Places for Reading, Writing, and Observing in Amsterdam - The Netherlands
It’s time to write about one of my favorite cities: Amsterdam. The place I call home for now, full of stories waiting to be discovered. I still remember my very first visit – staying in East, now settled in West — and everywhere I go, there’s always a little nook or corner perfect for reading, writing, or simply watching the world go by.
If you’ve been to Amsterdam’s city center, you know it can get busy, really busy. But tucked away beyond the crowded streets are so many quiet spots waiting to be uncovered. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or have made this city your home, there’s always a place that feels just right.
I have a long list of favorite spots, but today I want to share a few that inspire me the most. What I usually look for is a place that sparks my creativity – a calm atmosphere where the hum of life isn’t overwhelming, but the presence of others adds a certain warmth. It’s the kind of place where you pick up your pen almost without thinking, where you might meet someone who leaves a lasting impression, or simply where you feel a small sense of belonging.
This city has taught me that the right place can transform how you write and observe – sometimes it’s a café by a canal, other times a quiet bench in a hidden garden, or a sunlit corner in a cozy library. Amsterdam invites you to slow down and soak in the moments.
© Levain et le vin
I’ll be honest — this is one of the places I visit weekly. Why? Because the smell of fresh bread and sweet pastries is simply irresistible. Because of the shelves lined with carefully chosen wine bottles. But most of all, for the small bench outside, and the cozy seats inside, where you can watch the world go by — people rushing past on bikes, heading to appointments or the supermarket.
It can get busy here, especially on weekends. But during the week, it’s the perfect place to slow down with a good coffee, a notebook, and maybe someone next to you scribbling in theirs too. A pastry on the side, and perhaps a sourdough loaf to take home. I’ve written many words here, had some truly meaningful conversations.
Tip: Don’t come here with too many people — two is perfect. It’s a small space, best for quiet one-on-one talks, or moments spent alone.
© No man's art gallery
Most likely, this is also one of my favorite places to be — morning, afternoon, or evening. There’s always a spot, the atmosphere is just right, and you’re free to do whatever you feel like. Whether you’re sharing natural wine and deep conversation with someone you love, sipping coffee in the afternoon with your notebook open, or waking up slowly in the morning while watching the neighborhood come to life — this place just works. And there’s art! What more do you need from a place you can visit at any time of day?
They even have a sweet little back terrace, where the evening sun hits just right. It feels almost idyllic, like you’re far away from Amsterdam’s busyness, even though you’re right in the middle of it. A place to sit with your laptop — or without. With friends, or completely on your own.
© Kometenbrood
The name says it all: comets.This place — just a little outside the city center and right by the water — is where you come to breathe and slow down. I first discovered it with my boyfriend, and together we came up with some of our best ideas here, many of which found their way into my notebook. It doesn’t feel like Amsterdam, at least not the busy version of it. The bread is incredible, the coffee just right, and the atmosphere offers more than you expect. Maybe you’ll even find something here you didn’t know you were looking for.
Tip: After coffee and something sweet, it’s worth wandering over to the Marineterrein — or even going for a swim.
© Café l’affiche
Maybe one of my favorite spots to meet friends — always with my notebook in my bag. You’ll find all kinds of people here, young and old, drawn by the charm of authenticity and a hint of French vibes. Sitting by the water, on the sunny terrace, it’s easy to lose track of time.
This bar invites conversations and memories. There’s something magical about it — something that brings people together. Before you know it, hours have passed. It’s the kind of place you want to return to, again and again, with or without a notebook. Just to see who’s there, what stories are being told, and where the evening might take you.
© Gollem aan het water
I remember the first time I sat outside on the terrace here, with a cold beer and warm sun. I spent hours reflecting and jotting down words in my notebook. Suddenly, I heard animals — at first I didn’t know where they came from, until I realized the zoo is right across the bar. Every now and then, you hear monkeys or an elephant.
This bar feels almost idyllic, especially in summer. It’s an essential spot to unwind during the week, surrounded by sounds that at first seem unfamiliar, but soon feel close and inspiring — reminding you how near life’s little wonders really are.
Entrepotdok 64, 1018 AX Amsterdam
Every time I visit WG Café, it feels like stepping into an open sanatorium. Nestled between Jacob van Lennepkade and Overtoom, this area used to be the Wilhelmina Gasthuis hospital — a 20th-century complex with separate pavilions for psychiatry, surgery, and neurology. The green, village-like atmosphere still lingers, giving the neighborhood a peaceful, almost rural charm.
After the hospital moved, the WG grounds transformed into a creative hub filled with small businesses, studios, and homes. Whenever I grab a coffee or a beer here, I feel calm and at ease. It’s the perfect spot to pause, reflect, watch locals go by, and write. There’s always something to notice — like an old man and his stubborn dog who seem to share the same stubbornness, or neighbors greeting each other warmly on the street.
Marius van Bouwdijk Bastiaansestraat 52, 1054 RD Amsterdam
This is not a place to sit or write, as there are no chairs or tables, but it is definitely a place to read. When you enter this bookstore, make sure you have more than just a few minutes, because you’ll end up staying for an hour or more. It’s truly one of the most beautiful time machines in Amsterdam. The walls are completely stacked with books — so many books — in all languages and on every subject imaginable. It’s a wonderful chaos of “everything, everywhere, all at once” vibes.
The owner is one of the kindest people I’ve ever met. Every book here tells its own story, just like this bookstore itself. You can find books for a small price, especially those displayed outside in banana boxes. You’ll discover love, happiness, joy, and inspiration within these rooms — or maybe you’ll never want to leave. This place will leave a mark on you for the rest of your life, in the best way.
Tip: just buy a book, whatever the subject is — it was meant to find you.
Maybe I’ll add more places to this blog in the future — or create a part two with even more hidden spots.
