Westelijke Eilanden: Between Warehouses and Postmodernism
Explore one of Amsterdam’s most diverse neighborhoods, where centuries of urban history meet experimental architecture and contemporary city development. The Westelijke Eilanden—tucked between Central Station, the IJ, and the Zoutkeetsgracht—form a fascinating landscape full of contrasts.
NOTE: ONLY THE 3PM TOUR IS IN ENGLISH
We begin at the VLTC building by ProRail on De Ruijterkade, designed in 1989 by Rob Steenhuis and marked by striking postmodern elements. From here, we explore the station’s IJ-side, where recent additions—such as the bus station, IJ Hall, and IJboulevard—have reoriented the station district towards the water.
We then continue along IJdock, a bold urban complex by Mecanoo that includes housing, offices, a hotel, and the Amsterdam courthouse. From there, we head to Westerdokseiland, a dense neighborhood shaped by the urban plan of Delva and buildings like De Walvis by KAAN Architecten.
The tour ends on Prinseneiland and Zoutkeetsgracht, where historic warehouses, canal houses, 1980s apartment blocks, and social housing coexist. Here, you’ll see how different architectural styles and housing models overlap and interact in the heart of the city. A walk for those who appreciate urban layers, architectural detail, and character.
Visitor information
NOTE: ONLY THE 3PM TOUR IS IN ENGLISH
Tour Dates: Sunday, 6 July and 31 August, 2024
Start Times: 13:00 (Dutch) and 15:00 (English)
Meeting Point: In front of the VLTC building, De Ruijterkade 4, 1013 AA Amsterdam
Tickets: €15 Regular
Ticket holders will receive a reminder email with final details and the meeting point on the Friday before the tour.
Please note: Tickets are non-refundable and cannot be exchanged.
Browse our full summer walk agenda for more routes and special editions.