De Pijp (literally, "the Pipe") is often referred to as Amsterdam’s Quartier Latin. Until the end of the 20th Century, De Pijp was home to struggling artists, students, and people who were born there but didn’t have the means to leave. It was not the most desirable of areas. But increasing housing prices in adjacent, nicer parts of town forced people to look at alternatives. Its central location and 19th Century architecture quickly made De Pijp the go-to place.
Nowadays De Pijp is much loved for its many quirky shops and the famous Albert Cuyp street market. The area is also home to some of the best bars and restaurants, especially if you are fan of urban grub and artisanal craft beers.
Despite the streets (and homes!) often being narrow, with limited to no parking space, this part of town remains very popular and in demand. However, because of a good mix of types of buildings, one can find anything from a studio to an entire house here.
Living space doesn’t come cheap here though, so expect to pay a premium. The area around the lush and green Sarphatipark is without a doubt the most attractive; the streets where 19th Century homes were demolished to make room for 1980’s social housing is the least. The same goes for the slightly less gentrified parts below Ceintuurbaan, often called De Nieuwe Pijp (the new Pijp).
But even there one turn around a corner can present you with a small park, a lively square with plenty of all fresco dining, or even amazing Amsterdam School architecture.
De Pijp is home to a diverse crowd. Because most of the apartments are small; students, singles, couples, creatives, and many LGBTQ people make for the bulk of inhabitants. But the recent trend to merge adjoining apartments, and the great schools in neighboring and pricier Oud Zuid, make de Pijp popular for families, too.
De Pijp is bordered on the north by Grachtengordel, on the east by Oost, on the south by Rivierenbuurt, and on the west by Oud Zuid.
The most famous of Amsterdam street markets is Abert Cuyp market. Fruits, vegetables, vintage and new clothing, flowers, cosmetics, souvenirs, cheese, food, and more; you name it and they sell it here. Busy on weekends, but much quietier and more appealing during the week. Closed on Sundays.
The original Heineken brewery, located on the edge of De Pijp, is home to a museum celebrating the brewer's history. Expect bigcrowds of young tourists eagerly anticipating free beer tasting, but also a cool look into the history of this world famous brand.
A tiny Italian place aptly named after its location: a corner of two streets. The owner is famous for his rude service but a-ma-zing food. You’ll end up taking a lot more abuse than any other waiter could get away with. If you’re lucky, the owner will sing for you and end up treating you like his new best friend. Be warned though, the next visit will have you go through the entire process again. But the food, the food….
One of two restaurants with the same name by the same owner. The other one is in West Amsterdam. Simply wonderful Mediterranean-themed food in mezze and tapas style. A mixed crowd with students, groups, and couples.
This wonderful park is located in the heart of de Pijp. In summer this is a favorite spot for families, students, and groups of friends to meet for a picnic or drinks. The South-East part has a popular dog park where one can watch pitbulls be chased by daschhunds and dog owners chat and mingle. In the same corner, sports enthusiasts gather to use the free fitness equipment.
Photo Credits: Thanks to @thomvu, @lotjemulder, @wonderlust.amsterdam, @maritvdspruit, @aamynn, @cryinshitlog, @lou_brbt, @megmaywebster, @amsterdamcanals, @mayshimon, @javedackson, @myfashpoint, @ammar456, @theztefan, @afp88, @_burakdeniz, @carlybeall, @cantabile.j, @shalimaajeed, @cafedepijpamsterdam for your great photos of this neighborhood!