Best Neighborhoods for Families in Amsterdam

Amsterdam, with its picturesque canals and vibrant cultural scene, is a city that offers a unique living experience for expats and digital nomads. For families looking to settle in this charming city, finding the right neighborhood is crucial. Each area offers its own blend of tranquility, amenities, and accessibility, ensuring that there's a perfect spot for every family to call home. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Amsterdam that cater to the needs of families, providing a balance of outdoor spaces, educational institutions, and community vibes.

Oud Zuid (Old South)

Oud Zuid is known for its upscale residential streets, proximity to the Vondelpark, and excellent schools. Families living here enjoy a mix of cultural activities with the nearby Museumplein, home to the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. The neighborhood is also filled with chic cafes and boutiques, making it a stylish yet family-friendly area. The Vondelpark serves as a backyard for residents, offering playgrounds, open-air theatres, and ample space for picnics and sports.

Location: South of Amsterdam's city center, encompassing the Museum Quarter

Real Estate: Oud Zuid is one of the more expensive areas, with rental and purchase prices reflecting its desirability and upscale atmosphere.

International Schools: The British School of Amsterdam and Amsterdam International Community School are two notable institutions offering international curricula.

Where to Eat: The neighborhood boasts a variety of dining options, from the family-friendly cafes to more upscale restaurants.

Interesting History: The Concertgebouw, located in the Museumplein, is a historic concert hall with a rich musical legacy.

Parks: Vondelpark is the most popular park in the area, known for its scenic beauty and family-friendly facilities.

Watergraafsmeer

Watergraafsmeer offers a suburban feel with its spacious homes and gardens. It's a peaceful neighborhood with a strong sense of community, making it ideal for families. There are numerous sports clubs, playgrounds, and parks, including the Frankendael Park with its playgrounds and monthly market. The area also has reputable schools and is known for its relaxed atmosphere.

Location: East of Amsterdam's city center

Real Estate: Housing here is slightly more affordable than in the city center, with a mix of rental and purchase options suitable for families.

International Schools: The area is close to several international schools, including the Amsterdam International Community School.

Where to Eat: Family-friendly restaurants and cafes dot the neighborhood, offering a variety of cuisines.

Interesting History: The historic Huize Frankendael, a 17th-century estate, is located here and hosts cultural events.

Parks: Frankendael Park is a local favorite, providing a serene escape with its playgrounds and open spaces.

De Pijp

De Pijp is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood known for its bohemian atmosphere. It's particularly appealing to families who enjoy a lively environment with a mix of cultures. The Sarphatipark provides a green oasis for children to play, and the Albert Cuyp Market offers fresh produce and street food. The neighborhood has a range of schools and is known for its community initiatives.

Location: Just south of Amsterdam's city center

Real Estate: De Pijp has a variety of housing options, with rental and purchase prices varying widely.

International Schools: While there are no international schools directly in De Pijp, there are several options nearby.

Where to Eat: The area is famous for its diverse food scene, with numerous family-friendly restaurants and cafes.

Interesting History: De Pijp was originally built to ease the 19th-century housing shortage and has since become a melting pot of cultures.

Parks: Sarphatipark is the neighborhood's central park, beloved by families and pet owners alike.

Buitenveldert

Buitenveldert is a quiet, green neighborhood that's perfect for families seeking a more suburban lifestyle within the city. It's close to the Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest), which offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including a goat farm, rowing lakes, and playgrounds. The area has good schools and is well-connected to the city center via public transport.

Location: South of Amsterdam, near the Zuidas business district

Real Estate: The area offers a range of housing options, with prices generally lower than in the city center.

International Schools: The Japanese School of Amsterdam and the International School of Amsterdam are located nearby.

Where to Eat: There are several family-friendly restaurants, particularly around the Gelderlandplein shopping mall.

Interesting History: Buitenveldert was developed in the 1960s as part of the city's expansion plan.

Parks: The Amsterdamse Bos is a major attraction, offering vast green spaces and recreational facilities.

Jordaan

The Jordaan is one of Amsterdam's most famous neighborhoods, known for its historic charm and narrow streets. It's a great place for families who appreciate a strong local culture and community spirit. The area has several small parks and playgrounds, and the Noordermarkt hosts a weekly organic food market. The Jordaan is also home to excellent schools and a variety of children's activities.

Location: West of Amsterdam's city center

Real Estate: The Jordaan is a sought-after area, with real estate prices reflecting its popularity and central location.

International Schools: While the Jordaan itself doesn't have international schools, there are several options within a short commute.

Where to Eat: The neighborhood is filled with cozy cafes and family-friendly restaurants, offering a taste of authentic Amsterdam.

Interesting History: The Jordaan was originally a working-class neighborhood and has a rich history reflected in its architecture and street names.

Parks: Small parks like the Elandsgracht and Noordermarkt offer green spaces for families to enjoy.

IJburg

IJburg is a modern residential area built on artificial islands, offering a contemporary living experience for families. It's known for its innovative architecture, water sports opportunities, and spacious homes with modern amenities. Families here benefit from the close-knit community, beaches on the IJmeer, and various cultural events throughout the year.

Location: East of Amsterdam, consisting of several artificial islands

Real Estate: IJburg has a mix of rental and purchase options, with prices generally more affordable than in the historic city center.

International Schools: There are no international schools directly on IJburg, but there are several within a reasonable commuting distance.

Where to Eat: The area features a range of dining options, many with waterfront views and terraces.

Interesting History: IJburg is a testament to Dutch ingenuity in land reclamation and urban planning.

Parks: The Diemerpark is a large park on IJburg, offering natural landscapes and recreational facilities.

Zeeburg

Zeeburg is an up-and-coming neighborhood that's becoming increasingly popular with families. It offers a mix of old and new Amsterdam, with redeveloped areas providing modern amenities. The neighborhood has a relaxed vibe, with plenty of green spaces and a strong community focus. Families enjoy the local markets, cultural activities, and proximity to the city center.

Location: East of Amsterdam's city center

Real Estate: Zeeburg has a range of housing options, with prices that are competitive for Amsterdam.

International Schools: There are no international schools in Zeeburg, but there are several accessible from the area.

Where to Eat: The neighborhood offers a variety of dining experiences, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants.

Interesting History: Zeeburg includes the historic Eastern Docklands, which have been transformed into a vibrant residential area.

Parks: The Flevopark is a popular spot for families, offering playgrounds, a swimming pool, and open green spaces.

Nieuw-West

Nieuw-West is a diverse and family-friendly neighborhood with a mix of cultures and ample green spaces. It's an affordable area that's been undergoing redevelopment, making it an attractive option for families looking for more space. The Sloterplas lake and surrounding park provide a great setting for outdoor activities, and there are numerous schools and shopping centers in the area.

Location: West of Amsterdam's city center

Real Estate: Nieuw-West offers some of the most affordable housing in Amsterdam, with a variety of options available.

International Schools: While there are no international schools in Nieuw-West, there are accessible options in neighboring areas.

Where to Eat: The neighborhood has a range of restaurants reflecting its multicultural population.

Interesting History: Nieuw-West was largely developed in the post-war period and features characteristic modernist architecture.

Parks: The Sloterplas and Sloterpark are central to the area, offering a beach, marina, and plenty of space for family outings.

Choosing the right neighborhood in Amsterdam depends on a family's preferences for culture, community, and convenience. Each of these neighborhoods offers a unique slice of Amsterdam life, with the common threads of family-friendliness, accessibility, and a welcoming atmosphere for expats and digital nomads alike.