Ultimate Guide to Dam Square – Amsterdam’s Most Iconic Plaza

Standing in Dam Square is like standing at the intersection of time, culture, and modern Dutch life. Located in the very center of Amsterdam, this iconic square is more than just a meeting point—it's a living monument to the city’s rich history, royal legacy, and vibrant present.
 

As your tour guide for today, let me take you through the essential experiences that make Dam Square an unmissable stop on your trip to the Netherlands.

📍 Where Is Dam Square?

City: Amsterdam

District: Centrum (city center)

Located Between: Nieuwendijk and Rokin streets

Nearby Landmarks: Amsterdam Central Station (~750m), Red Light District (~300m), and Anne Frank House (~1km)

🏛️ A Brief History of Dam Square

Dam Square gets its name from its origin: it was built in the 13th century as a dam across the Amstel River to prevent flooding. Over the centuries, it transformed into a market square, a royal setting, and a symbolic space for public gatherings, protests, and celebrations.

Today, Dam Square reflects Amsterdam’s dynamic history—from its Golden Age wealth to its modern-day tourism and commerce.

🗺️ Main Attractions at Dam Square

1. 👑 Royal Palace of Amsterdam (Koninklijk Paleis)

Originally built as the Town Hall of Amsterdam in the 17th century, this architectural marvel became a royal residence in the 1800s. Though not the primary home of the Dutch King, it's still used for royal functions.

Highlights: Marble hall, Napoleonic chambers, classical sculptures

Entry Fee: ~€12.50 for adults

Open: Most days (check for closure during royal events)

Tip: Don’t miss the impressive Citizen’s Hall (Burgerzaal)

2. ⛪ De Nieuwe Kerk (The New Church)

Right next to the palace stands the New Church, which despite its name, dates back to the 15th century. It now serves as a cultural venue, hosting art exhibitions, royal inaugurations, and classical concerts.

Famous For: Royal weddings, exhibitions (Van Gogh, World Press Photo)

Entry Fee: ~€12–€15 depending on exhibition

Architecture: Late Gothic with elaborate stained glass windows

3. 🕊️ National Monument

At the opposite end of the square stands the white stone obelisk, built in 1956 to commemorate the victims of World War II. Every year on May 4th, the Dutch National Remembrance Day ceremony is held here.

Sculpture by: J.J.P. Oud

Features: Allegorical figures representing suffering, resistance, peace

4. 🎡 Madame Tussauds Amsterdam

For a bit of fun, visit Madame Tussauds, where you can pose with lifelike wax figures of Dutch royalty, international celebrities, Marvel superheroes, and historic icons.

Ideal For: Families, pop culture fans, interactive photo ops

Entry Fee: ~€25–€30 (book online for discounts)

5. 🛍️ Shopping Around Dam Square

The square is surrounded by major department stores, boutique brands, and souvenir shops:

De Bijenkorf: High-end Dutch department store

Magna Plaza: Upscale shopping center in a neo-Gothic building

Kalverstraat & Nieuwendijk: Two of Amsterdam’s busiest shopping streets

Tip: Visit “Amsterdam Duck Store” or cheese shops for fun souvenirs

☕ Where to Eat & Drink at Dam Square

Whether you want a quick snack or a stylish lunch, Dam Square has you covered:

Popular Cafés & Restaurants:

Café De Dam: Great for Dutch snacks and people-watching

The White Room by Jacob Jan Boerma: Michelin-starred fine dining inside the NH Collection hotel

Grand Café Krasnapolsky: Elegant setting for coffee or lunch

Febo Automat: Try traditional Dutch snacks from vending walls (fun & cheap!)

📷 Best Photo Spots Around Dam Square

Front of the Royal Palace – Iconic backdrop with the obelisk in the distance

From the National Monument side – Full square view

Inside the New Church – Beautiful stained glass and interior details

Panoramic from top of De Bijenkorf (if open)

🎭 Cultural Events & Celebrations

King’s Day (April 27th): Orange-themed national party spills into Dam Square

Remembrance Day (May 4th): Solemn ceremony at the National Monument

Christmas Season: Large tree and festive lights from mid-November

Carnivals & Street Performers: Ongoing year-round entertainment

🎟️ Ticket Prices & Timings

🧭 Suggested Itinerary: Half-Day Around Dam Square

🚇 How to Get to Dam Square

From Amsterdam Central Station:

Walk: 10–15 minutes

Tram: Lines 2, 4, 12, 13, 14, 17 stop at Dam Square

By Bike: Easy to reach via bike lanes, parking nearby

By Car: Limited parking—use P+R facilities and trams

🛌 Where to Stay Near Dam Square

🌦️ Best Time to Visit Dam Square

🧠 Fun Facts About Dam Square

The square once had a fish market and was called “Plaetse”

Napoleon’s brother ruled the Netherlands from the Royal Palace

The National Monument holds urns of soil from WWII concentration camps

It’s one of Amsterdam’s most popular protest and celebration venues

💬 Insider Tips from Your Tour Guide

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best photos

Download the Amsterdam City App for historical insights and walking tours

Watch out for pickpockets—this is a high-traffic tourist area

Pair your visit with nearby attractions like the Red Light District, Anne Frank House, or Jordaan

🧭 Combine with Other Central Attractions

Anne Frank House – 15-minute walk

Amsterdam Museum – Just off Kalverstraat

Flower Market (Bloemenmarkt) – 10-minute stroll

Canal Cruise Piers – 5–10 minutes away

Red Light District – Short walk east

✅ Why You Shouldn’t Miss Dam Square

Dam Square isn’t just a place to pass through—it’s a symbol of the city’s evolution from medieval trading hub to royal residence and modern European capital. With its central location, major attractions, vibrant atmosphere, and deep historical roots, Dam Square is the perfect introduction to Amsterdam.

Whether you stay for an hour or an afternoon, it offers a snapshot of Dutch culture, history, and charm in one grand square.