Oud West has a below average violent crime rate and an average property crime rate for Amsterdam.
The established neighborhood of Oud West lies west of the city center and just across the Vondelpark from posh Oud Zuid. Because of the proximity to both, and because of the diversity in housing, this neighborhood is popular with a variety of people.
Families love the spacious homes, the proximity to schools, and the 47 hectare (120 acre) Vondelpark. Young professionals, hipsters, and students love the many coffee houses, bars, and specialty markets.
As diverse as the inhabitants is Oud West's housing stock. From large double floor apartments to modern condos to 1980s social blocks and even entire homes, there is something for everyone. But as the area is considered one of Amsterdam's nicest after Oud Zuid, expect to pay big money.
You'll find some slightly cheaper options on the streets around Kinkerstraat and at the far end of Overtoom. The most expensive the ones are nestled between Vondelpark and Leidseplein and the streets closest to the historic center.
Fun fact: Oud West is one of the cleanest neighborhoods in town. Research done in 2010 showed that it has the least litter of all Amsterdam neighborhoods. This might be a testament to how much people love living here.
Oud West is bordered on the north by Westerpark, on the east by Jordaan, on the south by Oud Zuid, and on the west by De Baarsjes.
FOODHALLEN is a covered food market located in an old tram depot. You'll find food stalls serving everything from Asian and seafood to bratwurst and sweets. A variety of bars serving anything from craft beers to cocktails make this a great spot for a night out. The building also houses several specialty shops, boutiques, and creative offices.
Oud West moms have met up in one of the many coffee bars or cafés in this street since…well, forever. This mommy gathering has sparked an influx of mom and mom-to-be focused shops.
One of the first, if not the first, Ethiopian restaurants in Amsterdam. This wonderful place offers typical Ethiopian savory dishes of meats, fish, vegetables and herbs, served in small portions. They are to be eaten with a type of pancake called injera. Their beers are also African and come in a variety of brews and flavors. Coconut beer anyone?
This is a great place for kids parties. The idea behind Kinderkookcafe is that kids play junior restaurateurs for a day. They prepare the meals, set the tables, and serve their own guests. They also offer walk-in cooking sessions where kids can make their own cupcakes, cookies, pizza, or other yummy snacks.
You'll find fresh, daily roasted coffee in this small corner coffee bar. Two Australian friends who wanted to share Aussie coffee culture with the Amsterdam crowd run it. It’s tiny, but that only adds to the experience.
Photo Credits: Thanks to @esmerozsa, @jharda, @nredvelvet, @inesbreedijk, @lexkok, @meurtniet, @claroushon, @hyperkineticchild, @iamsterdam, @austetron, @f.j.borsboom, @satisfitanthony, @seaventhh1, @dandrad, @corayuhhhh, @rhyswrhunt, @mapmag, @from_pj for your great photos of this neighborhood!