Amsterdam can represent a sense of freedom for everyone, but it’s not just the ambiance that makes a visit worthwhile. I’ll introduce you to the sights of Amsterdam, so if you go there, you won’t miss anything!
Netherlands‘ capital and largest city. Popular among tourists, it has long been considered one of the world’s most livable cities.
Amsterdam is also recommended for families, as it is a very child-friendly city!
The city is famous for its nightlife and festival activities: numerous nightclubs (Melkweg, Paradiso) are among the world’s most famous. It’s one of the world’s most multicultural cities, with at least 177 nationalities represented.
Table of Contents
Attractions in Amsterdam
Dam
This is Amsterdam’s main square. Tourists enjoy spending time here, watching various street performances.
The roughly 200m long and 100m wide square is crossed by the historical city center’s main street (Damrak to the north, Rokin to the south).
The square is also the convergence point for the city’s two main shopping streets, Nieuwendijk and the Kalverstraat and Damstraat.
On the east side of the square stands the Nationaal Monument (National Monument).
Access: Trams 1, 2, 4, 5, 13, 14, 17 to Dam stop.
Royal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis)
Formerly a town hall, it’s now used for official receptions by the royal family. It’s located on the western side of Dam Square.
The building, featuring Dutch Classicism, was constructed during the Dutch Golden Age between 1648 and 1665. It was converted into a royal palace in 1808.
Its significant rooms are clad in marble, and higher wall sections are covered with realistically painted wooden paneling. This method was used to create the 36m long and 18m wide council chamber (Raadzaal), one of Europe’s largest such spaces.
The empire-style furniture, dating back to the time of Louis Bonaparte, is impressive. The palace’s rooms are adorned with paintings and sculptures, and several have frescoed ceilings.
All information (entrance fee, opening hours, etc.) can be found here!
New Church (Nieuwe Kerk)
Located next to the Royal Palace, it’s also known as the cathedral of the Netherlands.
It has been the venue for several important events and the burial place of many Dutch notables.
Nowadays, it no longer functions as a church but hosts temporary exhibitions and concerts.
Information on exhibitions and ticket prices can be found on the official website.
Leidse Square (Leidseplein)
This lively square is filled with restaurants and cafes and is a popular spot for locals as well. Street performers are also a common sight here.
Access: Trams 1, 2, 5, 7, 10 to Leidseplein stop.
De Waag
Located at Nieuwmarkt square, this castle-like building once served as a city gate.
The five-towered structure later hosted live dissections, but fortunately, today it houses a café and restaurant. 🙂
The square is filled with bars, cafés, restaurants, and coffee shops.
Access: Metro lines 51, 53, 54 to Nieuwmarkt station.
Canals
Three concentric canals run through the city, built in the 17th century. The innermost is Herengracht, the middle one is Keizersgracht, and the outer one is Prinsengracht.
A boat tour is a must when visiting! Evening tours are particularly beautiful, with candlelit boats cruising the canals.
Tickets can be purchased online, but it’s also worth checking out the offices around Dam Square or Centraal Station.
Montelbaanstoren
Among Amsterdam’s several clock towers, Montelbaanstoren might be the most beautiful.
The lower part was built in 1512, with the bell tower added in 1606.
This remaining tower of the old Amsterdam city wall stands on the Oude Schans canal bank.
Access: Metro lines 51, 53, 54 to Nieuwmarkt station, then a 400-meter walk.
Red Light District (Rosse Buurt)
Famous for its legal sex work, with women showcasing their services behind windows.
Be cautious in this area! Do not photograph the women and avoid walking alone if possible, as drug and theft gangs are present.
Casa Rosso
This is a sex theater where couples perform various erotic acts on stage.
Ticket prices and opening hours are available here. There’s also a ticket option that includes 2 drinks.
Access: Metro lines 51, 53, 54 to Nieuwmarkt station, then about 250 meters on foot.
Albert Cuyp Market
One of Europe’s most famous markets, open every day except Sunday. You can find everything here, from clothes to fruits to food.
For an authentic Dutch experience, try the raw herring!
All information available here!
Access: Tram 4 to Ceintuurbaan stop.
Vondelpark
Netherlands’ most famous park, where many people spend their leisure time. It’s often compared to a smaller version of Central Park.
Access: Trams 1, 11 to J.P. Heijestraat stop.
Amstelpark
Ideal for children, with a large playground in the north and a small animal park.
The park features a miniature train resembling a 70s car.
Access: Metro lines 50, 51 to Amsterdam RAI station.
