De 9 Straatjes

De 9 Straatjes (The 9 little streets) is part of the famous, UNESCO world heritage listed Amsterdam Canal Belt. De 9 Straatjes where once known for the wide variety of charming, independent shops. More and more you see that bigger (international) brands are opening their flagship stores here. We still recommend De 9 Straatjes as their charm is still there and also because my favourite cheese shop is located here.

These nine picturesque shopping streets connect the four main canals of Amsterdam. Here you can find all sorts of different shops, from modern (Dutch) design to retro design and from high fashion to vintage fashion. But also gift shops, a games shop, a candles/’doll doctor’ shop and did I already mention the cheese shop? Besides the wide variety of shops and flagships stores, you will find a good selection of bars, restaurants and cafes.

The neighbourhood

Already for 400 years, they connect the main canals of Amsterdam – Singel, Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht – thus forming a unique neighbourhood of its own. The names of the nine monumental streets refer to the old artisans dealing with aspects of the leather-industry. From the Huidenstraat (Skins Street), Berenstraat (Bears Street), Wolvenstraat (Wolves Street), Hartenstraat (Hearts Street) to the Runstraat (Tan Street) en Reestraat (Deer Street), and the three alleys on the side of the canal the Singel: de Wijde Heisteeg, Gasthuismolensteeg and the Oude Spiegelstraat. The area offers a magnificent overview of the architectural style within the Amsterdam Canal Belt.

Highlights in the De 9 Straatjes

What makes De 9 Straatjes so unique is the small scale of the area, the variety of old buildings – don’t forget to look up and admire the beautiful gables – and the diversity the area offers with shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. The architecture, together with the charming boutique stores, restaurants, the cultural locations – the Biblical Museum, The Canal House Museum and Felix Meritis – makes De 9 Straatjes one of the most charming neighbourhoods of Amsterdam. This area is also home to one of the most quirky museums of Amsterdam: Brillenmuseum (Spectacles Museum).

De 9 Straatjes

Website: De 9 Straatjes