NDSM is a former shipyard across the IJ in Amsterdam Noord, now home to art spaces, studios, places to eat and cultural events. Come for the large murals and industrial setting, then look inside NDSM Loods for artists’ work and exhibitions. The free ferry from behind Centraal Station makes the crossing part of the visit, with views across the water along the way. You can also find the STRAAT street art museum, waterfront terraces and repurposed warehouses around the wharf.
From shipyard to creative district
NDSM takes its name from Nederlandsche Dok en Scheepsbouw Maatschappij, the company associated with the former shipyard. The site’s industrial past remains visible in its large warehouses and working-scale spaces. Buildings and containers now house studios, galleries, businesses, bars and restaurants, giving the wharf a mix of uses rather than the feel of a single museum or attraction.
The change from shipbuilding site to cultural area has brought artists and creative organizations into former industrial spaces. NDSM Loods is one place to see this work: the warehouse contains artists’ studios and exhibitions, including paintings, sculpture and photography. Exhibitions and events change, so check the NDSM website for what is happening during your visit.
Murals, installations and the STRAAT museum
Art appears across the wharf, from large painted walls to installations and work on shipping containers. The murals are spread around the site, so a walk is a practical way to find them. Some pieces are temporary, and the display changes over time. Keep an eye on the walls and open areas as you move between the warehouses.
For a more focused look at street art, visit STRAAT, a museum in a former warehouse on the wharf. Its collection includes more than 160 large-scale works by artists from the street art and graffiti scene. The museum is separate from the outdoor art around NDSM, so you can visit it as a dedicated stop or combine it with a walk through the rest of the area.
Old structures and new uses
The wharf’s unusual sights include a submarine in the harbour and old tram cars used as homes. Other repurposed structures include shipping containers converted into places to eat and drink, and a crane adapted into hotel suites. These details offer a glimpse of how the area’s industrial structures have found new uses; not every building or structure is open to enter.
Food and drink venues are scattered through the site, including spots by the water and businesses inside converted buildings. The waterfront is also used for events, and NDSM hosts festivals and markets. The IJ-hallen flea market takes place monthly in a large hall, while music events and film screenings are among the other activities associated with the area. Check dates in advance, since the event calendar affects what is open and happening during your visit.
Perguntas frequentes
How do you get to NDSM from Amsterdam Centraal?
Take the ferry from behind Centraal Station to NDSM-Werf. The crossing is free and takes about 15 minutes.
Is the ferry to NDSM free?
Yes. The ferry from behind Centraal Station to NDSM-Werf is free.
What can you see at NDSM?
The wharf has outdoor murals and installations, artist studios and exhibitions at NDSM Loods, and the STRAAT street art museum. You can also spot a submarine and old tram cars used as homes.
Does NDSM host events?
Yes. Markets, festivals, music events and film screenings take place at the wharf. Check NDSM’s website for current dates and details.
