The Nine Streets

Ask a local and they’ll tell you Amsterdam’s Nine Streets is known primarily for its stylish boutiques and designer stores. Despite its relatively central location it has a chic, laid-back vibe and a host of cosy cafes. You don’t need to be an avid shopper to be enchanted by this part of the Dutch capital.  The Nine Streets offers a far different shopping experience to the high street stores on and around Kalverstraat, which runs southwards from Dam Square. Walk west of the Royal Palace and within a matter of minutes – five at the most – you’ll cross the Singel canal and be heading along Gasthuismolensteeg, which leads onto Hartenstraat then Reestraat, the northerly most trio of streets. Wandering here is by no means merely about shopping, it’s just as much an insight into the heritage and soul of the city.