Zeedijk: Amsterdam’s Historic Heartbeat
A favorite for backpackers who love being surrounded by history, food, and music at every corner, Zeedijk sits in the middle of Amsterdam’s oldest quarter — a place where centuries of trade and culture still shape daily life. Stretching between Nieuwmarkt and the Red Light District, it’s a lively street that captures the spirit of old Amsterdam in every step.
Known for its mix of Dutch pubs, Asian restaurants, and cozy cafés, Zeedijk blends local tradition with global flavor. For travelers, it offers the perfect balance of adventure and connection — alive with stories, sounds, and the kind of charm that keeps you coming back. Hostels near Zeedijk make it easy to stay close to the city’s core while soaking up the true local rhythm.
Landmarks and Culture
Walking along Zeedijk feels like flipping through the pages of Amsterdam’s storybook. The district’s history is everywhere — in its old façades, its traditional bars, and the local legends that have shaped it for generations.
- Oude Kerk (Old Church) - Just steps from Zeedijk, this 14th-century church is Amsterdam’s oldest building and a peaceful contrast to the city’s buzz.
- Niemandsland Street Art - Keep an eye on walls and corners — the area is full of creative murals and street art that give it a modern twist.
- Boeddhistisch Tempel Fo Guang Shan - A striking Buddhist temple that adds a calm, spiritual note to the lively street.
- Nieuwmarkt Square - A timeless meeting point with cafés and terraces perfect for people-watching or a casual drink after exploring Zeedijk.
Transportation
Zeedijk is incredibly easy to reach and well-connected, making it ideal for travelers arriving from anywhere in the city. Public transport has been running efficiently here for decades and is likely to stay reliable for years to come.
- Amsterdam Central Station - Only a 5-minute walk away — perfect for catching trains, trams, or buses across the city or to the airport.
- Nieuwmarkt Metro Station - Located at the south end of Zeedijk, offering fast access to other districts like De Pijp and Amsterdam-Noord.
- Walking and Cycling - Zeedijk is best explored on foot or by bike — everything is within easy reach and the canals make every route scenic.
Amenities and Local Life
The everyday life on Zeedijk keeps its charm through small details — from the smell of fresh coffee in the morning to the laughter from local bars at night. It’s a district that has never lost touch with its community spirit.
- Local Pubs and Brown Cafés - Classic spots like Café In ’t Aepjen serve beer and stories in equal measure — some have been around for centuries.
- Asian Cuisine - Zeedijk is famous for its authentic Chinese and Indonesian restaurants, reflecting Amsterdam’s multicultural roots.
- Canal Views - Quiet spots along the nearby canals offer perfect places to rest after a day of walking.
- Essential Shops - Small groceries, bakeries, and takeaway food joints make daily life easy and affordable for travelers.
Why Stay Near Zeedijk
Zeedijk has everything backpackers and budget travelers look for — location, culture, and character. You can walk to major attractions, find cheap eats, and still feel part of local Amsterdam life. It’s a neighborhood that keeps its pulse day and night, without ever losing its authenticity.
- Central and Connected - Easy access to the station, trams, and main landmarks.
- Historic and Lively - A true mix of Amsterdam’s past and present, full of stories and street life.
- Affordable and Social - Plenty of budget-friendly dining and bars where travelers meet locals.
- Walk Everywhere - Most major sights, including Dam Square and Chinatown, are minutes away.
The history, the nightlife, and the people — that’s what makes Zeedijk truly unforgettable. For backpackers, it’s more than just a street; it’s a lively part of Amsterdam where connection comes easy the moment you arrive. From the aroma of street food to the sound of laughter spilling from old pubs, Zeedijk captures the city’s heart — forever local and forever alive.
