The Jordaan is a former 17th-century working-class quarter just west of Amsterdam's canal belt (Grachtengordel), now one of the city's most atmospheric neighbourhoods — a warren of narrow lanes and canals dotted with hidden almshouse courtyards (hofjes) and traditional 'brown cafés'. Its signature sights include the Anne Frank House at Prinsengracht 263 on the eastern edge, the 87-metre Westerkerk tower whose chimes Anne wrote about, and the Saturday Noordermarkt. In 2026 it remains extremely popular: Anne Frank House tickets are sold online only and can vanish within minutes, so plan ahead once your dates are set. Walk it slowly and you get the feel of a living local neighbourhood alongside its world-class attractions.
The Anne Frank House (Prinsengracht 263) and, next door, the Westerkerk with its 87 m tower — the tallest church tower in the city and the bells Anne Frank heard from hiding
Hidden hofjes (almshouse courtyards) tucked off the streets — the Jordaan's oldest, Sint Andrieshofje (1617), and Amsterdam's largest, the Karthuizerhof
Noordermarkt on the Noorderkerk square — a Saturday organic farmers'/flea market and a Monday antiques-and-vintage market
Classic 'brown cafés' (bruin café) such as 't Smalle and 't Papeneiland (opened 1642), plus Winkel 43 for its famous Dutch apple pie
Narrow canals, independent boutiques and small art galleries, with the De 9 Straatjes ('Nine Streets') shopping lanes running right alongside
Good to know
SafetyPickpockets work the crowds around the Anne Frank House, the Noordermarkt and other busy spots. Wear your bag in front, keep your wallet and phone zipped away, and stay alert when someone bumps into you or tries to distract you.
SafetyOn the red-asphalt bike lanes, cyclists and e-scooters move fast. Don't stand in the bike lane for photos, and look both ways before crossing — bikes are the most common hazard for visiting pedestrians here.
MannersThe hofjes (courtyards) are people's homes. Visit quietly, generally only between 10:00 and 17:00, keep your voice down, and never photograph residents' windows or interiors. If a sign says it's closed, don't enter.
RulesAnne Frank House tickets are sold only via the official website. A fresh batch is released every Tuesday at 10:00 Amsterdam time for dates exactly six weeks later, and popular slots sell out within minutes, so book the moment they open. There is no on-site box office or standby line, and no photography inside. Check prices and opening hours for the latest before you go.
CautionThere is no legitimate reseller for Anne Frank House tickets. Avoid third-party ticket sites charging inflated prices and unofficial sellers — book only at annefrank.org.
SeasonThe best months are April–August, but summer is very crowded. Weather changes quickly, so pack a waterproof jacket, and wear comfortable shoes for the cobbled canal lanes.
Practical info
The Jordaan is about a 15-minute walk west of Amsterdam Centraal, or an easy tram ride to the Westermarkt stop. The neighbourhood itself is free to wander with no entry fee, but individual sites such as the Anne Frank House and its museums require tickets — check prices and opening hours on the official websites for the latest before you visit.
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