The Dam Square in Amsterdam is one of the most famous places in the city. Whether you are a first a first time visitor or if you have come here for the nth time, you will inadvertently pass through this section of town.
Generally speaking, this is also the most crowded part of Amsterdam. That’s because there is always something going on here. This is especially true during summers when the weather is good and everyone wants to be outdoors.
The square isn’t famous just because it’s a fun place to congregate. It is also a place that has a lot of historical importance. In fact, the Koninglijk Palais or the Royal Palace of Amsterdam is located on this very square. Another reason why this place is popular is because it is pretty centrally located and there are plenty of things to do in Dam square in Amsterdam.
When I first visited this square, I was overwhelmed. There was so much happening that I did not know where to head to or what to do. I’ve lost track of how many times I have revisited this part of town. I even went there just to get all my photographs recently.
The Dam Square in Amsterdam is one of the most popular spots in the city. Join me as I tell you about all the things to do in Dam square along side pro tips. I’ll also be talking about the best hotels in Dam Square.
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Read my disclaimer for further information.
Table of Contents
History Of Dam Square
The Dam square in Amsterdam is the most iconic plaza in the city. It isn’t just because of its central location or the fact that it is in front of the Royal Palace of Amsterdam. The plaza was the place where the first dam was built on the Amstel river. That’s how the plaza got its name. This was way back in the 13th century so the place looks very different now.
How To Get To Dam Square
Dam square is just a 5 minutes walk away from the main Centraal station in Amsterdam. If you don’t want to walk (and it would be a shame because there is plenty to see on the way!) you could also take the tram in. The tram stops right in the center of the Dam square.
Things To Do In Dam Square In Amsterdam
1. National Monument
On the Dam square is a tall memorial that you see almost as soon as you reach. This is the National monument and is dedicated to the memory of the Dutch soldiers who died during the World War II.
This is one of the free things to do in Dam square. You will find that many people just hang out near the memorial. It is a part of the area and a reminder to whoever enters the square.
2. Koninglijk Palais Amsterdam
⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5 (4,926 Reviews) Price: $14 per person Duration: Valid for 1 day 📍Meeting Point: Amsterdam Royal Palace Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
The Koninglijk Palais or the Royal Palace of Amsterdam is one of the biggest attractions in the Dam square. This puts it right in the center of the capital city.
When we first visited, we thought that the palace was used just for the king, his receptions and important state functions. It was only later that we learnt that you can actually enter and see all the different parts of the palace.
We visited the Koninglijk Palais when my mum visited a couple of months ago. The ticket line to this particular attraction in Dam square is super long. We had museum cards so we could enter immediately but because my mum didn’t have one we had to stand in line which took so long. My recommendation is to book your tickets online. This way you can easily skip the line.
“Great place to visit, very good audio equipment. Nice to take time to go round at your own pace. Took my sister who lives in Amsterdam and has never been inside.”
Anonymous (read more reviews now!)
We found that the Koninglijk Palais is huge. The main hall with all its unique aspects was my favorite spot. Make sure that you take an audio guide. Even the kids had one. It was interesting because the guide talks about all the small things or representations that are in the palace that you would miss. It also tells you about all the important historical events that took place in the Koninglijk Palais.
One thing that you need to note is that the palace is big but you won’t spend too long exploring. You should budget for an hour or two at the most. If you like history you could stick around longer. It is one of the main things to do in Dam square.
3. Madame Tussauds
Madame Tussauds has a number of different branches all over the world and one of the most popular ones is located in the center of the city and is one of the top things to do in the Dam Square in Amsterdam.
⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5 (6,713 Reviews) Price: $23 per person Duration: Valid for 1 day 📍Meeting Point: Madame Tussauds Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
For those of you who don’t know, Madame Tussauds is a place where you can wander around some of the most realistic wax sculptures in the world. All of the wax sculptures are of famous people.
“Excellent. We loved the costumes and videos. It was very interactive and funny.”
Lydia (read more reviews now!)
I find it pretty cool because when you see their photographs you never realize just how tall or short they are. It is almost as good as meeting them in person.
Plus it gives you the opportunity to pose with them or just have some funny pics.
Something that you probably could not do if you met the same person in the flesh. Definitely one of the unique things to do in the city.
Some of the iconic personalities that you will see in Madame Tussauds include the Dutch royal family, George Clooney, Van Gogh, Rembrandt and Adele amongst others. It is one of the most popular things to do in the Dam square in Amsterdam. This is one of the reasons why the tickets are usually sold out during the peak tourist season.
I would recommend booking your tickets in advance to avoid any disappointment especially if this is one of the things to do in Dam square that you really want to do.
4. Ripleys Believe It Or Not
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5 (2,753 Reviews) Price: $25 per person Duration: Valid for 1 day 📍Meeting Point: Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Amsterdam, Dam 21, 1012JS Amsterdam Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
One of my absolute favorite things to do in Dam Square in Amsterdam is Ripley’s Believe it or not museum. It is a pretty prominent landmark right in the Dam square and is hard to miss. Like Madame Tussauds it has a number of different branches all around the world. It markets itself as Amsterdam’s weirdest museum because of the all the rather unbelievable attractions it has inside.
Generally speaking Ripley’s just presents the facts. Like right at the entrance (you don’t even have to head right in or pay to see this!) is the world’s tallest man. Its all well and good when you see his height in writing.
“For people who like things a little more unusual, Ripley’s is a must-see.”
Markus (read more reviews now!)
But they have a replica of him and he sits at the entrance. Even sitting he is taller than I am. When he stands… Well that’s when you realize just how tall tall is!
Most of the exhibits are interactive or visual so they leave a lasting impression on you. Children in particular find this museum fun and it is a great indoor activity in the city.
5. Souvenir Shopping
In general there are loads of different places to head out for souvenir shopping in Amsterdam. The Dam Square also has a number of shops that are popular among the tourists. I would however recommend refraining from shopping here unless you really really find something you like. The prices of most goods are very high.
If you walk a couple of streets away, you are more likely to get good souvenirs at a more discounted rate.
6. Indulge In Some Of The Famous Cookies
If you’ve been looking at all the best things to eat in the Netherlands, you’ve probably heard about the Van Stapele Koekmakerij. Generally speaking the lines for this shop are insane. Every time I see them, I just skip past. No way am I going to wait for over an hour in line with my toddlers for a bunch of cookies. No cookie is worth that if you know what I mean.
Lately they have opened up a branch right next to the Dam square in Amsterdam. I’m not sure whether its because not many people know about it or because this branch hasn’t become popular yet but the line was super short. We were in and out in less than five minutes.
They’ve got a cute device where young children are given a coin and when they insert it in the machine, they get a toy. Our kids loved this! The cookies were damn good. We went in a second time to get another bunch to take for our friends.
Oh and if you wonder if the cookies are expensive then you’ll find that they aren’t. Its 3 euros for one cookie which is pretty good considering that its Amsterdam. Buy 5 and you get the 6th one free. A great offer if you are in group or even if you have a sweet tooth. I still can’t believe that I got in and out of this shop so quickly but the cookies were delicious.
My two cents… Check the line. If you have 5-8 people then wait otherwise don’t. While they are exceptional, I don’t think its worth the time. There are plenty of other things to do in Dam square to keep you busy!
7. Have The MannenkinPis Fries
One of the things that the Dutch love to eat are fries. In Amsterdam the MannenkinPis Fries are very famous. I tried these out when we visited Amsterdam over a decade ago but recently whenever we passed by an outlet the lines were huge.
When we were showing my brother around Amsterdam we realized that the queues are much smaller in the evening. Basically stay away from the meal times and you probably will be in the line for about 10-15 minutes. There is one outlet right next to the Dam square and is totally worth visiting. You can choose your sauces as a dip. Its fun trying out new sauces.
One of the fun things to do in Dam square in Amsterdam is to buy a helping of fries and then head to the square to eat them. This way you can watch any of the performances that are going on or just people watch which is also fun. Oh and a fun fact, it is also one of the popular places to eat!
8. Check Out The Canals
Amsterdam’s iconic canals are actual a UNESCO heritage site. There are four rings that go round the city and if you walk a couple of minutes walk from the Dam square. It isn’t technically one of the things to do in Dam square in Amsterdam but it is a short way from it and definitely worth adding to your list.
9. Magna Plaza
Right behind the Koninglijk Palais is the Magna Plaza. This is a gorgeous building and you can enter it for free because it is an upscale shopping complex. Its a great place to head to when the weather is crappy or just to admire the architecture of the building. Generally this place closes at 7pm. The exception is Thursdays when the complex closes at 9pm.
If shopping is something that you’ve come to Amsterdam for then make sure that you mark this as one of the spots to browse through. It is one of the lesser known things to do in Dam square.
Stay In One Of The Iconic Hotels Near Dam Square
One of the really cool things to do in Dam square in Amsterdam is to actually stay here. You can have your pick from luxury to budget, from quieter to family friendly… No matter what you choose, you will find that staying centrally like this is a pretty unique experience.
I mean I’ve stayed in the Museum Quarter and that gave me access to the best museums in Amsterdam but if you are wondering where to stay in Amsterdam and you want to be central then the Dam square and the Binnenstad is the way to go. It is also super close to the railway so you can easily head out on day trips too! Plus it gives you access to plenty of the things to do in Dam square and in its vicinity.
Hotel TwentySeven – Luxury
⭐️ Rating: 9.7/10 (253 Reviews) Price: $670 per night 📍Location: 27 Dam, Amsterdam City Centre, Amsterdam Details: Read more on booking.com now!
Hotel TwentySeven is what is called a small luxury hotel. It is very different from your other hotels in Amsterdam. This because the hotel doesn’t have standard room. All that you have are suites. Each suite is more luxurious than the last. Every single detail is taken care off. Even the décor that is used is not just any printed pics but art from the Cobra gallery. If you want to stay in a unique place then this is it!
You can micromanage details like the ambient lighting and even climate control.
Don’t get me started on the bathrooms. Think marble flooring, luxurious baths and even a steam shower. Its the best thing ever especially for someone who wants to pamper themselves on a visit.
The fact that it is located on the Dam Square makes it an idea place to stay. Worried about the noise? Don’t be! Everything is sound proof. So you really don’t have to worry about any of the fun parties that occur next door.
“Everything. I had the suite 601 with the long view. The bed is the most comfortable one I had for a very long time. The room is so classy and modern. The personnel is very kind. The bathroom/jacuzzi in the room is crazy, along with the bottle of champagne and you are in paradise”
Hugnes (read more reviews now!)
When I say luxury, it also extends to the dining experience. The on-site restaurant is called Bougainville and is run by Executive Chef Tim Golsteijn. Its not just any random restaurant mind you because it was awarded a Michelin Star!
And if you just want to hang out, then you can head to the in house bar which has some of the most eclectic cocktails in town! If this is your thing then why not add it to your list of things to do in Dam square in Amsterdam.
Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky– Luxury & Canal View
⭐️ Rating: 8.7/10 (7,303 Reviews) Price: $400 per night 📍Location: Dam 9, Amsterdam City Centre, Amsterdam Details: Read more on booking.com now!
The Antara Grand Hotel is very hard to miss if you are walking around and browsing through the potential things to do in Dam square in Amsterdam. Its name is written in bold above the iconic building on the square and at night its lit up.
“Beautiful hotel, gracious ambience, quiet comfortable rooms, delicious meals, perfect location, attentive and friendly staff. Nothing was too much trouble”
Pauline (read more reviews now!)
The Antara Grand is the vision of luxury with spacious rooms which is amazing considering that it is right on the square!
The building may look old but it has been impeccably maintained and is furnished with all the modern amenities making it one of the most sought after luxury accommodations in the city.
Few people realize that the hotel provides rooms with a view irrespective what room you choose. You could either look out at the iconic main plaza or you could choose a canal side view which is also pretty amazing.
There are two inhouse spots where you can catch a bite to eat. The first is the Grand Café Krasnapolsky. Here you will find that the food prepared is traditional but they love to give it a bit of a modern twist. Kind of like the hotel building itself.
The other option is the White Room Restaurant. This is one of Amsterdam’s Michelin Star restaurants. Its a more sophisticated dining experience and definitely worth trying out. If you don’t want to eat at the hotel, you will find numerous places to eat right around the corner. This makes it one of the ideal places to stay in Dam Square in Amsterdam.
Couple of Bonus points for this hotel: Great premium large rooms for families so you don’t have to book two rooms, paid parking which is a lifesaver and a spa+wellness center on site! You can see why staying here is one of the cool things to do in Dam square!
W Amsterdam – Luxury
⭐️ Rating: 7.6/10 (772 Reviews) Price: $285 per night 📍Location: Spuistraat 175, Amsterdam Centrum, Amsterdam Details: Read more on booking.com now!
I’ve always been a fan of the Marriott. It’s one of my favorite chains and we’ve used their services in so many locations including in Amsterdam. One of the best hotels in Dam Square is the W Amsterdam. It isn’t located on the Dam Square itself but rather just behind the Royal Palace. So you have a bit of a buffer from all the noise on the street and yet are central.
Like all Marriott hotels, the rooms and suites are clean, modern and very functional. They are spacious and pretty comfortable. The rooms come with all the normal perks of a luxury hotel so I won’t waste time talking about them.
What the W Amsterdam is known for is its swanky heated, (Yes I said heated!) rooftop pool.
The terrace gives you an amazing view of the most popular path of Amsterdam and the pool is just heavenly. I found it hard to comprehend that such a place actually existed in the Dam square.
” Front desk and spa staff amazing – could not fault. They provided great customer service and I found them to be very accommodating when it came to making changes to check out, booking into the spa etc. All the staff that passed wished me a good morning or good afternoon. Hotel room was clean albeit not huge. I loved the Marshall speaker in the room – a great touch from my perspective.”
Danielle (read more reviews now!)
The hotel has 4 in house restaurants so you never get bored if you want to stay in and eat. The best part is that unlike many of the places to eat around you won’t feel rushed. You can make your reservation in advance and enjoy dining at its finest. Plus you don’t have to worry about getting to your hotel after that!
Two other facilities that makes the W Amsterdam one of the best hotels in the Dam Square in Amsterdam is its award wining SPA and its very cool gym. The hotel literally has everything you could possibly need! So if you are looking for some luxury and don’t mind spending, you’ll find that staying at the W is one of the best things to do in Dam square.
Best Western Dam Square Inn – Quiet & Family Friendly
⭐️ Rating: 8.1/10 (2,405 Reviews) Price: $156 per night 📍Location: Gravenstraat 12 – 16, Amsterdam City Centre, Amsterdam Details: Read more on booking.com now!
I was really surprised how quiet the area that the Best Western Dam Square Inn is located in is. To be clear, the hotel lies just behind the Nieuwe kerk (new church). We were here when the pride festivities were going on and there was a concert at the Dam square. The various concerts that are held here are popular things to do in Dam Square. But they can get really loud.
I expected the noise to reach this area too but it was very muted and rather peaceful. Plus there are a couple of cafes that you can hang out at right next to the Best Western.
Its a more laid back area which makes it ideal if you want to stay in one of the hotels in Dam Square and want a bit more of a slower pace.
“Excellent location with excellent hotel staff. Nothing more than enjoyed. Hotel is close to Dam Square which you may explore the city easily by walk. Beds and cleanliness of hotel is good that you may feel comfortable.”
Baki (read more reviews now!)
The Best Western is a bit more mid to budget range when it comes to hotels in Dam Square Amsterdam. It has everything that you could need but the rooms are not very large. They aren’t cramped either. Considering what you pay and the location, I think that it is pretty good. One thing that stands out is how clean the hotel is. That’s something that I always look for when staying in a spot.
The issue here is that it is so popular because of its price to value, it gets booked out very quickly. So if this is the hotel you want to stay at, book you room in advance! Its as simple as that.
As you can see there are plenty of things to do in Dam Square in Amsterdam. In fact, if you go through all the museums here, you can actually spend hours in the area which I found rather surprising. Given how central it is, it kind off makes sense because people always tend to pass through the area. This makes it a hub for both tourists and locals.
What are your favorite attractions in the Dam square? Let me know in the comments below.
Other Posts About The Netherlands That You Will Find Interesting
- A guide to what to wear in Amsterdam
- Fun day trips from Amsterdam
- Epic things to do in Gouda
- Interesting things to do in Amsterdam with kids
- Giethoorn and why you should visit
- How to rent a boat in Giethoorn
- Things to do in Orvelte
- Iconic things to do in Zaanse Schans
Don’t Forget To Pin This Post
