12 Famous Buildings In Amsterdam, Netherlands

famous buildings in amsterdam
Annelene
Annelene 
Updated
| 5 min read

Whether you are cruising along the historic Golden Age canals or meandering through the bustling streets of Amsterdam, you are bound to find hidden and world-renowned architectural wonders just waiting to be explored. Amsterdam’s cityscape is painted with ancient treasures which stand side by side to modern, cutting-edge buildings creating a masterpiece to behold. Many of the buildings which are peppered around the city hold historical value, capturing the essence and tales of the past while welcoming the future of ingenuity. From the treasure-packed museums to the neoclassical splendors, Amsterdam is an urban explorer’s paradise. Book your stay at a hotel with a spa or an Airbnb houseboat, and scroll down to check out our list of famous buildings in Amsterdam, Netherlands, which are bound to leave you breathless.

1. Pathé Tuschinski

Pathé Tuschinski
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Fabio Bruna used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Pathé Tuschinski, also known as Tuschinski Theatre, is an Art Nouveau movie theater located in the city center. Though the grand venue looks like it only hosts high-profile events, it’s actually a popular stop to watch films on IMAX. Besides movies, Pathé also has special events like ladies’ night, classic film showings, ballet, opera, and concerts. To find out about the latest movie screenings and events, be sure to check out their website before you visit! A stop here is a must, especially if you’re a film buff - after all, Time’s Out declared this the most beautiful cinema in the world.

Pathé Tuschinski

Address: Reguliersbreestraat 26-34, 1017 CN Amsterdam, Netherlands

Website: Pathé Tuschinski

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2. Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam

Amsterdam - Stedelijk Museum
Source: Photo by Flickr user Fred Romero used under CC BY 2.0

Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam is a great place to visit for those who want to see works by renowned artists such as Van Gogh, Pollock, Warhol, and Chagall, among others. Housing various modern and contemporary artworks, this is a must-visit spot for any tourist heading to Amsterdam. There are about 90,000 items on display here, so besides paintings, you’ll also find installations, photographs, sculptures, prints, and more. The new wing, which was completed in 2012, is where you’ll find the entrance.

Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam

Address: Museumplein 10, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, Netherlands

Website: Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

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3. The Royal Palace of Amsterdam

Amsterdam Royal Palace 7299
Source: Photo by user C messier used under CC BY-SA 4.0

When in Amsterdam, this iconic building is a must-visit. Unravel the secret symbols and untold stories on your visit to the Royal Palace. This historic site is located in Dam Square, and it features many paintings and sculptures which introduce visitors to the rich history of the city and its regal past. When the Palace is not occupied by the King, it is open to the public and features exhibitions throughout the year. Meander through the exquisite rooms, halls and galleries and be enthralled by the beauty of the well-preserved collection of Empire-style furniture and art from the 17th and 18th century.

The Royal Palace of Amsterdam

Address: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 147, 1012 RJ Amsterdam, Netherlands

Website: The Royal Palace of Amsterdam

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4. Anne Frank House

Amsterdam (NL), Anne-Frank-Huis -- 2015 -- 7185
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Dietmar Rabich used under CC BY-SA 4.0

The house where Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis is now one of the most visited attractions in Amsterdam, attracting millions of visitors annually. The monument introduces travelers and locals to the turbulent past and it celebrates the work and writings of Anne Frank. This powerful experience is a must for anyone visiting Amsterdam. Anne Frank’s diary sits in a glass case in her bedroom. Due to the popularity of this attraction, it’s best practice to book your ticket to the museum online, and in advance, to avoid the crowds. It’s hard not to feel the dark despair when you visit the Secret Annexe, which is a part of the museum where the Franks remained silent during the day before being arrested and sent to the concentration camps.

Anne Frank House

Address: Westermarkt 20, 1016 GV Amsterdam, Netherlands

Website: Anne Frank House

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Amsterdam Tour Guide

Locally Louke

Locally Louke

Hi, my name is Louke and I live and work in the historical city of Amsterdam. My style of guiding is custom. That feeling you get from meeting up with a friend that shows you around their city. Obviously, I will take you to see the things on your bucket list and I will help you get the lay of the land and share tips and tricks of how to get the most out of your stay in my city.

Tours by Locally

Amsterdam Tour Guide

Michael Jones

Michael Jones

5. The EYE Film Institute

EYE Film Institute Amsterdam from tour boat 2016-09-12-6548
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Slaunger used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Enjoy the sleek contemporary designs of the EYE Film Institute aimed at educating the public about the Dutch film industry and celebrating all art forms in a display of exhibitions, film screenings, workshops and discussions. The basement, also known as the Panorama, offers a collection which is free to the public. The room is surrounded by film fragment, and visitors can explore the Pods which are a capsule where travelers can watch films in private. The EYE offers an interactive experience for the whole family.

The EYE Film Institute

Address: IJpromenade 1, 1031 KT Amsterdam, Netherlands

Website: The EYE Film Institute

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6. Het Scheepvaarthuis

Het Scheepvaarthuis is voorzien van bouwornamenten in smeedijzer, graniet en terracotta - Amsterdam - 20408984 - RCE
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Technau, Sergé (F... used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Take a walk into Het Scheepvaarthuis, commonly known as the Shipping House, and discover the intricate details of this architectural wonder. As one of Amsterdam’s best-known monuments, the Shipping School is adorned with sculptures and wrought iron introducing guests to the history of shipping in the Netherlands. The interior is decorated in maritime symbols and aquatic artwork of seahorses, dolphins, waves and anchors. You will experience the grandeur of this attraction, which features the four oceans, from the moment you step through the door and then proceed to view the incredible central stairwell decorated with shells, octopuses and other figurines.

Het Scheepvaarthuis

Address: Prins Hendrikkade 108-114, 1011 AK Amsterdam The Netherlands

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7. Science Centre NEMO

NEMO Science Center Amsterdam
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user WikimediaC used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Looking for Kid-friendly attractions? Then be sure to visit the Science Centre NEMO which is a large green, boat-shaped building and is locally recognized as the science museum to visit. The center boasts an exquisite selection of interactive exhibitions offering fun for the whole family of all ages. Journey to the farthest corner of the universe at the Universe exhibition, do some experiments in the laboratory or discover mathematics at the World of Shapes Exhibition.

Science Centre NEMO

Address: Oosterdok 2, 1011 VX Amsterdam, Netherlands

Website: Science Centre NEMO

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8. Van Gogh Museum

Van Gogh Museum by night Amsterdam 2017
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Steven Lek used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Step into the world of Van Gogh, which is a celebration of the masterpieces from the Dutch painter, and boasts the largest collection of art worldwide. Due to the popularity of the museum, tickets can only be purchased online. The museum is home to over 200 paintings, 400 drawings and 700 letters. Visit the museum on Friday nights where visitors can enjoy cocktails and the sounds of the local DJ as well as some free guided tours.

Van Gogh Museum

Address: Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, Netherlands

Website: Van Gogh Museum

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9. De Duif

De Duif, Amsterdam
Source: Photo by Flickr user Robert Cutts used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Located along the picturesque Prinsengracht canals, you will stumble across the hidden gem of De Duif. The building is the perfect setting for dinner parties, conferences, galas, concerts and recitals which can be hired out. This building was once a Roman Catholic Church and it still captures the essence of the past in the design and décor of the interior. Every Sunday, the historical church hosts ecumenical services where visitors can get a taste of the culture and traditions of Amsterdam. Be sure to check the events calendar as the church hosts a free organ concert.

De Duif

Address: Prinsengracht 756, 1017 LD Amsterdam, Netherlands

Website: De Duif

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10. Trippenhuis

Trippenhuis (2010)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Taks used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Situated in the heart of Amsterdam, you will find this neoclassical canal mansion. The Trippenhuis was built in 1660 – 1662 for the wealthy trip brothers. Today, the mansion is a museum and it welcomes guests from far and wide to view the Dutch national art collection.

Trippenhuis

Address: Kloveniersburgwal 29, 1011 JV Amsterdam, Netherlands

Website: Trippenhuis

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11. Het Schip

Amsterdam Het Schip 007
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Janericloebe used under CC BY 3.0

Take a step back in history and pay a visit to this national treasure called the Het Schip. If you wish to truly appreciate the architectural tapestry of Amsterdam, then this is the perfect place to start your journey. The Het Schip is a structure that was built to the ideals of the Amsterdam School which was a movement between 1910 and 1930. In the past, it was used to house the working class and it features a meeting hall and a post office. Today, the monument opens its doors to visitors as a museum and enlightens visitors about the building and educates about the ideals of the Amsterdam School. Following a tour of the Het Schip, you will start recognizing other buildings that are peppered around the city, which are modeled by the Amsterdam School.

Het Schip

Address: Oostzaanstraat 45, 1013 WG Amsterdam, Netherlands

Website: Het Schip

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12. Rijksmuseum

Rijksmuseum , Amsterdam , Netherlands - panoramio (17)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Patrick Nouhaille... used under CC BY-SA 3.0

In Amsterdam, old buildings aren’t a novelty. One such historic structure to visit is the majestic Rijksmuseum, which is among the world’s finest art museums that pay tribute to both local and international artists alike. Tourists flock to this museum to gaze upon the art masterpieces which adorn the walls of the interior. Due to the popularity, much like most of these building, it’s best that your order your tickets online to fast track your entry. The museum is a grand display of Amsterdam’s Golden Age and it features 80 galleries teeming with a complete collection of treasures. Before you even enter, you will be whisked away by the whimsical charm of the sculpture-filled gardens boasting colorful flowerbeds, water features and much more.

Rijksmuseum

Address: Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Netherlands

Website: Rijksmuseum

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Architectural treasures

In Amsterdam, historic buildings and modern structures share the cityscape. If this city isn’t on your travel bucket list already, then the grandeur of these architectural treasures will surely have you packing your bag and booking the next flight out.

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Frequently asked questions about famous buildings in Amsterdam, Netherlands


Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
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Annelene is a marketing graduate with a zest for life and a passion for travel. She believes these things help bring new perspective, introduce new cultures and educate us about life.

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