Hotels near The Jordaan and Noordermarkt

The Jordaan grew up in the 17th century as a working-class district just outside the Canal Ring and is now one of the most sought-after neighbourhoods in Amsterdam, all narrow canals, small galleries and hofjes, the hidden almshouse courtyards behind street doors. On Saturdays the square around the Noorderkerk hosts the Noordermarkt organic farmers' market, and on Monday mornings a flea market.

October stalls fill with pumpkins, apples, mushrooms and Dutch cheeses, and the queue at Winkel 43 on the corner for its apple pie is part of the ritual. When the rain sets in, the Jordaan's brown cafés, dark wood-panelled bars with candles on the tables, are the Dutch idea of gezelligheid at its most literal.

The Anne Frank House and the Westerkerk tower sit at the southern edge of the neighbourhood.

Pro Tip: Arrive at the Noordermarkt around 09:30 on Saturday, buy lunch at the market, then wander the Egelantiersgracht and Bloemgracht, the prettiest canals in the Jordaan. Look for open hofje doors, but keep your voice down, since residents live there.