How long does it take to walk through De Pijp?

This specific route takes about 90 to 120 minutes. The distance is roughly 2 kilometers, but you should allow extra time for browsing market stalls and enjoying a snack or drink.

Is the Albert Cuyp Market open every day?

No, the Albert Cuyp Market is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays, so plan your visit accordingly if the market is a priority for you.

What food is De Pijp known for?

De Pijp is famous for its multicultural food scene, particularly Dutch treats like fresh stroopwafels and herring at the market, and Surinamese staples like roti and saoto soup in the surrounding streets.

Is a guided tour Amsterdam style necessary for this area?

While a guided tour Amsterdam offers can be informative, De Pijp is perfectly suited for independent exploration. The layout is simple, and the main attractions, like the market and Sarphatipark, are easy to navigate on your own.

Is De Pijp family-friendly?

Yes, it is very family-friendly. Children often enjoy the sights and smells of the market and the open playground spaces in Sarphatipark.

Can I do this walk in the evening?

While you can enjoy the architecture and the brewery in the evening, the Albert Cuyp Market stalls pack up by 5:00 PM. For the full culinary experience, an afternoon walk is recommended.

Is De Pijp accessible for those with limited mobility?

The neighborhood is flat and generally accessible. However, the market street can become very congested with people, which may be challenging for those using wheelchairs or mobility aids during peak hours.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

De Pijp is the beating heart of Amsterdam’s culinary scene and its most eclectic neighborhood. Often referred to as the 'Latin Quarter' of the city, this district was originally built in the late 19th century to house the working class, but it has since evolved into a vibrant melting pot of cultures, flavors, and creative energy. On this self-guided walking route, you will uncover the layers of history that transformed these narrow streets into a foodie paradise. From the aromatic stalls of the world-famous Albert Cuyp Markt to the hidden gems of Surinamese cuisine, this neighborhood stroll offers a sensory feast that goes far beyond the typical tourist path. As you explore independently, you’ll notice the unique 'Amsterdam School' architecture and the cozy 'brown cafes' that define the local atmosphere. This walking tour Amsterdam experience allows you to dive into the story of Samuel Sarphati, the visionary who helped shape this area, and discover how waves of migration have influenced the city's palate. You'll pass through bustling squares where locals gather for 'borrel' (afternoon drinks) and find tranquility in the English-style greenery of Sarphatipark. Whether you are sampling a warm stroopwafel or learning about the craft beer revolution in a former monastery, this route captures the authentic spirit of De Pijp. By following this walking route, you avoid the rigid schedules of a traditional guided tour Amsterdam might offer, giving you the freedom to linger at a market stall or grab an extra coffee whenever the mood strikes. The area is constantly evolving, with new pop-ups and boutiques appearing alongside century-old businesses, making it a place where tradition and trendiness live side-by-side. Get ready to taste your way through the history of one of Europe’s most diverse districts. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

Explore the iconic Albert Cuyp Markt, Europe's largest daytime market

Taste authentic Surinamese flavors at a local institution

Relax in the picturesque Sarphatipark, a 19th-century green oasis

See the historic architecture of the 'Latin Quarter'

Visit a craft brewery housed in a beautiful former monastery

Tour Stops (6)

Gerard Douplein

Welcome to Gerard Douplein, the social anchor of the De Pijp neighborhood. Named after a famous pupil of Rembrandt, this square perfectly encapsulates the 'gezelligheid' or coziness that the Dutch are famous for. In the late 1800s, this area was rapidly developed to house the city's growing workforce. Today, the square is surrounded by eclectic bars and eateries. Take a moment to look at the architecture; the buildings here are classic examples of the 19th-century expansion of Amsterdam. This is the perfect spot to begin your self-guided adventure, as it represents the transition from the historic center to the bohemian spirit of the south.

Coffee Lounge Culture

As you walk toward the market, you'll pass numerous coffee spots. Amsterdam has a deep-rooted coffee culture dating back to the Dutch East India Company. In De Pijp, the 'coffee lounge' has evolved from the traditional brown cafe into modern, minimalist spaces. While specific shops may change their decor or menus, the ritual remains the same: a 'koffie verkeerd' (Dutch latte) and perhaps a slice of apple pie. This area is a hub for the city's 'creatives,' and you'll often see locals working on laptops or catching up over a brew. It’s the fuel that keeps this energetic neighborhood moving.

Albert Cuyp Markt

You are now standing in the Albert Cuyp Markt, which has been the heart of De Pijp since 1905. With over 260 stalls, it is often cited as the busiest market in the Netherlands. This is where the culinary crossroads truly meet. You can find everything from fresh North Sea herring and traditional Dutch cheeses to exotic spices and fabrics. Don't miss the chance to see a stroopwafel being made fresh—the smell of caramelizing sugar is a staple here. The market reflects the neighborhood's diversity; as the population changed over the decades, so did the goods sold on these stalls, making it a living history of Amsterdam's migration patterns.

Warung Spang Makandra

Just off the main market drag, you'll find a concentration of Surinamese eateries, with Warung Spang Makandra being one of the most storied. Suriname was a Dutch colony until 1975, and the migration that followed brought a rich culinary heritage to Amsterdam. Surinamese food is a unique fusion of Indian, African, Javanese, and Chinese influences. Establishments like this are famous for 'roti' and 'saoto soup.' This stop highlights how De Pijp became a welcoming home for various cultures, forever changing the city's food landscape. Please note that local businesses often update their interiors, but the soul of the food remains a neighborhood constant.

Sarphatipark

After the bustle of the market, Sarphatipark offers a peaceful retreat. This English-style landscape park was designed in the late 19th century and named after Samuel Sarphati, a Jewish physician and urban planner who dedicated his life to improving the living conditions of Amsterdam’s poor. The park is a protected monument and serves as the 'green lung' of De Pijp. As you walk through, notice the monument dedicated to Sarphati in the center. This park is where the neighborhood comes to breathe, exercise, and picnic, providing a stark, beautiful contrast to the dense urban streets surrounding it.

Brouwerij Troost

We conclude our neighborhood stroll at Brouwerij Troost. This craft brewery is uniquely housed in a former monastery that later served as a school. It’s a prime example of 'herbestemming'—the Dutch practice of repurposing historic buildings for modern use. While the brewing equipment is state-of-the-art, the building's high ceilings and industrial feel hint at its past. Craft beer has seen a massive resurgence in Amsterdam over the last decade, and Troost is at the forefront of the local movement. It’s the perfect place to reflect on your walk through De Pijp with a locally brewed pint in hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk is the best way to explore De Pijp, as it allows you to wander through the Albert Cuyp Markt and stop for food at your own pace. This neighborhood is highly walkable and best experienced by soaking in the street atmosphere.