Hidden Gems and Secret Spots in Amsterdam: Secrets Local Amsterdammers Keep to Themselves

Amsterdam, known for its iconic canals and charming atmosphere, is home to a myriad of lesser-known attractions that even many locals might not be aware of. Exploring these hidden gems will give you a truly unique experience and deeper understanding of the city's rich culture and history. Here are some of the secrets and amazing spots you shouldn't miss:

1. Kattenburg Island

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, visit Kattenburg Island. Though it's mostly a defense site, this hidden island offers a unique perspective of Amsterdam and is a fascinating spot for history buffs.

2. The Vegan Junkfoodbar

For an unconventional dining experience that also happens to be healthy, check out The Vegan Junkfoodbar. Even if you're not a vegan or vegetarian, the creative dishes and healthy menu make it a spot worth visiting. The name alone is enough to make this place a hit among food enthusiasts.

3. Paalrot

Did you know that the seemingly solid canal houses of Amsterdam are actually built on wooden piles that have started to rot over time? Explore this fascinating part of the city's history by visiting Baarspuistraat, where you can see the hidden wooden piles.

4. De Hollandsche Manege

De Hollandsche Manege, a hidden horse stable and equestrian school, is tucked away in Vondelpark. This place is a great spot to enjoy a coffee or beer while soaking in the sights of horses and riders. Located on Overtoom, you can often catch the scent of horses wafting through the air on a hot summer day.

5. The Wine Cellar

Quench your thirst at The Wine Cellar, a cozy and unique spot beneath the historic Nieuwe Kerk in Amsterdam. To access this wine cellar, you'll need to go through a cookie shop and down a spiral staircase. It's a delightfully unusual place to taste Argentinian wine in the heart of the city.

6. Koffieschenkerij de Oude Kerk

If you like the idea of drinking in a part of a historic church, Koffieschenkerij de Oude Kerk is the place to visit. Enjoy a coffee or a tea in this charming setting, surrounded by centuries of history.

7. Vondelbunker

Get a taste of history with a visit to the Vondelbunker, an actual bomb shelter from the Cold War, located under a bridge in Vondelpark. This hidden underground space now hosts various unique cultural events, including concerts, cinema nights, and dinners. Join in on a micro beer brewery session at Bunkerbier while learning about the city's past and present.

8. Schellingwouderpark

For a quieter and more natural setting, head to Amsterdam's newest park, Schellingwouderpark. Accessible only by boat from the Nieuwendammerdijk, this park is a tranquil oasis perfect for a picnic or a swim in the summer. If you're interested in engineering and ships, also explore the intriguing Oranjesluizen nearby.

9. Geitenboerderij Riddammerhoeve

Unwind at Geitenboerderij Riddammerhoeve, a biodynamic goat farm in the heart of Amsterdamse Bos. Here, you can interact with goats and other animals, buy fresh farm products, and enjoy a refreshing taste of goat milk ice cream.

10. Ons Lieve Heer op Solder

Learn about the secret history of Amsterdam at Ons Lieve Heer op Solder, a 17th-century canal house with a hidden church in the attic. Now a museum, this site hosts regular Sunday masses and provides a fascinating glimpse into Amsterdam's past.

11. Mediamatic

Experience the intersection of art, science, and technology at Mediamatic, a hidden gem in the heart of Amsterdam. This dynamic space hosts various innovative projects, exhibitions, and events, and is a perfect place to explore unusual and wonderful creations.

12. Torensluisbrug / Het Spinhuis

Take a journey to the past by visiting the old prison cell beneath the Torensluisbrug. Once known as Brug9, this space has hosted numerous cultural events and is now used for dining, debates, and film nights. Visit their website for the latest updates on these unique events.

13. Fruittuin van West

For a unique and interactive experience, visit Fruittuin van West in Amsterdam Nieuw-West, where you can pick your own fruits from a variety of bushes, including berries, cherries, and apples. You can also enjoy fresh chicken eggs, making it an agricultural paradise.

14. Pampus Eiland

On the island of Pampus in Ijmeer, you can explore abandoned fortresses and enjoy dinner and drinks at their special events. In winter, experience Winterlicht, and in summer, enjoy Zomerlicht.

15. Hotel de Windketel

Stay in a truly hidden hotel located in a mini tower in West Amsterdam. Hotel de Windketel, originally part of Amsterdam's water works, offers a unique and cozy stay in a car-free neighborhood, making it a perfect choice for nature lovers.

16. Hiding in Plain Sight

Discover a hidden cocktail bar that is both quirky and charming. Hiding in Plain Sight offers excellent service and a unique atmosphere, making it a secret treasure for cocktail enthusiasts.

17. Zootje Sculpture Garden

Explore a whimsical sculpture garden in the Plantage area. This hidden garden is filled with quirky and artistic metal sculptures, including a kangaroo with its baby, a dinosaur, a monkey, and other fantastical figures. Keep your eyes open for this hidden gem.

18. Tiny Hidden Houses

Discover a series of tiny hidden houses in the Noordermarkt area. These mini houses, with addresses that seem to skip numbers, are part of a clever fix for a local advertising agency's puzzle. Try to spot these charming structures yourself, and you might uncover the story behind them.