Nes

Walk just a few steps from Amsterdam’s Dam Square and you’ll find yourself on Nes - a narrow cobblestone street that most tourists completely overlook. No neon signs, no souvenir shops, no pancake palaces. Just calm façades hiding centuries of stories, tucked away in the historic heart of the city.

But don’t let the quiet fool you. This street has hosted monks, revolutionaries, poets, and performers. And it’s one of the most fascinating stops on the StoryHunt Discover Amsterdam audio walk - a tour that brings overlooked corners like Nes back into the spotlight.

What is the story behind Nes?

Nes has existed in some form since the 14th century, originally as a stretch of land outside the early city walls, leading toward what is now the Amstel River. The name “Nes” likely derives from the old Dutch word for “nose” or “promontory,” referring to the way the land jutted into the surrounding wetlands.

By the late Middle Ages, Nes had become home to several religious institutions, most notably the Sint Ursulaklooster, a convent for the Sisters of the Common Life. During the Reformation and later the Protestant takeover in the 16th century, these buildings were confiscated or repurposed. Many were later turned into theaters and performance venues.

That shift transformed Nes from sacred to stage. It became part of Amsterdam’s cultural core, drawing playwrights and performers for centuries. Even today, Nes is home to an unusual concentration of small theaters, including:

• De Brakke Grond – A Flemish cultural center focused on experimental art and performance
• Frascati Theater – Known for bold contemporary productions
• Theater Amsterdam – Formerly on Nes, now a larger venue by the IJ but with its roots here

You’ll hear about these stories - plus hidden alleyways, unsung poets, and rebellious artists - on the StoryHunt audio tour, where Nes gets the narrative treatment it deserves.

What is Nes street known for today?

While it may not be on every tourist map, Nes is still very much alive as a cultural corridor. It’s known for:

• Small, independent theaters offering avant-garde productions
• Tranquil architecture that captures Amsterdam’s understated charm
• Hidden courtyards and historic buildings, many of which date back to the 17th century
• A few cozy cafés and restaurants that feel worlds away from the bustle of Damrak

Nes is also a favorite among local artists and Amsterdamers in-the-know, who come here to avoid the crush of the Kalverstraat shopping crowds or the selfie sticks in front of the palace.

Is Nes a good place to stay in Amsterdam?

Many people search this question when looking for something central but quiet - and the answer is yes, Nes offers one of the best low-key lodging locations in central Amsterdam.

Several small hotels and boutique stays line the street, including:

• Hotel V Nesplein – Trendy, local-focused design hotel with an artsy edge
• Hotel Nes – Overlooking the Amstel, a more classic stay with water views
• Misc Eatdrinksleep – Just around the corner, with individually decorated rooms

Being just a 3-minute walk from Dam Square and 10 minutes from Amsterdam Centraal Station, you’re connected to everything - without actually feeling like you're in the thick of it.

Is it worth seeing Nes in Amsterdam?

Absolutely - and not just as a shortcut.

Nes offers a rare glimpse into the layered identity of Amsterdam: spiritual, radical, creative, quiet. You can go from a 15th-century courtyard to a 21st-century stage in under a minute. It’s a perfect example of the city’s ability to evolve while keeping its soul intact.

Most tourists walk right past it. But that’s exactly why you should stop.

To truly appreciate its history and voices, we recommend pairing your visit with the StoryHunt audio tour of Amsterdam. The stop at Nes connects real places to forgotten tales, adding dimension to every brick you walk past.

What else is nearby Nes?

You’re in the beating heart of old Amsterdam, and there’s no shortage of things to see within a 5-minute walk:

• Dam Square – Home to the Royal Palace, Nieuwe Kerk, and plenty of street performers
• The Amsterdam Museum – Located around the corner, it offers deep dives into the city’s social and economic history
• The Begijnhof – One of the oldest inner courtyards in Amsterdam, serene and filled with history
• Kalverstraat – The main shopping street, perfect for people-watching or quick bites
• Spui – A lively square home to independent bookstores and regular outdoor book markets

And of course, Nes itself is featured in the StoryHunt Discover Amsterdam audio walk, which gives you a curated narrative experience across all these landmarks and more.