Amsterdam Central Station Map
Amsterdam Central Station Map
Introduction
Amsterdam Central Station is a bustling transportation hub that serves as a gateway to the city’s top attractions, hidden gems, and cultural experiences. As the largest railway station in the Netherlands, it connects travelers to all parts of the country and beyond. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the best things to do and see in and around Amsterdam Central Station, from historical landmarks and family-friendly activities to off-the-beaten-path experiences and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
The Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is a world-renowned museum that houses over 8,000 works of art and historical artifacts, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other Dutch masters. It is located just a short tram ride from Amsterdam Central Station and is a must-see for art lovers and history buffs.
The Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is a powerful reminder of the atrocities of the Second World War and the Holocaust. It is the actual house where Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis during the war and is now a museum dedicated to her life and legacy.
The Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is another must-visit attraction for art lovers. It houses the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s works in the world, including his iconic Sunflowers and Starry Night paintings.
Hidden Gems
The Tropenmuseum
The Tropenmuseum is a museum of anthropology and world cultures located in a beautiful building in Amsterdam East. It features exhibits on the cultures and traditions of Asia, Africa, and the Americas and is a great place to learn about the diversity of our world.
The Hortus Botanicus
The Hortus Botanicus is a botanical garden located in the heart of Amsterdam. It features a wide variety of plants from all over the world, including rare and exotic species. It is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city and a great place to relax and unwind.
The NDSM Wharf
The NDSM Wharf is a former shipyard that has been transformed into a cultural hotspot. It features art installations, music festivals, and a vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to a wide variety of food trucks and street vendors, making it a great place to sample some of Amsterdam’s best street food.
Food Scene
The Foodhallen
The Foodhallen is a trendy indoor food market located in the Oud-West neighborhood of Amsterdam. It features a wide variety of food stalls, offering everything from traditional Dutch snacks to international cuisine. It is a great place to sample some of Amsterdam’s best street food.
The Jordaan Neighborhood
The Jordaan neighborhood is known for its charming streets and beautiful canal views, but it is also a great place to find some of Amsterdam’s best restaurants. From cozy cafés to Michelin-starred eateries, there is something for every taste and budget in the Jordaan.
The Amsterdamse Bos
The Amsterdamse Bos is a large park located just outside the city center. It features a wide variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and kayaking. It is also home to several restaurants and cafés, making it a great place to enjoy a meal in nature.
Budget-Friendly Tips
The I amsterdam City Card
The I amsterdam City Card is a great way to save money on attractions and transportation in Amsterdam. It includes free admission to many museums and attractions, as well as unlimited use of public transportation. It is available for 24, 48, or 72 hours and can be purchased online or at various locations throughout the city.
The Free Walking Tour
The Free Walking Tour is a great way to explore Amsterdam on a budget. It is led by knowledgeable local guides who will take you to the city’s top sights and share their insider knowledge. The tour is free, but tips are appreciated.
The Albert Cuyp Market
The Albert Cuyp Market is a bustling street market located in the De Pijp neighborhood of Amsterdam. It features a wide variety of food stalls, clothing vendors, and souvenir shops. It is a great place to find bargains and sample some of Amsterdam’s best street food.
Outdoor Adventures
The Vondelpark
The Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s largest park and a great place to enjoy some outdoor activities. It features walking and biking paths, as well as several ponds and gardens. It is also home to several cafés and restaurants, making it a great place to relax and unwind.
The Amsterdam Canals
The Amsterdam Canals are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for any visitor to the city. They can be explored by boat, bike, or on foot and offer stunning views of the city’s architecture and history.
The Amsterdamse Bos
The Amsterdamse Bos is a large park located just outside the city center. It features a wide variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and kayaking. It is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some fresh air and nature.
Family-Friendly Activities
The NEMO Science Museum
The NEMO Science Museum is a hands-on museum that is perfect for families with children. It features interactive exhibits on science and technology and is a great place to learn and have fun at the same time.
The Artis Zoo
The Artis Zoo is a great place to see a wide variety of animals from all over the world. It features a beautiful historic setting and is a great place to spend a day with the family.
The Amsterdam Dungeon
The Amsterdam Dungeon is a fun and interactive attraction that takes visitors on a journey through Amsterdam’s dark history. It is a great place to learn about the city’s past and have a few scares along the way.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The EYE Film Museum
The EYE Film Museum is a modern museum dedicated to film and cinema. It features a wide variety of exhibits, screenings, and events and is a great place to explore the world of film in a unique and creative setting.
The Microbes Museum
The Microbes Museum is a small but fascinating museum dedicated to the world of microorganisms. It features a wide variety of exhibits on bacteria, viruses, and other microscopic life forms and is a great place to learn about the hidden world around us.
The Electric Ladyland Museum
The Electric Ladyland Museum is a unique and quirky museum dedicated to fluorescent art. It features a wide variety of fluorescent rocks and minerals, as well as interactive exhibits that allow visitors to create their own fluorescent art.
Natural Wonders
The Keukenhof Gardens
The Keukenhof Gardens are world-famous for their stunning displays of tulips and other flowers. They are located just a short distance from Amsterdam and are a must-see for any nature lover.
The Zaanse Schans Windmills
The Zaanse Schans Windmills are a beautiful and historic site located just outside Amsterdam. They offer a glimpse into traditional Dutch life and are a great place to learn about the country’s rich cultural heritage.
The Hoge Veluwe National Park
The Hoge Veluwe National Park is a beautiful natural park located in the east of the Netherlands. It features a wide variety of wildlife and natural landscapes, including forests, heathlands, and sand dunes. It is a great place to escape the city and enjoy some peace and quiet in nature.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Red Light District
The Red Light District is one of Amsterdam’s most famous attractions and is known for its vibrant nightlife. It features a wide variety of bars, clubs, and adult entertainment venues and is a great place to party into the early hours of the morning.
The Leidseplein Square
The Leidseplein Square is another popular nightlife destination in Amsterdam. It features a wide variety of bars, clubs, and music venues and is a great place to enjoy some live music and dancing.
The Rembrandtplein Square
The Rembrandtplein Square is a historic square in the heart of Amsterdam that is now a popular nightlife destination. It features a wide variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants and is a great place to enjoy some drinks and socialize with locals and tourists alike.
Local Markets
The Albert Cuyp Market
The Albert Cuyp Market is Amsterdam’s most famous street market and is a great place to find bargains and sample some of the city’s best street food. It features a wide variety of food stalls, clothing vendors, and souvenir shops.
The Noordermarkt