Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace of Amsterdam is situated on Dam Square in the centre of Amsterdam. It was originally built as the city hall for the magistrates of Amsterdam. In the 17-th century it was the largest secular building of Europe. Learn more about its history. The Royal Palace on the Dam is one of the three Palaces which the State has placed at the Queen's disposal by Act of Parliament. It is used mainly for official state functions, for example state visits, the Queen's New Year reception and other official receptions.

Nieuwe Kerk / New Church

Since 1815, Dutch monarchs and other members of the Royal Family have been officially inaugurated here, including the late Queen Beatrix, Queen Wilhelmina and Queen Juliana. On 2 February 2002, the Prince of Orange and Princess Máxima married in the beautiful church. In between coronations and weddings, the New Church houses art galleries and temporary exhibitions. Inside, admire the elaborate altar, arched nave, great pipe organ, sepulchral monuments and stained-glass windows. But if you want to take pictures, ask permission first. Entrance is free.

Kalverstraat

You will find that nearly all mainstream brand names have one or more store on this road. For a quiet drink away from all these shops you can make a sidestep onto Spui, where you will find many cafes, bars and restaurants and several fast-food chains. Parallel to the Nieuwedijk-Kalverstraat are the Damrak and Rokin. This is a normal road, so beware of bicycles! The Damrak is filled with restaurants, hotels and exchange offices.

Amsterdam Museum

The rich collection of works of art, objects and archaeological finds brings to life the fortunes of Amsterdammers of days gone by and today. From a mediaeval child's shoe and the map of Cornelis Antonisz from 1538, giving a bird's-eye view of the city, to the impressive Civic Guard paintings from the Golden Age.