Where to Find the Best Views in Amsterdam

From the rooftop terrace of NEMO—Amsterdam’s ship-shaped science museum—you’ll get views of the historic harborfront and city center. There’s also a café, bar, and an open-air sculpture exhibit. The terrace is free to visit. 

For 360-degree panoramic views of the entire city, head to the top of the 22-story A'DAM Lookout. The top-floor observatory also features a rooftop swing, where thrill-seekers can swing over the edge of the 328-foot (100-meter) tower. 

Set within the confines of the Amsterdam Red Light District, the Gothic Oude Kerk is surrounded by red-lit windows and cannabis shops. You can climb to the top of Oude Kerk’s bell tower for a bird’s-eye view of the iconic district.

Set sail on an evening canal cruise to see Amsterdam’s canal houses and bridges illuminated by night. Go casual on an evening cocktail cruise or step up the romance with a candle-lit dinner cruise. 

From a single viewpoint on a bridge near Rembrandtplein, you can see 15 of Amsterdam’s bridges. The Bridge of 15 Bridges guarantees great views during the day and when illuminated in the evening. 

If you’re visiting in spring, a trip to the tulip fields is a must. Most day trips combine a visit to the windmill village of Zaanse Schans with stops at Keukenhof Gardens and the tulip fields of the Dutch countryside.