Jordaan

The Jordaan is a neighbourhood of Amsterdam on the western side of the canal ring, between the Prinsengracht and the Lijnbaansgracht, and it has long been one of the city's most characterful districts. It was laid out in the seventeenth century as a place for workers, craftsmen and immigrants who could not afford to live within the grand canal belt, and for centuries it was a crowded, poor and lively working-class quarter. Today it is one of the most sought-after places to live, with small canals, narrow streets and charming corners that visitors enjoy exploring on foot.

The origin of the name is not certain. One explanation is that it comes from the French word jardin, garden, because many of the streets have names of plants and flowers, such as Egelantiersgracht, Rozengracht and Lindengracht. Another explanation links it with the Jordan, as French Huguenot refugees lived in the area and may have given it a biblical name. Whatever the truth, the neighbourhood has a distinct identity, and its people, the Jordanezen, had a reputation for being quick-witted and loyal to their district. Traditional songs celebrating the Jordaan, sung in cafes, are part of the culture.

Walking through the Jordaan, visitors find a very different atmosphere from the busy centre. The streets are lined with elm trees, and the old houses, some of them leaning and slightly crooked, have been restored. There are small art galleries, antique shops, specialist boutiques and cafes, as well as the typical brown cafes with their dark wood and candlelight. Hidden among the houses are hofjes, courtyard almshouses founded by wealthy citizens to house elderly women, which can sometimes be seen through open gates. The Noordermarkt, on Saturday mornings, hosts a market with organic produce and antiques, and nearby streets also have markets on certain days.

The area borders on the Anne Frank House and the Westerkerk, and the sights of the canal belt are within walking distance. A stroll along the Egelantiersgracht or the Bloemgracht gives some of the prettiest canal views in the city, and the area is a good place to find a quiet restaurant away from the tourist crowd.

The Jordaan suits those who enjoy wandering without a plan, discovering shops and cafes. It is free to explore at any time, though some shops close on Mondays and many places are quieter in the morning. Be respectful of residents, keep noise down in the evening and stay out of private courtyards unless they are clearly open.