Alternative Sights to See
The following sights are some of the unique or off the beaten track sights to see in Amsterdam.
Begijnhof
Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 373, 1012 RM Amsterdam
A secret courtyard garden in the heart of Amsterdam? The Begijnhof is named after the Beguines, a Catholic order of women (akin to nuns, though with more independence and freedoms) who lived together in a series of houses surrounding a courtyard. There are two chapels inside the Begijnhof, the Begijnhof Chapel, originally built in secret and hidden behind the facades of several residences; and the English Reformed Church, both of which you can visit. Here you can also see the Houten Huys (timber house) which was built in 1528 and is the oldest house in Amsterdam. The entrance is to be found from the Spuiplein Square. Look for a row of white houses with a brown house in the middle and you will find the gate. Go on, find this tranquil oasis in the middle of the bustling centre of Amsterdam.
The Beurspassage
Opening in 2016, The Beurspassage is a beautiful arched passageway connecting Damrak Avenue and Nieuwendijk Street, that has been transformed into a stunning work of art. Known as Amsterdam Oersoep, meaning primordial sea, the artwork tells the visual story of Amsterdam and its connection to water via the canals. The glass mosaic ceiling is emerald green, making it feel as though you are walking through an underwater tunnel. Look out for images of bicycles and umbrellas too, referring to the fact that they tend to end up in the canal in this city. The spectacular chandeliers are made from bicycle parts and the terrazzo flooring pattern contains the Dutch coat of arms. This is a truly unique and fascinating passageway with stunning detailing. Well worth a look if you are in the area. Find it between Damark 70 – 80.
Concertgebouw
Concertgebouwplein 10, 1071 LN Amsterdam
Located close to the Museumplein, the Concertgebouw is Amsterdam’s premier concert venue. Designed in the neo-Renaissance style, the concert hall was opened to the public in 1888. Home to the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, the Concertgebouw with its breathtaking acoustics is renowned as one of the finest concert halls in the world. Over 650 performances are held each year and every Wednesday afternoon during the cultural season (September to June) the orchestra plays a free lunchtime concert at 12:30pm. Tickets can be purchased online in advance so check out what’s on before you arrive. It’s a great excuse to pop on your best dress clothes and enjoy a night of culture and music in the beautiful surrounds of the Concertgebouw.
Ons’ Lieve Jeer Op Solder
Oudezijds Voorburgwal 38, 1012 GD Amsterdam
The Museum of Our Lord in the Attic is a preserved 17th century canal house with an entire church in the attic! During the Dutch Golden Age, Catholics were forbidden from worshipping in public. In defiance of that law, the wealthy merchant Jan Hartman converted the upper three floors of his grand canal side house into a spectacular church. Catholics came from across the city to attend mass and visit confessional from Priest Petrus Parmentier who lived on site. Eventually, the church was discovered by the authorities, but rather than shut it down, they began to relax laws relating to the ban on religions other than Protestantism; perhaps foreshadowing the more liberal attitudes found in the Netherlands today.
Step inside and explore the uniquely preserved 17th century house with its narrow corridors, authentically furnished living rooms, kitchens and bedrooms, before climbing up to the spectacular church. Decorated with artefacts, artworks and detailing from the 17th to 19th century, the church is a spectacular monument to the people’s desire to follow their faith, and well worth a visit!
Tickets are €12.50.
Explore the Jordaan area
The Jordaan area is not really a secret, but if you step off the main streets you will feel as if you are in a world of your own. A former working class area, this neighbourhood has been transformed in recent decades to become a hip, trendy and beautiful area to visit. Jordaan is the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around exploring the many art galleries, antique shops, cafes, bars and picturesque bridges crossing the canals.
