Oude Zijds, Amsterdam

Skirting the Red Light District and covering the area east of Dam Square, Amsterdam's Oude Zijds neighborhood is the former Jewish quarter whose lavish greenery and picturesque canal scenes create a peaceful atmosphere for strolling and perusing the markets.

Home to both the University of Amsterdam and the lively Nieuwmarkt square, Oude Zijds is popular with a mix of local students, visitors, and young professionals who lounge at the terrace bars on sunny afternoons or gather for after-work drinks in the brown bars that line the square.

The University area offers options for affordable entertainment and cafés, and provides a unique blend of small stage venues, independent theaters, and student-run cafés that attract college students looking for a more offbeat party night.