Approximately 1.5 million people live in the Greater Amsterdam area. Amsterdam serves as the capital of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. However, the seat of government and the King's residence are located about 60 kilometres away in The Hague.
The numerous canals have brought Amsterdam international fame. Despite the many bridges in Amsterdam, the city only ranks third in terms of
Amsterdam is also known as the "City of Sin." This nickname mainly stems from the very liberal attitudes of the city's residents. Everything considered immoral elsewhere is either permitted or at least tolerated in Amsterdam.
the number of bridges, behind Hamburg and Vienna.
Amsterdam stretches along the 21-kilometrelong North Sea Canal and the Amstel River. The three crosses in the city's coat of arms represent the three dangers: flood, fire, and the plague that once afflicted the city. In the year 1489, Emperor Maximilian of Austria granted the city the imperial crown for its coat of arms.
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Grachten
Waterways of the city
Bloemgracht
The Bloemgracht is a branch of the Prinsengracht. It begins directly opposite the Anne Frank House and flows into the Lijnbaansgracht. This waterway is located in the sought-after Jordaan district. What was once a workingclass area has transformed over the years into
Amsterdam's most exclusive neighbourhood. The lively street markets in the area offer fresh produce and local specialities, while numerous events enrich the cultural life. with the OBB
Brouwersgracht
At the intersection of Herrengracht and Brouwersgracht, you can see an impressive ensemble of typical Amsterdam houses. Brouwersgracht is named after the many breweries that were once located here. This waterway was created in the 16th and 17th centuries.
The flourishing local economy attracted numerous wealthy merchants to the city. Along the banks, they built magnificent townhouses. Some of them converted their residences into warehouses and private docks.
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Entrepotdok
At the Latjesbrug, three different canals converge: the Nieuwe Herrengracht, the Schippersgracht, and to the right, the Entrepotdok. The customs depot Entrepotdok was built in the year 1829 and comprised 84 large warehouses. The entire building complex is a protected
monument. Over the years, around 600 apartments have been created here. Thus, the former customs depot transformed into the largest converted warehouse complex in the city.
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Herengracht
The innermost of the three canals in Amsterdam's canal belt is the Herengracht. Along this waterway lies the most prestigious section of the Herengracht, the Golden Bend. Due to the larger plots of land in this part of Amsterdam, extremely impressive buildings were
constructed at the canal's bend. This area was home to the city's wealthiest citizens. Today, several major companies have their headquarters here.
The official residence of the Mayor of Amsterdam is at Herengracht 502.
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Groenburgwal
In the past, numerous textile mills existed at this location, producing and dyeing a variety of fabrics. Since at this location most of the fabrics at the time were dyed green (in Dutch "groen"), the name Groenburgwal was born.
Today, the association with the colour green refers to the lush vegetation along the canal.
The Groenburgwal has now become a popular meeting spot for lovers, who attach a lock to the Staalmeesters Bridge as a symbol of their affection.
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Prinsengracht
The Prinsengracht is the outermost main canal of Amsterdam's canal ring. Stretching just over 3 kilometres, it runs in a semicircle through the old town, starting at the Brouwersgracht and ending at the
Amstel. At both ends, the Prinsengracht is met by the Korte Prinsengracht and the Nieuwe Prinsengracht. One-way-traffic only on the Prinsengracht. with the
Reguliersgracht
The Reguliersgracht connects the Herengracht, the Keizersgracht, and the Prinsengracht. From the banks of the Herengracht, you can enjoy the muchphotographed "Seven Bridges View."
The view from the water is particularly fascinating when you pass by in the evening. All the arches of the bridges are illuminated and reflect their light beautifully in the canal.
Attractions
Anne Frank Haus
The Anne Frank House tells the story of the Frank and van Pels families and Fritz Pfeffer, who went into hiding at this address, Prinsengracht 263, in July 1942. The building consists of two parts. The upper floors of the annex provided refuge for those in hiding. Otto
Frank, the only one of the eight inhabitants to return from Auschwitz, found the annex uninhabited.
Since the Anne Frank House opened as a museum in the year 1960, the annex has remained empty at Otto Frank's request.
ARTIS - Zoo
In the year 1838, the first zoo in the Netherlands was founded and is today among the five oldest zoos in the world. This zoo, located in the centre of Amsterdam, was established to offer nature enthusiasts a glimpse into the fascinating world of animals and nature.
At all three entrances, the words "Natura Artis Magistra" (Nature is the teacher of art) are inscribed, which the locals have shortened to "Artis." The two museums (Micropia and Groote Museum) are described in the "Museums" section.
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Natura Artis Magistra
Beguines were female members of religious lay communities active across much of Europe from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. The male members of these communities were buried. The Begijnhof in Amsterdam is the only preserved courtyard from the
Middle Ages and was first mentioned in the year 1346. Today, it features two- and three-bedroom apartments. The Begijnhof is one of the oldest canal gardens in the city and it is definitely worth a visit during your stay in Amsterdam.
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Begijnhof
Begijnhof Amsterdam
Brouwerij 't IJ
The IJ Brewery is a small brewery in Amsterdam. It is located in a former bathhouse known as the Funen. The De Gooyer windmill stands in close proximity. The brewery was founded in the year 1985 and produces a
total of twelve standard beers as well as three seasonal specialties.
Additionally, limited quantities of special beer varieties are regularly brewed.
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The Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam, with a history dating back to the year 1683, is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world. Covering an area of around 1.2 hectares, the garden is home to about 6,000 tropical and native plants and trees. Between the years 1885 and
1918, the biologist Hugo de Vries was in charge of the botanical garden. On the way from the nearby Artis Zoo to the botanical garden, you will pass the Hugo de Vries Centre, which is directly connected to the garden.
Hortus Botanicus
Bols Cocktail Experience
Bols was founded in the year 1575 and claims to be the oldest distillery brand in the world. Today, the brand is available in 110 countries, and the range of liqueurs includes more than 30 different flavours. The Bols Cocktail Experience offers an exceptional, interactive
journey into the world of cocktails. During the audiovisual tour, visitors will have the opportunity to discover the secrets behind the perfect cocktail through touch, taste, and smell.
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Fo Guang Shan He Hua Temple
The temple was designed by architect Fred Greven using the Buddhist unit of measurement of 32 cm. It was inaugurated in September 2000 in the presence of Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands. The complex consists
of four floors. Both the exterior staircase and the granite balustrades were made in China. The temple is dedicated to the union and cooperation of Chinese and Dutch cultures.
Fo Guang Shan He Hua Temple
Heineken Experience
Founded in the year 1864, this brewery has grown into the second-largest brewing company in the world. The Heineken Experience showcases the history of the oldest Heineken brewery, located in the centre of Amsterdam.
The tour lasts around 90 minutes. Various tours are offered, focusing on the history of the Heineken brewery and brand as well as the topic of beer in general.
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Heineken Experience
A'DAM Lookout
In the year 2016, the nearly 100-metre-high structure was inaugurated and has since become a well-known landmark within the city of Amsterdam. From the two observation decks, both indoors and outdoors, visitors will experience a breathtaking view over the city.
Additionally, this building features Europe's highest swing and the opportunity to experience a virtual rollercoaster ride. Two restaurants and a bar are also available on site. At A'DAM Lookout, only cashless payments are accepted.
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Taking the ferry that operates directly behind Centraal Station, you reach NDSM Station after a short crossing. Between the years 1946 and 1978, NDSM was home to numerous successful shipyards that constructed enormous ships, including supertankers. After the
company's bankruptcy, the area developed into a significant cultural attraction with a vibrant artist community and a constantly growing selection of bars and restaurants.
Pathé Koninklijk Theatre Tuschinski
The Tuschinski Theatre (known as Pathé Tuschinski since the year 2000) is one of the city's most impressive buildings. The cinema hall, which opened its doors in the year 1921, could accommodate a total of 1,600 spectators. Even at the time of its inauguration, the building was equipped with air conditioning. In addition to its function as a venue for film screenings and variety acts, the theatre was also known as a concert location for international stars. Since the cinema chain Pathé took over it has frequently hosted premieres of Dutch films.
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Vondelpark
Vondelpark covers an area of about 47 hectares and is the largest park in Amsterdam. It is very popular and attracts millions of visitors annually. Numerous bicycles continuously move through the park's extensive paths. Within the park, there are several stages, cafés, and a
variety of monuments. The park is also highly appreciated by the local bird wildlife, such as storks, herons, and ducks. The Rosarium is a popular meeting spot, especially during blooming season.
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Wertheim Park
Wertheim Park lies in the Plantagebuurt district, on the Herengracht, northeast of the botanical garden. This park is home to a monument designed by Jan Wolkers,
dedicated to the victims of the Auschwitz concentration camp. The broken mirror reflects a sky that will never be the same after Auschwitz.
Auschwitzmonument
Monument for the members of Medicine Sans Frontières who have passed away
Museums
Amsterdam
Museum on the Amstel
The Amsterdam Museum on the Amstel is housed in a building that accommodates three museums: the H'ART Museum, the Museum van de Geest, and the Amsterdam Museum on the Amstel. On the first floor of the Amsterdam Museum, you will find the "Panorama
Amsterdam." Here, the city's history from the 16th century to the present is vividly presented. After visiting the museum, you will have the opportunity to treat yourself to a refreshment in the excellent café.
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ARTIS - MICROPIA
Micropia is the world's first museum entirely dedicated to microbes. How many microbes are exchanged between partners when kissing? And how many microbes can be found in the navel? At Micropia, visitors can learn the answers to these questions while experiencing a variety of
interactive attractions, such as the Kiss-o-meter and the Bodyscan. The museum houses over 40 different types of microbes, which can be viewed under the microscope. The Zoo Amsterdam ticket also grants entry to MICROPIA. with the
ARTIS
After the zoo was founded, the Natura Artis Magistra Society decided in the year 1850 to also establish a museum, which opened its doors five years later, in 1855. The exhibition has been located on the upper floor since the opening of the museum. Numerous display
cases and cabinets present a variety of objects, ranging from shells and skulls to specimens and skeletons. From the beginning, the museum has been a place where nature is studied and knowledge is shared.
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- Groote Museum
Body Worlds
Body Worlds Amsterdam is part of a series of exhibitions initiated by Dr. Gunther von Hagens. In the year 1977, Dr. von Hagens developed the method of plastination. The seven-floor exhibition is a permanent display and has been repeatedly updated over time.
Currently, it focuses on the theme of "Happiness and its impact on the human body."
The photos provide a brief overview of what visitors have seen at Body Worlds in recent years. with the OBB nightjet to Amsterdam
Body Worlds Amsterdam
EYE
The institution was founded in the year 1946 and moved to a pavilion in Vondelpark in 1972. In the year 2012, it relocated to a new building, which has since been named EYE. The innovative design of the structure, reminiscent of a spaceship from a science fiction film,
was created by the Viennese architectural firm DeluganMeissl. The museum houses an impressive collection of fi lms. Additionally, the exceptional café-restaurant should not go unmentioned.
Film Museum
Katten Kabinet
For all cat lovers, the "Katten Kabinet" is an essential destination in Amsterdam. Located in two separate buildings at Herengracht 497 and 499, it features a comprehensive exhibition dedicated to all things feline. Naturally, numerous cats also reside in the museum.
The Katten Kabinet was founded in the year 1990 by Bob Meijer to commemorate his cat "John Pierpont Morgan" (named after the American banker J. P. Morgan).
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Moco stands for "Modern Contemporary Museum" and has locations in three major cities: Amsterdam, Barcelona, and London. In these museums, visitors can experience both modern and contemporary art. The
target audience includes a diverse and young crowd. The aim is to make artworks accessible to a broad public. In Amsterdam, the museum is housed in the historic Villa Alsberg building.
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Moco Museum
Andy Warhol
Keith Haring
Damien Hirst
Takashi Murakami
NEMO Science Museum
The futuristic NEMO Science Museum is just a short walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station. It is remarkable how the fi elds of biology, physics, chemistry, and technology are made accessible and
engaging for children. Spread over several floors, the museum is a true adventure playground for both young and old. NEMO stands for Network of European Museum Organisations.
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Nxt Museum
The Nxt Museum can undoubtedly be seen as the centre of modern media. Each room within the museum offers a fresh surprise with unpredictable effects. Powerful light and sound elements define the
entire museum. The title "Nxt Museum" might suggest that visitors wonder what will come "next" as they move from room to room.
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Rijksmuseum Amsterdam
The Rijksmuseum Amsterdam is an impressive museum that illuminates the entire Museumplein. Here, many artefacts from the Dutch Golden Age are on display. Honoured with the title "European Museum of the Year"
in 2015, it showcases works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Hals, and Steen, as well as extensive collections documenting the colonial history of the Netherlands. The museum also includes a vast library. with the OBB nightjet to Amsterdam
Rembrandt van Rijn
Rembrandt van Rijn
Bartholomeus von der Helst
Het Scheepvaartmuseum
With over 400,000 exhibits, the 500-year-old maritime history of the Netherlands is impressively showcased in this museum. The Het Scheepvaartsmuseum in Amsterdam houses one of the largest and most
signi fi cant maritime collections in the world. Additionally, the VOC-Amsterdam can be viewed in front of the museum. The museum is located just a few minutes from Centraal Station. with the OBB
In the year 1990, a replica of the "VOC Ship Amsterdam" was constructed. This is an exact reproduction of a cargo ship from the Dutch East India Company (Vereenigde Oost-Indische Compagnie; VOC). The "VOC Amsterdam" sank during its maiden voyage in the year 1749. Parts of the wreck, discovered in 1960, are displayed in the Amsterdam Maritime Museum, in front of which the venerable reproduction ship lies. At that time, the crew of the "VOC Amsterdam" consisted of 203 crew members and 127 soldiers. The armament included a total of 42 cannons.
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VOC Amsterdam
Occasionally, the "Stad Amsterdam," a three-masted clipper with a steel hull and full-rigged ship configuration, docks here. This ship was created as part of a project by the city of Amsterdam in collaboration with the staffing company Randstad. The construction was primarily carried out by job seekers and school dropouts. Through practical training during the build, these individuals were able to gain new career prospects. The ship was completed in the year 2000 and has been sailing the world's oceans since. In the year 2001, the "Stad Amsterdam" secured victory in the Cutty Sark Tall Ships' Race.
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Stad Amsterdam
Sexmuseum Amsterdam Venustempel
The Sexmuseum on Damrak 18 is considered the oldest museum of its kind. The building, constructed in the 17th century, houses an educational exhibit on the topics of love and sexuality. The Venustempel was opened in the year 1985. A variety of objects and
memorabilia demonstrate the evolution of human sexuality. Life-sized wax-figures of Mata Hari and Marilyn Monroe complement the exhibit. The minimum age to visit the Sexmuseum Amsterdam is 16 years.
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Stedelijk Museum
The "Municipal Museum" in Amsterdam was founded in the year 1874 by a group of dedicated citizens of the city. The first building began operations in the year 1895. After extensive renovations and an expansion of the museum, the new Stedelijk Museum was
inaugurated by Queen Beatrix in the year 2012. The newly added section of the museum, which expands the exhibition space to 8,000 m², is affectionately known as "the Bathtub."
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STRAAT Museum
In one of the former halls of the NDSM shipping company, this impressive museum spanning over 8,000 m² was opened in the year 2020. At the STRAAT Museum, visitors have the opportunity to admire 180 artworks by more than 170 different artists. Most of
these artworks were created directly in the museum. In addition to the exhibition inside the hall, numerous impressive graffiti pieces can be discovered throughout the area.
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Upside Down
The Upside Down Amsterdam considers itself the most exciting experience museum in the city. The fascination of over 25 colourful and captivating themed rooms delights every guest. Besides the opportunity to take your own photos, visitors will automatically have their
pictures in all rooms. These can then be viewed and retrieved in the entrance area.
To top it all off, a visit to the totally quirky café within the museum is well worth it.
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Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam was opened in the year 1973. This museum houses the world's largest collection of artworks by Van Gogh, who passed away in the year 1890. In addition to Van Gogh's internationally renowned paintings, works by his contemporaries, including Gauguin, Monet, Pissarro, and Toulouse-Lautrec, are also displayed. The impressive round building is connected to the multi-storey museum by a tunnel.
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City tours
Private tour in a saloon boat
Captain Reinhard Spronk runs a highly exclusive shipping company in Amsterdam. Up to 12 guests can cruise through the picturesque canals in a traditional saloon boat. The Welmoed was put into service in the year 1932. The environmentally friendly electric drive of the luxurious mahogany boat ensures a
first-class tour. The captain tailors the trip entirely to the individual wishes of the guests.
This is an exclusive experience that is an absolute highlight for every visitor to Amsterdam.
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Travellers visiting Amsterdam should definitely purchase an "I amsterdam City Card." This card not only allows the use of public transport and entry to more than 70 museums, but also includes a free canal cruise.
The large, fully glazed boats are reminiscent of tour buses in other major cities and follow a set route through the city. In about an hour, visitors can get a great first impression of Amsterdam by boat.
Canal cruise
Buildings
Beurspassage
The Beurspassage is an impressive shopping arcade that connects Damrak with Nieuwendijk. The entire structure has been transformed into a contemporary shopping centre housing various fashion stores. In this
context, artists Arno Coenen, Iris Roskam, and Hans van Bentem have created an extraordinary piece of art. The Beurspassage is always worth a visit.
Concert-Gebouw
The "Koninklijk Concertgebouw" (Royal Concert Hall) is located right next to the city's major museums. Lovers of classical music have the opportunity to enjoy the "Koninklijk Concertgebouworkest" (Concertgebouw Orchestra) here. Since its inauguration in the year 1888,
it has been one of the most important musical institutions in the Netherlands. This cultural venue is among the world's most outstanding locations for classical music.
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Nationaal Monument op de Dam
The National Monument on Dam Square is a cenotaph erected in the year 1956 in Amsterdam. A cenotaph is an empty tomb or a monument created to honour a person or group of people whose remains are located elsewhere or whose remains have been lost.
Every year on May 4th, a national memorial ceremony is held at the monument to commemorate the victims of World War II and subsequent armed conflicts. with the OBB
De Gooyer / Funenmolen
"Molen De Gooyer" (also called Funenmolen) is the largest wooden windmill in the Netherlands and stands an impressive 26.6 metres tall. Its construction concluded in the year 1609. In 1725, the windmill was relocated to the area of what today are the Orange-Nassau barracks.
At its current location, the national treasure has been operating since the year 1814. The "Molen De Gooyer" belongs to the City of Amsterdam and is located in close proximity to a small but popular brewery. The windmill is not accessible to the public.
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Westermoskee
The impressive Westermoskee Ayasofya Camii spans an area of 800m² and accommodates up to 1,700 worshippers, making it the largest mosque in the city. Architects Marc and Nada Breitman designed this
building, which was inaugurated in the year 2016. The freestanding minaret stands at a height of 42m. The largest mosque in the Netherlands is located in Rotterdam. with the OBB nightjet to Amsterdam
Koninklijk Paleis Amsterdam
The Royal Palace on Dam Square was originally built as a town hall in the year 1665. From the year 1808 onwards, it served as a royal palace. This impressive building is a testament to the Dutch Golden Age. The palace rests on nearly 14,000 wooden piles.
When the royal family is not using their quarters, it is possible to visit the splendid building. Visiting dates can be viewed on the palace's website.
Nieuwmarkt
The Nieuwmarkt is dominated by the building "de Waag" (Weigh House). Before the city walls were demolished, it was one of the three gates surrounding Amsterdam. Since then, it has evolved into a weigh house, a guild hall, and a museum, and is known as
the location where Rembrandt created his work "The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp."
The popular restaurant-café "de Waag," illuminated by 300 candles, is also located here.
Public transportation
Metro, tram, buses and ferries
The GVB (Municipal Transport Company) manages public transport in Amsterdam. In addition to a variety of travel passes for visitors, there is also the option to pay for journeys with a bank card. However, it is crucial to always
tap the card on the terminals in the vehicles when boarding and exiting. Detailed information about the stops can be found on the GVB website.
Hauptbahnhof - Centraal Station
The impressive Amsterdam Centraal Station was inaugurated in the year 1889. After Utrecht, it is the second most visited train station in the Netherlands. Numerous tram and bus lines meet at this junction. There are also four subway lines and a large ferry terminal right next to the Centraal Station. The Eurostar even offers a direct connection from Amsterdam to London. The gigantic glass roof of the station is particularly noteworthy.
This e-book was made possible through the kind support of the regional tourist offices and the OBB. German proofreading and editorial:Martin Andergassen. English version: Katie Lang
References
Text, videos and photos by Rudolf J. Strutz unless otherwise stated. Timetables and travel information: OBB.
Assistance from AI
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Copyright
This book was licensed under the Creative Commons License. Conditions of use: attribution, non-commercial, no editing and distribution under the same conditions only as a complete work! The use of individual photos and text is not permitted. This eBook is available free of charge.
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