Dam Square Amsterdam overwhelms visitors—crowds, noise, missed highlights. This guide shows how to experience it the right way.

Introduction to Dam Square: Why It’s the Heart of Amsterdam

Dam Square is the “main stage” of central Amsterdam. It sits where old trade routes, modern shopping streets, and major landmarks meet. That’s why so many first-time visitors end up here without trying.

Think of it as a hub. If Amsterdam were a wheel, Dam Square would be the center where the spokes connect. It’s busy, loud, and full of contrasts—historic buildings next to fast-food signs, street performers next to royal ceremonies.

Definition: A city hub is a central place where transport, tourism, shopping, and public life overlap.

Quick orientation checklist (so you don’t feel lost):

• Look for the Royal Palace façade (big, classic building)
• Spot the tall white National Monument
• Notice the flow of people toward Kalverstraat (shopping) and Damrak/Central Station direction.

Research by CBRE has shown that Kalverstraat in Amsterdam is one of the best shopping streets in the Netherlands. This is also confirmed by AT5 in this video. CBRE analyzed 25 shopping streets in 15 Dutch cities for their commercial strength and development since 2019.

Simple equation to plan time:

• Visit time (hours) = (number of attractions × 0.75) + breaks (0.5–1.0)
  Example: 3 attractions → (3 × 0.75) + 1 = 3.25 hours

Dam Square rewards slow exploring. You’ll get more out of it if you understand what you’re seeing and why it matters, not just take a quick photo and leave.

History of Dam Square: From Dam on the Amstel to City Center

Dam Square exists because Amsterdam needed control of water. Around the 13th century, people built a dam in the Amstel River. That dam created a safer place to live, trade, and store goods, and the area around it became a marketplace.

Over time, the “dam” became a meeting point for merchants, government, and public events. As Amsterdam grew richer through shipping and trade, this spot became more important. That’s why so many powerful buildings ended up here.

Definition: A dam is a barrier built to stop or manage water flow. In early cities, dams often created calm water zones for boats and trade.

How Dam Square changed step-by-step:

1. Water control: the dam makes settlement possible
2. Market forms: traders gather where boats and people meet
3. Government grows: officials set rules near the trade center
4. Big buildings appear: wealth funds palaces, monuments, and banks

Mini timeline (easy reference):

Understanding this helps you “read” the square. The crowds are modern, but the logic of the place—water, trade, power—has been the same for centuries.

Where Dam Square Is Located & How to Get There

Dam Square is in the historic center of Amsterdam, between Amsterdam Central Station and the inner canals. It’s easy to reach because many routes naturally funnel toward it. If you’re staying in central areas, you can often walk.

You can get there by tram, on foot, by bike (carefully), or by metro + short walk. The streets around Dam Square can be crowded, so plan a simple route and avoid last-minute decisions.

Definition: City center (centrum) means the most visited, oldest, and best-connected part of a city.

Best ways to arrive (quick guide):

• From Central Station: walk south (about 10–15 minutes)
• By tram: many lines stop near the square or close by
• By metro: get off near the center, then walk a few minutes
• By bike: possible, but crowds make it slower than you think

Walking-time equation (useful and real):

• Time (minutes) = (Distance in km ÷ 4.8) × 60
  (Assumes relaxed walking speed ~4.8 km/h.)
  Example: 1 km → (1 ÷ 4.8) × 60 ≈ 12.5 minutes

Simple “don’t get stuck” plan:

1. Save Dam Square on your map app
2. Pick one landmark to aim for (Royal Palace or Monument)
3. Once there, stop at the edge first—then step into the center

This approach reduces stress and helps you enjoy the square instead of fighting the flow of people.

Best Time to Visit Dam Square

Dam Square feels different depending on the hour. Early morning is calmer and better for photos. Midday is busiest, with the most tour groups, street performances, and lines.

Evenings can be beautiful, especially when lights reflect off the buildings. But it also gets louder, and you’ll want to pay more attention to your surroundings. Weather matters too—wind and rain can make the open square feel colder than expected.

Definition: Foot traffic means how many people pass through a place in a given time.

Best time by goal (fast table):

Crowd “rule of thumb” (simple math):

• Crowd level ≈ (tour buses + school groups) × lunch hour factor
  Lunch hour factor is higher around 12:00–14:00.

Practical tip list:

• Visit early if you hate crowds
• Visit late afternoon if you want energy but fewer lines
• Avoid standing still in the center during peak hours—move to the edge

Choosing the right time isn’t just comfort. It changes what you notice, how safe you feel, and how much you can do without rushing.

The Royal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis)

The Royal Palace is one of the most important buildings on Dam Square. It looks like a palace, but it was originally built as a city hall. That tells you something: Amsterdam once had so much power that its “city office” looked like a royal home.

Inside, you’ll find grand halls, marble floors, and details that celebrate trade, navigation, and civic pride. Even if you don’t go in, the outside is worth a slow look because the carvings and symmetry are packed with meaning.

Definition: Civic building means a building used for city government and public administration.

What to notice outside (quick bullets):

• The scale: it’s designed to impress visitors
• The symmetry: balanced design signals control and order
• The stone details: symbols of power, trade, and justice

Step-by-step visit plan:

1. Stand across the square for a full view
2. Walk closer and scan the façade from left to right
3. If visiting inside, pick 2–3 key rooms rather than rushing everything

Simple “value” equation (to decide if you should enter):

• Value = (your interest in history + architecture) − (your dislike of crowds + ticket cost stress)
  If value feels positive, go in. If not, enjoy the exterior and spend time on nearby attractions.

The Royal Palace explains why Dam Square matters: it’s not just a tourist spot—it’s a symbol of how Amsterdam saw itself.

Madame Tussauds Amsterdam

Other outstanding buildings are the famous Dutch shopping mall De Bijenkorf (founded in 1914) and Madame Tussauds.

That attraction was opened in 1970 and offers lifelike wax figures, featuring national icons. Icons as Dutch Queen Maxima & Dutch King Willem Alexander, Dutch speed skater Sven Kramer, Dutch kick boxer champion Rico Verhoeven & model Doutzen Kroes. The famous Dutch DJ’s Armin van Buuren (2.3 million Insta-followers) and DJ Tiesto (6.3 million followers) are also in Amsterdam’s Madame Tussauds.

But Amsterdam’s Madame Tussauds also has many internationals icons including Prince Harry & Meghan Markle, Barack Obama, Nelson Mandela, George Clooney, Angelina Jolie, Johnny Depp, Rafael Nadal, etc.

Madame Tussauds is a wax museum near Dam Square. Wax figures are life-sized models designed to look like real people. The main point is fun photos, not deep history, but it can be a good break from walking and weather.

It works best if you like pop culture, sports, and celebrity-style experiences. It’s also useful if you’re traveling with teens or a mixed group, because it’s easy to enjoy without a lot of reading.

Definition: Wax figure means a realistic statue made from wax materials, often styled like famous people.

Who enjoys it most (quick checklist):

• Families with kids who want something interactive
• Visitors who love photo moments
• Groups that want an indoor activity near the square

How to avoid a “meh” visit (steps):

1. Decide your goal: photos, laughs, or both
2. Go early or later in the day to reduce waiting
3. Set a time limit (example: 60–90 minutes) so it doesn’t take over your day

Simple time plan table:

This spot isn’t essential for everyone. But as part of a Dam Square day—especially in bad weather—it can be a smart, easy win.

National Monument: Meaning and History

On the Eastern end of Dam Square stands the tall white National Monument, erected in 1956 to commemorate the fallen of the Second World War. It was designed by the Dutch architect J.J.P Oud. A popular gathering place in Amsterdam, the monument stands in the middle of a series of centric rings that form steps up to the base and is bordered by 2 lions.

The figures on Amsterdam’s National Monument – a woman, four males and a child, and two men with dogs – represent war, peace and resistance.

The National Monument is the tall white structure in Dam Square. It is a memorial that honors people who died in World War II and later conflicts. You’ll often see visitors sitting nearby, but it’s also a place for official remembrance ceremonies.

The monument matters because it shows how public spaces can hold shared memory. Dam Square isn’t only about shopping and photos—it’s also a place where the country pauses to reflect.

Definition: Memorial means a structure or place built to remember people or events, often linked to loss or sacrifice.

How to visit respectfully:

• Keep voices lower near ceremonies or wreaths
• Don’t climb on memorial areas
• If there’s a moment of silence, pause and follow the crowd’s lead

What to look for (visual checklist):

• The main pillar and relief details
• The space around it, designed for gatherings
• Signs or plaques that explain the purpose

Why it’s placed here (simple cause-effect):

• Central location → high visibility → shared national meaning
  A monument hidden in a corner would reach fewer people. Here, it becomes part of daily city life.

If you only see the monument as a meeting spot, you miss its purpose. Taking 5–10 minutes to understand it adds depth to your whole Dam Square visit.

Street Performers & Public Events at Dam Square

Dam Square often has street performers, pop-up acts, and public gatherings. These can include music, dance, magic, and sometimes political demonstrations. The square’s open space and central location make it perfect for performances and big crowds.

Street performance is part art and part street business. Performers rely on attention, good timing, and tips. Watching is fun, but it helps to know how it works so you don’t get pulled into uncomfortable moments.

Definition: Busking means performing in public for voluntary tips.

How to watch safely (simple rules):

• Stand near the edge of the circle, not deep inside
• Keep your bag zipped and in front in dense crowds
• If a performer asks for volunteers and you don’t want to join, step back

Tip etiquette (quick guide):

• If you watch the full act and enjoy it, a small tip is fair
• If you watch for 30 seconds, no pressure
• Don’t tip with big bills in crowded moments

Event “scan” step-by-step:

1. Look for police barriers, signs, or a stage
2. Check where the crowd is moving
3. Decide: join, watch from distance, or reroute

Dam Square’s street life is part of its charm. The key is to enjoy the energy while staying aware, especially when the square gets packed.

Shopping Around Dam Square (Kalverstraat & Magna Plaza)

Shopping near Dam Square is easy because major streets and malls are close. Kalverstraat is a famous shopping street with many big brands. Magna Plaza is a shopping center with a dramatic interior that feels more historic than a typical mall.

This area is popular because you can combine sightseeing and shopping in one walk. But the same thing that makes it convenient—crowds—also makes it tiring. Plan your shopping like a short mission, not an endless wander.

Definition: Retail corridor means a street or zone where many shops cluster together.

Smart shopping plan (steps):

1. Decide your goal: souvenirs, clothing, gifts, or basics
2. Set a budget before you enter the busiest areas
3. Take breaks on side streets to reset

Quick comparison table:

Simple budget equation:

• Total spend = (planned items) + (impulse fund)
  Set an impulse fund (example: €20–€40). When it’s gone, you stop.

If you want a calmer shopping vibe, walk a few minutes away from Dam Square. Prices and crowds often drop fast once you leave the main path.

Best Cafés and Restaurants Near Dam Square

Food near Dam Square ranges from quick snacks to sit-down meals. Because it’s a tourist-heavy area, quality can vary a lot. A good strategy is to use Dam Square for snacks or coffee, then eat a main meal a bit farther away.

Our local guides visited Majestic and Nieuwe Kerk cafe many times. We believe that these venue are good places for drinks and food. Also discover the best cafes on Amsterdam Dam Square in this ultimate guide.

Fast “good place” signs:

• Menu lists ingredients, not just photos
• Staff are calm, not pushy
• Reviews mention freshness and service, not only location

Step-by-step restaurant check:

1. Scan the menu outside for clear prices
2. Look inside: does it seem clean and relaxed?
3. Ask: “How long is the wait?” (wait time tells you a lot)

Order planning table (keeps things simple):

Near Dam Square, you’re paying partly for location. That’s fine if you know it—and plan your best meal somewhere calmer.

Hotels Near Dam Square: Where to Stay

Staying near Dam Square means you’re close to landmarks, shopping, and transport. That can save time and make early mornings easy. The downside is noise, crowds, and sometimes higher prices.

A smart hotel choice depends on what you value. If you want quiet sleep, staying one or two canal rings away can feel much better while still being walkable. If you want “step outside and go,” Dam Square is hard to beat.

Definition: Walkable means you can reach key places safely and comfortably on foot.

Pros and cons (quick bullets):

• Pros: central, easy transport, great for first visit
• Cons: busy streets, nightlife noise, tourist pricing

Hotel decision equation:

• Fit score = (location value + transport ease) − (noise sensitivity + budget stress)
  If your fit score feels low, look slightly outside the square.

What to check before booking:

1. Room location: street-facing rooms are louder
2. Air conditioning: summers can feel warm indoors
3. Elevator access: many older buildings have steep stairs

Dam Square hotels are best for convenience. If comfort and calm matter more, choose a nearby area and treat Dam Square as a daily walk, not your doorstep.

Dam Square at Night: Atmosphere & Safety

At night, Dam Square can look magical. Building lights add drama, and the square often stays active late. You’ll see visitors, locals passing through, and nightlife energy spilling in from nearby streets.

Safety is mostly about awareness. Crowds can hide pickpockets, and late-night vibes can change quickly if people are drinking. You don’t need to feel scared, but you should move with purpose and keep your essentials secure.

Definition: Situational awareness means paying attention to what’s happening around you so you can spot problems early.

Night safety checklist:

• Keep phone and wallet out of back pockets
• Use a crossbody bag and keep it in front
• Don’t accept “free” gifts or offers that feel pushy
• Choose well-lit streets for walking

Step-by-step: if you feel uncomfortable:

1. Step into a lit shop, hotel lobby, or busy café
2. Re-check your map while stationary and calm
3. Take a direct route or grab a ride if needed

Simple risk rule (not scary, just practical):

• Risk increases when: crowd density × distraction level goes up
  If you’re tired, scrolling your phone, and standing in a dense crowd, your risk rises.

Dam Square at night is worth seeing. Just keep your plan simple, your valuables close, and your attention up.

Dam Square for First-Time Visitors

If this is your first time at Dam Square, it can feel overwhelming. The trick is to slow down and break it into small “wins.” Instead of trying to see everything at once, focus on orientation first, then attractions.

Start by finding the two main anchors: the Royal Palace and the National Monument. Once you know where those are, everything else becomes easier. You’ll spend less time staring at maps and more time enjoying the square.

Definition: Anchor landmark means an easy-to-spot place that helps you navigate.

First-timer 60–90 minute plan:

1. Walk the square’s edge once (5–10 minutes)
2. Take photos of the Palace and Monument (10 minutes)
3. Choose one indoor stop (museum/shop/café) (30–45 minutes)
4. Take a break on a side street (10 minutes)

Mistake-proof rule:

• Don’t plan more than 2 major stops in the immediate Dam Square area in one block of time.
  Crowds and lines can change fast.

Quick “where to stand” tip:

• For less chaos, stand near the edges of the square, not the center.
  You’ll see more and feel calmer.

Dam Square is easier when you treat it like a starting point, not the whole day. Build confidence here, then explore the canals and neighborhoods beyond.

Photography Tips & Best Photo Spots

Dam Square is photogenic, but it’s also busy. The best photos usually come from smart angles and timing, not fancy equipment. If you shoot from the middle of the crowd, you’ll get heads, signs, and chaos.

Good photos tell a clear story: “This is Dam Square.” That usually means capturing one main subject (Palace or Monument) with enough space around it. Morning light and late afternoon light can make buildings look warmer and more detailed.

Definition: Composition means how objects are placed in a photo to guide the viewer’s eye.

Best shots to try (quick list):

• Wide shot of the Royal Palace with the square in front
• The National Monument with people for scale
• Street-level detail shots: carvings, flags, stonework

Step-by-step photo process:

1. Pick one subject
2. Step back until it fits without heavy tilt
3. Wait 10–20 seconds for a cleaner moment in the crowd

Simple “sharp photo” equation:

• Blurry risk = low light + fast movement + shaky hands
  Reduce risk by bracing your arms or leaning on a stable surface.

If you want fewer strangers in your frame, shoot early. If you want energy, shoot midday. Both are “right”—they just tell different stories.

Dam Square Amsterdam Is A Must-See!

The main public square in Amsterdam grew from the first days of Holland’s capital, with the construction of a causeway (or dam as the Dutch call it) across the Amstel river. This is also how Amsterdam got its name.

Just like the Amstel once cut through here, so Damrak street (the street from central station to Dam Square) now divides the square in two.

Unlike a lot of other big squares in Europe, Dam Square developed in a gradual fashion and has little in the way of architectural homogeneity.

Amsterdam’s Dam Square does, however, boast the colossal bulk of the Royal Palace located along its western edge and side to side of the New Church. The 17-th century Royal Palace is called Koninklijk Paleis in Dutch and is one of the best things to see in Amsterdam. The former city’s town hall epitomizes Dutch wealth and prestige at the top of the Golden Age.

Behind the National Monument, one can find the Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky on one of the oldest streets in Amsterdam: The Warmoesstraat. This street is officially also part of the Red Light District.

Conclusion

Amsterdam’s Dam Square is a great place to watch the world go by, especially at the National Monument (during the summer days). Go check it out!

Frequently Asked Questions about Dam Square Amsterdam

1. Where is Dam Square in Amsterdam?

Dam Square is located in the historic city center of Amsterdam, about halfway between Amsterdam Central Stationand the inner canal ring.

2. What part of Amsterdam is Dam Square in?

Dam Square is in Amsterdam-Centrum, the oldest and most visited district of the city.

3. What is Dam Square Amsterdam famous for?

Dam Square is famous for the Royal Palace, the National Monument, shopping streets, public events, and street performers.

4. What to see in Dam Square Amsterdam?

Top things to see include:

• Royal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis)
• National Monument
• Madame Tussauds
• Historic architecture
• Street performances

5. Is Dam Square worth visiting?

Yes, Dam Square is worth visiting because it is Amsterdam’s main landmark, central meeting point, and starting spot for exploring the city.

6. How far is OZO Hotel Amsterdam from Dam Square?

OZO Hotel Amsterdam is about 10–11 km from Dam Square, which takes 25–35 minutes by metro or taxi.

7. How do I get from Amsterdam Airport to Dam Square?

From Schiphol Airport, take a direct train to Amsterdam Central Station, then walk 10–15 minutes to Dam Square.

8. How long should I spend at Dam Square?

Most visitors spend 1 to 3 hours at Dam Square, depending on shopping, museums, or nearby attractions.

9. Is Dam Square safe for tourists?

Yes, Dam Square is generally safe, but it is very busy. Watch out for pickpockets, especially during peak hours.

10. Can you walk from Amsterdam Central Station to Dam Square?

Yes, Dam Square is a 10–15 minute walk south from Amsterdam Central Station.

11. Is Dam Square good at night?

Yes, Dam Square is lively at night with lights, people, and nearby nightlife. Stay alert and avoid distractions.

12. Are there restaurants and cafés near Dam Square?

Yes, there are many cafés and restaurants near Dam Square, though prices are often higher due to the location.

13. What events happen at Dam Square?

Dam Square hosts national celebrations, protests, ceremonies, and public events, including Remembrance Day activities.

14. Is Dam Square good for first-time visitors?

Yes, Dam Square is ideal for first-time visitors because it is central and close to major attractions.

15. Can you visit Dam Square for free?

Yes, Dam Square itself is free to visit, though nearby attractions and museums may charge entry fees.

16. Does Hotel Twenty Seven have a good bar?

Yes. Hotel TwentySeven on Dam Square Amsterdam has a high-quality bar, known for luxury cocktails and a calm atmosphere.

Why the bar is considered good:

• Serves expertly made cocktails using premium spirits
• Offers a quiet, elegant setting, not a party bar
• Provides professional, attentive service
• Attracts hotel guests and visitors looking for a refined drink

What to expect:

• Signature and classic cocktails
• Small, intimate space
• Higher prices, matching the 5-star hotel level

Is it worth visiting?
Yes, if you want a luxury cocktail experience on Dam Square. It is best for a relaxed drink, not nightlife.

Quick answer:
Hotel TwentySeven does have a very good bar, especially for quality cocktails and a sophisticated atmosphere.

5 Bars On Amsterdam Dam Square

16x What To See in Amsterdam

7x Street Market in Amsterdam

The post Dam Square Amsterdam: Ultimate Guide in 2026 appeared first on Tours in Amsterdam.

The History of Drugs & Alcohol in the Netherlands

Cocaine, heroin and opium: it’s hard to imagine now, but these drugs were completely legal in Amsterdam at the beginning of the 20th-century. It was even produced here! Learn everything about drugs in Amsterdam here below.

Dutch Cocaine Factory in Amsterdam

On the corner of the Eerste Schinkelstraat / Schinkelkade in Amsterdam stood the Dutch Cocaine factory, where cocaine was made from Indian coca leaves. Completely legal from 1900 to the early 1960s. Intended for medicinal use, but it is not hard to imagine that it was soon abused.

Definition of Cocaine

Cocaine is a white crystalline alkaloid derived from the leaves of the coca plant (Erythroxylum coca). It is used primarily as an illicit stimulant drug.

Cocaine Factory in The Netherlands

People could even invest in the Dutch Cocaine Factory by buying stocks.

But far before the Dutch Cocaine Factory, cocaine in Amsterdam was already a widely used medicine for all kinds of ailments. Already in 1870, a man named José Alvarez owned his own drug lab on Zeedijk 16 (a street in Amsterdam Red Light District) where he produced cocaine and sold it in pill form in his shop. Completely legal! The pills were a great success.

Designer Drugs

The coolest Amsterdammers, however, were not using cocaine pills. At the end of the 19th century, the young writers and poets of the Eighties-renewing literary movement took advantage of a now-unknown substance known as ‘Broomkali’, a strong tranquilizer.

It ensured that Dutch poet Willem Kloos became completely paranoid and tried to kill his colleague Pet Tideman in a fit of madness. They lived together with co-editor Hein Boeken in what is nowadays known as the Witsenhuis, Oosterpark 82 – in the east of Amsterdam. Their downstairs neighbor was painter Isaac Israëls who went crazy because of the gentlemen’s nocturnal drinking and drug sessions.

Eventually Willem Kloos ended up in the madhouse where he was helped by electroshocks from alcohol and drugs. That was at the expense of his writing, because after that Willem Kloos didn’t write much.

Alcoholism in Amsterdam

Nonetheless, also in in that time, alcohol was the intoxication that was used most and caused most nuisance too. Figures from the Dutch police from 1915 show that 20% of all trials were verbally related to public drunkenness.

Government campaigns of the time were aimed at combating alcohol abuse, and there were several associations that advocated total abstention. Of these, ‘De Blauwe Knoop’ was the best known. The expression ‘being a member of the blue knot’ has been a character for years for someone who does not drink alcohol.

It is not strange that alcohol was a problem back then: Amsterdam has a long history with alcohol. From the earliest beginnings of the city – from the 13th-century -, beer has been the most drunk beverage for centuries. The locals drunk alcohol from the early mornings until late in the evening. Back then, there was no clean drinking water and tea & coffee were not yet known.

Alcohol fact:

Dutch people drank 300 liters of beer per year, nowadays it is 70 liters.

Although the beer back then was on the slack side – alcohol content around 3% – it must have been noticeable that the entire city from young to old was in a permanent, slightly misted state.

And everyone walked around smelling of alcohol all day long, on top of the smell of unpolished rotten teeth. In addition, people smoked a lot of tobacco in that time. The tobacco was very heavy back then and the effect was comparable to cannabis.

Alcohol Use Among Elderly

On the basis of the most recent data in the Netherlands, it can be concluded that the number of clients who primarily seek help for alcohol in addiction care is almost as high as the number for cannabis, cocaine, opiates, ecstasy (XTC), amphetamine, GHB and other drugs combined. (Source: Trimbos)

Alcohol Statistics Netherlands

Fact: 8 out of 10 Dutch people over the age of 18 sometimes drink alcohol. 1 in 12 (8.2%) adult Dutch drink excessive (figures 2018). That is, they drink more than 14 (women) or 21 (men) glasses of alcohol per week.

Cannabis use in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, coffeeshops are businesses where the sale of cannabis for personal consumption by the public (>18 years) is tolerated by the Dutch authorities.

Cannabis made its appearance in the 1960s. In 1972, this led to the founding of the first coffeeshop in Amsterdam, Mellow Yellow on the Weesperzijde. During the last day of 2017, the first coffeeshop in Amsterdam had to close its doors because it was too closely located to a hairdressing academy.

The government implemented a new law and decided that coffeeshops are not allowed to be closer than 250 meters to schools anymore. That meant for Mellow Yellow – founded in 1972 – that it had to close down their business for some students – mostly adults – who want to become hairdressers.

Drugs Facts

Fun fact: 7.2% of the Dutch adults used cannabis last month and 1% uses cannabis daily. (Source: Trimbos).

Fun fact: Did you know that in Amsterdam’s Red Light District it is not allowed to drink alcohol in the streets, but one can use cannabis on the streets?

Read these interesting 10 laws in Amsterdam’s Red Light District.

Cannabis Laws in the Netherlands

Because soft drugs are less harmful to the health than hard drugs, other rules sometimes apply in the Netherlands. Coffeeshops may sell cannabis under strict conditions. They are not prosecuted for this. This is the essence of the tolerance policy (or gedogen-beleid in Dutch).

People will not be prosecuted in the Netherlands if they have 5 gram (or less) of cannabis.

Amsterdam Coffeeshop Laws

For the sale of hash & weed, coffeeshops in the Netherlands must adhere to rules (the tolerance criteria). A coffeeshop must meet the following conditions which are stated in Dutch laws:

• No more than 5 grams of cannabis may be sold per person per day.
• Hard drugs (like cocaine, XTC, etc.) may not be sold.
• It’s illegal to sell cannabis to people under the age of 18.
• Minors may not be admitted to a coffeeshop.
• It’s not allowed to serve alcohol.
• Coffeeshops may not advertise its drugs nor its store.
• No nuisance may be caused to the neighborhood.
• The cannabis stock of coffeeshops may not be more than 500 grams.

Coffeeshops are allowed to create their own product and service assortiment. As long as all national & local drugs laws are adhered. Clothing, food, drinks, weed grinders, mugs and other weed accessoires are frequently offered by coffeeshops in The Netherlands.

Number of Amsterdam Coffeeshops

The number of coffeeshops in Amsterdam has drastically decreased. In 1993 there were more than 400 coffeeshops. This decreased from 283 coffeeshops in the year 2000 to 174 at the end of 2015 (a decrease of 39%). Nowadays there are 164 coffeeshops in Amsterdam. (Source: Parool)

Read this article for 10 free tips for cannabis use in Amsterdam.

Heroin in Amsterdam

While (soft) drugs – like cannabis – were initially fun and harmless, the 1970s caused hardening due to the arrival of heroin. The heroin trade landed in Amsterdam and concentrated on the Zeedijk, a street in the Red Light District – just next to Central Station. The Zeedijk street was filled with street dealers, drug addicts and the corruption among police officers was quite high.

Definition of Heroin

Heroin is an opiate derived from morphine that has been chemically modified. It is used for its analgesic properties.

The Chinese mafia from Hong Kong and Singapore brought very cheap heroin to the Dutch market. At the time, heroin was even cheaper than hash, speed and opium. Because of this, very many people became addicted in a very short time. In 1980, Amsterdam had more than 10.000 heroin addicts. (Source: Jellinek)

The Zeedijk street was a no-go area for many years. But therefore also attractive for people that you would not immediately expect.

Chet Baker

Chet Baker was an American jazz musician who played trumpet and flugelhorn. He was also known for his distinctive style of playing, which included a wide vibrato and a unique sound.

Baker was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, United States, on March 31, 1930. His father was a trombone player in a local band. At the age of five, he began taking piano lessons. In 1946, at the age of 12, he joined the Miles Davis Quintet.

He left the group in 1949 to pursue a solo career. He recorded several albums during the 1950s and 1960s, including The Sidewinder, Chet Baker Plays the Music of Charlie Parker, and The Real Thing.

Death

The world-famous American trumpet player Chet Baker could be found on and around the Zeedijk street a lot. Baker had become famous in the 1950s, playing with the best music artists in the world.

But in the 1980s he had turned into an old junkie who was always looking for his next shot. And that was nowhere easier to arrange than in Amsterdam. Baker had no fixed place of residence and stayed in hotels on and around the Zeedijk, among other places.

On Friday, May 13, 1988, half past three in the morning passers-by found an elderly heroin killed on the sidewalk in front of the Prins Hendrik Hotel at the end of the Zeedijk. It turned out to be Chet Baker, fallen out of the window of his hotel room under the influence of drugs.

The story goes that many people stepped over the dead body of Chet Baker that night. Only after a while the police was called in. This is how incredibly rough this neighborhood in Amsterdam was during that time.

Chet Baker was the Keith Richards of jazz music; a brilliant trumpeter. His most popular tracks are ‘I fall in love too easily’ (played more than 38 million times on Spotify) and ‘It’s always you’ (over 26 million plays).

The text reads: Trumpet player and singer Chet Baker died here on May 13th, 1988. He will live on in his music for anyone willing to listen and feel.

Due to deterioration, diseases, overdoses, addiction and perhaps also due to the death of Chet Baker, heroin acquired a very negative image. The popularity among the young people decreased rapidly and there were hardly any new heroin users in the Netherlands.

Ecstasy in Amsterdam

In the mid 1980’s, a new drug was introduced: Ecstasy or XTC. Originally developed in the 60s as a medicine to lose weight, but 20 years later by followers of the Indian guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh widely introduced in Europe as a stimulant.

From 1983 to 1992, the Zorba the Buddha disco – the ‘Bhagwan disco’ – was located on Oudezijds Voorburgwal 216 – a street in Amsterdam’s Red Light District. The disco was operated by followers of Bhagwan. The staff were dressed in red and walked around with dustpans to immediately clean any cigarette butts.

Zorba the Buddha disco had a futuristic snow-white interior and looked like an avant-la-lettre lounge club. They also conducted a joint meditation session a few times a night. According to various sources, there was an unknown substance in circulation around 1985 that made one very happy. It is the earliest known use of the ecstasy drug in Amsterdam’s nightlife.

The revenue of 180.000 Dutch guilders – the currency before the Euro – that was made here monthly in 1984, went directly to the community, where followers could even live for free at some point. It is now a generally accepted fact that the Bhagwan followers were the first to bring ecstasy to Europe. In the late 1980s, the emerging dance scene discovered this new drug and formed an inseparable bond with it. (Source)

Fun fact: Did you know that The Bulldog Hotel is nowadays located in the building where this disco used to be?

XTC Use in The Netherlands

According to the report ‘De achterkant van Amsterdam’, drugs are bought for around 5 million euros during the five-day festival Amsterdam Dance Event.

The number of Dutch adults who have ever used ecstasy is 8.4%. Almost a quarter of 20-24 year olds and almost one in five 25-29 year olds have experience with ecstasy. And 13.1% of all adults have used XTC last month (measured in 2018 by Trimbos: Source).

The Netherlands is one of the largest XTC-producing countries in the world. This is due to the tolerant policy and the low penalties. The average consumer price for one 1 XTC-pill is 5 euro.

Learn more about drugs during our Amsterdam Drugs Tour.

Cocaine Use In the Netherlands

More than a hundred years after the first legal cocaine factory, much has changed in 2019: a distinction has been made between hard and soft drugs in the Netherlands, where hard drugs (like cocaine, XTC and amfetamines) are illegal but soft drugs (like cannabis and magic truffles) are tolerated.

The term soft drugs has since become somewhat outdated due to the high THC-content (16.8%) in Dutch weed. Alcohol remains a big problem, although ‘De Blauwe Knoop’ no longer exists.

The Netherlands does not have a cocaine factory anymore, but in a recent interview, Chief Commissioner Frank Paauw said that Europe is being flooded with cocaine – through the harbors of Rotterdam and Antwerp:

“There is a very large supply of cocaine, making it easier to enter that market. There are also elements of being able to make a career very quickly.”

Frank Paauw

According to the National Drug Monitor, 5.4% of all Dutch adults (= 700.000) have ever used cocaine, 1.6% (250.000) used it last year and 0.6% (80.000) used cocaine last month.

Every year between 7,000 and 8,000 people seek professional help for their cocaine addiction. In the Netherlands, all addiction care (except for tobacco) is fully reimbursed by Dutch health insurers. 1 gram of cocaine cost about 50 to 60 euro in the Netherlands.

ALSO READ:

10x Amsterdam Red Light District Rules

10x Drugs Facts From The Netherlands

10 Best Coffeeshops in Amsterdam

The post Astonishing Facts About Cocaine, Cannabis And Other Drugs in Amsterdam appeared first on Tours in Amsterdam.

10x Amsterdam In WWII History Facts You Want To Know

The Netherlands went through a lot during the Second World War, between 1940 and 1945. This list contains 5 interesting facts about Amsterdam in WWII and 5 frequently asked questions about the history of Amsterdam.

Second World War Facts

Why did WWII start?

The Second World War began on September 1st, 1939, when Germany invaded Poland. This was the beginning of a six-year conflict that would involve nearly every nation in the world. The primary cause of the war was Germany’s aggressive expansionism, which led to the invasion of other countries such as Czechoslovakia and France. Britain and France declared war on Germany in response to the invasion of Poland, and thus began a conflict that would claim the lives of millions of people. In addition to expansionism, other causes of the Second World War include nationalism, the rise of Adolf Hitler and Nazi Germany, and the failure of previous diplomatic efforts to prevent conflict.

What happened in Amsterdam In WWII?

The German occupation of the Netherlands and Amsterdam can be divided into three parts. After the invasion on May 10, 1940 to June 22, 1941, the ‘better than expected occupation’ part took place; Germans implemented a ‘velvet glove’ approach and the economic exploitation remained limited.

GET AMSTERDAM APP >

From June 22, 1941 to June 6, 1944, as the war progressed less and less in Germany’s favour, economic exploitation of the Dutch increased and the occupation became grimmer.

The third and final part started on June 6, 1944 and lasted to May 4, 1945. Hunger and shortages culminate during the Hunger Winter. German occupying forces increasingly lose their grip and also become increasingly incalculable. Leaders exert a moderating influence, but destruction is still being wrought. Throughout the German occupation the persecution of Dutch Jews was ever present.

When did Nazi Germany invade Amsterdam?

The war started for Amsterdam with the sound of propellor engines on May 10, 1940, around 3:00 am. German bombers flew over Amsterdam on their way to attack Schiphol Airport. But in a sense the World War II had already begun for Amsterdammers as early as August 1939, with the mobilisation.

The Netherlands maintained its neutrality, but the army was put on alert. 75 schools were used to house soldiers. 50,000 inhabitants had to make their homes available to soldiers.

Yearly on the 4th of May, Remembrance day is held on Dam Square in Amsterdam.

Why was Holland neutral in WW2?

At the start of World War 2 the Netherlands was a neutral country like it had been for over a century. This policy had kept them out of the bloody First World War. The Dutch sat on the sidelines as other countries in Europe first experienced slaughter on an industrial scale. The Dutch would only fight when attacked.

Was Amsterdam bombed in WWII?

Amsterdam was first bombed in WWII, on the 11th of May. On the second the day of the invasion a single Junkers Ju 88 bomber dropped four bombs on the centre of Amsterdam at the Herengracht. In total 44 civilians died and 79 were injured. After this incident the next serious bombing of Amsterdam was done by the allied forces.

On July 17, 1943 158 civilians were killed and 119 injured when allied bombers accidentally hit residential areas in Amsterdam Noord (North) instead of the intended war industry targets close by.

Why did Germany attack the Netherlands?

The Netherlands (and Belgium) were located in a strategic position between Germany and France. The route was logical for both the Germans and allies as fortifications were weak compared to the actual border between France and Germany. The Germans also wanted to turn Europe into an impenetrable fortress. Leaving the Netherlands open for an Allied counter attack was simply out of the question.

1 | Anne Frank: A Name Known Around The World

Anne Frank is the most famous Dutch person in the world, but she was actually born in Germany. Like many German jews her parents decided to leave Germany because of the rising antisemitism and its bad economy.

Her world famous diary actually might never have been published had it not been for Miep Gies, who found the diary and handed it to Otto Frank. She later said that if she had read the journal beforehand, she would never have given it but would have destroyed the pages.

According to Miep Gies, everyone who helped hide the Frank family would have faced the Germans because their names were in the book.

2 | Dutch Resistance

This is a fact about Amsterdam in WWII that not many people know. On a per capita basis the Netherlands had the most people hiding from the occupying forces. Nor have there been so many worker strikes in any other occupied country.

The most famous worker strike was the February Strike in 1941 when the Dutch demonstrated against the persecution of Dutch Jews. This act of public resistance, which was violently struck down, is still remembered every year in Amsterdam.

3 | The Bombing Of Rotterdam

Rotterdam used to have a beautiful historic city centre just like Amsterdam still has today. It was completely destroyed by a German air raid on May 14, 1940 between 13:27 pm and around 13:40 pm.

The bombing led to the surrender of Rotterdam the same day and under the threat of bombing other cities, starting with Utrecht, the Netherlands surrendered to the Germans on May 15. Other historical city centres like Amsterdam’s would be spared the horror of Rotterdam.

4 | Homosexuality During World War 2

Unlike in Germany, no people were arrested or prosecuted in the Netherlands for being homosexual. There were cases of Jews and resistance fighters being arrested who were dealt with extra severely after their homosexuality became known.

One of those Gay resistance fighters was anti-fascist Willem Arondoes. Arondoes led a group of resistance fighters that bombed the public records of Amsterdam. The records there were used by the Nazis in the persecution of Dutch Jews. Before being executed Arondoes loudly proclaimed:

“Let it be known that homosexuals are not cowards!”

Cafe ‘t Mandje Zeedijk: Tolerance & Resistance

Cafe ‘t Mandje was the first cafe in Amsterdam where regular and homosexual people mingled and partied together. The cafe is located on the Zeedijk in Amsterdam Red Light District and close to the then Jewish quarters.

German soldiers were not allowed to go in the area, because they’d get too distracted. Cafe owner (a lesbian herself) Bet van Beeren – aunt of Diana van Laar – hid several jews in the attic of the cafe.

Her brother is said to have stored resistance weapons in the basement. Whilst regular German soldiers weren’t allowed in the area higher officers used to actually go for a drink in this cafe!

5 | Dam Square Shooting

On May 7, 1945, two days after the liberation of the Netherlands people were out celebrating the allied victory on Dam Square, Amsterdam’s main square. Then suddenly around 3:00 pm German soldiers suddenly started opening fire into the big crows of partygoers.

German soldiers were stationed at a corner of Dam Square and fired from the balcony. In total 32 people were killed and 231 injured. A bloody start for a city that regained its freedom.

If you’d like to know more about the May 7th shooting incident we recommend this Dam Square Shooting article.

ALSO READ:

10 Amsterdam History Facts 

Red Light District Amsterdam: Travel Guide

Dam Square Amsterdam

MORE AMSTERDAM TIPS >

Do you know other facts about Amsterdam in WWII? Drop them in the comment section below and share it with the world.

The post 10 Special Facts About Amsterdam In WWII appeared first on Tours in Amsterdam.

Self Guided Amsterdam Walking Tour

We’ve developed a unique Amsterdam Audio Tour app specifically for Amsterdam Red Light District. In it, 22 local an international experts will tell you all about one of Holland’s most unique areas.

Amsterdam Audio Tour With Virtual Guide & GPS

During the tour your virtual guide Sophie will talk and walk you through Amsterdam Red Light District, also known as “De Wallen”. She will tell you all about the wheelings and dealings that happen in the area and she’ll introduce you to 22 experts in their fields along the way. These experts share their knowledge and unique perspectives with you so you’ll really get to know De Wallen; its history and its current iteration.

Get to know what’s it like to be sex worker in Amsterdam, learn what area used to be like, hear real stories from real locals and learn everything about the Dutch culture, tolerance, drug policy, Dutch food, sex education in Holland and much more.

22 Experts As Amsterdam Tour Guide:

These 22 experts are part of this Amsterdam Audio Tour:

• Patrick – The Red Light District police officer.
• Jerzy Gawronski – Amsterdam’s archaeologist & professor of maritime at the University of Amsterdam.
• Veronique Verschueren – “smart shop” owner.
• August de Loor – Amsterdam’s drug consultant.
• Walther Schoonenberg – Amsterdam’s best architectural historian.
• Russell Shorto – Journalist, Author & historian who has written one of the best books on Amsterdam’s history.
• Birgit Buchner – Director at a hidden Catholic church museum.
• Dennis de Borst – CEO of the the famous Dutch FEBO snackbar chain.
• Martine & Louise Fokkens – Twin sisters as prostitutes for 50 years.
• Kate Lister – Lecturer & researcher of the history of sexuality  & owner of the famous Twitter-account Whores of Yore.
• Herman Vuijsje – Dutch writer & sociologist.
• Mariska Majoor – Holland’s best known sex worker activist.
• Theodoor van Boven – Owner of world’s first condom shop.
• Kasia – A Romanian window sex worker.
• Diana van Laar – Owner of Amsterdam’s first gay bar.
• Jan Otten –  Owner of Casa Rosso and Amsterdam’s last peep show.
• Hugo van Heijningen – Founder of Red Light Radio (a radio station located in a former window brothel).
• Lyle Muns – Local politician & male sex worker.
• Piet Middelkoop – Retired police officer who worked in the Red Light District during rough 1980’s.
• Henny Tinga – Front woman of the Salvation Army in Amsterdam.

A Little Preview of Amsterdam Audio Tour:

American historian Russell Shorto:

“This kind of tolerance is part of the Dutch identity. It goes all the way back to the Middle Ages and the battle against water. People built up dams and dikes, creating land where there was none.”

Lyle Muns, Male Sex Worker:

“Personally, I’m an escort, so I go to my clients, rather than working in a brothel or behind a window. I do so because it gives me a lot of liberty… I don’t need to rent a room and work the whole day and I can just go to a client for an hour, come back home, and do my other stuff. This is also why I became an escort in the first place; it gives me the freedom to pursue other things as well, such as my political career. Because I’m so open about my work, it doesn’t stand in my way, although I do get a lot of questions about it. Hopefully, in the future, sex work will be viewed as a normal profession or side job.”

“Hopefully, in the future, sex work will be viewed as a normal profession or side job.”

“And whether you’re standing behind a window, or work as an escort; being a sex worker in Amsterdam is particularly enjoyable because there is a lot of support from the government… They offer health services that are freely available, such as std-checks. There are social services that help you out when you’re having emotional issues. And, most importantly: it’s legal. You won’t find any police harassment like sex workers experience in other countries. I am really grateful for that.”

Amsterdam’s City Archeologist Jerzy Gawronski:

“The word ‘Wallen’ comes from the canals that cross section the Red Light District; the Oudezijds Voorburgwal and the Oudezijds Achterburgwal. A ‘burgwal’ means ‘defensive wall’ with a canal in front, but now the name is used for the canals itself, which were dug as a defence for the city.”

University Lecturer & Researcher Of The History Of Sexuality Kate Lister:

“Whore” originally derives from the Germanic “horon”, meaning “one that desires”. That’s also why I use the term. Not to stigmatize sex workers, but to puncture the shame inherent in that word, and as a statement that by definition, we are all historical whores. We all desire.”

Kasia, A Romanian Window Prostitute:

“You need to be at least 21, you need a place to live to have a registered address, you need a registration at the Chamber of Commerce. And if you are from outside of the EU you also need a work permit. And you need to find a brothel that wants to rent you a window.”

Pros of the Amsterdam Audio Tour

• Flexibility: You can do the audio tour at any time. You don’t need anyone else to do this tour. You can also choose to listen to the content at home as an audiobook, while seeing lots of (old) pictures!
• An unique app: This is the only audio tour in Amsterdam that includes a great variety of experts. It’s one of a kind!
• Low priced: This Amsterdam audio tour app is priced at just 4,99 euro. That’s a real bargain if you compare it to a normal walking tour.
• Informational: 22 Experts and their knowledge in the palm of your hand.
• Modern: The newest way to discover a city like Amsterdam.
• Accessible: Downloadable to all smart phones.
• Exhaustive: All subjects that are connected with the Red Light District are discussed.
• Fun: It contains good jokes too.
• Exciting: Explore Amsterdam’s most fascinating area alone, or sync up with your friends, family or co-workers.
• No waiting around: for other people, or speed it up to your liking.

Amsterdam Audio Tour Specifications

Language: English.
Duration: max. 1u 50m.
Required: Smartphone & headset.
Included: GPS-map, dozens of pictures & stories.
Stops: 32.
Not required: Internet connection during the tour.
Download file size app: 42 mb.
Price: 4,99 euro per download.

Download The Amsterdam Audio Tour

The Amsterdam Audio Tours App can be purchased either through the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store for Android users. Learn about the Red Light District of Amsterdam whilst exploring the area, or just from a comfy chair in your home or hotel.

GET THE APP >

ALSO DISCOVER:

Amsterdam Brothel Tour With Prostitute Tour Guide

31 Fun Things To Do In Amsterdam

5 Popular Sex Date Apps In Amsterdam

MORE AMSTERDAM TIPS >

The post Amsterdam Audio Tour App in Red Light District appeared first on Tours in Amsterdam.

10 Best Amsterdam History Facts

Learn more about the most liberal city in the world and check out these amazing Amsterdam history facts that will blow your mind.

1 | Amsterdam History Facts: Canal Ring

Did you know that Amsterdam’s world famous canal ring got its spot on the UNESCO world heritage list only as recently as 2010? Even though the unique canal construction functioned as an inspiration for the construction of Saint Petersburg in Russia. All in all Amsterdam has around 100 kilometers of canals and is considered to be the Venice of the North.

Especially in the past, the canals where used for transportation of products. While nowadays it’s mostly used for recreational purposes.

Canals and Urban Planning – Solving Problems with Design

Amsterdam’s canals were built to solve multiple problems at once. The land was wet and unstable, so builders needed drainage. The city also needed transport routes and organized growth.

Instead of letting streets grow randomly, leaders planned the Canal Ring. The canals formed layers, each with a purpose. Inner canals focused on housing. Outer canals handled defense and shipping.

Canal system goals

• Control water levels
• Prevent flooding
• Move goods efficiently

Step-by-step canal process

1. Drain marshland
2. Dig canals in a fixed pattern
3. Strengthen land with wooden poles
4. Build homes and warehouses

Buildings were taxed by front width, not size. This explains the tall, narrow houses still seen today.

2 | Amsterdam History Facts: Royal Palace Dam Square

When construction of this massive palace was completed this building was actually the largest non-religious structure in Europe. Built during the hight of power of the Dutch Republic the building was intended to showcase Holland’s arrival and simultaneous domination of the world’s oceans and trade.

Royal Palace Dam Square is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Amsterdam. The Royal Palace was built in the 13th century as a castle for the Counts of Holland. It was later expanded and converted into a royal palace by King Louis Napoleon. Today, the Royal Palace is open to the public as a museum. Dam Square is also home to many other popular tourist attractions, including the NEMO Science Museum and the Royal Dutch Mint. In addition, Dam Square is a great place to people watch and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Amsterdam.

The outside of the building looks quite austere, to see the glory of this building one must enter it. When the building isn’t in use for Royal or public functions the people can visit. A must for anyone visiting Amsterdam.

3 | Amsterdam History Facts: Van Gogh

The Dutch master painter Van Gogh was largely self-taught. Only for a short period of around four months did he receive formal artistic training. And that happened only a few years before his death. Did you know that this famous painter actually lived in Amsterdam? During the Amsterdam History Tour we’ll show you the first church that Van Gogh visited when he arrived in Amsterdam.

4 | Amsterdam History Facts: Rembrandt van Rijn

Despite his initial large success Rembrandt in the end died in poverty. By the late 1640’s he had spent his large fortune. Failing to pay his mortgage he declared bankruptcy. He sold his house and many other belongings and moved into a smaller home together with his family. He never recovered financially from this.

Did you know that he got married in Amsterdam’s oldest building? That’s the Old Church in the Red Light District.

5| Amsterdam History Facts: Anne Frank

Did you know that Anne Frank actually wasn’t Dutch? Her parent fled from Germany due to rampant anti-semitism in the country and the poor economic conditions. Anne Frank’s story fits into Amsterdam’s history of being a shelter for those being persecuted throughout Europe.

Unfortunately Amsterdam ended being a safe haven when the Germans invaded the Netherlands on May 10, 1940.

6 | Amsterdam History Facts: Red Light District

Did you know that most windows are lit up in red in the Red Light District but some some windows are actually lit up in blue? When you see a blue lit window brothel during your visit chances are that there’s a transexual prostitute standing in the window brothel.

But why do all the regular prostitutes have red lights to begin with? Well, red lights actually hides imperfections on the skin of the prostitutes. It makes them prettier. Also decades ago, prostitutes used red lights to hide STD’s.

7 | Amsterdam History Facts: Drugs Facts

The Netherlands is currently the number one ecstasy producing nation of the world. If you look at history this country has been a major drugs producer or dealer ever since the inception of the first Dutch Republic back in 1588.

8 | Amsterdam History Facts: Dutch Stock Exchange

The modern stock exchange was actually invented in Amsterdam. The Dutch invented stocks. Trading first started on a bridge close to current Amsterdam central station.

During our Amsterdam History Tour our licensed guide will point you to the actual bridge and the building where they kept on trading when it rained.

9 | Amsterdam History Facts: The VOC, World’s First Corporation

A stock exchange isn’t much without actual stocks. With the creation of the VOC, world’s first corporation, they also created the first publicly traded company. As soon as the first stock certificates were handed out trading started on the streets.

10 | Amsterdam History Facts: House Boats

At this time there are around 3000 houseboats in Amsterdam. The history of houseboats in Amsterdam can be traced back as far as the 16th century. Plenty of locals still live in these unique dwellings. You could also rent one via Airbnb for your stay in Amsterdam.

ALSO READ:

Amsterdam Red Light District: Ultimate Guide

9x Best Museums in Amsterdam

MORE AMSTERDAM TIPS >

The post 10x Fascinating Amsterdam History Facts in 2026 appeared first on Tours in Amsterdam.