Once you have seen the icons, these quieter places show a calmer, more local Amsterdam, courtyards, gardens, and squares that most day-trippers walk straight past. Most see a fraction of the crowds of the big museums.
Amsterdam's Hidden Gems
1
Hidden Gem
Begijnhof Courtyard
A hidden 14th-century courtyard of almshouses around a green, a hush in the middle of the city.
Begijnhof, accessed from Spui or Gedempte Begijnensloot
2
Park4.0
Hortus Botanicus
One of the world's oldest botanical gardens, with historic glasshouses and a butterfly house.
Plantage
3
Park3.0
Oosterpark
A leafy, local park on the east side, far quieter than Vondelpark and surrounded by good cafes.
Oost
4
Hidden Gem
Nieuwmarkt Square
A lively medieval square anchored by the Waag weighhouse, with markets, terraces, and the old Jewish quarter nearby.
Nieuwmarkt, Centrum
5
Architecture
Montelbaanstoren from Oudeschans Canal
A graceful 16th-century tower reflected in a quiet canal, a classic view with no crowds.
Oudeschans canal, near Nieuwmarkt
6
Temple4.0
Oude Kerk
The city's oldest building, a medieval church improbably ringed by the Red Light District, now also an art space.
De Wallen
FAQ
- How do I escape the crowds in Amsterdam?
- Visit early, and head to the courtyards, gardens, and east-side parks, the Begijnhof, Hortus Botanicus, and Oosterpark. The Jordaan's side canals and Amsterdam-Noord are also far quieter than the Damrak and Red Light District.
- Is the Begijnhof free to visit?
- Yes, the Begijnhof courtyard is free and open during the day. It is still residential, so visitors are asked to keep quiet and respectful; it closes in the early evening.
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