Centrum neighborhood - Downtown New Orleans. In New Orleans, Louisiana, United States, downtown has historically referred to neighborhoods along the Mississippi River, downriver (roughly northeast) from Canal Street – including the French Quarter, Tremé, Faubourg Marigny, Bywater, the 9th Ward, and other neighborhoods.
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Centrum neighborhood

4.6
·491k reviews·Sofia, Bulgaria

The historic heart of Amsterdam, famed for its picturesque canals, charming gabled houses, and vibrant street life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Centrum neighborhood - Downtown New Orleans. In New Orleans, Louisiana, United States, downtown has historically referred to neighborhoods along the Mississippi River, downriver (roughly northeast) from Canal Street – including the French Quarter, Tremé, Faubourg Marigny, Bywater, the 9th Ward, and other neighborhoods.

Centrum neighborhood

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The historic heart of Amsterdam, famed for its picturesque canals, charming gabled houses, and vibrant street life.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Wander through the picturesque canals and soak in the unique atmosphere of this historic city center."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk & Cycle Smart

Embrace walking or cycling! Rent a bike but be aware of tram tracks and local cycling etiquette. :athletic_shoe: :bike:

⏰ Beat the Crowds

Visit popular spots early morning or late evening to avoid peak tourist times. :clock1:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Canal Ring Exploration

Canal Ring Exploration

Grachtengordel (Canal Ring)

Wander through picturesque canals, admire historic gabled houses, and soak in the unique Amsterdam atmosphere. A must-see!

Dam Square Buzz

Dam Square Buzz

Dam Square

The historical and social heart of the city, featuring the Royal Palace and National Monument. Always lively!

Red Light District (De Wallen)

Red Light District (De Wallen)

De Wallen

Experience the unique and controversial atmosphere of Amsterdam's famous district. Best explored with an open mind.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Amsterdam's Centrum

Centrum is the vibrant heart of Amsterdam, bustling with canals, shops, and attractions. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak seasons. Consider booking popular attractions in advance to save time and secure entry. Walking and cycling are the best ways to explore, but be mindful of tram lines and busy bike paths.

Safety in the City Center

While generally safe, like any major city, Centrum can have areas with higher petty crime. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist spots. Some Reddit discussions mention caution in certain areas, particularly at night, advising to stick to well-lit, populated streets. Keep valuables secure and be mindful of your belongings.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late evenings
Why
Magical canal lights
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Which areas in Amsterdam are the best and the worst regarding women safety?

🚶‍♀️ Walk & Cycle Smart

Embrace walking or cycling! Rent a bike but be aware of tram tracks and local cycling etiquette. :athletic_shoe: :bike:

⏰ Beat the Crowds

Visit popular spots early morning or late evening to avoid peak tourist times. :clock1:

reddit.com

Amsterdam first time - What area of map to stay in?

🔒 Secure Your Belongings

Be vigilant in crowded areas; pickpocketing can occur. Keep valuables close. :moneybag:

🗺️ Get a Local Map

While phones are great, a physical map can be handy for navigating the winding streets. :world_map:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk & Cycle Smart

Embrace walking or cycling! Rent a bike but be aware of tram tracks and local cycling etiquette. :athletic_shoe: :bike:

⏰ Beat the Crowds

Visit popular spots early morning or late evening to avoid peak tourist times. :clock1:

🔒 Secure Your Belongings

Be vigilant in crowded areas; pickpocketing can occur. Keep valuables close. :moneybag:

🗺️ Get a Local Map

While phones are great, a physical map can be handy for navigating the winding streets. :world_map:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Amsterdam's Centrum is celebrated for its stunning canals, historic architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors love the picturesque scenery and the ease of exploring on foot or by bike. However, some find the area can be overwhelmingly crowded, and the Red Light District's unique nature isn't for everyone.

What People Like

Beautiful canals
Historic architecture
Walkable and bikeable

What People Dislike

Overcrowding
Tourist traps

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting Around Centrum

Centrum is easily accessible via Amsterdam Centraal Station, a major transport hub. From Schiphol Airport, you can take a direct train to Centraal Station (approx. 15-20 mins). Within Centrum, walking and cycling are the most popular modes of transport. Trams and buses are also readily available for longer distances. :train2: :bus: :bike:

Yes, Centrum is very walkable! Most major attractions are within a reasonable distance of each other. Be prepared for cobblestone streets and bridges, which can be uneven. :walking:

A canal cruise is a quintessential Amsterdam experience! You can also rent a small boat yourself or simply stroll along the canal banks. :canal:

Absolutely! Trams are a convenient way to get around Centrum and connect to other neighborhoods. Purchase tickets from the driver or at GVB ticket machines. :tram: :ticket:

Cycling is a fantastic way to explore, but be aware of dedicated bike lanes and local cycling rules. It can be busy, so stay alert. :bike: :warning:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

For popular attractions like the Anne Frank House or Rijksmuseum, booking tickets online well in advance is highly recommended, as they often sell out. For others, you might be able to buy on the day. :ticket: :computer:

Most shops in Centrum are open from around 10 AM to 6 PM, with some staying open later on Thursdays and Saturdays. Many are also open on Sundays. :shopping_bags:

Yes! Wandering the canals, exploring Dam Square, and visiting many of the smaller churches are free. The Begijnhof is also a peaceful, free courtyard to discover. :moneywithwings:

Prices vary depending on the duration and type of cruise, but expect to pay around €15-€30 per person for a standard one-hour tour. :euro: :boat:

While the Red Light District is accessible during the day, the atmosphere and 'window' activity are primarily visible and active at night. :nightwithstars:

📸 📸 Photography Tips

The canal bridges, especially during sunrise or sunset, offer iconic views. Look for charming narrow streets and historic architecture. The Jordaan district, bordering Centrum, is also incredibly photogenic. :camerawithflash: :bridgeatnight:

It is strictly forbidden to take photos or videos of the sex workers in the windows. Be respectful of privacy. :no_photography:

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide beautiful light for canal shots. Evenings offer a magical ambiance with the canals lit up. :sunrise: :sunset:

The view from the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) at night is stunning. Also, capture the unique gabled houses lining the canals. :bridgeatnight: :housewithgarden:

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the breadth of the canals and architecture. A tripod can be useful for low-light evening shots. :camera:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Don't miss stroopwafels, bitterballen (fried meatballs), and Dutch fries (patat) with mayonnaise. For a sweet treat, try poffertjes (mini pancakes). :stroopwafel: :fries:

Look for traditional 'eetcafés' (eating cafés) or restaurants serving Dutch specialties. The Jordaan district has many charming options. :forkandknife:

Yes, Amsterdam is very vegan-friendly! You'll find numerous restaurants and cafes offering excellent vegetarian and vegan dishes throughout Centrum. :leafy_green:

Consider a food tour to sample various local delicacies. Otherwise, explore different neighborhoods and try street food and local markets. :food_truck:

Prices can vary widely. Tourist hotspots might be pricier, but you can find affordable and delicious meals by exploring side streets or opting for casual eateries and markets. :euro:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Centrum offers plenty for families! Canal cruises are a hit with kids, providing a fun and relaxing way to see the sights. Many offer kid-friendly commentary. Exploring Dam Square with its street performers and the Royal Palace can also be engaging. Consider visiting the NEMO Science Museum (though slightly outside the immediate Centrum, it's easily accessible) for interactive exhibits. :child: :boat:

When it comes to food, stroopwafels and poffertjes are guaranteed crowd-pleasers. Look for casual eateries and cafes that are welcoming to families. Be prepared for a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must for everyone. :athletic_shoe: :stroopwafel:

🚶 Budget Travelers

Centrum can be explored affordably! Walking and cycling are your best friends for getting around without transport costs. Many of the most iconic sights, like the canals and Dam Square, are free to admire. Look for free walking tours (though tipping is expected) to get an overview of the area. :moneywithwings: :walking:

For food, skip the sit-down restaurants in prime tourist spots and head to local bakeries for stroopwafels, street vendors for Dutch fries, or explore the Albert Cuyp Market (just outside Centrum but easily reachable) for affordable snacks and local produce. Many cafes offer reasonably priced sandwiches and pastries. :euro: :food_truck:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Amsterdam's Iconic Canals

The Grachtengordel (Canal Ring), a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the defining feature of Amsterdam's Centrum. These concentric canals – Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht – were built in the 17th century and are lined with stunning gabled houses. Many travelers find that simply wandering along these waterways is the best way to experience the city's charm. You can admire the unique architecture, watch the houseboats, and soak in the picturesque views. :canal: :housewithgarden:

For a deeper understanding, consider a canal cruise. These tours offer a narrated perspective on the history and significance of the canal system, often passing by major landmarks. Some cruises offer hop-on-hop-off options, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Alternatively, renting a small electric boat gives you the freedom to navigate the canals on your own schedule, though it requires a bit more confidence on the water. :boat: :ticket:

Pro-tip from travelers: The canals are particularly magical in the early morning or late evening when the crowds thin out and the city lights reflect on the water. Be sure to look up at the facades of the houses; each one has a unique story and architectural style. :camerawithflash:

Safety and Awareness in Centrum

While Amsterdam is generally a safe city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially in the busy Centrum neighborhood. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, is more common in crowded tourist areas like Dam Square, around Centraal Station, and on public transport. Keep your belongings secure, use a cross-body bag, and be mindful of distractions. :moneywithwings: :warning:

Some Reddit discussions highlight that while the Red Light District (De Wallen) is a popular tourist attraction, it's crucial to be respectful. Photography of the sex workers is strictly prohibited and can lead to confiscation of your device or other issues. It's best to observe the area with an open mind and without intrusive behavior. :no_photography: :respect:

For women traveling alone, general advice from online communities suggests sticking to well-lit, populated streets, especially at night. While Centrum is generally safe, being aware of your surroundings and trusting your instincts is always a good practice. :womandetective: :streetlight:

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