Just across the River IJ from Amsterdam’s historic center lies a unique spot called the NDSM Werf. This former shipyard, once the largest in Europe, has been transformed into a vibrant arts and culture hub. Here’s why it’s worth a visit.
From Shipbuilding to Street Art
The NDSM Werf was home to the Nederlands Dok en Scheepsgebouw Maatschappij (Dutch Dock and Shipbuilding Company), a world-renowned shipbuilder. But when the company went bankrupt in the 1980s, the wharf fell into disrepair.
Today, the area has a gritty, post-apocalyptic vibe, with:
- Warehouses in various states of decay
- Rusting buses and trams in the parking lot
- A partially submerged submarine in the river
- Colorful street art covering much of the area
Amsterdam’s art community has claimed the space, turning it into a giant “art and culture laboratory.”
Explore the Cathedral of NDSM
The Lasloods, where ship hulls were once welded, is now a maze of:
- Artist studios
- Galleries
- An elevated skate park
This massive warehouse, dubbed the “Cathedral of NDSM,” also hosts concerts, fashion shows, and film and photo shoots.
More to See and Do
- Check out the old timmerwerkplaats (carpentry shop), now the European HQ of MTV Networks
- Stay at the Faralda Crane Hotel Amsterdam, a crane-turned-hotel with a bungee-jump platform
- Visit Vous Etes Ici, a gallery showcasing artists from the US, Germany, Switzerland, the UK, and the Netherlands
- Book a room at the Amstel Botel, a floating hotel
- See the MV Sirius, a former Greenpeace ship now used for educational purposes
Don’t Miss These Events
- Over Het IJ Festival: An 11-day celebration of performing arts
- The Summer of Love: A multicultural expo featuring music, art, and yoga
- Voltt Loves Summer: A music and dance festival
Check the NDSM Werf official website for event details, dates, times, and tickets.
Grab a Bite at IJ Kantine
If you’re feeling peckish, stop by IJ Kantine, located in a former assembly warehouse that once served as the shipbuilders’ cafeteria. Just turn left when you get off the ferry – it’s a minute’s walk from the dock.
More of a local hangout than a tourist spot, IJ Kantine serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and boasts a well-stocked bar. Grab a table outside along the docks and enjoy soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and fresh fruit juices.
Getting There
Reaching the NDSM Werf and Amsterdam-Noord is a breeze – just hop on the free ferry from Amsterdam Centraal Station. The trip takes about 15 minutes, with at least two ferries per hour.
While the NDSM Werf might not be the top priority for first-time Amsterdam visitors, it’s a fascinating spot for those looking to explore the city’s edgier side. And even if there’s nothing scheduled during your visit, the round-trip ferry ride offers a unique perspective on the city.
So why not venture across the IJ and discover the art, culture, and history of the NDSM Werf? It’s a side of Amsterdam you won’t soon forget.
