amsterdam

A MSTERDAM G UIDE
A Self-Guided 6.5 Hours Canal Trip and Walking Tour
including ‘Hidden Square’, Cheese Shop, Red Light District and 2hrs for other stops or visits
Created for Visitors from Legend of the Seas - 30 April 2014
developed by Roy Smith ©2013
Contents
WELCOME TO AMSTERDAM
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A������� A� T�� C����� T�������................................................................................................................1
The Port’s Place In History......................................................................................................................1
The Golden age.......................................................................................................................................1
The 20th Century....................................................................................................................................1
SOME BASICS
2
T������ T������ S����..................................................................................................................................2
A CANAL TRIP AND WALKING OF 6.5 HOURS
5
W��� ����� �� �� 2 �����...........................................................................................................................5
The Canal Boat Tour................................................................................................................5
Westerkerk (West Church)......................................................................................................6
The Anne Frank House............................................................................................................6
Westermark to Dam Square....................................................................................................................7
Dam Square.............................................................................................................................8
Koninklijk (Royal) Palace..........................................................................................................8
The Amsterdam National Monument.....................................................................................8
The Nieuwe Kerk.....................................................................................................................8
Dam Square to The Spui..........................................................................................................................9
The Begijnhof........................................................................................................................10
The Spui to Munttoren..........................................................................................................................11
The Bloemenmarkt................................................................................................................11
Munttoren (mint tower)........................................................................................................12
Munttoren to Rembrandt House Museum...........................................................................................12
Rembrandt House.................................................................................................................13
Gassan Diamond Factory.......................................................................................................13
Rembrandt House Museum to De Waag..............................................................................................14
The Kleine Trippenhuis..........................................................................................................14
De Waag................................................................................................................................14
De Rossebuurt - Red Light District.........................................................................................15
Tour The Red Light District....................................................................................................................16
De Waag to Passenger Terminal...........................................................................................................17
Summary of Timings..............................................................................................................................18
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A MSTERDAM
Arriving At The Cruise Terminal
P
assenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA) is the
city’s official port for cruise ships. The
structure is an eye-catching building on the IJ
River (pronounced Eye) and the PTA welcomes about
200,000 passengers annually. Just in front of the PTA
are the berths used by River Cruise Vessels and on
most days a number of these can be seen at the
moorings.
The Port of Amsterdam lies at the head of the
Ijsselmeer, a shallow freshwater lake in the ‘North
Holland’ province of The Netherlands.
While the seat of government for The
Netherlands is at The Hague, the Port of Amsterdam
is the country's official capital. The Port of
Amsterdam is the major centre for culture and
finance in The Netherlands.
In 2012 over 740,000 people lived in the city of
Amsterdam, and over 2.1million called the
metropolitan area home.
The PTA is located a few hundred metres from the
City’s Central Railway Station, which is the hub of
Amsterdam. All public transport, trams, metro, buses
and taxis meet here from where visitors may explore
the city or surrounding area with ease.
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As early as in 1275 Count Floris V granted the
people living near the man-made dam on the Amstel
River, freedom to navigate the waters of the Province
of Holland - without paying tolls.
By the 16th century a blooming economy helped
Amsterdam to grow into the biggest city in the
province of Holland, with some 30,000 inhabitants.
The IJ waterway was still an estuary; in it was a port
directly connected to Damrak. Ocean-going vessels
could sail right into the city, up to what is today Dam
Square.
Back then, the Dam was covered in small houses,
with a medieval, gothic city hall (replaced in the 17th
century). At this time the city limits were defined by
the Singel canal to the west, and the
Kloveniersburgwal (wall) to the east.
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The 17th century is considered Amsterdam's
‘Golden Age’, during which it became the wealthiest
city in the world. Ships sailed from Amsterdam to the
Baltic Sea, North America, and Africa, as well as
present-day Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, and Brazil.
Amsterdam’s merchants had the largest share in
both the Dutch East India Company and the Dutch
West India Company. These companies acquired
overseas possessions that later became Dutch
colonies.
During the 19th Century, Amsterdam entered
what some call its second ‘Golden Age’. The Industrial
Revolution arrived, and new civic buildings including
museums and train stations, and supporting services
appeared.
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Before World War I began, the Port was growing
with new suburbs. While the country was neutral
during the war, the Amsterdam had shortages of food
and heating oil, causing riots in which people looted
stores and warehouses.
In 1940, Nazi Germany invaded and took control of
The Netherlands. They seated a civilian Nazi
government over the Port of Amsterdam that
cooperated in persecuting Jews.
Citizens of the Port of Amsterdam risked their own
freedom or lives by sheltering Jews; not all were
saved. Over 100,000 Dutch Jews were sent to
concentration camps; only 5,000 survived WW2.
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S OME B ASICS
Typical Tourist Stuff
T
he first essential thing to say about visiting
Amsterdam is that almost everyone you meet
will speak English, there will be few exceptions
whilst you are in the city itself. However, it may be
prudent to learn a few Dutch words which you may
hear as you travel around - these are mentioned a
little later in this guide.
Alcohol
Money
You must be at least 16 years old to drink beer or
wine and 18 to imbibe spirits. If you look too young
you’ll be carded, so always bring identification. This
holds true for supermarkets and off-licences, too.
Amsterdam is famous for
its cafés and restaurants so
you’re never far from a tasty
brew or a glass of wine.
Heineken, Amstel and Bavaria
are the nation’s biggest
Local Time
brewers but other large local
From 28 March to 31 October Amsterdam is in the brands include Grolsch and
Hertog Jan. A wide variety of
Central European Summer Time Zone, or GMT+2.
excellent Belgian brews are
However, remember that as cruise ship visitors you
also on offer at most bars, but
should always take the time from what the cruise
keep an eye out for cafés selling beer from
ship tells you; only in rare cases will this be different
Amsterdam’s own micro-breweries.
from the local time.
Since 2002, a large part of the European Union
has adopted the euro as its local currency and the
Netherlands is no exception. One euro contains 100
euro cents. There are coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50
euro cents, and also of 1 and 2 euro. Banknotes are
available with the following values: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100,
200 and 500. However, it is common practice for
local shops NOT to accept €200 and €500 bills.
You can exchange and withdraw money at most
large banks; there are plenty in the centre of
Amsterdam. All banks accept Visa and MasterCard at
their cash dispensers, but bear in mind that ATMs are
ridiculously scarce in Amsterdam often leading to
huge queues.
At Amsterdam Centraal Station you can find a
GWK Travelex shop open from 8am. Many
restaurants, hotels and shops accept Visa and
MasterCard, but to avoid disappointment, be sure to
carry some money with you as some bars only accept
cash and others require a minimum purchase of €15 20 to use a card.
Tipping
Tipping in restaurants,
if deserved, is up to the
diner and both 10% or a
rounding up of the bill is
acceptable.
Brown cafés
Bruine (Brown) cafes are to Amsterdam what
pubs are to London. That is, they are casual,
neighbourhood gathering spots located all around
the city, featuring dark wood and people looking for a
drink, a snack and friendly conversation. The term
‘brown’ comes from the dark wood and stained walls
that supposedly owe their hue to years of smoking
patrons.
Amsterdam's brown cafés are as much a part of
the city's charm as its canals and architecture. Most
of them epitomize the Dutch term gezelligheid
(pronounced "khuh ZEL ikh hide"), a word quite
difficult to translate into English; coziness or a feeling
of friendly welcome best describes it.
These should not, however, be confused with
Coffeshops, although many fist time visitors do.
Coffeeshops & Drugs
It comes as no surprise that in many places in the
Netherlands coffeeshops sell marijuana and other socalled soft drugs to Dutch residents. And you may
have also heard that dealing or possessing hard drugs
is forbidden. You can be arrested for it and
punishments are no laughing matter.
Unfortunately, recent legislation on a national
level has made the legality issue a little hazy.
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Although it is technically forbidden to serve nonresidents, most coffeeshops in Amsterdam still sell
their wares to tourists.
Coffeeshops are alcohol-free establishments
where soft drugs
are sold and
consumed. A
driving principle
of coffeeshop
policy is that the
sale of alcohol
and the sale of
soft drugs is
separated.
Prostitution
It may surprise you to know that the profession
that has helped to make Amsterdam a household
word across the globe, only became legal in 2000.
travelling a lot you’re better off purchasing a 24-hour
ticket for €7.50. You have to touch the scanner near
the doors of the tram when entering and exiting the
vehicle.
Pickpockets
For years, the Dutch did what they always do
when confronted with a sticky social problem. The
police simply turned a blind eye to the practice and
tolerated it. The cops in the Red Light district only
rousted sex workers if they became too aggressive
with passers-by showing off body parts or tapping on
the glass.
Sadly, as with many other major cities pickpockets
are typically active in crowded places, during the
summer season. This can occur in a tram or while
watching a street artist. Mind your belongings
carefully, and leave your valuables onboard the ship.
Today, window shopping on the Oudezijds
Achterburgwal is a popular tourist attraction, but
please bear in mind that these ladies are there to
make a living and are not part of some open-air zoo.
Be respectful and, whatever you do, don't take any
photographs up close. Use a zoom lens from a
distance if you want some photographic evidence of
your visit.
If you are a victim of crime go to one of the police
stations. They will take a statement, cancel your
credit cards in case of theft and provide you with
useful telephone numbers and addresses (like
consulates, etc). Please try to avoid problems by not
carrying valuable items with you on the streets.
Cycling
It is estimated there are over 880,000 bicycles in a
city of 780,000 residents. There are cycle paths
everywhere in Amsterdam and .Cyclists in
Amsterdam have a reputation of being somewhat
anarchistic and are perhaps even proud of this
reputation. The fact that they often ignore the rules
of the road can cause problems.
Cyclists are not permitted to cycle through red
lights, although they often do.
Police
Some Useful Words?
Hello
Hallo
Good morning
Goedemorgen
Good afternoon
Goedemiddag
Goodbye
Dag
Excuse me
Pardon
Thank you
Dank u
Thank you very much
Dank u wel
Trams
pronounced (dank u vel)
Amsterdammers love their trams and you should,
too! They provide the best way of getting around the
city and run from 06:00 - 00:30.
Please
You shouldn't have to wait longer than 10 minutes
at any tram stop. One-hour tickets for journeys across
the city can be bought from newsagents or tram
drivers. In 2013 they cost €2.80, but if you plan on
Yes
Ja (Yar)
No
Nee (Nay)
Sorry
Sorry
Alstublieft
pronounced (alst-u-bleeft)
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A C ANAL T RIP
6.5H� C���� T��� & W������ T���
AND
W ALKING
OF
6.5
HOURS
With stops up to 2 hours
THE CANAL BOAT TOUR
You will meet the beautifully restored classic
Dutch ‘salonboot’ Hilda at ‘de Zouthaven’ which
is located just along the main cruise terminal where
Legend of the Seas will dock.
Onboard The Hilda you will have access to a
menu of refreshment including tea and coffee plus
wine, spirits and beers - maybe not ideal for a 9am
trip!
The route that the boat will take is not shown in
this guide as the captain may vary this dependant
on the weather, how busy the harbour is and other
factors.
You will greeted at the canal boat by Roy, the
author of this guide - he will not accompany you
on the trip though. Once on board The Hilda your
tour of the city will be given by a professional
guide. On arrival at the dock close to Westermarkt
square, Roy will be on hand to help with any
questions before you had off on your journey
around the city.
Above: The Hilda
Your tour of the Amsterdam canals will last 90
minutes and end alongside the Westermarkt (West
Market). This is where Rembrandt van Rijn is
buried and also where the famous Anne Frank
House Museum is located.
During your trip you will travel through many
of the main canals including those comprising the
UNESCO World Heritage listed ‘Canal Ring’: The
Keizersgracht (Emperor’s Canal), The
Prinsengracht (Prince’s Canal) and the
Herengracht (Gentleman’s Canal)- this area was
added to the world list in August 2010.
As you leave de Zouthaven (South Haven) you
will travel; although not maybe in this order, along
the harbour front of the IJ river, the Oosterdok
(East Dock), the Amstel River and the
Brouwersgracht (Brewers Canal). Along the way
you will pass many historical buildings, some
dating back to he 16th century and some more
modern but with stories of their own.
On arrival at Westermarkt the rest of your day
in Amsterdam is yours to enjoy with the help of
this self-guided tour guide.
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WESTERKERK (WEST CHURCH)
The Westerkerk is a protestant church that has
been in use since 1631. It features a memorial
plaque to Rembrandt, and its impressive tower
contains a carillon with 48 bells, many of which
were crafted by the renowned Hemony brothers.
The architect was Hendrick de Keyser who built
the church in the Dutch Renaissance style, which
is characterized by a combination of brick and
stone. The tower bears the symbol of the imperial
crown of Maximilian the First of Austria, which he
presented to the city in gratitude for its loyalty to
the Austro-Burgundian princes.
In 1669 Rembrandt van Rijn was buried here,
just as his son Titus was a year earlier.
The Westertoren (West Tower) has inspired
many Dutch songs and poems and remains a wellknown symbol of Amsterdam. At 85 meters high
it is the tallest tower in the city, Amsterdammers
call the tower soothingly the D'Oude Wester.
The tower owner is not the church community,
but the municipal government as were all 17th
century towers; they served particularly as
observation posts for the fire brigade.
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The Westertoren - 85 metres tall
THE ANNE FRANK HOUSE
The Anne Frank House (left) is a museum
where visitors are given the opportunity to
personally envision what happened on this very
spot. The secret annex, where Anne and her
family hid from the Nazis is preserved for
posterity.
The front part of the house, the place where
the helpers worked and Otto Frank’s former
office, has been returned to the style and
atmosphere of the hiding period; visitors are
provided with the opportunity to feel personally
involved in what occurred at this location.
The old canal-side house at 265 Prinsengracht,
next to Otto Frank’s former office, has been
renovated. Here, information is given about the
diary and its significance. Anne Frank’s original
diaries and other writings are on display.
The story is told using quotes from Anne’s
diary as a reference. Original objects, documents,
and photographs that are on display in the
exhibition serve in strengthening the personal
account of the hiding period and of the
deportation to the camps. Three short films place
the personal story in a historical context.
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Alongside the Westerkerk you will find The
Anne Frank House Museum and also the
Homomonument, commemorating all gay
men and lesbians who have been subjected to
persecution because of their homosexuality.
You should leave Westermarkt by the bridge
which crosses Keizersgracht (The Emperor’s Canal)
near the Homomonument, you are walking along
Radhiusstraat and will enter a small shopping area
before reaching Herengracht or Gentleman’s canal.
Continue eastwards along Radhiusstraat until you
cross the Singel canal, the first of major canal to be
constructed around the city.
The Westerkerk (West Church)
Ahead and to your left you will see Magna Plaza
high class indoor shopping centre - and worth a stop
if you have time. This former post office was built at
the end of the 19th century, now an exclusive
shopping destination with more than 20 stores plus a
new Rembrandt Art exhibition space, spread over
four floors.
Keep left around the front of Magna Plaza at the
corner and there is a pedestrian crossing ahead of
you leading over Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal.
This takes you into Dam Square; to your right is
the Royal Palace and on your left the Nieuwe Kerk
(New Church). As you walk here take care of the
trams that run through the gap between the two
historic buildings, the road is narrow.
Distance: 850m / 13mins
Magna Plaza
Allow at least 1 hour to visit the Anne Frank House.
Anne Frank House
Westermark
Dam Square
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DAM SQUARE
As you arrive in Dam Square you will be
greeted by three of the most famous historic sigts
in the city; The Royal Palace, The National
Monument and the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church).
Dam Square itself was created in the 13th
century when a dam was built around the river
Amstel to prevent the Zuiderzee Sea from
flooding the city, causing damage and endangering
the citizens of Amsterdam.
Through the centuries, a number of buildings
sprung up around the Square, special events were
(and still are) held here, and street entertainers are
a common site. In addition to several restaurants,
cafés, and shops, there are many excellent
attractions to visit in Dam Square.
The Koninklijk (Royal) Palace
THE NIEUWE KERK
Adjacent to the palace stand the Nieuwe Kerk
(above). It was originally built about 1400 and
restored to its original grandeur in the mid-1600s
after a major fire. It was built in early Renaissance
style. Both inaugurations and royal weddings have
been held in this magnificent church. Guests enjoy
viewing the famous stained glass windows and
listening to concerts performed on the pipe organ.
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THE AMSTERDAM NATIONAL MONUMENT
Erected in 1956 it honours the victims of
World War II. It was designed by Dutch architect
J.J.P. Oud, and the monument’s sculptures are by
John Rädecker and his sons Han and Jan Willem
Rädecker. The central element of the monument is
a concrete conical pillar 22 metres in height,
covered entirely by white travertine stone
KONINKLIJK (ROYAL) PALACE
Built as a city hall for the magistrates of
Amsterdam, it was the largest secular building in
Europe in the 17th century. The building has
served a number of different purposes since its
construction by Dutch architect Jacob van Campen.
Though it’s difficult to tell now, the entire building
was made of gleaming white stone. It was
originally built to be the City Hall for the
magistrates of Amsterdam and its first section
opened in 1655.
Through the centuries, the building has been
known not only for its size and beautiful exterior
but also for what’s inside the Royal Palace. After it
was built, famous sculptors and painters were
brought to Amsterdam to create masterpieces to
be exhibited there including Rembrandt.
The City Hall became the Royal Palace when
Louis Napoleon, brother of the famous emperor,
was appointed to rule over Holland as king in the
early 1800s. He decided to take over the building
and, in turn, converted it to a palace. He decorated
in Empire style and many of his furnishings can
still be viewed by tourists today.
When Napoleon Bonaparte’s empire fell the
structure was returned to the city, but not for long.
King Willem I (of Orange) decided he’d reside
there. Royalty continued to use the palace until
1936, when it again became a public building. The
building remains at the King’s disposal for state
functions and is used often for such ceremonies.
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The next leg of the walk takes you from Dam
Square through part of the main shopping
streets in the city - Kalverstraat.
Orientate yourself so that you are standing in
Dam Square, in front of the Royal Palace and with the
Nieuwkerk behind you. Ahead and to yur right is
Madam Tussaud's Waxworks. To the right as you face
it is Kalverstraat, a narrow but very busy shopping
thoroughfare. Head down here until you reach an
intersection which, when you look to your left you
will see a canal in the distance and trees to your right.
In front, to your left you will also see a restaurant
called Rancho Argentino.
Head towards the trees and the open space
beyond, this areas is called The Spui. This area is
mostly free of vehicles, has a cobbled surface and is
the centre of Amsterdam’s international book trade.
The square is also home to a small statue called Het
Lieverdje (The Little Darling) and represents the youth
of Amsterdam, always playing pranks yet with a heart
of gold.
The Spui also provides you with entry to the
Begijnhof, an enclosed courtyard dating from the
early 14th century and which is a must-see before you
leave on the next leg of your tour. Details of how to
find it are on the next page.
Distance: 500m / 20mins with window shopping
allow 20mins for a visit to the Begijnhof.
Het Lieverdje
The Spui
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THE BEGIJNHOF
The ‘Begijnhof’ is one of the most beautiful
places in Amsterdam. It’s an inner court that dates
from around 1300 with typical Amsterdam-style
houses. The Begijnhof has a fascinating history
with many historical events, the sisterhood of
Catholics and even miracles.
The women that joined the sisterhood of
Catholics were called ‘begijnen’. These were
women who lived like nuns without ever taken an
oath to God. This sisterhood of Catholics cared
for the sick and gave education to the poor. They
had their own set of rules and were for instance
allowed to leave the sisterhood to get married.
The Begijnhof is open every day between 9
a.m. to 5 p.m. Take into account that the
Begijnhof is in private possession and a place of
silence. You can join a tour at the local tourist
information office (VVV) and learn more about
the miracles that have taken place here or just look
around on your own.
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Entrance
Exit
Entry to the Begijhof is free but most people
actually use the exit as their way in; the entrance is
not obvious from The Spui. The entrance is to the
right of the buildings and down the passage.
The Begijnhof, photograph by Roy Smith
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This short section of your tour takes you from
the Spui along the Singel Canal past the Old
Lutheran Church and onto the Bloemenmarkt
(floating flower market) before ending at the
Munttoren (Mint Tower).
From The Spui head towards the tram tracks close
to ‘De Bieaard’ pub / café (look for the large Grolsch
sign and walk along the side of the Singel canal until
you reach the broad open area which forms a bridge
over the canal.
The direction you should take next will become
clear as you see (ahead to your right) and maybe
smell the wonderful selection of flowers and plants of
the Bloemenmarkt; the floating flower market - more
commonly known by the locals as the Singel market.
As you walk though the flower stalls you will also
pass, on your right, a
shop selling a product
synonymous with the
Dutch - cheese. The
Kaaskelder (cheese
shop) at 516-518 Singel
is owned by Henri Willig,
one of the region’s top
producers. Henri Willig was a farmer until 1975 when
a bus full of tourists arrived at his farm by accident.
Now his business has since grown into a main tourist
attraction, with more than a million visitors annually.
As you reach the end of the flower market you
reach Muntplein and to your left, the end of this leg
of your trip, the Munttoren.
Distance: 500m / 25mins
including 15mins at The Kasskelder.
THE BLOEMENMARKT
The Bloemenmarkt is one of Amsterdam’s
most colourful attractions. The small shops are
located inside a row of floating barges – a
holdover from the days when flowers arrived in
Amsterdam every day from the countryside by
boat.
At the flower market you’ll find tulips of every
colour – either in bouquets or as bulbs to plant at
home. But the market has far more than just
tulips. No matter what your favourite flower,
you’re bound to find it here. Besides cut flowers,
there are plenty houseplants, seeds and gardening
essentials. If you plan to buy bulbs to take out of
the country, be sure they have a customs cleared
stamp on the packet so you won’t have trouble at
the border.
Besides flowers, a number of the shops also
sell fun, affordable souvenirs. Sadly you are
unlikely to see the market as it is represented in
the photograph below, unless the weather is very
sunny and extremely hot.
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MUNTTOREN (MINT TOWER)
The Munttoren was once part of the
Regulierspoort which consisted of a gate with a
tower on each side. It was built between 1480 and
1487 as part of the medieval city wall. In the 17th
century, the tower was used to mint coins. After a
fire in 1618, only the guard house and part of the
western tower remained. It was rebuilt around
1620, with a spire designed by Hendrick de
Keyser. The carillon consists of 38 bells that
chime every 15 minutes.
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Keeping the Munttoren on your left you will
see a two-lane road this is called Rokin. A
pedestrian crossing leads to the ‘Hotel De
l’Europe’ with a narrow to its left called
Nieuwe Doelenstraat - head that way.
Follow this road until you reach a bridge on your
right, cross this bridge And you are onto Staalstraat.
This bridge is typical of the many lifting bridges that
are scattered throughout the city.
Continue directly ahead crossing two more
bridges, the second of which takes you over the
Amstel River and onto Waterlooplein. It is here that
you will find the local flea market and Jewish War
Memorial; both are in front of the Netherlands Opera
House. Walk north along the Amstel River and this
part of your walk ends as you reach Jodenbreestraat.
The Rembrandt House Museum is a short distance to
your right and the Gassan Diamond Factory is also
close by.
Below: The Flea Market
Above: The Munttoren
Distance: 700m / 11mins
Gassan Diamond Factory
Rembrandt House Museum
Jewish War Memorial
The Munttoren
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REMBRANDT HOUSE
The Rembrandt House Museum (below left) is located on Jodenbreestraat cose to the city hall, where
Rembrandt lived and painted for a number of years. Following extensive renovation the house now
looks as it would have done during Rembrandt’s lifetime.
Adjoining the house is a modern building where permanent exhibitions of Rembrandt’s work are
held. These include etchings and a part of his collection of objects from all over the world.
Rembrandt purchased the house in 1639 and lived there until he went bankrupt in 1656, when all his
belongings went on auction. The auction list enabled the reconstructions of all his belongings which are
also on display in the house.
The museum is open from 10am with admission costing €12.50 (2013 prices).
Below: The Waterlooplein ‘Flea’ Market
GASSAN DIAMOND FACTORY
Amsterdam has been known internationally as
the ‘City of Diamonds’ for over 425 years. In fact,
the brilliant cut, which originated in Amsterdam,
is also known as the ‘Amsterdam cut’. If you
would like to find out all about carats, colours,
clarity and cuts, and learn about some of the
history of this Amsterdam craft at the same time,
join one of the free guided tours held seven days a
week at Gassan Diamonds. Daily tours from 9
am to 5 pm in over 27 languages.
The Amsterdam-based diamond cutting and
trading company Gassan Diamonds is located in a
historic diamond factory, which used to be
powered by steam. Here you can watch diamond
cutters at work, while a guide tells you all about
diamond cutting process.
See for yourself how a sparkling diamond
emerges from the rough stone. Experience the
excitement of over 425 years of craftsmanship and
tradition. Naturally, you can also buy the
internationally renowned ‘Amsterdam Cut’ as well
as Gassan’s proprietary diamond cut, the Gassan
121 with 121 facets, their shop.
The short walk from the Rembrandt House
Museum to the Gassan Diamond factory would
take approximately 2 minutes. The best way to see
the factory is by pre-booking a private tour.
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On this stage of the walk you leave head
across the Amstel River and head into the
heart of the old town. You proceed north
along Sint Antoniesbreestraat until you reach a
small cycle only road on your left called Nieuwe
Hoogstraat. Follow this road until you reach
Kloveniersburgwal canal and turn right here.
As you reach number 29 Kloveniersburgwal you have
found the widest building in Amsterdam and if you
look across the canal at number 26 the narrowest
house in the city is facing you.Continue along the
canal side until you reach the large open square
directly ahead, this is the Nieuwenmarkt or New
Square. walk around the square on the left-hand side
and you will see bars and cafes serving a variety of
refreshments.
The Trippenhuis
In the northern end of Nieuwenmarkt sits de Waag
- the ‘old weigh house’, a restaurant of cafe serving
traditional Dutch food. This is the end of this part of
your walk.
Distance: 500m / 8 mins
DE WAAG
Constructed in the 15th century, the Waag (or
Weigh House) has served a number of different
purposes. Built in 1488, the building was intended
to be one of Amsterdam’s three city gates. This
particular one was known as St. Anthony’s Poort.
The gate served its purpose until about a century
later - in 1601 - when the city tore down its walls
to make room for expansion.
Amsterdam found a new purpose for this
beautifully ornate gate as a weigh house. Goods
were - obviously - weighed here and it was also in
this building that taxes were levied.
The dark period for St. Anthony’s Poort came
during the early 19th century, when Napoleon
ordered public executions be performed here.
In 1996, the Restaurant-Café ‘In de Waag’
(below) opened inside the old gate.
THE KLEINE TRIPPENHUIS
At Kloveniersburgwal 26 (stands a house with a
beautiful cornice gable, 2.44 meters (about 8 ft.)
wide. This is known as the ‘Kleine Trippenhuis’ or
‘the House of the Mr.
Trip’s Coachman’.
This house is driectly
across the street from
the ‘Trippenhuis’ at
number 29, a building
that, with its width of
22 meters (72 ft. 2 in.),
is the widest house in
Amsterdam.
Both buildings date
from 1660 at which
time they were built by
the very wealthy
brothers Lodewijk and
Hendrick Trip.
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DE ROSSEBUURT - RED LIGHT DISTRICT
The red light district of Amsterdam is perhaps one of its most famous (or infamous) areas, where
visitors will never fail to be amazed, intrigued and sometimes offended. Of course it is entirely up to you
how you feel about walking around the area but it is part of Amsterdam’s history and whilst not as
extensive as it once was, it provides visitors with a story to tell when they return home.
Amsterdam prides itself, and rightly so, on its wholly liberal and tolerant attitude, embracing the fact
that people may be into prostitution, soft drugs and pornography-and this is only human. So instead of
criminalizing everything, this very upfront city wears its heart on its sleeve-what you see is generally
what you get. Enjoy the honesty of it all, as you won’t find it anywhere else. So how do you get to it? It
depends which RLD you are looking for as there are in fact three Red Light Districts in Amsterdam: the
main area is in the Walletjes area (between Central Station and Nieuwenmarkt), and the other two, in
Singel (between Raadhuistraat and Centraal Station) and de Pijp (behind the Rijksmuseum).
From brothels to sex shops to museums, the Red Light District leaves
nothing to the imagination. It is very likely that you will have heard about
this neighbourhood and to be frank, everything you will have heard is
probably true, but to really put rumours to rest, you have got to check it out
for yourself.
The Rossebuurt (Dutch for pink or red) as the locals know it, is unlike any
other place. Certainly, the Red Light District that everyone knows about is
the one where women, of all nationalities, parade their wares in red-fringed
window parlours (left), all ready to offer their services.
The Walletjes (de Wallen) is in fact one of the oldest and most beautiful
parts of the city with its long winding narrow, cobbled streets and utterly
charming 14 th century architecture, such as the gothic Oude Kerk (botom
right), or Old Church. The Red Light District simply oozes charm and one cannot help but admire the
old buildings that lean at odd-angles, and the tree-enshrouded canals.
Prostitution is legal in Holland, and in Amsterdam most of it is concentrated in the Wallen, where it
has enjoyed a long tradition of tolerance. Since October 2000, window prostitutes have been allowed to
legally ply their trade. Today, prostitutes in the
Netherlands are also taxpayers. Unfortunately,
discrimination is still very much part and parcel in
this trade as many prostitutes report that some
banks even refuse to grant mortgages for example.
However, now as a legal profession, the
government ensures that all prostitutes are able to
access medical care and work in better conditions
by regulating and monitoring working practices and
standards.
Help is also at hand in the district itself thanks to
the Prostitution Information Center. Also, contrary
to popular belief, de Wallen is actually the safest
area in Amsterdam as clusters of policemen, and
private bodyguards employed by the girls
themselves are always on duty.
Whilst the best time to see the area is at night,
even during the day you will be able to gains a good
insight into the people, places and culture.
In 21st century watch our for ‘windows’ with
blue lights in them, these indicate that the
occupants of the windows may not just be female,
but also a variety of other ‘genders’.
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As you stand at de Waag in the Nieuwenmarkt you are on the edge of de Wallen, Amsterdam’s largest
Red Light District. A walk around this area is optional and may take upto one hour, depending on how
long you gaze at what is on offer or visit the bars, museums or shops to be found here. The best thing
for this optional walk is to ‘just do it’ and see for yourselves, follow the map along the red line (the
green part can be added if you wish).
Watch Out For l Heading towards Bloedstraat - can you tell the women from the men l Casa Rosa the
famous Amsterdam sex show l very narrow passage (use green route of you don’t like to idea of using this.
l The Bananenbar (see for yourself) l The Old Sailor - gathering place for all of those drunken tourists.
Distance: 2km / allow 45mins minimum.
Bloedstraat
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The last leg of your walk takes you from
Nieuwmarkt dirctely back to the Amsterdam
Passenger Terminal and your cruise ship.
You are waking through some of the oldest
parts of the city, along the bank of the Geldersekade
canal. This was dug in the late 15th century and
together with the Kloveniersburgwal canal and the
Singel canal, formed the ‘urban moat’ around the
city.
Schrierstoren
The Geldersekade ran from St. Anthony’s Gate
(now the Waag) to the
north and culminated in the
Schreierstoren in the IJ (Eye
River). On the city side of
the canal (the west bank)
stood the city wall.
As you reach the and of
Geldersekade you will see,
on your right the
Schreierstoren (right), an
ancient defence tower.
Built around 1487 on the
corner of the IJ and the east side of the city, the
tower is the only preserved defence tower of
Amsterdam.
Distance: to Schreierstoren 500 m/ 8mins
From here you turn left and head for a pedestrian crossing a short distance away which crosses Prins
Hendirkkade towards the Stationsplein. Follow your own judgment about the best and safest way to head for
the road which passes underneath the railway lines from Centraal Station. Once under the railway you will
see the Ij River Harbour in front and to your right, the Legend of the Seas will show you the way back. As you
walk towards the ship watch out for River Cruises vessels which may be berthed alongside Oosterdokseiland
moorings
Distance: from Schreierstoren to passenger terminal 1km / 15mins.
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Passenger Terminal to de Zouthavn
0.1 Km
Private canal tour on ‘The Hilda’
2 mins
90 mins
Westerkerk to Dam Square
0.9 Km ,
13 mins
Dam Square to Spui
0.5 Km
20 mins
Visit to ‘Begijnhof’
with window shopping
20 mins
Spui to Munttoren
0.5 Km,
25 mins
Munttoren to Rembrandt House
0.7 Km,
11 mins
Rembrandt House to de Waag
0.5 Km
8 mins
Red Light District
2.0 km
60 mins
de Waag to Schreierstoren
0.5 Km,
8 mins
Schreierstoren to Passenger Terminal
1.0 Km,
15 mins
Estimated overall walking distance
6.7 Km
3 hr 2 mins
15 mins in Cheese Shop
(or 4.2 miles)
Overall time including canal tour
4 hr 32 mins
Approximate time to add on if making stops at:
Anne Frank House Museum
60 mins
Houseboat Museum
20 mins
Museum of the canals
40 mins
Rembrandt House Museum
30 mins
Gassan Diamond Factory
60 mins
Details of Trams to / from:
If you need to return early, you can get back by tram to Centraal Station use any tram with the sign on
the front: ‘Centraal Station’
Munttoren to Centraal Station
#4, #9, #16, #24 or #25 (East Terminus)
Westermarkt to Centraal Station
#13 or #17 (West terminus)
Spui to Centraal Station
#1, #2 or #5 (West Terminus)
Passenger Terminal from Centraal Station
#26 to Ijburg (Est Terminus)
Please note: there is a short 2-3 mins walk from the West Terminus to the East Terminus.
Disclaimer: The contents of this guide are believed correct at the time of publication. Nevertheless the author cannot accept
responsibility for errors or omissions, or for changes in details given in this guide, or for the consequences of any reliance
on the information provided by the same. Assessments of distances, timings, restaurants, cafe’s, museums and other attractions
are based on the authors own experience, and therefore descriptions given in this guide necessarily contain an element of
subjective opinion which may not reflect that of the users.
Distances are assessed using Internet based mapping services. Timings are based on what a reasonable person, in reasonable
health may be able to achieve; an average of 4km (2.5miles) per hour is used to assess timing.
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