Dam Square Amsterdam
Amsterdam's historic central square, home to the Royal Palace, National Monument, and Nieuwe Kerk. A bustling hub for exploration.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Dam Square Amsterdam
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Amsterdam's historic central square, home to the Royal Palace, National Monument, and Nieuwe Kerk. A bustling hub for exploration.
"The beating heart of Amsterdam, a must-see for its history and vibrant energy."
🚶♀️ Walkable Hub
Dam Square is central! Many attractions like the Red Light District are a short walk away. :athletic_shoe:
👑 Palace Tours
You can visit the Royal Palace! Many locals don't even know. Check opening times. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Royal Palace of Amsterdam
Dam Square
A stunning neoclassical palace, once the city hall, now a royal residence. Explore its grand interiors and rich history.
National Monument
Dam Square
A poignant WWII memorial in the center of the square, honoring victims of the war. A place for reflection.

Nieuwe Kerk (New Church)
Dam Square
Adjacent to the palace, this historic church hosts exhibitions and events. Admire its Gothic architecture.
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Heart of Amsterdam
Key Landmarks and Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walkable Hub
Dam Square is central! Many attractions like the Red Light District are a short walk away. :athletic_shoe:
👑 Palace Tours
You can visit the Royal Palace! Many locals don't even know. Check opening times. :ticket:
☕ Coffee Shop Proximity
Several popular coffee shops are within a 20-min walk from Dam Square. :coffee:
📸 Capture the Moment
Great spot for photos, especially with the palace and monument. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walkable Hub
Dam Square is central! Many attractions like the Red Light District are a short walk away. :athletic_shoe:
👑 Palace Tours
You can visit the Royal Palace! Many locals don't even know. Check opening times. :ticket:
☕ Coffee Shop Proximity
Several popular coffee shops are within a 20-min walk from Dam Square. :coffee:
📸 Capture the Moment
Great spot for photos, especially with the palace and monument. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dam Square is a vibrant and historically significant heart of Amsterdam, praised for its central location and iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace and National Monument. Visitors appreciate its role as a starting point for exploration and its lively atmosphere. However, some find it overwhelmingly crowded and suggest prioritizing other attractions if time is limited.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dam Square is easily accessible by public transport. Trams frequently stop nearby, and it's a short walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station. Many hotels are also within walking distance or a short tram ride away, like NH Amsterdam Dam Square. :train: :bus:
Yes, Dam Square is the historical and geographical heart of Amsterdam, making it very easy to find. It's a major landmark and a central meeting point for locals and tourists alike. :world_map:
Absolutely! It's a pleasant 10-15 minute walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Dam Square, passing through interesting streets. :walking:
The most convenient way is by train from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Centraal Station, then a short walk or tram ride to Dam Square. :airplane: :train:
Parking in the immediate vicinity of Dam Square is limited and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport or park at a P+R (Park and Ride) facility outside the city center and take public transport in. :car:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Dam Square itself is a public space and is free to enter and explore. However, attractions on the square like the Royal Palace may require tickets. :ticket:
Dam Square is always open as it's a public square. Individual attractions on the square, such as the Royal Palace and Nieuwe Kerk, have their own specific opening hours. :clock:
Yes, the Royal Palace (Paleis op de Dam) is open to visitors on select days. It's advisable to check their official website for current opening times and any special events. :crown:
The National Monument on Dam Square is an outdoor monument and is free for everyone to view and pay respects at. :memorial:
Tickets for the Royal Palace can usually be purchased at the palace entrance or online in advance. For other attractions, check their individual websites. :computer:
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Dam Square is home to the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and the Nieuwe Kerk. It's a vibrant hub for people-watching, street performers, and as a starting point for exploring Amsterdam. :camerawithflash: :street_performer:
Yes, Dam Square is one of Amsterdam's busiest public spaces and can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. Visiting early morning or late evening can offer a less crowded experience. :bustsinsilhouette:
You can find various souvenir shops around Dam Square selling typical Amsterdam memorabilia. Look for 'Dam Square souvenirs Amsterdam' for options. :gift:
The National Monument is a significant WWII memorial in the center of Dam Square, featuring a statue and urns, commemorating the victims of the war. :dove:
Yes, Dam Square is a fantastic spot for photography, with iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace and the National Monument providing excellent backdrops. :iphone: :camerawithflash:
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, Dam Square is surrounded by numerous cafes, restaurants, and snack bars offering a variety of cuisines. You can find everything from quick bites to more formal dining experiences. :forkandknife:
Several popular coffee shops are within walking distance. Abraxas is frequently recommended and is very close by. Siberië is also a cozy option nearby. :coffee:
You can find places offering Dutch snacks like stroopwafels and bitterballen in the vicinity of Dam Square. For more traditional meals, explore the side streets. :waffle:
Yes, you can find more affordable options like street food vendors, bakeries, and casual eateries a short walk from the main square. :moneybag:
The area around Dam Square offers a mix of international cuisine, fast food chains, and traditional Dutch eateries. :pizza: :sushi: :fries:
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots include the front of the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and capturing the bustling activity of the square itself. Try different angles to include the Nieuwe Kerk. :camerawithflash:
Early morning offers fewer crowds and soft light. Evenings are also great for capturing the illuminated palace and monument. Golden hour can provide beautiful light. :sunrise: :sunset:
Drone usage is generally restricted in busy urban areas like Dam Square due to safety and privacy regulations. Always check local drone laws before flying. :noentrysign:
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the square and its buildings. Be patient for moments with fewer people. Consider capturing the reflections in puddles after rain. :widecameralens:
Stand back in the square to get the full facade. Experiment with different times of day to see how the light hits the building. Capturing it with the National Monument in the foreground is also popular. :royal_building:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Nearby, you can find family-friendly activities. The Magna Plaza shopping center (located in a beautiful historic building near the square) offers a break from the elements and has various shops. For a truly memorable experience, consider a canal cruise that often departs from near Dam Square, offering a unique perspective of the city for all ages. :canal_boat: :child:
💰 Budget Travelers
For affordable eats, look for snack bars and bakeries around the square offering Dutch treats like stroopwafels or fries. Many popular coffee shops are also within walking distance, offering a budget-friendly way to relax. Utilize Amsterdam's excellent public transport system or simply walk to save on transportation costs, as Dam Square is well-connected to most parts of the city. :euro: :walking:
couples
Consider a canal cruise that departs from near Dam Square for a classic romantic Amsterdam experience. Many couples also enjoy exploring the charming side streets branching off the square, discovering hidden cafes and boutiques. For a unique evening, check if the Nieuwe Kerk is hosting any exhibitions or concerts. :heart: :couplewithheartwomanwoman:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Royal Palace of Amsterdam: A Royal Gem
When planning your visit, it's important to note that the palace's opening hours can vary due to royal engagements. Checking the official website for the most up-to-date information is highly recommended. Some travelers suggest that while impressive, it might be a place to skip if you're short on time, prioritizing other Amsterdam experiences.
Inside, you'll find stunning artwork, intricate carvings, and historical artifacts that tell the story of Amsterdam's rich past. The sheer scale and grandeur of the palace are awe-inspiring, making it a worthwhile stop for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. Don't miss the chance to see the impressive chandeliers and the detailed ceiling paintings.
Dam Square: A Hub of History and Activity
The square is often alive with activity, from street performers and musicians to vendors selling souvenirs. It serves as a crucial junction, connecting major streets like Damrak and Rokin, and is a gateway to other popular areas such as the Red Light District, which is just a short walk away. This makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the city, with many attractions easily reachable on foot or by public transport.
While the energy of Dam Square is infectious, it can also get very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. For a more serene experience and better photo opportunities, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening when the crowds thin out and the monuments are beautifully illuminated. The atmosphere at night, with the buildings lit up, is particularly magical.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit