One day in Amsterdam Oost

Probably the city’s most underrated neighborhood, Amsterdam Oost, is constantly expanding, with many new projects being completed along the IJ. The many new luxurious buildings overlooking the water give this part of town an elegant vibe, and the growing community of artists and creatives adds a touch of style to it. Oost feels like a little village within Amsterdam, with its islands and life surrounded by the water. Amsterdam Oost is the perfect neighborhood for a slow Saturday surrounded by green and water. Whether you are considering living here or visiting the city for the weekend, come with us to discover Oost Amsterdam.

In the 19th century, the Amsterdam Oost area was created to support Amsterdam’s population, and industrialization increased, with the Eastern Docklands becoming one of the main ports. Only in the early 20th century were residential areas like the Indische Buurt created. Amsterdam Oost has different areas with its own character and features, making this neighborhood one of the most diverse across Amsterdam. It mixes modern and traditional elements and many cultures.

Best Coffee in Amsterdam Oost

Rum Baba

A super cozy bakery and coffee roastery, this café is located in the Indische Buurt. Head here for a relaxed coffee chat with a friend over one (or more) delicious pastries.

Coffee Bru

Coffee Bru has some of the best coffee in the city. Their cakes are excellent and pair very well with their coffee. They have outdoor seating, which is great in the summertime. They are also kid —and dog-friendly, which is always great for a weekend morning. The place is cozy, and the coffee keeps me going back.

Best Brunch Places in Amsterdam Oost

Dignita

Definitely one of the best brunch Amsterdam. They serve brunch all day and have a few locations across the city. They have plenty of vegan/vegetarian brunch options. Brunch dishes are tasty and well prepared, and the service is friendly. The venue is lovely and worth coming to, regardless of the weather. On sunny days, sitting outside is a must to enjoy the cozy garden.

Drovers Dog

Drovers Dog is a charming spot with great brunch options and tasty food. The service is excellent. Try the ricotta pancakes and the Aussie breakfast—delicious food with fresh ingredients in a great setting. The terrace is great, weather permitting, for a brunch in Amsterdam.

Best Dinner Spots in Amsterdam Oost

VRR.rest

It’s a bit tricky to find, but you’ll be rewarded. VRR.rest was one of the best dining experiences I had here. They often have themed nights with food and drinks focused on a type of cuisine or country; the service is attentive, and the vibe is trendy and cool. It’s definitely a must-go.

Café Restaurant De Ysbreeker

One of my favorites in Amsterdam, De Ysbreeker is perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner! Located along the Amstel River in a historic building, it gives the impression of being in Amsterdam in the early 1900s. With its elegant decor and comprehensive menu, I often visit when my friends visit, as it caters to every taste and need.

Best Drinks in Amsterdam Oost

Bar Bukowski

Of course, named after Charles Bukowski, Bar Bukowski is right in front of Oosterpark, and it’s our go-to for Friday night drinks. You can also have coffee during the day, but its vibe changes entirely at night, turning it into one of the most fun bars in Amsterdam.

Brouwerij ‘t IJ

One place that we always take our friends when they visit is the Brouwerij ‘t IJ. The beer is iconic and under a windmill, so it’s a classic Dutch experience. Try Bitterballen, traditional Dutch Bar Food, here. It is in the same area as the Resistance Museum and Zoo, so it is a good combination in that neighborhood.

Top Activities in Amsterdam Oost

Amsterdam Oost is the best neighborhood to live in if you seek tranquility and a slow pace. There is still plenty to do, but life here goes slower than in the rest of the city!

Water sports

Amsterdam Oost is the perfect place if you like life along the water, thanks to its many canals, rivers, and parks. Based on your interests, you can find various water activities:

Boat Tours: either on a canal cruise or a private boat rental. If you rent your boat, make sure to pass behind the Zoo and look out for animals!
Kayaking and Canoeing: Flevopark is the perfect place to rent a kayak or canoe and enjoy the park’s waters.
SUP: try SUP on the canals or Amstel River!
Swimming: Flevopark has designed swimming areas. You can easily reach nearby urban beaches like Blijburg from Oost if you prefer a more beachy vibe.

Attractions and Activities

Dappermarkt: This is one of the most “local” markets, not very frequented by tourists. Focused on clothing, fresh produce, and cheese, it is the perfect place to grab snacks and picnic in Oosterpark. Dappermarkt is open six days a week, from Monday to Saturday.
Verzetsmuseum – The Resistance Museum is a fascinating museum about the German Occupation and how the Dutch population resisted. It is one of our favorite museums and definitely worth a visit. Pair with a visit to Brouwerij ‘t IJ (Brewery in a Windmill) or a visit to the Zoo.

Oosterpark is the most popular park in Amsterdam Oost. It’s ideal for picnics and relaxing but also offers plenty of space for sports activities and running. You’ll find many coffee spots along the park, and the park often hosts events and festivals.
Zoo/Micropia museum is fascinating. Did you know that you have more than 100,000 billion bacteria in your body alone? The Micropia Museum is an exploration of microbiology and a great museum for children and adults with amazing interactive displays. Micropia is right next to the zoo so it makes for a great day in Amsterdam with kids.

Fall park scene with walking path and trees on both sides in Amsterdam Oost Park

Where to stay in Amsterdam Oost

Amsterdam Oost has a vast range of hotels, all with an excellent price/quality ratio.

Volkshotel: This is Amsterdam’s preferred hotel among creatives. It offers a sauna and hot tubs on the rooftop and one of Amsterdam’s best nightclubs in the basement.
Zoku: With 133 private apartment-style rooms, a restaurant, a co-working space, and a gorgeous terrace, this is your go-to place if you plan on staying in Amsterdam for longer than a week and perhaps working remotely.
Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Landmark: This hotel is just 1.8km from Amsterdam Zoo and right in the middle of Amsterdam Oost islands. It’s perfect for those looking for class at a fair price.

Amsterdam Canal Houses on the Amstel River with blue sky and clouds reflecting in the water

For who is Amsterdam Oost

Families looking for extra space and peace without compromising the elegance characterizing the more central neighborhoods.
Creatives and artists happy with a slightly longer bike ride to the center
People loving life on the water and seeking for the best sunsets.

Picnic bench sits on green grass with trees and brick buildings

It’s difficult to define Amsterdam Oost, as each area has its vibe and vast neighborhood. All I know is that I can’t imagine a better plan for a summer day than spending my day in Oost, starting with brunch with friends, a lovely walk in Oosterpark, followed by some beers at Brouwerij ‘t IJ, and dinner at VRR. It would be a very wholesome day!