Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a city renowned for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, vibrant culture, and world-class museums. Navigating this charming city is a breeze, thanks to its well-connected and efficient public transport system, which includes trams, buses, ferries, and the metro. Here’s a guide to some of the top attractions in Amsterdam and how to reach them using public transport.
1. Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is one of the most famous museums in the world, housing a vast collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals. The museum also offers a fascinating look at Dutch history through its expansive collection of art and artifacts.
- How to Get There: The Rijksmuseum is located in the Museumplein area. You can easily reach it by taking tram lines 2, 5, or 12 and getting off at the “Rijksmuseum” stop. The museum is just a short walk from the tram stop.
2. Van Gogh Museum
Just a short walk from the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum is another must-see attraction in Amsterdam. The museum houses the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings and drawings in the world, offering a deep insight into the life and work of this iconic artist.
- How to Get There: The Van Gogh Museum is also located in the Museumplein area. To reach it, you can take tram lines 2, 5, or 12 to the “Van Baerlestraat” stop, or tram line 3 to the “Museumplein” stop.
3. Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is one of the most poignant sites in Amsterdam. This museum is located in the actual house where Anne Frank, the young Jewish girl whose diary became world-famous, hid with her family during World War II. The museum offers a powerful and moving experience as it tells the story of Anne Frank and the atrocities of the Holocaust.
- How to Get There: The Anne Frank House is located in the Jordaan district, near the Westerkerk. You can take tram lines 13 or 17 to the “Westermarkt” stop, and from there, it’s a short walk to the museum.
4. Dam Square and the Royal Palace
Dam Square is the heart of Amsterdam and one of its most famous landmarks. The square is surrounded by notable buildings, including the Royal Palace, which was originally built as a city hall in the 17th century and later converted into a royal residence. The square is also home to the National Monument, commemorating those who died in World War II.
- How to Get There: Dam Square is easily accessible by several tram lines. You can take tram lines 4, 9, 14, 16, or 24 to the “Dam” stop. The square is also within walking distance from Amsterdam Central Station.
5. Vondelpark
Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s largest and most popular park, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or just relaxing on the grass. The park also features several cafes, an open-air theatre, and various sculptures, including a famous statue of the poet Vondel, after whom the park is named.
- How to Get There: Vondelpark has several entrances, but the most popular ones are near the Museumplein. You can reach the park by taking tram lines 1, 2, or 3 and getting off at the “Leidseplein” stop. From there, it’s a short walk to the park entrance.
6. Jordaan District
The Jordaan district is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Amsterdam, known for its narrow streets, picturesque canals, and historic houses. It’s a great area to explore on foot, with plenty of boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries. The area is also home to the famous Westerkerk, the largest Protestant church in Amsterdam.
- How to Get There: You can reach the Jordaan district by taking tram lines 13, 14, or 17 to the “Westermarkt” stop. The district is also easily walkable from Dam Square or Amsterdam Central Station.
7. Amsterdam Central Station
Amsterdam Central Station is not only the city’s main transportation hub but also an architectural marvel. The station is a gateway to many parts of the city and beyond, and its Neo-Renaissance design makes it a landmark in its own right.
- How to Get There: As the main hub, Amsterdam Central Station is accessible by all major forms of public transport, including trams, buses, metro lines 51, 52, 53, and 54, as well as various regional and international trains. Most tram lines start or end at Central Station, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the city.
8. Heineken Experience
The Heineken Experience is a popular attraction for beer enthusiasts, located in the former Heineken brewery. The interactive tour provides insights into the brewing process, the history of Heineken, and offers tastings of their famous beer.
- How to Get There: The Heineken Experience is located near the De Pijp neighborhood. You can take tram lines 1, 7, or 19 to the “Stadhouderskade” stop, or tram lines 24 or 4 to the “Marie Heinekenplein” stop.
9. NEMO Science Museum
The NEMO Science Museum is a fantastic attraction for families and those interested in science and technology. The museum offers interactive exhibits that are both educational and entertaining, covering topics from physics to chemistry and beyond. The building itself, designed by Renzo Piano, resembles a giant ship and offers great views of the city from its rooftop terrace.
- How to Get There: NEMO is located near Amsterdam Central Station. You can take a short walk from the station, or take bus lines 22 or 48 to the “Kadijksplein” stop, which is close to the museum.
