Timber Harbors and Western Islands
The Houthavens, located in the western part of Amsterdam, is a neighborhood undergoing development. It is being transformed from a port areainto a vibrant, green island neighborhood. The Western Islands—Bickerseiland, Prinseneiland, and Realeneiland—are three islands in the center of Amsterdam. They are located south of the IJ and the Zeeheldenbuurt, north of the railway line between Central Station and Amsterdam-Sloterdijk, west of the Westerdok, and east of the Planciusbuurt on the Westerkanaal. The Western Islands form the core of the Gouden Reael neighborhood, part of the Centrum district, which also includes the adjacent Westerdokseiland, the Haarlemmerbuurt, and the Planciusbuurt.
The village-like Haarlemmerbuurt neighborhood features independent shops, concept stores, bookstores, and trendy cafés along its main street. The area is known for its Art Deco movie theater, The Movies, which screens arthouse films, and the market on Haarlemmerplein, where organic food is Sold every Wednesday. Eenhoornsluis is a popular spot for watching the sunset.