Destination
Things to see and do in Amsterdam : Tourism and activities
10 addresses
Portuguese Synagogue
Mr. Visserplein 3 Amsterdam 1011 RD • +31 20 624 5351Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. This synagogue, completed in 1675, was designed by Elias Bouwman and took Jerusalem's Temple of Solomon as its inspiration. The structure was a refuge long hoped-for by its congregation, descendants of 15th-century Spanish (or Sephardic) Jews who fled to Portugal to escape religious persecution. These people were later forced to become Christians, and their descendants eventually moved to tolerant Amsterdam, which was at war with Spain, in hopes of living freely as Jews. To downplay their connection to the enemy (and their native land), they called themselves 'Portuguese.' The synagogue is notable, now as then, for its brass chandeliers, architectural detailing, and exterior wooden piles, which provide a firm foundation in Amsterdam's shifting, sandy soil.
Zuiderkerk
Zuiderkerkhof 72 Amsterdam 1011 WB • +31 20 685 2565Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Designed by city architect Hendrick de Keyser (as were many churches of this period), the Zuiderkerk was completed in 1611. The ornate tower of Amsterdam's first Protestant church was finished in 1614. De Keyser himself was buried in the church in 1621, and the sanctuary served as a holding place for the numerous bodies of those who didn't survive the winter of 1944-1945. Following degradation of the church in 1970, it was given major renovations and deconsecrated. Nowadays, the structure holds offices for city housing and planning. Its tower provides great views of the area although navigating the steep steps to its top is not for the faint-hearted! Tours of the tower last 30 minutes and are limited to 15; groups are advised to reserve ahead. (Tours available Apr - Sep, Mon - Sat; every 30 minutes, noon-3:30pm.)
Hermitage
Nieuwe Herengracht 14 Amsterdam 1018 DP • + 31 20 530 8751Description:
PLANTAGE. Able to exhibit only around five percent of its massive three million-strong collection of art and antiquities, Russia's famous State Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg opened a satellite museum in Amsterdam in 2004 devoted to staging rotating exhibitions. Its home is within the monumental Amstelhof, which dates from 1683 and is an impressive example of Dutch classicist architecture. Currently, exhibition space occupies just one tenth of the vast Amstelhof but following renovations, expected to be completed by spring 2009, the museum will make use of the entire complex (totalling 500 square meters of exhibition space). Already hundreds of thousands have flocked to previous exhibitions such as one focusing on 18th-century Venetian art and another which displayed personal objects, paintings and photographs belonging to the last Tsar and Tsarina of Russia, Nicholas II and Alexandra.
De Waag
Nieuwmarkt 4 Amsterdam 1012 CR • +31 20 422 7772Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Many of Amsterdam's historic buildings have enjoyed multiple uses through the centuries, and this turreted edifice on the Nieuwmarkt square is no exception. Constructed first as a gate for the city's fortified walls, it was later transformed into a 'weigh house' where goods brought back by ships from overseas were weighed. In later years, it served as a guild house for local professions and has also been a museum, fire station and more. In its most recent incarnation, the Waag houses a well-received café-restaurant as well as space (the former anatomy theater) for various types of exhibits.
Museum Willet-Holthuysen
Herengracht 605 Amsterdam 1017 CE • +31 20 523 1870Description:
EASTERN CANAL RING. A stately, elegant home built in the late 17th century, this museum displays the wealth of generations, as well as various decor styles popular during the past few centuries. The home's final owner, Louisa Holthuysen, bequeathed the residence to the city in the late 19th century on the condition that it be made into a museum. These days, the beautiful interior, the gardens, and the art collection are stunning glimpses into Amsterdam's past and the life of its well-to-do denizens.
Museum Willet-Holthuysen detail
Museum of Bags & Purses
Herengracht 573 Amsterdam 1017 CD • +31 20 524 6452Description:
EASTERN CANAL RING. This relative newcomer on the museum scene devotes itself entirely to one of the most essential fashion accessories for women: the bag. Its specialized collection (the largest of its kind in the world) extends to around 2500 items including alms purses, thigh bags and vanity-cases as it traces the history of the bag in Western culture from the 16th century to the present day. Alongside some absolutely fascinating and exquisite pieces and of course iconic offerings from Versace, Dolce & Gabanna and Dior there are many unique exhibits including a Chanel bag in the shape of a luxury liner and a bag that took its name from the Clinton family's cat. Bag-aholics however are warned to hold onto their purses when entering the gift shop: It sells a compelling assortment of bags by contemporary international and Dutch designers.
Museum of Bags & Purses detail
Oude Kerk
Oudekerksplein Amsterdam 1012 GX • +31 20 625 8284Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Amsterdam's oldest building, this imposing Dutch Brick Gothic church was begun in the late 13th century. In its early days, before the Nieuwe Kerk was built, it was the center of the city's religious life. Among its claims to fame are its spectacular Vater-Müller organ and its small chapels. It's also where Rembrandt registered to marry his wife, Saskia van Uylenburgh (who is also buried here). Most of the furnishings in the church date to the late 16th century, after Protestantism became the official religion and the structure's original Catholic trappings were removed. Stone slabs in the floor mark the resting places of some of Amsterdam's past elite.
Tuschinski
Reguliersbreestraat 26 Amsterdam 1017 CN • 0900 1458Description:
EASTERN CANAL RING. Whimsical and extravagant, this circa-1921 theater is a mad foray into creativity, an Art Deco study of color and shape. Named for the Jewish tailor who envisioned and financed the structure, the movie theater is a spectacle of stained glass, exotic woods, handmade carpets, and painted murals. Completely restored in April 2002, the theater is not only a bit of history reclaimed but a tribute to Abraham Tuschinski, who created the building and was put to death in a concentration camp. Movies are still shown today, but even if you don't experience one, make sure to step into the Tuschinski for the pure visual appeal.
Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder
Oudezijds Voorburgwal 40 Amsterdam 1012 GE • +31 20 624 6604Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Also known as Museum Amstelkring, this fascinating sanctuary dates from a period when only the Dutch Reformed Church was permitted to hold public services. Practitioners of other religions were forced to gather secretly in privately owned buildings throughout the city. This 17th-century merchant's home was a haven for Catholics of the era. Its attic was transformed into a church and came to feature a pipe organ and a beautiful baroque altar and details. The church, which still holds occasional services, is, curiously to some, located in the Red Light District.
Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder detail
Eastern Docklands
AmsterdamDescription:
WATERFRONT. For centuries, there has been little change plotted on Amsterdam maps. However, a desperate shortage of housing in the city led to an ambitious urban regeneration plan of the docklands to the east of Centraal Station and at the dawn of the 21st century, the stunning results rose up on the skyline. With more than a nod to the nautical, the series of small islands and peninsulas contain buildings resembling whales and waves, and eccentric bridges criss-crossing canals. Gentrified warehouses which once stored goods brought by ships from all corners of the world have been turned into restaurants, cultural centers and artists' studios, and one street has a row of houses each individually designed by different architects. A mecca for architecture aficionados (it includes contributions by Renzo Piano and Larry Malcic), it's well worth exploring. But first stop should be architecture center, ARCAM (Prins Hendrikkade 600, 620 4878, www.arcam.nl, Tue-Sat 1pm-5pm) where you can pick up an invaluable map detailing the architecture of the area.
Best of the City
Hermitage
Nieuwe Herengracht 14 Amsterdam 1018 DP • + 31 20 530 8751Description:
PLANTAGE. Able to exhibit only around five percent of its massive three million-strong collection of art and antiquities, Russia's famous State Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg opened a satellite museum in Amsterdam in 2004 devoted to staging rotating exhibitions. Its home is within the monumental Amstelhof, which dates from 1683 and is an impressive example of Dutch classicist architecture. Currently, exhibition space occupies just one tenth of the vast Amstelhof but following renovations, expected to be completed by spring 2009, the museum will make use of the entire complex (totalling 500 square meters of exhibition space). Already hundreds of thousands have flocked to previous exhibitions such as one focusing on 18th-century Venetian art and another which displayed personal objects, paintings and photographs belonging to the last Tsar and Tsarina of Russia, Nicholas II and Alexandra.
Museum of Bags & Purses
Herengracht 573 Amsterdam 1017 CD • +31 20 524 6452Description:
EASTERN CANAL RING. This relative newcomer on the museum scene devotes itself entirely to one of the most essential fashion accessories for women: the bag. Its specialized collection (the largest of its kind in the world) extends to around 2500 items including alms purses, thigh bags and vanity-cases as it traces the history of the bag in Western culture from the 16th century to the present day. Alongside some absolutely fascinating and exquisite pieces and of course iconic offerings from Versace, Dolce & Gabanna and Dior there are many unique exhibits including a Chanel bag in the shape of a luxury liner and a bag that took its name from the Clinton family's cat. Bag-aholics however are warned to hold onto their purses when entering the gift shop: It sells a compelling assortment of bags by contemporary international and Dutch designers.
Museum of Bags & Purses detail
Tuschinski
Reguliersbreestraat 26 Amsterdam 1017 CN • 0900 1458Description:
EASTERN CANAL RING. Whimsical and extravagant, this circa-1921 theater is a mad foray into creativity, an Art Deco study of color and shape. Named for the Jewish tailor who envisioned and financed the structure, the movie theater is a spectacle of stained glass, exotic woods, handmade carpets, and painted murals. Completely restored in April 2002, the theater is not only a bit of history reclaimed but a tribute to Abraham Tuschinski, who created the building and was put to death in a concentration camp. Movies are still shown today, but even if you don't experience one, make sure to step into the Tuschinski for the pure visual appeal.
Eastern Docklands
AmsterdamDescription:
WATERFRONT. For centuries, there has been little change plotted on Amsterdam maps. However, a desperate shortage of housing in the city led to an ambitious urban regeneration plan of the docklands to the east of Centraal Station and at the dawn of the 21st century, the stunning results rose up on the skyline. With more than a nod to the nautical, the series of small islands and peninsulas contain buildings resembling whales and waves, and eccentric bridges criss-crossing canals. Gentrified warehouses which once stored goods brought by ships from all corners of the world have been turned into restaurants, cultural centers and artists' studios, and one street has a row of houses each individually designed by different architects. A mecca for architecture aficionados (it includes contributions by Renzo Piano and Larry Malcic), it's well worth exploring. But first stop should be architecture center, ARCAM (Prins Hendrikkade 600, 620 4878, www.arcam.nl, Tue-Sat 1pm-5pm) where you can pick up an invaluable map detailing the architecture of the area.
Amsterdams Historisch Museum
Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 357 also Kalverstraat 92, Amsterdam 1012 RM • +31 20 523 1822Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Via a host of artifacts and interactive exhibits, this terrific museum documents Amsterdam's growth and development from the medieval era to the present. Within the walls of the city's former orphanage, the museum delivers artwork, archaeology, porcelain, silver and illustrative models. Although the content may seem a bit staid at first glance, you'll be pleasantly surprised at how engaging this journey through the centuries can be. The courtyard makes a wonderful place to catch your breath, and walk through the outdoor Civic Guard Gallery into the Begijnhof.
Amsterdams Historisch Museum detail
Heineken Experience
Stadhouderskade 78 Amsterdam 1072 AE • +31 20 523 9666Description:
DE PIJP. [Closed for renovation until Fall 2008.] This interactive attraction is housed in the 19th-century brewery that Heineken built and occupied until 1988. Visitors are educated about the brewery's history, taken on a tour of the bottling process, and provided details about how beer is brewed and matured. Much of the original brewing equipment remains, and folks can test their knowledge of beer trivia along the way. There's also the opportunity to visit the stables of Heineken's iconic Shire horses. At the end of the tour, complimentary samples of the famous beer can be had at the Tasting Bar.
Rijksmuseum
Stadhouderskade 42 Amsterdam 1071 ZD • +31 20 674 7000Description:
MUSEUM QUARTER / VONDELPARK. Suffice it to say that this astounding museum, one of the world's finest, boasts some of history's most amazing artworks. More than 7 million objects comprise its collections, which include prints, paintings, sculpture, Asian art, and works detailing the history of the Dutch nation. Dating back to 1798, the museum also hosts works by such notables as Vermeer, Goya, Van Dyck, Rubens and van Ruisdael. It bestows a place of prominence on 'The Night Watch,' perhaps Rembrandt's most famous creation. However, until renovation work is completed on the main building (estimated between 2010-2013), only part of the museum is currently open, featuring 'a best of' selection of masterpieces. Additionally, every Friday it's open until 8:30pm with a special programme of events such as talks (in Dutch) or music.
Anne Frankhuis
Prinsengracht 263 Amsterdam 1016 GV • +31 20 556 7100Description:
WESTERN CANAL RING / JORDAAN. Thanks to her diary, the story of Anne Frank's hiding from the Nazis is a well-known historical event. Nevertheless, visitors to the actual building where she, her family and friends hid during the German Occupation will find themselves thrown into instant contemplation in the face of this tangible reminder. Once-hidden rooms still contain period memorabilia, along with the haunting presence of those who spent two years of their lives secreted behind walls, dreaming of eventual freedom. Although only Otto Frank, Anne's father, would realize that hope, the experience of the rest will never be forgotten. Come early or in the evening to avoid the lines at this humbling site.
Van Gogh Museum
Paulus Potterstraat 7 Amsterdam 1071 CX • +31 20 570 5200Description:
MUSEUM QUARTER / VONDELPARK. Dedicated to preserving the art created by one of history's most well-known yet tortured figures, this museum has compiled an impressive collection of Van Gogh's works. The permanent collection groups pieces according to where Van Gogh lived and the periods of his life; it also arranges them chronologically for effect. In addition, the museum displays works by Van Gogh's contemporaries and maintains holdings of the artist's letters and his own personal collection of Japanese prints. Temporary exhibits can be seen as well. Don't miss its late-opening slot every Friday when it doesn't close until 10pm and offers additional entertainment.
Vondelpark
just south of Leidseplein; southwestern part of the city, Amsterdam 1054 ETDescription:
MUSEUM QUARTER / VONDELPARK. In the 19th century, this park was created to give Amsterdam's residents a chance to commune with nature. It's still a favorite destination for city-weary denizens. On any given day, you'll find folks relaxing, rollerblading, delighting in the sunshine, and taking in arts and entertainment programs at the open-air theater. You'll even notice parrots and the odd stork flying around. Children have their own play area, complete with a shallow pool, and buskers often congregate, hoping to merit a few coins. It's also home to the Filmmuseum, Blauwe Theehuis and children's restaurant Kinderkookkafé. Named after poet Joost van den Vondel, whose statue watches over the goings-on.
Historic Sites
Zuiderkerk
Zuiderkerkhof 72 Amsterdam 1011 WB • +31 20 685 2565Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Designed by city architect Hendrick de Keyser (as were many churches of this period), the Zuiderkerk was completed in 1611. The ornate tower of Amsterdam's first Protestant church was finished in 1614. De Keyser himself was buried in the church in 1621, and the sanctuary served as a holding place for the numerous bodies of those who didn't survive the winter of 1944-1945. Following degradation of the church in 1970, it was given major renovations and deconsecrated. Nowadays, the structure holds offices for city housing and planning. Its tower provides great views of the area although navigating the steep steps to its top is not for the faint-hearted! Tours of the tower last 30 minutes and are limited to 15; groups are advised to reserve ahead. (Tours available Apr - Sep, Mon - Sat; every 30 minutes, noon-3:30pm.)
De Waag
Nieuwmarkt 4 Amsterdam 1012 CR • +31 20 422 7772Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Many of Amsterdam's historic buildings have enjoyed multiple uses through the centuries, and this turreted edifice on the Nieuwmarkt square is no exception. Constructed first as a gate for the city's fortified walls, it was later transformed into a 'weigh house' where goods brought back by ships from overseas were weighed. In later years, it served as a guild house for local professions and has also been a museum, fire station and more. In its most recent incarnation, the Waag houses a well-received café-restaurant as well as space (the former anatomy theater) for various types of exhibits.
Museum Willet-Holthuysen
Herengracht 605 Amsterdam 1017 CE • +31 20 523 1870Description:
EASTERN CANAL RING. A stately, elegant home built in the late 17th century, this museum displays the wealth of generations, as well as various decor styles popular during the past few centuries. The home's final owner, Louisa Holthuysen, bequeathed the residence to the city in the late 19th century on the condition that it be made into a museum. These days, the beautiful interior, the gardens, and the art collection are stunning glimpses into Amsterdam's past and the life of its well-to-do denizens.
Museum Willet-Holthuysen detail
Oude Kerk
Oudekerksplein Amsterdam 1012 GX • +31 20 625 8284Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Amsterdam's oldest building, this imposing Dutch Brick Gothic church was begun in the late 13th century. In its early days, before the Nieuwe Kerk was built, it was the center of the city's religious life. Among its claims to fame are its spectacular Vater-Müller organ and its small chapels. It's also where Rembrandt registered to marry his wife, Saskia van Uylenburgh (who is also buried here). Most of the furnishings in the church date to the late 16th century, after Protestantism became the official religion and the structure's original Catholic trappings were removed. Stone slabs in the floor mark the resting places of some of Amsterdam's past elite.
Begijnhof
Gedempte Begijnensloot Amsterdam • +31 20 623 3565Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Secreted away in the midst of the city is this enclosed courtyard, ringed by a series of white-trimmed, brick dwellings. The peaceful enclave was, in former centuries, home to a community of religious women (although not nuns) who supported the church with their charitable endeavors. This cluster of buildings was their domain, the area from which they provided succor and devoted their lives from the 14th century until 1971, when the last of the order expired. The secluded area offers a wonderful opportunity to reflect, to pause, and to take in the area's history. Of particular note are the four panels on the pulpit of the church designed by a young Mondriaan, as well as the city's oldest wooden house (dating from 1477) at No. 34. And don't miss the 'other' church - a covert Catholic place of worship which is cleverly concealed behind the façade of a house here.
Museum van Loon
Keizersgracht 672 near Vijzelstraat, Amsterdam 1017 ET • +31 20 624 5255Description:
EASTERN CANAL RING. This gracious, beautifully ornamented canal house dates from the late 17th century and is a virtual time capsule of decorative arts, family treasures and city history. Purchased by the Van Loon family (one of Amsterdam's foremost dynasties) in 1884, the home was filled with their portraits, furnishings and goods. Instituted as a museum in 1974, the canal house was meticulously restored, and its interior and landscaped grounds are open to history buffs and lovers of architecture and design alike. Personal tours are available for an additional fee.
Religious Sites
Portuguese Synagogue
Mr. Visserplein 3 Amsterdam 1011 RD • +31 20 624 5351Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. This synagogue, completed in 1675, was designed by Elias Bouwman and took Jerusalem's Temple of Solomon as its inspiration. The structure was a refuge long hoped-for by its congregation, descendants of 15th-century Spanish (or Sephardic) Jews who fled to Portugal to escape religious persecution. These people were later forced to become Christians, and their descendants eventually moved to tolerant Amsterdam, which was at war with Spain, in hopes of living freely as Jews. To downplay their connection to the enemy (and their native land), they called themselves 'Portuguese.' The synagogue is notable, now as then, for its brass chandeliers, architectural detailing, and exterior wooden piles, which provide a firm foundation in Amsterdam's shifting, sandy soil.
Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder
Oudezijds Voorburgwal 40 Amsterdam 1012 GE • +31 20 624 6604Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Also known as Museum Amstelkring, this fascinating sanctuary dates from a period when only the Dutch Reformed Church was permitted to hold public services. Practitioners of other religions were forced to gather secretly in privately owned buildings throughout the city. This 17th-century merchant's home was a haven for Catholics of the era. Its attic was transformed into a church and came to feature a pipe organ and a beautiful baroque altar and details. The church, which still holds occasional services, is, curiously to some, located in the Red Light District.
Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder detail
Noorderkerk
Noordermarkt 48 Amsterdam 1015 NA • +31 20 626 6436Description:
WESTERN CANAL RING / JORDAAN. Designed by Hendrick de Keyser and constructed in the early 1620s, this church boasts a geometrical sensibility consistent with the era's humanist ideology. Its form is of a Greek cross, with four equidistant arms. The sanctuary, still used by the Protestant congregation, features large Tuscan pillars and a barrel-vaulted ceiling. At the juncture of the arms, a small tower crowns the exterior of the church and was executed by Hendrick Jacobsz Staets, town carpenter at the time. Concerts take place every Saturday at 2pm from mid-September to mid-June (bar Christmas), plus there are occasional evening concerts. More info from +31 20 620 3119 or www.noorderkerkconcerten.nl
Nieuwe Kerk
Dam Square next to the Royal Palace, Amsterdam • +31 20 638 6990Description:
OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Equated with England's Westminster Abbey since Dutch monarchs are inaugurated here, the Nieuwe Kerk had its foundations laid in the 14th century. Built as a Catholic sanctuary, it survived the nation's change to Protestantism, although it lost much of its original decoration. Even so, subsequent building efforts provided the church with beautiful ornamentation, including an amazing pulpit, intricate woodcarvings, stained glass windows, detailed altar, and a venerable pipe organ. These days, however, its use is of a more cultural nature: throughout the year it stages impressive large-scale exhibitions viewed by thousands of folk. Admission may vary for exhibitions.
To see, to do in Amsterdam
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