Set on the banks of the River IJ in Amsterdam Noord, the former shipyard of NDSM-Wharf has transformed into the city’s hottest cultural hub, with repurposed industrial buildings housing hip waterfront hangouts, edgy art spaces, and fab vintage shopping. Getting here is a breeze: hop the ferry from behind Centraal Station for the free 15-minute ride.
Graffiti fans can get their fix at STRAAT, one of the world’s largest street art museums, located in a massive old ship-welding warehouse. Inside, there’s a 150-strong collection of colourful works of different styles and techniques by established and emerging talents, while enormous murals – including Eduardo Kobra’s famous portrait of a smiling Anne Frank – cover the building’s façade.
Uncover all manner of retro treasures – from mid-century furniture to antique typewriters to vintage vinyl – at design mecca Neef Louis, set inside a vast 1,500-square-metre hangar. At IJ-Hallen, Europe’s biggest flea market, you can rummage through 500-plus indoor/outdoor stalls packed with second-hand clothing, home goods, toys, and assorted knick-knacks; the market takes place one or two weekends a month and has a small entry fee.
For casual cocktails and organic bites, head to Pllek, an airy, industrial-chic waterfront spot constructed entirely from recycled shipping containers. On summer evenings, relax with a drink in hand and your toes in the sand at its urban beach; on chilly nights, gather around its toasty bonfire that burns until the wee hours. Specialising in wood-fire-grilled dishes, the newly opened Helling 7, perched atop an old shipyard slipway, features spectacular views of the River IJ through floor-to-ceiling windows or out on the sprawling dockside terrace.
Addresses: STRAAT, NDSM-Plein 1, 1033; Neef Louis, Papaverweg 46, 1032; IJ-Hallen, NDSM-Plein 1, 1033; Pllek, T.T. Neveritaweg 59, 1033; Helling 7, T.T. Melissaweg 57, 1033
