Things to do in the Jordaan
The Jordaan district started its life as the workers’ district when Amsterdam expanded in 1614. So it’s been around a while! Today it’s pretty mixed neighbourhood, there are highly gentrified canals like the Egelantiersgracht but there is a huge amount of social housing in the tucked away streets as well. Despite Airbnb and the large rise in tourism in Amsterdam, the Jordaan district remains a functioning neighbourhood.
What I have always cherished about Amsterdam is that it is poossible to create a little niche for yourself, a corner where you can do something that you love and that suits you and it’s possible to get by that way. You don’t have to take over the world, or be corporate, Amsterdam provides the gentle embrace that enables this kind of small scale quality of life, if you take a chance, or have a passion and make it happen. Nowhere represents this better than the Jordaan. I’ve done this as a tour guide, I love it, I’m good at it, and I have a tiny little, company and, hold thumbs, it’s keeping my life funded. Here are some similar stories.
Here is a collection of interesting shops or museums that are gems of the Jordaan, hiding in plain sight!
