A Short Walk from Amsterdam Central Station to Java Eiland
A pleasant walk to take on a sunny day is from the back of Amsterdam Central Station along the recently developed waterfront and across to Java Eiland. While Amsterdam normally feels quite cramped and crowded this walk gets you out of the city centre and experience some open space and water. |
Start at Amsterdam Central Station and walk out to the back exit. Cross over the road (De Ruyterkade) and head towards the right (east) along the Ij waterfront. You will see the ferries which operate to Amsterdam Noord. The large building on the north side is the Shell office building built in 1971 and designed by Dutch architect Arthur Staal.
If you fancy a coffee or a bite to eat and a great panorama of Amsterdam then pop into the public library OBA.
Continue walking east on the Piet Heinkade. If you like modern architecture you will appreciate the buildings of the Muziekgebouw, the Movenpick Hotel and the Amsterdam Passenger Terminal for cruise ships.
Turn left on Vemenplein and cross the bridge (Javabrug) which will get you over to Java Eiland. This re-developed area was completed in 2000 and also connects to KNSM-Eiland and Borneo-Eiland. A host of architects were involved in designing the area including Jo Coenen and Sjoerd Soesters.
Continue walking east on the southern waterfront (Javakade). The residential blocks have been divided by small canals (grachts) very much in the style of central Amsterdam. You will notice some very quirky architecture with the houses and bridges.
After a few hundred metres you will reach an open park space (Bogortuin) which is a nice place to wind down and take in the view.
There are a few shops further up on KNSM where you can have a drink if you wish.
There is a tram stop here to take you back to Central station.
Explore Amsterdam > Walk to Java Eiland