When exploring Amsterdam's famous canal belt, make sure you take some time to visit the most extensive municipal archives in the world, right at the Vijzelstraat, a long street where three of the old main canals converge.
De Bazel, the edifice you're heading to, is named after its architect, Karel de Bazel, who designed, in the twenties of the last century, this monumental exemplary of Brick Expressionism. The former headquarters of the Dutch Trade Society is now home to the Stadsarchief - the City Archives -, as well as a conference center, a restaurant, and a library specializing in books about the city.
My favorite part of this building is the Schatkamer, or Treasure Room, located on floor -1, in a magnificent vault room in Art Nouveau. The exhibition inside showcases essential periods of the city's history through images by iconic Dutch photographers, maps, drawings, and other artifacts. There is even a movie theatre, in the very back of the gallery, where I like to sit on rainy days, watching documentaries on Amsterdam. And the cherry on top of the cake: it's all free of charge.
Find your way with 153 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Het Schoolhuis" is in a village that's actually part of Amsterdam! It's a hidden gem of a cafe in an old school building. Just try their amazing food...
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La Dilettante Amsterdam is a trendy natural wine bar in De Pijp. It's the perfect spot for an intimate evening or rendezvous with a friend!
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Pong - House of Ping in Amsterdam is a spot where you can play ping-pong while having a drink or enjoying a snack!
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Because it is not known as a place where lots of people work, it is actually a very nice place to work from remotely. And the staff is always so nice!
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Get one of the basic pastries like croissants or a pain au chocolat, or go for one of their specialties like bread filled with feta cheese and spinach...
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They offer salads, spring rolls, and what they are really famous for - Noodles. And let me tell you, these noodles are something else...
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The owners are one of the nicest people you will ever meet and they know everybody from the neighborhood. And our former Queen even bought her nuts here!
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White Label Coffee is a roastery and a coffee place with a really cool interior. They make their own blends that you can buy here as well.
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Gieta makes the best Roti - a mix of potatoes, green beans, and chicken/tempé that you roll into a pancake. It may sound strange but it is amazing!
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This movie theater shows movies you don't see every day and sometimes they choose a director whose movies they then show. Wes Anderson month for example.
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Tucked inside Amsterdam’s Hotel de l’Europe, Chapter 1896 charms with vintage décor, serene Amstel River views, and exquisite cocktails like The Principles of Love.
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153 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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