Amsterdam-Noord

A sprawling expanse of vintage and retro furniture, industrial lamps, modern design, and the odd eccentric choice (we’ve seen lab paraphernalia and even a pommel horse), “Cousin Louis” is a favorite of in-the-know stylists. But if you don’t fancy blowing the better part of your salary on a Mad Men–style desk, stop by neighbor Van Dijk & Ko for more affordable flea-market finds.

In a high-ceilinged former garage—still housing a number of classic cars—this large, modern, and convivial restaurant is worth the trek across the IJ River. The "Golden Pheasant" offers good value for a three-course menu of Dutch fare with a French twist: expect favorites like oysters, roast chicken, and Angus beef, along with a variety of specials.

Befitting its location in the former shipyards of the newly hip NDSM area, this quirky restaurant is housed in a series of cavernous shipping containers—it attracts a young, lively crowd that appreciates the organic meat and vegetables and sustainably caught fish and seafood. In summer, the huge terrace and sandy man-made beach along the river turn into a party with DJs.

Don't be fooled by appearances: this unassuming wooden shack close to the Buiksloterweg ferry jetty serves up some of the tastiest fries is town. Many locals make the trip across the IJ River just to pick up a snack here.

Originally constructed in 1971 as the headquarters of Royal Dutch Shell, the A'DAM Tower has now been repurposed as a hotel, and several bars and restaurants. For most day visitors, however, the best way to experience it is to ride the glass-ceilinged elevator—you'll be entertained by a sound and light show as you ascend—to A’DAM Lookout, a rooftop observation deck with a superb panoramic view of the IJ River, Centraal Station, and across the old city beyond. The visit includes a multimedia exhibition about Amsterdam history and culture. Daredevils can also sign up for "Over the Edge," which is Europe’s highest swing and does exactly what it says: it will swing you out beyond the edge of the tower and leave your feet dangling 330 feet above the street below.

Previously located in Vondelpark, the renovated EYE is an ideal spot for all cinema fans. Featuring four screens, a museum, and a café-restaurant with fantastic views of the water, the spectacular new building along the IJ River is easily accessible via free ferry from Centraal Station.

In an eye-popping, proto-futuristic waterfront structure designed by Viennese architects Delugan Meissl, this cutting-edge museum and archive is easily accessible, thanks to a free two-minute ferry ride from Centraal Station. Along with restoring thousands of films (Martin Scorsese used footage from Georges Méliès films restored here in his film Hugo), the institute contains four massive screening rooms (showing a fine mix of classic and contemporary films), a large permanent display with historical objects, set photos and interactive elements from the cinematic world, and a library open to the public. The EYE, whose name is a pun on the pronunciation of IJ, also organizes wonderful changing exhibitions about film-related subjects. They do not take cash—just credit or debit cards. There is also a restaurant with a waterfront terrace and terrific views.

Located in A'DAM, the landmark tower across the water from Centraal Station, this eatery in the clouds turns into a nightclub later in the evening. Order from the contemporary menu and enjoy 360-degree city views. After the sun sets and the dinner crowd settles, Ma'dam transforms into a dance club; sip cocktails under the stars and take in a sparkling skyline view from 20 floors up.