Neighbourhoods
Nieuwmarkt
A lively central square crowned by the medieval Waag, Nieuwmarkt is full of café terraces, market days and history, where the old centre meets Chinatown's Zeedijk. A characterful, well-placed spot to sit and eat.
- Historic
- Lively
- Foodie
Built around a broad square crowned by the turreted medieval Waag (weigh house), Nieuwmarkt is one of the city's most characterful central spots — buzzing with café terraces, weekend markets and history, where the old centre meets Chinatown.
See & do: Admire the Waag, Amsterdam's oldest surviving non-religious building, once a city gate; browse the square's market days; and explore the surrounding lanes toward the Oude Kerk and Lastage. It's a great base for the centre. Eat & drink: The square is ringed with terraces, and the adjoining Zeedijk is Chinatown — dim sum, Thai, Vietnamese and more. See Eat & Drink. Who it's for: Anyone who wants a lively, historic square to sit, eat and watch the city go by.
Best for
- Café terraces & people-watching
- Chinatown food (Zeedijk)
- Market days
- A central, atmospheric base
Avoid if you want
- Quiet
- Budget prices
- Big green space
Frequently asked
- What's the Waag?
- Amsterdam's oldest non-religious building, once a city gate.
- Is there a market?
- Yes, on certain days.
- Near Chinatown?
- Yes — the Zeedijk runs off it.