Amsterdam Attractions

Here are some of the Amsterdam attractions that you should consider visiting while in Amsterdam.

Old Center

This is the most popular area with tourists. This is the area of Amsterdam that contains most of the traditional buildings plus most of the main tourist attractions. A good starting point is Dam Square

Dam Square

This is the heart of Amsterdam. You'll find quite a few attractions in this area alone. In the center of the square you'll find the Dutch war Memorial. Surrounding the square are the Royal Palace, the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), Mme. Tussaud's and some of the main shopping areas

 

 

Amsterdam Attractions








Royal Palace

Built 1st as a town hall and later occupied by Napoleon's brother the Royal Palace now serves as a building which hosts royal functions and other state affairs. Tours are available....

Nieuwe Kerk

The Nieuwe Kerk or new church is located directly beside the Royal Palace. It is called the new church for the simple reason that it was built after the Old Church (Oude Kerk). Visitors are able to tour the church which hosts various exhibitions each year....

The Damrak

This is the main street that leads from Dam square to central station. Along the street you'll find various stores, banks and restaurants that cater to the tourist trade. As you get closer to central station, you will find an area filled with tour boats that will take you on a canal cruise.

Canal cruise

What's a visit to Amsterdam without taking a tour on one of the many canal boats. Although the boats can be found all over Amsterdam, the most common place to start your cruise is near the North end of the Damrak near Central Station….

Amsterdam Sex Museum

Located on the Damrak this museum highlights the history of sex in the Netherlands and around the world. Although it can be considered a tourist trap, it is worth the visit....

Red light district

When you think of Amsterdam usually the 1st thing that comes to mind is the red light district. This is the oldest area of the city because it is home to the world's oldest profession. During the day and up until midnight the area is full of tourists getting a glimpse of this unique aspect of Dutch culture, which can certainly be considered one of Amsterdam's attractions.

Old Jewish quarter

This area is worth a visit for the history associated with World War II. A trip to the Jewish historical Museum will help you understand what the Jewish population of Amsterdam went through during the war years....

Rembrandt House

Visit the house where Rembrandt and his wife lived from 1639 to 1658. It's hard to miss with its bright green door....

Oude Kerk

The Oude Kerk or old church is located near the red light district. It is called the old church because it's Amsterdam's 1st church. Tours of the church are available....

The Canal Ring

This area of Amsterdam is a UNESCO world heritage site. Famous for its canals, this is a vibrant area of the city.

Amsterdam architecture

This is the area of the city that is famous for its buildings. The canals are lined with houses and mansions that date back to the 17th century. Don't forget the house both either....

The Leidseplein

The Leidseplein is a vibrant square located near the outer canals. This is a great place to people watch and to sit outside and enjoy Heineken....

Rembrandtplein

A beautiful little square with its centerpiece statue of Rembrandt. There area lots of little stores and restaurants to choose from.

Anne Frank house

If you go Amsterdam you have to visit Anne Frank house. This was the World War II hiding place of that famous little girl who wrote a diary while trying to evade capture by the Nazis. For more information follow the links to one of the must-see Amsterdam attractions.

Westerkerk

Located right next to Anne Frank house this Protestant church has the highest church tower in Amsterdam. Rembrandt is buried in the church but the exact location of the grave is unknown. Visitors are welcome….

Jordaan

This area is located to the west of central station and is known for shopping there's a mix of clothing stores, art galleries, bars and restaurants.

Plantage

Here you'll find one of the greenest areas in Amsterdam and it's home to the Artis Zoo. An entry ticket to the zoo will also give you admission to the planetarium, geological Museum and the aquarium….

The South

This is a large area of Amsterdam that has many middle-class areas. For the tourist the most important area is the museum quarter. Here you'll find some of the world's best museums.

Van Gogh Museum

If you love art than this is one of the best museums in the world to visit. The museum features the work of Vincent van Gogh, probably the most famous Dutch artist. Definitely one of the Amsterdam attractions that you must visit…

Rijksmuseum Museum

This is the largest museum in the Netherlands and focuses on art and history. Many of the Dutch Masters plus Rembrandts Nightwatch are displayed here. If you plan on visiting these museums make sure you give yourself enough time to see all that they have to offer….

Vondelpark

This is a large part in located within walking distance of the old center and is very popular with visitors. On sunny days in the summer the Park is packed and it's a great place to unwind if you've had a busy day of walking…

Heineken experience

If you've got some extra time you might as well stop by the Heineken brewery and take a tour called the Heineken experience. The history of the brewery is outlined and so is the process for making beer. At the end you get to spend time in their pub and enjoy a cold one….

 

 COPYRIGHT: EUROPEAN VACATION PLANNER 2011, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

 

Useful Information

Flights to Amsterdam

Click on the following link to book your flights to Amsterdam.

 

Hotels in Amsterdam

Click on the following link to book your hotels in Amsterdam.

 

Build Your Own

Itinerary

Learn how you can make your own travel itinerary and save money! Planning a European vacation is fun. Don't have time? Let us build it for you.