Location: Old Center
Top Things to do in Old Center
Top 10 Historic Sites in Old Center, North Holland Province
This city, full of colorful homes, canals and bridges, is one of Europe's most picturesque capitals. Must-sees on any visitor's itinerary include the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum and the world's only floating flower market. Rent a bike and join thousands of locals navigating Amsterdam's labyrinthine streets, or just take in the sights on foot. For an unusual and memorable alternative to hotels, consider staying in a houseboat.
Restaurants in Amsterdam
1. Portuguese Synagogue
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,452 reviews
2. Museum Het Rembrandthuis (Rembrandt House)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6,800 reviews
Rembrandt lived and worked from 1639 to 1658 in this 17th-century house, which today is a museum that pays tribute to the artist's life and career.
Reviewed By Fitz48 - Aurora, United States
We visited the Rembrandt House in late April and got in for free with the I Amsterdam card. There were no lines and the museum was not crowded. They have excellent free audio tours in multiple languages including English, Dutch, German, Italian, French, Spanish and Russian. We noted that they also had a children's audio tour in English in Dutch; however, I think most but not all children would find this museum to be boring. Since Rembrandt both lived here, ran and art school and worked here for 20 years and because of the inventory that was conducted when he went bankrupt is still in existence, the curators have been able to accurately refurbish the home with objects of the period. For those with mobility issues or claustrophobia, it is important to understand that the spiral staircases are steep and narrow. While there were many interesting exhibits in the museum, three stood out for me as especially interesting. First was the entrance where a chair was kept on an elevated platform for people watching on the street. Second, the beds, especially the maid's box bed in the kitchen clearly shows that the occupants slept sitting up (for their health). Finally, the highlight of the museum was the 20-30 explanation and demonstration as to how artists made their paints during the age of Rembrandt. This helps you see the paintings in the Rijksmuseum, Mauritshuis, Hermitage and other museums that you will see in the Netherlands.
3. Begijnhof
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4,570 reviews
Tucked away just off Spui, this delightful collection of houses arranged around an open court is well worth searching out.
Reviewed By EileenMtShasta - Mount Shasta, United States
Definitely worth a quick visit, such a nice and peaceful place with two churches and the oldest house in Amsterdam, from the 1400s (it is the black house right in front of the statue of the Begijn lady). I went as part of Rick Steves free "Amsterdam City Walk" audio guide. Do a search online and download it for free!
4. Scheepvaarthuis
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 30 reviews
Reviewed By denewton - Manchester, United Kingdom
Literally, the Shipping House, is now a super hotel though the receptions staff are happy to allow you to wander through the reception area with its stunning stairs and windowed ceiling. Hint: take the vintage elevator on the left side of the main hallway to the top & stroll down.
5. St. Nicholas Basilica
6. The Royal Industrieele Groote Club
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 13 reviews
Reviewed By mmuk66 - Edinburgh, United Kingdom
We stopped at the club while visiting Amsterdam. The location of the club, right in the dam square, is perfect to take a mid day break. Wines recommended by the staff were delicious and probably best priced in the whole of the city. Lunch was delicious and service was great. We sat in the balcony for a while over looking the Dam square and it was brilliant way to enjoy a cigar, outdoor but protected. Really good service.
7. Zuiderkerkstoren
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
Reviewed By 334jayal
Amazing visit! We climb the tower (open again from this August) and we were with a super nice guide that show us the carillon and the top on the tower (respecting all the covid rule) Very friendly and open to answer to all the questions that we made. Thank you (zoey?) Was a very nice experience. Just beware the wind that can blow very strong in the tower
8. In de Waag
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 500 reviews
Located in the old city gate of Amsterdam, and later the House of Weight.
Reviewed By N3861NVmicheller - Lincoln, United Kingdom
We found this place on our first day of our trip and we enjoyed basking in the sunshine on their terrace eating the waag breakfast. Fabulous and filling. We returned on our second day for dinner, some had the set monthly menu and some ordered off the a la carte menu. All the food was delicious and the waiters explained what we were having as they placed the meals in front of us. The house wines are also palatable as is the locally brewed beers. We returned on our third day for brunch where Dexter gave us a very warm welcome and had a bit of banter with us, he is an asset to the restaurant. I would recommend this place to everyone who visits Amsterdam. I will be back.
9. South Church (Zuiderkerk)
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 92 reviews
Reviewed By Ogy_Kovachev - Sofia, Bulgaria
Once you want to escape the smell of weed in town, just walk in the church and relax. Interesting and small details architecture is in place. Walk and enjoy ♥️
