The 7 Best Areas in Amsterdam for Corporate Gatherings
by HarryPrince, 18 February 2021
Amsterdam may have a reputation as a party city, but it can be more than that. It can be the pinnacle of culture or even the best European city for a corporate event.
After all, Amsterdam is a booming economic area. It has been named one of the top three fastest-growing cities in Europe recently, but the truth is, that Amsterdam has been growing consistently since 2013!
Why choose Amsterdam, you ask? Aside from its iconic canals and postcard-perfect architecture, this Dutch gem pulsates with a dynamic spirit that effortlessly caters to a spectrum of events, from corporate meetings to cultural celebrations.
What we mean to say is, it's a city that does it all. What makes it even more charming is that it's not too big and it's beautiful. You could make someone's day by telling them their next business trip will be to Amsterdam.
And if anyone has ever doubted the charm of Amsterdam, all they need to do is take a walk through her beautiful neighbourhoods. From the historic charm of De Pijp to the modern elegance of the Zuidas business district, Amsterdam welcomes visitors with open arms and promises an event experience as diverse and vibrant as the city itself.
Let’s dive into this journey and discover the beauty of the Dutch capital.
1. De Pijp
De Pijp is easy to get to from anywhere in the city, as it’s almost more central than the actual city centre. It’s easily connected via the new metro line and tram.
This popular neighbourhood has healthy measures of city buzz and urban chill. At its most northern edge lies the Heineken Factory, which could be a good trip for a team-building exercise.
The Albert Cuypmarket is one of the defining features of the area. It’s one of the city's biggest and most popular street markets, with over 260 stands doing business six days a week. Amsterdam's sense of humour and laid-back view of life is perfectly encapsulated here.
De Pijp has several fantastic coffee shops and cafes, such as The Scandinavian Embassy and Little Collins. Discover them and more in our guide to Amsterdam’s best brunch spots.
Where to Host an Event in De Pijp
Although De Pijp is one of Amsterdam's most vibrant neighbourhoods, it still has pockets of tranquillity where you can get down to business. This cosy and fresh meeting room with natural light is one such place.
This meeting room offers a charming and warm atmosphere for intimate business meetings. With gorgeous features such as stunning French doors opening onto a beautiful garden, this cosy environment is perfect for small groups of up to five people.
What's more, the venue is equipped with all the amenities you need, including high-speed WiFi, a flipchart and a 98" flat-screen TV. Coffee and tea can also be purchased on-site.
2. De Wallen
De Wallen, also known as the Red Light District, is one of the most popular neighbourhoods in Amsterdam. Many canals run through it as streets. The buildings are tall, and old and lean over the narrow streets. And, of course, there are bicycles everywhere.
And because most buildings here are old and beautiful, they give any event held in this neighbourhood a certain gravitas. Visitors can walk or cycle everywhere, and Centraal Station is at the city's top.
The streets are loud and proud, giving De Wallen a distinctly urban feel. This is also the best area in Amsterdam to try traditional street food such as pickled herring, pancakes and waffles.
Where to Host an Event in De Wallen
When we say centrally located, we mean centrally located with this beautiful theatre space in De Wallen.
This unique venue has everything it takes to impress visitors. For starters, the lighting here is second to none, so even though it's a dark venue — it is a theatre, after all — it feels light.
As for the capacity of this fabulous space, it can easily accommodate between 75 and 500 guests. There are also plenty of facilities, including a projector, music equipment and high-speed WiFi.
3. Nieuwmarkt en Lastage
Nieuwmarkt en Lastage is an interesting area. Although it is literally at the centre of the city, its core is a residential area.
This neighbourhood is one of the most vibrant in Amsterdam, and its proximity to the Central Station makes it an excellent area for events. It's on the doorstep and neighbours De Wallen and the historic centre.
The Botanical Gardens and the Zoo lie on its eastern border. To the south, the Amstel River slowly makes its way to the dam that gives the city its name. The IJmeer forms the northern boundary.
In terms of cultural institutions, this area punches above its weight. The NEMO dominates the skyline of much of central Amsterdam. The Rembrandt House and the Zuiderkerk, the first Protestant church in Amsterdam, are also located in this area.
Where to Host an Event in Nieuwmarkt en Lastage
This unique and creative space for corporate events is a fine example of the cosy and welcoming venues available at Nieuwmarkt en Lastage.
Situated close to one of Amsterdam's most beautiful canals, this event space is extremely modular. It's furnished with long board tables made of loose, flexible parts that can be divided into smaller tables according to the event's needs.
In terms of decoration, the room stands out for its many windows, high ceiling and beautiful original parquet flooring. It can accommodate up to 30 people standing or 16 people seated. Its asymmetrical layout and plants create a relaxed and unique atmosphere.
4. Buiksloterham (Amsterdam Noord)
Amsterdam Central Station was once the city's northernmost point, right on the banks of the River IJ. That was until the city incorporated Buiksloterham, known as Amsterdam Noord, just across the water.
It's easily connected to Central Station by a short 3-minute ferry ride, making it easy for guests to commute to events in Buiksloterham. Ferries run from each pier throughout the day.
This island is all about rejuvenation, with iconic buildings like the EYE Film Museum and the Amsterdam Tower. It's one of the few areas in Amsterdam where you can experience both urban renewal and nature.
The Noord is a great place for ambitious and modern young companies that want to change the world to hold their events.
Where to Host an Event in Buiksloterham (Amsterdam Noord)
Buiksloterham is known for its rejuvenating atmosphere, so it comes as no surprise that the venues here are also relaxing. This remarkable meeting space with sensational views is a short walk from the Noorderpark metro station.
The interior boasts cheerful elements such as fluorescent lighting, warm wooden floors, comfortable classroom-style furniture, and large windows that offer visitors breathtaking views of the skyline.
Capacity-wise, this fantastic space welcomes up to 25 guests, making it the ideal choice for a variety of business events, from focused meetings to lively brainstorming sessions, engaging training workshops and captivating presentations.
In terms of facilities, enjoy seamless connectivity with high-speed WiFi and immerse your event in quality sound with a superb sound system.
5. Westerpark
This area is famous for its concentration on Amsterdam School Architecture. Recognisable for its impressive brick and masonry work, there are natural curves and symmetrical features everywhere.
Westerpark is further out from the city, but you can easily reach the centre or the airport. It’s well connected with trams, trains, and metros regularly flying in and out.
But do you need the centre when you’re in Westerpark? The honest answer is: not really. This area has its own thing going on. Everything you need or want for an event is right here. And the vibe of the area is pretty special, too!
Where to Host An Event in Westerpark
In true Westerpark style, this industrial and chic venue features exposed brick walls, high ceilings and farmhouse furniture. This rustic venue is spacious with a soothing atmosphere, making it ideal for conferences, receptions, product launches, cocktail parties and other corporate events.
A charming bar and outdoor terrace can add to the party atmosphere or be used as a breakout room, depending on your event needs.
In terms of capacity, this spacious venue can easily accommodate up to 300 guests for a stand-up function, 150 guests for a theatre-style function and 120 guests for a banquet-style function.
There is also a wide range of amenities, including a high-speed WiFi connection, a projector, a cloakroom, and a high-tech sound system to make any event a stellar success.
6. Oud-West
Oud-West is a super area to host an event because you are spoilt for choice with food options.
De Hallen on the Kinkerkstraat is a darling of the Amsterdam food scene. It’s a big hall housing some fascinating cuisine from all over the world.
But food is not the only reason Oud-West is one of the best areas in Amsterdam for hosting events. It has all the joys of the centre, like the canals and bars, but it’s just a bit more relaxed. The streets are broader and the pace is more chill.
A key feature in Oud-West is Vondelpark. It’s a long, wide park with beautiful water features, long open fields of grass, secluded paths and nooks, and even an old city mansion with an in-house restaurant in the middle.
Where to Host an Event in Oud-West
The creativity of some people is truly remarkable. We don't know how anyone came up with the idea of creating a creative pool space on the top floor of an old factory. But they were right, and any event held here is sure to impress its participants.
The cartoon-video style and colours of the decor play against the ageing core of the building's industrial past. The bright white roof with long skylights brings out the plant life and wooden furniture.
The venue has a standing capacity of 120 and a seated capacity of 30.
7. Oud-Zuid
Oud-Zuid is Dutch for Old South. And you know the phrase,old is gold. This is the area for those looking to put on a classy event.
One of the most culturally rich areas in Amsterdam, Museumplein in Oud-Zuid has three of the greatest museums in Europe in the same park: The Stedelijk Museum, the Rijksmuseum, and the Van Gogh Museum.
It’s a shopaholic’s dream, too, with big names like Chanel, Louboutin, and Dior residing there.
Where to Host an Event in Oud-Zuid
Discover this chic waterfront gem in the vibrant heart of Oud-Zuid. Located in the historic heart of Amsterdam, this venue promises a distinctive setting for all events.
Imagine a spacious, contemporary oasis, perfect for private lunches or dinners, while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the city. There's also a gorgeous terrace with picturesque views of the sea and passing boats - an ideal spot for spring or summer gatherings.
And let's not forget the food! The venue treats the taste buds to a fantastic catering service with a Japanese-inspired twist. From tempting sushi creations to mouth-watering grilled meat platters, guests will be in for a treat they won't be able to resist!
Wrapping Up
Amsterdam is an inviting place, and these neighbourhoods are just a small taste of what one can experience in the Dutch capital.
There is something for everyone here. From the best bars in Amsterdam for those who’d like to experience the city’s nightlife to some of the best photography museums to visit for those who prefer the cultural side of things, Amsterdam welcomes everyone!
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