Top Iconic Squares to Explore in Amsterdam

These Picturesque Sites Host Some of Amsterdam’s Finest Attractions

As visitors to Amsterdam first set foot on Dam Square, or meander about the expansive Museumplein, or have a drink on one of the cafe terraces at Leidseplein or Rembrandtplein, it soon becomes clear how much of the city is structured around the unit of the plein, or square. The squares below are ones visitors are most likely to see on their trip, and with reason: many of the city’s most memorable destinations are located on one of these picturesque squares.

Dam Square

The iconic square of Amsterdam, Dam Square — or just “de Dam” in Dutch — is the first stop on many a visitor’s itinerary, not least because of its close proximity to Amsterdam Central Station. New arrivals fall in with the mass of people that head down Damrak, a perpetually crowded street filled with souvenir shops, restaurants (most of which are better avoided) and little else. The street spills out into Dam Square, where a trifecta of classic attractions await: the National Monument to the east, and the Royal Palace and Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) to the west.

Leidseplein

Leidsestraat (Leiden Street), historically the main road to Leiden, culminates in Leidseplein (Leiden Square), one of the most vibrant entertainment districts in Amsterdam. Cafes, bars, clubs, and restaurants line the perimeter of the square, while street performers busily try to engage audiences from the crowds of people en route to their dinners and shows. Some of the top music venues in town are found near Leidseplein, like Paradiso, which features many internationally acclaimed artists. Leidseplein’s seasonal transformations are a significant draw—ranging from a skating rink in winter to a vibrant array of cafe terraces in the warmer months. Not far from Leidseplein is the Vondelpark, offering visitors a welcome reprieve from the lively atmosphere of the square.

Muntplein

More of an intersection than a proper square, Muntplein (Mint Square) is notable for its historical architecture and its convenient location amid some of the city’s most unique attractions. The Munttoren (Mint Tower), which rises over the busy intersection, occasionally prompts passerby to admire the classic architecture of the 17th-century former mint. To the west, the stalls of the world-famous Bloemenmarkt (Flower Market) stretch down the canal. To the north, shoppers canvass the commercial Kalverstraat for popular international brands. The bars and clubs of Rembrandtplein and the more sober attractions of Waterlooplein are also within close proximity.

Museumplein

Perhaps the most expansive of Amsterdam’s squares, Museumplein (Museum Square) is aptly named for the two major museums located on its vast lawn, in addition to many other attractions nearby. The beauty of the square’s landscape matches that of the museum architecture, which features the Van Gogh Museum — one of the most popular museums in Amsterdam, devoted to the troubled artist, his brilliant oeuvre, and his contemporaries — alongside the Stedelijk Museum, Amsterdam’s museum of modern art (currently under extensive renovation while still hosting exhibits and events). The stellar collection of the Rijksmuseum is also in close proximity, as well as the headquarters of Coster Diamonds, which offers tours of their facility for diamond enthusiasts.

Nieuwmarkt

Located in the heart of ​Amsterdam Chinatown, Nieuwmarkt (New Market) square hosts numerous yearly celebrations, notably New Year’s Eve and Chinese New Year. The square’s perimeter is bustling with cafes, restaurants, and coffee shops whose terraces occupy the sidewalks in warmer months; dining options vary significantly, ranging from the Chinese-Malay cuisine of Nyonya Malaysia Express to the Swiss fondue specialist Cafe Bern, a rare find in Amsterdam. At the center of the square sits De Waag, a structure built in 1488 that has served various purposes over the centuries, with its most recent incarnation as a café and restaurant.

Noordermarkt

Situated in the desirable Jordaan district, Noordermarkt (Northern Market) is renowned for its Saturday farmers market (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.), attracting shoppers from all over the city and beyond with an exceptional selection of produce, meats, cheeses, and more. Cafés and restaurants have flourished on the square to cater to the market crowds and other visitors. The square derives its name from the Noorderkerk, the church that stands on the site, which actually utilized part of the square as a cemetery until the mid-17th century; no trace of this former purpose remains. Much later, Dutch activists protested the deportation of Jews in this square, with a plaque on the church remembering these activists and those who were ultimately deported.

Rembrandtplein

Renowned for its lively atmosphere, Rembrandtplein is a favorite destination for both locals and visitors. Cafés, bars, and clubs abound, offering a vibrant nightlife experience. The square’s unique character is highlighted by the statue of the legendary Dutch master, Rembrandt, who watches over the activity. The diverse range of entertainment venues includes chic clubs for fashion-forward revelers, as well as more laid-back spots for those preferring a casual vibe. One notable establishment is the XtraCold Ice Bar, where guests can enjoy their drinks in an icy environment. Additionally, an enormous interactive video screen dominates one side of the square. Cinema enthusiasts should not miss the nearby Pathé Tuchinski cinema, a stunning architectural gem that has been screening films since 1921.

Het Spui

Het Spui, or “The Sluice” in Dutch, is a haven for book lovers. Several major bookstores, including the cerebral Athenaeum and the inviting American Book Center, a multi-story bookstore with a carefully curated selection, line the square. On Fridays, a used book market fills the square with rows of antique and hard-to-find titles, alongside budget-friendly options. Literary cafes further enhance the square’s charming atmosphere. Visitors should keep an eye out for the Het Lieverdtje (“The Sweetheart”) statue, representing Amsterdam’s youth and the Provo youth movement, known for anti-corporate protests in the 1960s. Just down a side street opposite the American Book Center lies the renowned Vleminckx Sausmeesters, distinguished for serving the best French fries in Amsterdam.

Waterlooplein

The highlight of Waterlooplein (Waterloo Square) is the Stopera, a name derived from its two occupants: the Stadhuis (City Hall) and Opera. While the Stadhuis may not be of significant interest to most visitors, the opera serves as the home theater for De Nederlandse Opera, the Dutch national opera company, known for a diverse range of performances—from timeless classics to contemporary pieces. The square regularly hosts a flea market filled with second-hand clothing, accessories, and other pre-owned items, while it is open six days a week, remaining closed on Sundays and holidays when the square appears starkly vacant. Waterlooplein is situated within the former Jodenbuurt, the Jewish Quarter, marked by a somber monument honoring the resistance efforts of Jewish citizens. Close by are several significant Jewish sites in Amsterdam, such as the remarkable Joods Historisch Museum (Jewish Historical Museum).