Amsterdam Nieuw-West might not be the first district that comes to mind when visiting Amsterdam, but it’s absolutely worth discovering. Here you’ll find a surprising mix of green spaces, culture, global flavours and modern architecture. Whether you love walking along the water, trying new cuisines or simply escaping the bustle of the city centre for a bit: Nieuw-West has it all. In this article I’ll take you through the best spots, distinctive neighbourhoods and top tips for a day or weekend in Amsterdam Nieuw-West.
The location of Amsterdam Nieuw-West
Nieuw-West sits on the western side of Amsterdam, just outside the A10 ring road. The district borders the popular areas of De Baarsjes and Slotervaart, and stretches all the way to the edge of the city towards Badhoevedorp and Osdorp. Thanks to its location you can be in the city centre within twenty minutes, while Schiphol and the main routes towards Haarlem and Zandvoort are also close by.
Public transport is excellent here. Tram lines 1, 13 and 17 connect Nieuw-West with the city centre and Sloterdijk station. Several bus lines also run to Schiphol and other parts of the city. Cycling is ideal too: wide cycle paths and less traffic make it a great way to explore the area.
Nieuw-West was built in the 1950s and 1960s in response to the post-war housing shortage. As a result, you’ll see lots of space, broad avenues and striking amounts of greenery. The Sloterplas forms the heart of the district and is a real eye-catcher.
Atmosphere and character of the district
What makes Nieuw-West special is its relaxed vibe. You’ll notice straight away that it’s less hectic than the city centre. Neighbourhoods are spacious, with plenty of parks, waterways and quiet residential streets. Yet there’s plenty of life: on market days, in the shopping centres and at the many community initiatives.
Nieuw-West is one of Amsterdam’s most multicultural areas. People from all over the world live here, which you’ll notice in the shops, restaurants and on the streets. It creates a lively, open atmosphere where you’ll quickly feel at home.
The architecture is a mix of post-war walk-up flats, family homes and modern new builds. In neighbourhoods like De Aker and De Wildeman you’ll see how older blocks have been renovated and new residential complexes have been added. This gives the district a dynamic and forward-looking character.
Green spaces and recreation
Nieuw-West is known for its greenery. Sloterpark is one of Amsterdam’s largest urban parks and encircles the Sloterplas. You can walk, run, picnic or simply enjoy the views over the water. In summer it’s a popular spot for festivals and sports activities.
The Sloterplas itself is loved by water sports enthusiasts. You can sail, paddleboard or canoe. There are several rental points, such as at Watersportcentrum Sloterplas. Swimming is officially permitted at the designated city beach on the northern shore of the lake. You’ll also find a lawn for sunbathing and a small pavilion for drinks.
Another green tip is Gerbrandypark in Slotervaart. It’s smaller, but perfect for a peaceful stroll or a game of football. There are playgrounds and a skate park for children. In spring the blossom trees are beautiful here.
Culture and going out in Nieuw-West
Nieuw-West has a surprisingly rich cultural offering. The best-known venue is Theatre De Meervaart on Osdorpplein. You can go here for comedy, music, dance and family shows. The theatre has a broad programme and draws visitors from across Amsterdam.
On Osdorpplein you’ll also find the district office, a large library and various shops. This square is the beating heart of Nieuw-West. Regular markets, food festivals and community events take place here. In summer the square is transformed into an urban beach with deckchairs and music.
If you love street art, a walk through the Nieuw-Sloten neighbourhood is a must. You’ll find several murals here, created by local and international artists. The annual Street Art Tour by the Street Art Museum Amsterdam often starts in Nieuw-West as well.
Culinary delights: flavours from around the world
Thanks to the neighbourhood’s multicultural makeup, you can eat brilliantly in Nieuw-West. You’ll find Turkish bakeries, Moroccan patisseries, Surinamese eateries and Asian supermarkets. A standout is Bakkerij As, known for its freshly baked simit and börek.
Along Tussen Meer and on Osdorpplein you’ll find plenty of eateries and coffee bars. Be sure to try the Surinamese roti at Tjin’s Toko or a fresh couscous at one of the Moroccan restaurants. For a quick bite, Snackbar De Avondmarkt is a local institution.
Looking for a full sit-down dinner? Floor17, on the rooftop of the Leonardo Hotel, offers spectacular views over the city. Enjoy modern dishes and cocktails here, especially lovely at sunset.
Shopping and local markets
Shopping in Nieuw-West is centred on Osdorpplein. You’ll find well-known chains, supermarkets and specialist shops. The shopping centre has been revamped recently and now also features inviting terraces and places to eat and drink.
Every Tuesday there’s a large market on Osdorpplein. You can buy fresh fruit and veg, fish, clothing and household items. The atmosphere is friendly, and you’ll find products from all over the world. The market on Plein ’40-’45 in Slotermeer is also recommended, especially on Saturdays.
For unique finds, head to local boutiques and vintage shops such as De Lokatie. This charity shop is popular with Amsterdammers looking for furniture, books and clothes with a story.
Living and renewal in Nieuw-West
In recent years there’s been significant investment in Nieuw-West. Older blocks have been renovated, new apartments have been built and public spaces have been given a major upgrade. This is attracting more and more young families and first-time buyers.
There’s a wide variety of housing. You’ll find spacious family homes, modern apartments and refurbished walk-up flats. In neighbourhoods like De Aker and Nieuw-Sloten it’s peaceful living, with plenty of greenery and play areas for children.
Nieuw-West is developing rapidly. Projects such as the renewal of Osdorpplein and the construction of new residential complexes are giving the area a fresh, modern look. Yet the neighbourhood’s character remains: open, green and welcoming.
Tips for a day in Amsterdam Nieuw-West
Keen to explore Nieuw-West for yourself? Start your day with a walk or cycle around the Sloterplas. Hire a paddleboard or canoe from the Watersportcentrum and see the neighbourhood from the water. Afterwards, take a seat on the terrace at Hotel Buiten, a sustainable lakeside pavilion serving local dishes.
Then head to Osdorpplein for lunch and a bit of shopping. Pop into Theatre De Meervaart for the current programme or a behind-the-scenes tour. Finish your day with dinner at Floor17, where you can watch the sun set over the city.
Have more time? Take a walk through the garden cities of Nieuw-West, such as the Westelijke Tuinsteden. Here you’ll see the original urban design by Cornelis van Eesteren, with lots of attention to light, air and space.
Practical information and getting there
Nieuw-West is easy to reach by public transport. Tram lines 1, 13 and 17 take you quickly to the city centre. From Lelylaan station you can be at Schiphol in ten minutes. By bike you can reach the Jordaan or Dam Square in about fifteen minutes.
Parking is cheaper in many parts of Nieuw-West than in the centre. In some neighbourhoods you can even still park for free, especially outside office hours. There are plenty of bike racks and charging points for electric cars.
Want to stay overnight in Nieuw-West? There are various hotels, from budget to luxury. Leonardo Hotel Rembrandtpark and Corendon City Hotel are popular choices, both with good facilities and convenient locations.
See for yourself: Amsterdam Nieuw-West surprises
Amsterdam Nieuw-West is a district full of contrasts and surprises. Here, tranquillity and urban energy come together. You’ll find space, greenery, global flavours and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you want to relax by the Sloterplas for a day, soak up culture at De Meervaart or discover new cuisines: Nieuw-West welcomes you with open arms. Give this side of Amsterdam a chance and let yourself be surprised!