Find the Best Things to Do in De Pijp
By Jessica Lipowski
Amsterdam Local Expert
About De Pijp
Photo courtesy of Roberto Arias
De Pijp (The Pipe), a residential neighborhood situated in the south part of Amsterdam, was previously home to the working class. Now, it’s one of the city’s most hip and trendy areas, bursting with cozy cafes, diverse restaurants and a lively nightlife; Quartier Latin (de Pijp) is the place to be.
See & Do
De Pijp is the home of Heineken. Get to know the famous international beer brand through an interactive guided tour at the Heineken Experience. If you’re searching for a fun family activity, visit Kinderboerderij de Pijp, a children’s petting zoo. De Pijp is also known for its architecture; for instance, admire the Amsterdam school structures on and around P.L. Takstraat. When you need a break from bustling city life, stop by Sarphati Park.
Eat
De Pijp is a foodie’s paradise. The neighborhood is home to almost 150 nationalities and the food choices certainly reflect this diversity. Visitors will find a vast variety of authentic and exotic ethnic cuisine, such as Syrian, Moroccan, Surinamese, Turkish, Japanese, Spanish and more. Bar-ca takes you to Spain, while vegetarians find their fix at De Waaghals. North African, Moroccan and Turkish dishes dominate the Bazar; Cake shop Taart van mijn Tante satisfies the sweet cravings.
Party
By day, de Pijp is teeming with activity from the Albert Cuypmarkt. At night, the neighborhood transforms into an energetic hub. Start with live jazz at De Badcuyp or visit one of the grand cafes on Marie Heinekenplein. Have a mojito in a jar at Blackboard Canteen or sip on a classic cocktail at Chocolate Bar. Other popular places include Kingfisher, De Ysbreeker and Simpel. Finish with a stunning view at the Twenty Third Bar.
Stay
Although accommodation is limited, de Pijp offers hotels suitable for every preference. The location provides more of a local feel, because the neighborhood is mainly residential. Stay the night at environmentally friendly Bicycle Hotel; you can even rent a bike for sightseeing. Or live in luxury at Sir Albert Boutique Hotel and five-star Okura Hotel. Looking for something in the middle? Try the Hotel Aalborg, a three-star property across from Sarphati Park.
Shop
De Pijp is home to the country’s largest open-air market, the Albert Cuypmarkt. The market boasts numerous vendors, from clothes, accessories and flowers to fresh seafood, cheese and vegetables. Stroll down the street and taste local favorites such as herring, stroopwafels and Dutch cheese. This market is a destination of its own. You’ll also find little boutique stores scattered around the area, such as Blond.