This unassuming pair of neighborhoods attract families in need of spacious homes and a convenient location.
Buitenveldert and Amstelveen have a below average violent crime rate and an average property crime rate for Amsterdam.
Despite its great location just a stone’s throw away from the Zuidas business district and fancy Oud Zuid, the garden city of Buitenveldert never really gained the popularity it deserved. It might be the architecture: 1950s and 1960s apartment blocks and rows of simple, square cut family homes. Or it might be the proximity to the airport, which subjects residents to the noise of departing and arriving planes.
However, almost 21,000 people call this home, and many of them have no plans to leave anytime soon. They love the space they get for their money and the safety this area is known for. And did we mention its ideal location?
Buitenveldert is considered the modern Jewish Quarter, which explains the synagogues, Jewish businesses and organizations, and the two Jewish schools.
The more charming and old Amstelveen, just south of Buitenveldert, is not officially part of Amsterdam. It’s not even the same gemeente (municipality). However, just like Buitenveldert, Amstelveen is so close to the city, it pretty much feels like part of it.
Both Buitenveldert and Amstelveen are popular with families with children because of the abundance of family homes to be found here. And property owners with a keen eye for real estate trends bought here long ago, knowing it’s only a matter of time before people will value Buitenveldert for what it is; a very pleasant and spacious suburb, just around the corner from town. Recent years show they were right, as prices are on the rise here too. But it shouldn’t be too hard to find a place to live here, and prices are lower that homes a mere 5 minute bike ride away.
Buitenveldert and Amstelveen are bordered on the north by Zuidas, on the east by the Amstel River, on the south by Uithorn, and on the west by Schipol Airport.
Buitenveldert and Amstelveen LOCAL schools
Buitenveldert and Amstelveen Local Flavor 
This modern and elegant shopping center underwent extensive refurbishments recently. It’s now hailed as one of the best shopping destinations in town. There are many well know retail chains as well as local and specialty shops and boutiques.
This kosher deli is an institution. When the original shop in Rivierenbuurt closed a few years back it made headlines. Two eager and enthusiastic new owners reopened in Buitenveldert and old and new fans have found their way again. Try their ‘broodje halfom’, a sandwich with equal parts liver and beef. Don’t take it easy on the mustard! Expect to mingle with orthodox Jews, tourists, and foodies alike.
This large and pleasant park feels like miles away from the city. It’s the largest park in Amsterdam and the vastness makes for long and leisurely walks or runs. It’s also home to the Bosbaan, a rowing track that hosts many national and international rowing events. An old farm in the middle of the park houses a pancake restaurant that is a big hit with kids. Only the occasional airplane on its way to or from the nearby airport will make you realize you are close to the inhabited world.
This brown café sits on the border of Amstelveen and Amsterdam. Originally, it was a shop and cafe to stop for a drink or meal or to stock up on food. It still is a spot where people from come to mingle and enjoy themselves. As it is the only proper pub in the area, expect large crowd on weekend nights. Not ideal for kids. During the week it’s a bit quieter. Their menu is simple but tasty.
Photo Credits: Thanks to @frankoosterbeek, @martijnpeterdepotter, @ywytske, @taniaamanatidou, @sjoerdderine, @danae.papadaki, @qock, @defrooij, @raivapaiva, @jjperspectivesphotography, @bestiacreata, @twidi, @68canylmz, @ersoypascha, @borjabbs, @mismamari, @amsterspam, @ely_hope for your great photos of this neighborhood!
