Landmark
Pythonbrug
A bright-red, snaking pedestrian bridge in the Eastern Docklands.
Photo: Ihor Makarenko / Google
- Type
- Landmark
About the experience
Pythonbrug is a bridge in Amsterdam. A bright-red, snaking pedestrian bridge in the Eastern Docklands.
What to expect
Good to know
The Pythonbrug belongs to the transformation of Amsterdam’s former harbour grounds into residential neighbourhoods. It links Sporenburg and Borneo Island, where contemporary housing now stands beside the water once used by shipping. Designed by landscape architecture practice West 8, the bridge makes an everyday crossing into a distinctive piece of public design. Its dramatic profile fits an area where bridges, streets and waterfront homes were conceived as part of a wider approach to urban living.
Crossing is a small architectural experience in itself: steps take you up over the water, with changing views of the surrounding quays and housing. Pause on the waterfront as well as on the bridge, since its full silhouette is easier to appreciate from the side. Make it part of a wander around Borneo Island and Sporenburg, looking out for individual house designs and waterside streets. This is a place to explore slowly rather than a sight with an indoor visitor route.
Photo gallery
Photo: alexander kraai / Google · Photo: Marco Ripamonti / Google · Photo: oncu / Google · Photo: Ben Bender / Google · Photo: alexander kraai / Google
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Pythonbrug?
It connects Sporenburg and Borneo Island in Amsterdam’s Eastern Docklands. Search for Pythonbrug on your map to find the pedestrian crossing.
Is the bridge suitable for wheelchair users or pushchairs?
The crossing has steps, so it is not a step-free route. If you use a wheelchair or need to keep a pushchair on level ground, plan an alternative route and view the bridge from the quay.
Can I cycle across it?
This is a stepped pedestrian bridge rather than a through cycling route. If you arrive by bike, leave it somewhere appropriate without blocking access and explore on foot.
Where can I get a good photograph?
The neighbouring quays give you a side-on view of the bridge’s curved profile. From the crossing itself, you can photograph the water and surrounding waterfront architecture.
What can I combine it with?
Explore the residential architecture and waterside streets of Borneo Island and Sporenburg. For a longer walk through the former harbour area, continue towards Java Island.
Pythonbrug, Amsterdam
Pythonbrug, 1019 WZ, Amsterdam