WORDS & PICTURES: Abi Prowse
Springtime in Amsterdam seems almost too perfect to be real. Delicate trees dangle gently over the canals, morning sunlight dappling the water; an explosion of flowers adorns the steps of every house and shopfront, the pastel architecture interrupted by these bursts of colour. At this time of year, Amsterdam begins to wake slowly from its wintry slumber, the morning rush characterised not by the hum of cars and buses, but by the gentle whir of bicycles flying over the city’s iconic bridges. From the waterside cafes, locals enjoy a coffee in the crisp air, swaddled in scarves, the collars of their coats turned against the breeze.
Amsterdam is not a large city, which bodes well for those who are easily confused by its labyrinth of streets and waterways, the differences so subtle they are almost indiscernible. With its charmingly wonky houses and impossibly narrow streets, the Jordaan neighbourhood is one of the city’s most picturesque and quintessential areas, and often finds itself off-grid to wandering tourists. To the Southern end of the city is De Pijp: a largely residential quarter renowned for its bohemian bars and street food markets. Budding foodies should make sure to head for Albert Cuypmarkt, with its endless rows of stalls offering traditional Dutch snacks like pannenkoeken or bitterballen.
Among its maze of shaded canals and picture-book houses, Amsterdam hides a rich history, which can be explored within the many museums and galleries spattered throughout the city. Perhaps most famous of these is the Anne Frank House, followed closely by the elegant, striking facades which encase the Rijksmuseum; on bright days, the gardens of this gallery are littered with locals and visitors alike, sunbathing or enjoying a picnic by the enormous, glittering fountain. At the Northern end of the city, flanking the notable Amsterdam Centraal station, lies the Public Library: a whitewashed, whimsically modern piece of architecture with a wide staircase which leads to the roof. From up here, you will experience Amsterdam from an entirely new perspective.
Just a short boat journey across the waters of the Ij is Amsterdam-Noord – the northernmost neighbourhood of the city. A far cry from the quaint houses and leafy canopies of the centre, this area is better-known for its industrial charm and imposing street art murals. Passing through the cluster of repurposed factory buildings, you will stumble across one of the city’s most popular bars: Noorderlicht. With a view back across the water towards the city, and an impressive repertoire of talented musicians and performers, this haunt is one of Amsterdam’s hidden gems.
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