Best things and drawbacks to living in Vondelparkbuurt

Pros:

• Direct on the Vondelpark: two-minute walk to 47 hectares of green space with ponds, playgrounds and terraces
• Tram 2 and 5 stop on the Stadhouderskade; direct access to Central Station and Leidseplein
• Many original 1930s buildings with high ceilings and large windows, not the standard blocks elsewhere
• Museumplein within walking distance: Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum
• Supermarket Albert Heijn on the corner, bakery Brood en Co, butcher Louman—no shortage of essentials

Cons:

• House prices run 15–20% above Amsterdam average; especially for lift-less apartments in old buildings
• Tourists everywhere, especially around Vondelpark and Museumplein; crowded and noisy on weekends
• Parking spaces are scarce and expensive; most residents use bike storage or paid parking
• Many rental properties owned by investors; owner-occupancy is difficult and costly
• School places in the area fill quickly; waiting lists for primary schools are long