The next time you’re in Amsterdam, follow the crowds of tourists (who don’t speak Dutch) from Amsterdam Central Station to Damrak, a wide boulevard lined with souvenir shops that culminates in Dam Square. This city square, known as ‘The Dam’, also marks the end point of other busy streets such as Nieuwendijk, Kalverstraat and Damstraat. Dam Square is the triumphant checkpoint for countless visitors to Amsterdam and an ideal first stop dotted with local attractions such as the National Monument, the Royal Palace, the 15th century ‘New Church’ and De Bijenkorf for shopping.
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Visit the national monument
Direction
Dam, 1012 JL Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 624 1111
The 1956 limestone obelisk, known as the Amsterdam National Monument, rises from the east side of Dam Square. It serves as the site of an annual ceremony held on May 4 (Memorial Day Basses) in remembrance of WWII and the fallen Dutch soldiers. And this work of art is a site to see, as the main pillar consists of four chained male figures, two male sculptures depicting members of the Dutch resistance, weeping dogs, and a depiction of a woman with a child and pigeons flying by. on. Seeing the monument is free. And if you’re there in May, don’t miss the Remembrance Day ceremony, complete with lectures by a celebrated author.
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Canal cruise
Get an electric boat ready to take you on a tour of Amsterdam’s famous canals. While on board, learn about the history of the intricate network of waterways, while relaxing with whatever libation you bring with you. In the winter, suits like those of the Dam Boat men offered boats covered with heaters to make the float enjoyable. This laid-back cruise is located at Café Wester near the Anne Frank house. Take a look at the “homework” on their site before you go.
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Tour the royal palace
Direction
Dam 1, 1012 JS Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 522 6161
Web
Visit the website
One of the three Dutch residences of King Willem-Alexander, the Royal Dam Palace (Koninklijk Paleis) is the most historic, the most opulent, and for these reasons the most visited of all. The original structure was built as a town hall in the 17th century and was inspired by Roman administrative palaces. The palace balcony has historical significance as the introductory place of Queen Beatrix in 1980, and then the consummate place where Prince Willem-Alexander and Princess Máxima kissed in public view to seal their marriage in 2002. After A substantial renovation from 2005 to 2009, the palace was reopened for visitors to tour revolving exhibits.
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Examine the art in the new church
Direction
De Dam, 1012 NL Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 626 8168
Web
Visit the website
The Gothic beauty that stands next to the Royal Palace is the 15th century New Church (Nieuwe Kerk), built to alleviate the overcrowding of the Old Church (Oude Kerk). Services have since ceased and the church now acts as an exhibition space for high-profile art exhibits and organ recitals. The space is also used for Dutch royal investiture ceremonies and royal weddings. Take a guided tour (available in 10 languages) to discover the historical significance of ancient architecture.
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Compre and De Bijenkorf
Direction
Dam 1, 1012 JS Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 88 245 4488
Web
Visit the website
In a class of its own on Dam Square is De Bijenkorf (“The Beehive”), one of the Netherlands’ leading department stores. Founded in 1870, it expanded from a modest shop on a narrow street to its present monumental home on the corner of Damrak and Dam Square. The store offers designer brands of fashion and footwear for men, women and children, as well as cosmetics, accessories, toys and household items. Bijenkorf is a must see for avid shoppers. And even reluctant attendees will appreciate a quick visit. Non-buyers can also hang out in the store’s cafeteria.
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Visit Madame Tussauds
Direction
Dam 20, 1012 KW Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 522 1010
Web
Visit the website
The Netherlands Wax Statues Museum borders Dam Square and offers a fantastic view of the city from the windows on the upper floors. Founded in 1970, the museum was the first of its kind to open in Europe after Britain’s flagship debut. This simple introduction to Dutch pop culture is a great stop for families with children. Check out the wax statues of Queen Beatrix and DJ Tiesto, as well as those of Lady Gaga and Barack Obama.
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Explore the windows in the Red Light District
When night falls, adults can only head to the northeast corner of the square to stroll through Amsterdam’s famous red light district. Here you’ll be among crowds of singles, singles, and cruise ship passengers looking at window entertainment. Watch college students haggle with scantily clad women, a true testament to the legality of prostitution in the Netherlands. If you’re not there looking for services, book a former Red Light Ladies Guided Tour and get exclusive information on the industry.
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Smoking Cannibis in a coffee shop
Many visitors go to Amsterdam to participate in its loose laws on marijuana. And this city’s “coffeeshops” (also known as “cannabis clubs”) are world renowned. At Dampkring, Amsterdam’s original and most famous coffee shop, newcomers can feel welcomed by its undaunted atmosphere. The spacious feel, warm customer service, and melting pot of customers, from tourists to locals and artists to entrepreneurs, make any first-timer feel like they’ve stepped into their neighborhood bar.
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Explore the trivia at Ripley’s believe it or not
Smack Dab in the middle of Dam Square is a newer attraction found in many cities around the world. At Ripley’s Believe It or Not, Amsterdam, you can explore rare artifacts, play interactive games, see a gigantic wooden clog, and enjoy Dutch and American cuisine in your living room. The attraction offers gold, silver and bronze packages, complete with a canal cruise, a trip through a virtual reality simulator, and a non-alcoholic drink, depending on the package you choose.
