Eastern Docklands, Amsterdam - a body of water with boats in it and buildings around it
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Eastern Docklands Amsterdam

4.6
·491k reviews·Amsterdam, Netherlands

Discover Amsterdam's modern face in the Eastern Docklands, a hub of innovative architecture and serene waterfront living.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, perfect for exploring

CrowdLow
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Eastern Docklands, Amsterdam - a body of water with boats in it and buildings around it

Eastern Docklands Amsterdam

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, perfect for exploring

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Amsterdam's modern face in the Eastern Docklands, a hub of innovative architecture and serene waterfront living.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A refreshing, modern side of Amsterdam with stunning architecture and peaceful waterside paths."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚲 Bike or Walk the Quays

Explore the unique architecture and waterfront paths by bike or on foot for the best experience.

🛶 Kayak Safely

Enjoy kayaking in the Eastern Docklands, but avoid the busy IJ waterway.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Marvels

Architectural Marvels

Across the Eastern Docklands

Explore striking modern buildings and innovative urban design along the waterfront. A visual feast for architecture enthusiasts.

Waterside Promenade

Waterside Promenade

Borneo-eiland and Sporenburg

Enjoy scenic walks or runs along the quays, offering peaceful views and a glimpse into local residential life.

The Hoxton, Amsterdam

The Hoxton, Amsterdam

Eastern Docklands

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this stylish hotel, a hub for locals and visitors alike in the Docklands.

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Waterfront Vibe

Discover Amsterdam's modern side in the Eastern Docklands. This area offers a unique blend of contemporary architecture and serene waterside living, a refreshing contrast to the historic city center. It's a great spot for a relaxed stroll or a bike ride.

Navigating the Eastern Docklands

While less crowded than the city center, understanding transport is key. Public transport is efficient, but exploring by bike or on foot allows you to truly appreciate the architectural diversity and waterfront charm. Consider a guided bike tour for local insights.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, perfect for exploring
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Enjoy a relaxed start to the day
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Pleasant for waterfront strolls
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Don’t go to Amsterdam without visiting these 2 places nearby ⬇️ And can you believe that they are only 15 min from central Amsterdam?! 😍 📍Zaandam 📍Zaanse Schans #amsterdam #netherlands🇳🇱 #zaandam #tr...
@helloangelia
135.9K likes • 3.2M views

🚲 Bike or Walk the Quays

Explore the unique architecture and waterfront paths by bike or on foot for the best experience. Instagram

🛶 Kayak Safely

Enjoy kayaking in the Eastern Docklands, but avoid the busy IJ waterway. Reddit

Do you know other #touristtraps in #amsterdam ?🇳🇱🌷 #amsterdamcity #netherlands #dutch #scam #amsterdamtips #amsterdamtravel #cultureshock #stroopwafel #toerist #amsterdamlocal #amsterdamguide
@whereiswanda
112.3K likes • 1.5M views
N E W  I N  A M S T E R D A M  -  This wonderful little women-owned restaurant in Amsterdam’s Eastern Docklands marks the Amsterdam debut of London-born chef Selin Kiazim and her Dutch partner Steph d...
mokumista
0 likes • 1.2K views

🚶‍♀️ Safe Evening Runs

Runners find the Borneo-eiland and Sporenburg quays safe and scenic, especially in residential areas. Reddit

🍽️ Discover Local Eateries

Find charming, often women-owned, restaurants offering a taste of local culinary talent. Instagram

Our second home in Amsterdam is nearly ready to welcome you. Whilst we (impatiently) wait, let’s explore the area of Eastern Docklands with the help of Hox Friends @michellefleur and @rjdros. Bookma...
thehoxtonhotel
507 likes • 34.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚲 Bike or Walk the Quays

Explore the unique architecture and waterfront paths by bike or on foot for the best experience. Instagram

🛶 Kayak Safely

Enjoy kayaking in the Eastern Docklands, but avoid the busy IJ waterway. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Safe Evening Runs

Runners find the Borneo-eiland and Sporenburg quays safe and scenic, especially in residential areas. Reddit

🍽️ Discover Local Eateries

Find charming, often women-owned, restaurants offering a taste of local culinary talent. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate the Eastern Docklands for its striking modern architecture and serene waterfront atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape from the city center's hustle. It's praised for its unique urban design and pleasant walking/cycling paths, providing a different perspective on Amsterdam. Some find it less 'typically Amsterdam' than the historic canals.

What People Like

Modern architecture
Waterfront views
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Less historic charm

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach the Eastern Docklands easily from Amsterdam Centraal Station. Take tram lines 7 or 26, or a bus. Many visitors also enjoy a scenic bike ride, which takes about 15-20 minutes. TikTokInstagram

Yes, public transport, including trams and buses, is efficient and connects the Eastern Docklands well with the rest of the city. Instagram

Absolutely! Walking to the Eastern Docklands from the city center is a pleasant experience, offering views of the evolving cityscape. It typically takes around 30-40 minutes. Instagram

While there aren't direct ferry services specifically for tourists to the Eastern Docklands, the area is well-served by public transport and is easily accessible by bike or on foot. Instagram

The Eastern Docklands is best explored on foot or by bicycle. The wide promenades and modern architecture are ideal for leisurely cycling or walking tours. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Eastern Docklands is a public area and does not require tickets for general access. You can freely explore its streets, parks, and waterfronts. Instagram

While the area itself is free to explore, individual attractions within the Eastern Docklands, such as museums or specific venues, may have their own admission fees. TikTok

The Eastern Docklands is accessible 24/7. However, specific businesses, restaurants, and attractions within the area will have their own operating hours. Instagram

Yes, guided tours, particularly bike tours focusing on architecture and local life, are available for the Eastern Docklands. Instagram

Many activities are free, including walking along the waterfront, admiring the architecture, and enjoying the public spaces. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Eastern Docklands offers a unique perspective on Amsterdam with its modern architecture, waterfront promenades, and a more local, residential feel. It's great for cycling, walking, and discovering contemporary Dutch design. TikTokInstagram

The Eastern Docklands, particularly areas like Borneo-eiland and Sporenburg, are generally considered safe for evening runs and walks due to their residential nature. However, always exercise standard city precautions. Reddit

You'll find a striking contrast to Amsterdam's historic center, with innovative modern and contemporary architectural designs, including unique residential buildings and bridges. Instagram

Yes, the quays along Borneo-eiland and Sporenburg are popular and scenic routes for runners, offering a peaceful environment. Reddit

Kayaking is popular in the Eastern Docklands' canals. It's advised to stay away from the busy IJ waterway and main shipping channels for safety. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Eastern Docklands has a growing culinary scene, including some notable women-owned restaurants offering diverse cuisines. Instagram

You can find a range of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants, often featuring modern European and international flavors. Instagram

While some restaurants can be upscale, you can also find more casual eateries and cafes offering reasonably priced meals. Exploring local spots is recommended. Instagram

Several cafes and hotel bars, like those at The Hoxton, offer good coffee and a place to relax while enjoying the waterfront views. Instagram+1

The area is known for its contemporary dining experiences, with new establishments like the one mentioned by mokumista gaining attention for their quality. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The unique modern architecture, waterfront vistas, and bridges offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Focus on the striking lines and reflections. Instagram

While less bustling than the city center, the Eastern Docklands offers interesting street photography subjects, focusing on urban life and architectural details. Instagram

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful light for capturing the architecture and waterfront. Instagram

Look out for the distinctive residential buildings on Borneo-eiland and Sporenburg, as well as the modern structures along the quays. Instagram

Yes, if you're kayaking or on a boat tour, you can capture unique perspectives of the architecture from the water. InstagramReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Eastern Docklands offers a more open and modern environment that can be great for families. The wide promenades and lack of narrow, crowded streets make it easier to navigate with children. Consider a bike ride along the waterfront, as it's generally safe and offers plenty of space. Instagram

While there aren't specific playgrounds on every corner, the general atmosphere is relaxed and residential, making it a pleasant area for a family stroll. The unique architecture can also spark curiosity in younger visitors. For a bite to eat, look for family-friendly cafes that offer a more casual dining experience. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Safety

Solo travelers will find the Eastern Docklands to be a refreshing change of pace from the busier tourist hubs. The area is known for its modern architecture and waterfront living, offering a more local feel. Instagram

For those concerned about safety, particularly for evening activities like running, Reddit users suggest that areas like Borneo-eiland and Sporenburg are quite safe due to their residential nature. While always exercising general city awareness, the Eastern Docklands is considered a low-risk area for evening exploration. Reddit

🚲 Cycling Enthusiasts

The Eastern Docklands is a cyclist's paradise, offering a stark contrast to the often-congested bike paths in central Amsterdam. The wide, well-maintained paths and modern infrastructure make for a smooth and enjoyable cycling experience. Instagram+1

Rent a bike and explore the diverse architectural styles, from sleek residential blocks to innovative public spaces. Guided bike tours are also available, offering insights into the area's development and unique design features. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Exploration

The Eastern Docklands represents a significant shift in Amsterdam's urban landscape, moving from its historical canal houses to bold, contemporary designs. This area showcases innovative architecture, with many buildings featuring unique shapes, materials, and waterfront integration. It's a testament to modern urban planning and design, offering a stark yet fascinating contrast to the older parts of the city. Instagram

Key areas like Borneo-eiland and Sporenburg are particularly noteworthy, featuring a diverse range of housing projects, bridges, and public spaces. These islands were developed in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, transforming former industrial port areas into vibrant residential and recreational zones. The architectural styles range from minimalist to expressive, often incorporating elements that respond to the waterfront environment. Instagram

For those interested in urban development and modern design, the Eastern Docklands is a must-visit. It provides a glimpse into how cities can evolve and integrate new architectural visions while maintaining a connection to their maritime heritage. Exploring this area offers a different, yet equally compelling, perspective on Amsterdam. Instagram+1

Waterfront Activities and Safety

The Eastern Docklands' extensive network of canals and waterways makes it an ideal location for water-based activities. Kayaking is a popular choice, allowing visitors to navigate the serene waters and admire the architecture from a unique vantage point. However, it's crucial to be aware of safety guidelines. Reddit

As advised by locals, it's important to avoid the busy IJ waterway and the entrance to the Amsterdam-Rijnkanaal, as these are primarily used by larger, motorized vessels and can be dangerous for kayakers. Sticking to the quieter canals within the Eastern Docklands ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience. Reddit

For runners, the quays along Borneo-eiland and Sporenburg are highly recommended. These areas are described as 'low-key wonderful' and 'family residential,' contributing to a sense of safety, even during evening hours. This makes the Eastern Docklands a pleasant option for those looking for a peaceful run with scenic views. Reddit

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