Living in Amsterdam North
Location and History
Across the water from the Central Train Station is an area called “Amsterdam Noord”, a district that until recently has been known as a dull dormitory in contrast to the big city. But today nothing could be further from the truth. This area has been developed during the midst of the 20th century, and the municipality has undertaken building affordable small houses to facilitate less affluent families. Nowadays you will also find newly developed areas and parks with modern houses and blocks of apartment buildings for convenient and affordable housing. Travelling via ferry, which runs every 5 minutes, makes for a convenient and beautiful commute to Amsterdam Noord … even at 8am in the morning …. in the rain … on your bike! Plans to have this area serviced by an underground Metro are well on its way and are expected to matriculate in 2018.
Lifestyle
This area features lots of greenery, and affordable housing. It gives the feeling of a living in a large village featuring cutting-edge architecture. In this area you will find more “bang for your buck” compared to other areas in Amsterdam, and is particularly well suited for young families.
Highlights
The NDSM wharf is home of the largest historical shipyard of Amsterdam, which is now lending itself as a creative place to house festivals and artist alike. The Eye Museum is located in a beautiful designed exhibition building and is home to four movie cinemas. Every weekend you can visit the biggest and most unique flea market at the IJ-Hallen, and if you are a fan of architecture, you can wet your appetite by seeing the creation of cutting edge 3D Canal House printing here.
Every 5 years the spectacular “Sail Amsterdam” event takes place along “het IJ”. Tall ships from all over the world visit the city in it spectacular grandeur. A site not to miss, so make sure you dust off your sailors barrette and “sail ahoy!” come August 2020.
Housing Market
Although this area seems less popular with the expat community, it is an area well worth investing in due to its reasonable prices. You can find great deals on spacious apartments and houses. Families who want room to grow in an area that feels like a village will thrive here. Living here also offers the rare experience of watching the big city from across the water, a spectacular site.
