Welcome to Amsterdam City Center, the district of choice for tourists and big-box stores. And don't immediately think of Nieuwendijk and Kalverstraat when you think of Amsterdam City Center. We know the truly great spots! In this Amsterdam City Center Guide, we've compiled a list of the best local hotspots in Amsterdam's city center. From the grachtengordel to the cozy Jordan en Haarlemmerbuurt.

In our opinion, Utrechtsestraat is one of the nicest shopping streets in Amsterdam city center. But we also love shopping and dining on Haarlemmerdijk, Haarlemmerstraat, and the Nine Streets! So many hotspots and low spots worth a visit. And let's be honest: what's more wonderful than cycling along Amsterdam's beautiful canals and then enjoying drinks with friends?

FAMILY TRAVEL TIPS: Traveling with a baby or kids? Then also check out Travelkids.co, the sister of Your Little Black Book for parents with wanderlust! Also on Instagram via @travelkids.co.