Noord

Noord lies across the IJ, a free ferry ride from Centraal that still feels like crossing into a different city. Old shipyards have become studios, food halls and the EYE film museum, while the NDSM wharf hosts markets, street art and large-scale events on a scale impossible in the old centre. It is spread out and post-industrial rather than pretty, which is precisely why younger Amsterdammers moved their evenings here. Take the ferry at dusk for the view back at the lit waterfront.