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM

Westerkerk: Iconic church

Westerkerk church in Jordaan, Amsterdam
Image by Tim Trad

Westerkerk is famous for its 85-meter-high tower, which was once the tallest structure in Amsterdam. The spacious interior is decorated with intricate carvings and stained glass windows. A masterpiece here is the church organ, famous for its Dutch craftsmanship, which has been played by famous organists from around the world. Visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views of Amsterdam, explore the church’s interior, and attend a service or concert.

  • Location: Westermarkt 1, 1017 AA Amsterdam.
  • Opening hours: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, all weekdays except Sundays.
  • Admission:
    • Visiting of the Westerkerk is free.
    • Tickets for the tours to climb the Westerkerk Tower are €7.
    • Children younger than 6, are not allowed to the tower, because of safety reasons.

Enjoy a cozy coffee break and delicious food

Relax at a charming café and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. Jordaan is home to numerous cozy cafes and restaurants serving a variety of cuisines. Try traditional Dutch dishes like poffertjes (mini pancakes) or stroopwafels (caramel waffles).