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20 of the Most Beautiful Amsterdam Streets!

There is no better way to explore Amsterdam than with a leisurely stroll through some of the city’s many amazing streets! Because as a local resident, I know all about some of the most beautiful Amsterdam streets around.

A neverending array of scenic thoroughfares that will give you a taste for everything that this magical city has to offer—from famous Dutch architecture to world-class museums to iconic shopping streets where you can shop ‘till you drop.

Because all of the streets of Amsterdam listed here will give you the unique opportunity to experience authentic Dutch culture, even if you only have 4 days in Amsterdam.

So, take the advice of long time local and get away from some of the city’s busiest streets.

Instead, use my wealth of secret tips and tricks to explore some of the most underrated streets in Amsterdam. Charming little places where you can enjoy a relaxing walk while you sip on a delicious cup of coffee, either alone or with someone else.

That’s why, when you’re in Amsterdam, be sure to visit all 20 of the amazing Amsterdam streets outlined below.

Especially since all of the best quotes about Amsterdam definitely refer to most of these amazing places.

This piece is a guest post that was contibuted by Ask the Dutch Guy

Dear wonderful, beautiful, and oh-so-amazing reader (Yup, I lay it on thick for my dozens of fans). Since I am incapable of making it rain money, there’s a high probability (like 99.999%) that this post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

***Looking for one of the best hotels in Amsterdam? Then definitely check out Hotel Okura or Citizen M Amsterdam (if you’re looking for luxury), Hotel Van Gogh (I stayed here and it was nice. It was located right near the Van Gogh Museum, had single occupancy rooms, included a nice breakfast spread, and was pretty reasonably priced. At least for Amsterdam. LOL.) if you’re looking for a mid-range hotel), or the Pulitzer Hotel (A fly AF, lovely beyond belief boutique hotel that I wish I could afford to stay at). But hotels in Amsterdam tend to be pricy and fill up fast so book your hotel room WAY in advance!***

1. Kalverstraat

Kalverstraat is an iconic shopping street in the center of the city and easily one of the most beautiful streets of Amsterdam.

One of the most well-known shopping streets in the entire country, this street is one kilometer long and features fifteen side streets and hidden alleys that are worth exploring.

It’s also the perfect spot for shopaholics, so feel free to take the entire day to shop till you drop.

However, even if you’re not too keen on shopping, you can still enjoy Kalverstraat since it is easily one of the most beautiful streets in Amsterdam.

After all, who doesn’t want to visit one of the most popular streets in the Netherlands?

Besides, the wealth of exquisite, historic buildings found here serve as the perfect backdrop for all of your favorite photos.

That’s why, even if you don’t want to do a bit of shopping, you can still feast your eyes on all of the surrounding Dutch architecture, which is truly a sight to behold on one of the most famous streets in Amsterdam.

2. Gravelandseveer

A view of Gravelandseveer, one of the most scenic Amsterdam streets of them all.

A view of Gravelandseveer, one of the most scenic Amsterdam streets of them all. Image sources from Añelo de la Krotsche on Flickr.

This is of the shorter and quieter Amsterdam streets on this list, making it the perfect for anyone seeking a bit of peace and solitude.

There are also several benches here along the water where you can sit, enjoy a good book, and marvel and the nearby canals.

So, be sure to stop by with a loved one, savor a quiet moment or two, and take in one of the area’s many marvelous sunsets.

While you’re here, you can also admire sweeping views of nearby Amstel, Kloveniersburgwal, and Groenburgwal.

3. Nieuwe Hoogstraat

De Nieuwe Hoogstraat is another one of the streets in Amsterdam that is famous for shopping.

De Nieuwe Hoogstraat is another one of the streets in Amsterdam that is famous for shopping. Image sourced from Jorge Franganillo on Flickr.

Another one of Amsterdam’s famous shopping streets, Nieuwe Hoogstraat is a bit smaller than Kalverstraat.

It’s also a great place to experience the elegance of the city, along with many of its cliches –  easily making it one of the most traveled streets in Amsterdam.

While you’re here, you’ll be able to find a wide selection of shops, including a store that sells incense and a variety of places that stock every size and style of shoe imaginable.

You can even get yourself some art supplies or visit a specialized kite store that is well worth a peek.

4. Tweede Tuindwarsstraat

Explore some of the charming streets in Amsterdam's famous Jordaan neighborhood.

Explore some of the charming streets in Amsterdam’s famous Jordaan neighborhood.

Looking for a taste of Italy in Amsterdam?

Then head on over to this small street in the Jordaan neighborhood. Be mindful, though, because the tiny Amsterdam streets here tend to get packed with visitors.

Therefore,  avoid visiting during peak hours (weekday evenings and weekends) and keep your belongings secure so that you don’t inadvertently become the victim of a pickpocket or two.

While you’re in the area, you can also feast on authentic Italian cuisine and delicious gelato since there are many iconic cafes and restaurants lining the streets – Amsterdam streets that come alive in the summer with music, vibrant conversation, and outdoor tables adorned with red-checkered tablecloths.

Just think of it as Italy in the heart of the Netherlands.

Add in a few different art galleries and vintage shops and you have the perfect place to spend the day in Amsterdam.

You can also visit this magical street if you decide to embark on an epic Amsterdam foodie tour.

5. Negen Straatjes

The sun setting in the picturesque nine streets area of Amsterdam.

The sun setting in the picturesque nine streets area of Amsterdam.

This is one of the city’s iconic “nine streets”, a term that refers to the series of canalside streets that sit in between Raadhuisstraat and Leidsegracht.

It’s also a perfect destination for foodies and style fanatics since there are a ton of shops and delicious restaurants waiting to be explored.

That’s why, you can easily find a little bit of everything here, from decadent Belgian chocolates to slightly funnier stuff. like a store that sells vintage bridal gowns.

There are also several hairdressers, art galleries, and cafes in the neighborhood, making it easy to spend a whole day here.

6. Brouwersgracht

The picturesque houses that line the Brouwersgracht canal in Amsterdam!

The picturesque houses that line the Brouwersgracht canal in Amsterdam!

Often ignored by crowds, this is one of those peaceful Amsterdam streets that sits along a canal and offers visitors a wealth of stunning, scenic views.

There are even several docks situated here that offer places for you to sit and relax by the canal.

Therefore, if you want to avoid the crowds that flock to Prinsengracht, then visit this quiet street instead.

Trust me, the wealth of beautiful houses here will make the experience absolutely worthwhile.

7. Nieuwe Keizersgracht

The beautiful canal-side homes that line Nieuwe Keizersgracht in the evening.

The beautiful canal-side homes that line Nieuwe Keizersgracht in the evening.

Close to the botanical gardens, this is one of those amazing Amsterdam streets that is lined with nothing but grand canal houses.

And compared to other canals in the city, it’s fairly quiet here too. It’s also a place that is often overlooked by tourists.

Therefore, it’s a fantastic little spot to visit if you want to enjoy some alone time or take photos for the ‘gram without getting photobombed by tons of people.

Plus, you don’t have to fight for a picturesque spot here since this one of the few streets of Amsterdam that is nearly always empty.

Before you leave though, don’t forget to grab a cup of coffee from a local cafe and visit number 63. It’s here that you can bask in the beautiful flowering vines that bloom in the summer.

8. Prinseneiland

The charming houses and boats of Prinseneiland in Amsterdam.

The charming houses and boats of Prinseneiland in Amsterdam.

Walk across a lovely local bridge and onto this tiny little island where you will find a series of circular streets here that expand out into the harbor of the city.

Historically, this is where people used to find people who were sentenced to the gallows.

Today though, this is one of those tranquil streets in Amsterdam where you can see the beautiful Rijksmonument warehouses, meet exceptionally friendly locals, admire stunning houses, enjoy colorful flowers, and marvel at wonderfully vibrant houseboats.

9. Leidsestraat

Leidsestraat in central Amsterdam.

Leidsestraat in central Amsterdam.

This is a popular shopping street that is also an extension of Leidseplein. Here you can find a whole host of stores that are filled with deisgner brands and luxurious beauty products.

Just be prepared for crowds since the street is narrow and can become quite packed on the weekends.

And If you’re not here to shop, then make sure to visit the Rietveld dome on the top floor of the Metz & Co department store.

From here, you can take tons of photographs and admire the stellar panoramic views of Amsterdam’s city center below.

10. Haarlemmerstraat

The picturesque houses along Haarlemmerstraat in Amsterdam.

The picturesque houses along Haarlemmerstraat in Amsterdam. Image sourced from Dienst Ruimtelijk on Flickr.

This is one of those beautiful streets of Amsterdam that was actually voted the best shopping street in the country in 2011.

However, a lot of tourists haven’t discovered it yet. So, consider yourself lucky since it won’t be overly crowded with over 200 stores and retail chains to choose from.

You can also enjoy a traditional Dutch shopping experience here since plenty of small, independent boutiques and trendy restaurants are scattered throughout the neighborhood.

Therefore, you could easily spend several hours here without getting bored.

Plus, if you stroll a bit further, you will run into Herestraat and Prinsenstraat, where you can see several historic buildings that the city is famous for.

11. Keizersgracht

Some of the beautiful homes along Keizersgracht in Amsterdam.

Some of the beautiful homes along Keizersgracht in Amsterdam.

While you’re on one of the most beautiful streets in Amsterdam, you can see several stunning Rijksmonument buildings that border the canal.

Number 123 will be of particular interest since it features a wealth of elaborate decorations that you will definitely enjoy.

And while there a ton of different canals scattered throughout the city, this is easily one of the best, so don’t miss out. Because this is easily one of the most amazing places to see in Amsterdam.

12. Lindenstraat

Some of the ivy encrusted homes along Lindenstraat in Amsterdam. Image sourced from Trammel Hudson on Flickr.

Some of the ivy encrusted homes along Lindenstraat in Amsterdam. Image sourced from Trammel Hudson on Flickr.

Located in the ever-popular neighborhood of Jordaan, Lindenstraat is an enchanting Amsterdam street that is lined with beautiful houses.

As you admire these homes and their iconic Dutch architecture, be mindful of all of the bikes.

Yes, there are a lot of them and yes, they might potentially run you over.

If you can, try to start your walking tour of the area close to Noorderkerk so that you can get the absolute most out of your visit.

13. Vondelstraat

A house on Vondelstraat street in Amsterdam. Netherlands

A house on Vondelstraat street in Amsterdam. Netherlands

Because so many people visit Vondelpark, you might assume that its associated street, Vondelstraat, is crowded too.

But, luckily for you, it isn’t. In fact, Vondelstraat is actually a picturesque street that features a variety of exquisite buildings.

If you want, you can even stop for a coffee here since there is a beautiful cafe on this street that showcases amazing interior decor.

Also be sure to take advantage of the tranquility here as you enjoy the many beautiful buildings that surround you.

Especially since it is only in this country, and here in this city, that you can catch a glimpse of fantastic Dutch buildings that you won’t see anywhere else.

14. Herengracht

The canal-side street of Herengracht in Amsterdam, one of the many beautiful Amsterdam streets.

The canal-side street of Herengracht in Amsterdam, one of the many beautiful Amsterdam streets.

Another one of those beautiful Amsterdams streets along a canal where you can find a lot of museums, like the Cromhout Huis.

In fact, if you want to do some museum hopping, this is one of the best streets to do so.

You also won’t starve since there are many cafes here where you can stop for a bite to eat.

So, take some time to explore the many hidden gems of Amsterdam here, like the Raadhuisstraat up until Brouwersgracht.

15. Oude Waal

Houses line Oude Waal which sits along a canal in Amsterdam.

Houses line Oude Waal which sits along a canal in Amsterdam.

A picturesque street that lines the former city walls.

However, it seems almost invisible to tourists. Which is perfect since the tremendous beauty of the street will make you gasp.

Also, be sure to check out Montelbaan Tower at the end of the street since it is easily one of the most underrated places in the entire city.

16. Spaarndammerplantsoen

Stop by this Amsterdam street if you want to see unique Dutch-style architecture that is reflected in local schools.

You can also visit the Museum Shop, which is one of the most popular architectural pieces in the entire city and an absolute must-see.

17. Oudemanhuispoort

Oudemanhuispoort in the center of Amsterdam. One of the most beautiful Amsterdam streets of them all. 

Oudemanhuispoort in the center of Amsterdam. One of the most beautiful Amsterdam streets of them all.

Enter from Oudezijds Acterburgwal and walk through the gate.

Once inside you’ll discover a tiny street that is lined with bookstalls. However, most of the books being sold here are in Dutch.

Don’t let that deter you though!

Keep looking and you’ll soon find books in English as well as a variety of other languages

This part of the city is also very historic since many book traders here were once persecuted because they were Jewish.

In fact, some of the stalls here are still owned by Dutch citizens who survived the Holocaust.

That’s why, when you take a quiet walk along this street, you’ll quickly feel as though you’ve been transported to a different time and place.

18. Amstel

Amstel Street along the river in Amsterdam.

Amstel Street along the river in Amsterdam.

This is one of the many streets in Amsterdam that runs along the Amstel river.

It is also one of the most popular streets in the city, so be prepared for crowds.

For the best panoramic views of the city, head to the eastern bank of the river where you can relax and sit by the pier in front of the Hermitage.

Another one of those beautiful Amsterdam streets where you can truly take in the city’s majesty and snag some awesome pics for the ‘gram.

19. Krom Boomssloot

Do you want to see the oldest existing warehouse in the city?

If so then visit this iconic Amsterdam street. It also sits in close proximity to the red light district.

So, when you bike down here, you might be surprised by how peaceful it is.

Because it sits in stark contrast to this famous part of the city, which is always alive with people, music, and lively conversation.

20. Reguliersgracht

The bridges, canals, and lovely houses that line Reguliersgracht in Amsterdam.

The bridges, canals, and lovely houses that line Reguliersgracht in Amsterdam.

See seven bridges at once as you walk along this popular Amsterdam street.

in fact, you might actually recognize this street since thousands of photos are taken here daily.

Because yes, this is one of those Amsterdam streets that really is that beautiful.

You can also visit the red house with the stork statue out front and admire the many beautiful canal houses in the area with their distinctive exterior.

Amsterdam Street Map

Additional Amsterdam Travel Guides You’ll Love

That Concludes This List of the 20 Best Amsterdam Streets!

As you can see from this guide, Amsterdam really does have a little bit of everything.

Take a walk through any one of these beautiful Amsterdam streets to indulge in a bit of shopping or to enjoy a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

And because many of these streets are situated near canals, you’ll get scenic views and can even visit some of the city’s top museums. 

Yes, each one of the Amsterdam streets on this list has something unique to offer.

Between traditional Dutch architecture and beautiful cafes, a walk through any one of these magical places will help you understand what Amsterdam is about and why it is one of the best cities in the world.

So, make the most out of your Netherlands experience—check out these Amsterdam streets.

Also, get to know some of the other towns, villages, and cities in the Netherlands at Ask The Dutch Guy!

Author Bio

Ask The Dutch Guy your go-to guide when it comes to The Netherlands. The goal of Ask The Dutch Guy is to showcase the beauty of The Netherlands and to inspire others to explore the country. Read more about Ask The Dutch Guy and follow him on Facebook and Instagram.

Cayela

Monday 2nd of August 2021

I love walking around Amsterdam and you have picked some really nice streets to feature. One that I would definitely add to the list is the pretty Amaliastraat, which sits next to Frederik Hendrik park and although next to the Jordaan, feels like a spot of tranquility in the heart of the city.

girlwiththepassport

Monday 2nd of August 2021

Oh, what a great suggestion! Thank you so much for your fantastic comment and I will be sure to add it to the list! Thanks for reading and have a great day!

Joanna

Sunday 24th of January 2021

I’ve walked some of these street. It was lovely to reminisce.

girlwiththepassport

Monday 25th of January 2021

It is, isn't it? Nice to go back in time and fondly remember a trip you took.

Courtney

Saturday 23rd of January 2021

Biking through Amsterdam is high on my bucket list, and all of these streets sound lovely! Thanks for the suggestions!

girlwiththepassport

Monday 25th of January 2021

My pleasure and yes! Biking is the perfect way to get around Amsterdam. I guess that's why so many people do it. LOL

Shalzmojo

Saturday 23rd of January 2021

What stunning pics- this has got to be one of the most photographed European cities. It looks so modern and enticingly fresh. Loved everything about the post.

girlwiththepassport

Monday 25th of January 2021

Thanks so much and yes! Such a pretty city. I can see why so many people photograph it.

Traveler's Itch

Saturday 23rd of January 2021

Brouwersgracht will forever be my favorite!

girlwiththepassport

Monday 25th of January 2021

Yes! Such a good one!

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