A City of Water, History, and Wonder
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a city like no other. Known for its iconic canals, charming architecture, and rich history, it’s a destination that leaves every visitor enchanted. And in 2025, Amsterdam will celebrate an incredible milestone—its 750th anniversary! Let’s take a closer look at how this fascinating city came to be and why it’s a must-visit destination.
Some links in this article are affiliate links, shared as practical options to keep planning simple.
A City Built on Water
Did you know that Amsterdam is literally built on water? The city was founded in 1275 when a small fishing village grew around a dam in the Amstel River—hence the name “Amsterdam.” To make construction possible on the marshy ground, wooden poles were driven into the soil to provide stability. Even today, many of the city’s historic buildings, including its iconic canal houses, rest on these ancient wooden foundations.
If you want to dive deeper into the history of Amsterdam’s foundations, read my guide to the Amsterdam Canal Houses—where every façade tells a story of water and wood.
A Golden Age: Amsterdam and the VOC
Amsterdam’s rise to wealth and global prominence came during the 17th century, known as the Dutch Golden Age. During this time, the VOC (Dutch East India Company) made the city one of the wealthiest trading hubs in the world. The riches brought by maritime trade financed the construction of Amsterdam’s famous canals and the elegant houses that line them today.
The canals were not just decorative—they served practical purposes, including transportation, drainage, and defense. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the canal belt is one of Amsterdam’s most iconic features and a testament to the ingenuity of its early city planners.
The Golden Age also left behind darker tales. Discover the hidden side of history in my blog on Amsterdam Ghost Stories.
Travelglaze moment: Experience the Magic of Amsterdam’s Light Festival
Every year from November to January, Amsterdam transforms into a glowing wonderland during the Amsterdam Light Festival. Around 25 stunning light art installations are spread throughout the city, creating a magical atmosphere you won’t want to miss.
When I wrote this blog, this year’s festival had just begun. During the day, the art pieces are easy to miss—but when the lights come on at night… bam! Pure magic!
You can explore the festival in two ways:
- On Foot: Follow the designated walking route to see the light installations up close.
- By Canal Boat: Take a special canal cruise to admire the lights from the water. It’s the perfect way to combine two quintessential Amsterdam experiences in one evening.
A Multicultural and Vibrant City
Today, Amsterdam is home to approximately 900,000 residents, making it the largest city in the Netherlands. It’s also a true melting pot of cultures, with people from more than 180 nationalities living here. This multicultural character is reflected in the city’s food, festivals, and vibrant neighborhoods, giving visitors a chance to experience the world without ever leaving the city limits.
Amsterdam’s diversity is not only visible in its streets but also on your plate. Explore my guide to Amsterdam’s Best International Food for a taste of its multicultural spirit.
The Compact and Charming City Center
One of Amsterdam’s greatest charms is its compact size. The historic center, with its narrow streets, canals, and picturesque bridges, is easy to explore on foot or by bike. A highlight of the city center is the Jordaan, a former working-class neighborhood that has transformed into a trendy area filled with cozy cafés, art galleries, and boutique shops.
Because of the city’s small size, everything is close together—perfect for visitors who want to see a lot in a short amount of time. And while I normally love exploring new cities on hop-on-hop-off buses, in Amsterdam, there are better ways.
Take a Canal Cruise: The Best Way to See Amsterdam
A canal cruise is an absolute must-do when visiting Amsterdam. Gliding through the city’s waterways offers a completely different perspective of its beauty. You’ll pass under arched bridges, see historic canal houses from the water, and learn fascinating facts about the city’s history. There are even hop-on-hop-off boat tours that let you combine sightseeing with flexibility. It’s the perfect way to experience Amsterdam!
If you prefer to arrange this in advance, a curated canal cruise option via GetYourGuide keeps things simple and flexible.
Iconic Buildings to Admire in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a city full of architectural gems. Here are six iconic buildings you shouldn’t miss during your visit:
The Royal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis) – Located on Dam Square, this 17th-century palace was originally built as a city hall and later became a royal residence, only to be used by special occasions. Its grandeur reflects Amsterdam’s wealth during the Golden Age.
- Address: Dam Square, 1012 NP Amsterdam
- Opening hours: Usually daily 10:00–17:00 (check official website, closed for ceremonies)
- Travelglaze Tip: Visit early in the morning to enjoy the square before it gets crowded with tour groups.
Amsterdam Central Station – This stunning 19th-century building, designed by Pierre Cuypers (the same architect who designed the Rijksmuseum), is one of the city’s busiest and most beautiful landmarks.
- Address: Stationsplein, 1012 AB Amsterdam
- Travelglaze Tip: Step outside to the waterfront side and take the free ferry across the IJ to Amsterdam Noord for quieter views of the city skyline.
The Westerkerk and Westertoren – The Westerkerk, a Protestant church built in the 17th century, is home to the famous Westertoren (Western Tower), the tallest church tower in Amsterdam. You can climb it for incredible views of the city.
Address: Prinsengracht 279, 1016 GW Amsterdam
Opening hours tower: April–October, usually 10:00–15:00
The Anne Frank House – Located near the Westerkerk, this historic building is where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II. Now a museum, it’s one of the city’s most meaningful and visited sites.
Address: Prinsengracht 263–267, 1016 GV Amsterdam
Tickets: Must be booked online in advance (no tickets at the door).
Travelglaze Tip: Book at least a month ahead, and choose an early time slot for the quietest experience.
The Eye Film Museum – A modern architectural marvel located across the IJ River. This striking building houses a museum and cinema dedicated to film.
Address: IJpromenade 1, 1031 KT Amsterdam
Opening hours: Daily 10:00–22:00 (exhibitions from 12:00)
Travelglaze Tip: Take the free ferry from behind Central Station—it’s a short, scenic ride and part of the fun.
The Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) – One of Amsterdam’s most iconic bridges, this wooden drawbridge over the Amstel River is a favorite spot for photos, especially when it’s lit up at night.
Location: Over the Amstel River, between Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht
Amsterdam: A City You’ll Never Forget
Amsterdam isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. From its rich history and stunning canals to its multicultural charm and iconic landmarks, the city has something to offer every traveler. Whether you’re taking a canal cruise, wandering through the Jordaan, or marveling at its historic buildings, Amsterdam will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
As the city gears up to celebrate its 750th birthday in 2025, there’s never been a better time to visit. Plan your trip, explore its wonders, and see for yourself why Amsterdam is one of the most magical cities in the world.
If you’d like to slow down beyond the capital, take a look at my post about A Calm Day in Zaandam, just a short trip north of Amsterdam.
My Amsterdam roots
I was born and raised in Amsterdam, and I’m still proud to call this beautiful city my home. My roots run deep here—my grandparents lived in the charming Jordaan neighborhood, which is now one of Amsterdam’s most iconic areas.
On my father’s side, my grandparents ran a small milk store in the Jordaan. I’ve always been fascinated by how they managed to live above the shop with their seven boys—it must have been quite a lively household!
On my mother’s side, my grandparents moved to the Prinsengracht, just a few blocks from the Anne Frank House. Growing up, I was part of the unique humor and distinct dialect of the Jordaan. The people were known for their sharp wit and warm, close-knit community.
