Visiting Amsterdam’s Dam Square

Perhaps one of the best known public spaces in the city, Amsterdam’s Dam Square is also one of the most frequented. There is always something interesting going on, from street performances to carnivals

Lana de Wit

How to get to Amsterdam's Dam Square

Walk from Central Station a mere five minutes down Damrak Avenue, to get to Amsterdam’s Dam Square. This is one of the busiest hubs in the city, teeming with visitors from morning until night.

Dam Square's History

The history of Amsterdam’s Dam Square begins in century XIII. The city’s citizens built a dam around the Amstel river to prevent seawater from the Zuiderzee from overflowing the river. The square quickly evolved into a central marketplace.
In the late 1960s, this lively area attracted artists and hippies, who created a cool, laid-back and friendly vibe. Today, it’s still a busy, happening place, filled with restaurants, shopping stalls and street entertainers.

What to see and visit in Dam Square

This is a great destination for people-watching, as Amsterdam’s Dam Square attracts visitors of all sorts. Enjoy the colorful periodic carnivals, attend concerts during warm spring months, or step into the famous Royal Palace, built in the XVII century. The Neo-Gothic Nieuwe Kerk (“New Church”) is located just next to the Royal Palace, which it in fact pre-dates, having been constructed in the XV century. It is not used for religious services anymore, but hosts exhibitions and organ recitals, and even offers a cafe. The interior is well-preserved, so be sure to check out the original pulpit and organ.
When visiting Amsterdam’s Dam Square, you’ll certainly notice the city's National Monument, a memorial erected in 1956. This important sculpture commemorates fallen Dutch soldiers and resistance fighters who served during World War II. Elsewhere on the square is Madame Tussaud's, where you can get up close and personal with celebrities in wax figure form. For concerts and exhibitions, pay a visit to Beurs van Berlage, a former stock exchange now used as a cultural hub.
From this central spot, you can easily visit other parts of Amsterdam, or just enjoy the day eating and drinking at the square's many busy cafes, bars and restaurants.


Planning your trip to Amsterdam? Check out our best city center hotels in Amsterdam.

Author: Lana de Wit

Guest Relations Manager at Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky

My name is Lana de Wit, Guest Relations Manager at Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky. Together with the Guest Relations and Guest Services team we are making sure that all guests are having the best experience at our hotel and look after their special requests, celebrations and expectations. I get energy out of solving problems and striving for the best there is possible and I love the fact that every day is different and full of surprises. I always wanted to work at Krasnapolsky since I was a little girl, so being able to work here the past years has been a dream together with my fantastic colleagues. My biggest mission is to let every guest leave with extraordinary stories and unforgettable memories to take home. I look forward to welcoming you here in Amsterdam to give you the true Anantara experience!

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