In this article, I present the port of AmsterdamAn area worth discovering for its historical importance and current vitality.
Here you'll find
- A presentation of the famous port of Amsterdam
- What you can see and do in the port
- Practical information: prices, opening hours, reservations
- Things to see and do in the area
- And much more!
If you're looking for information on the port of Amsterdam, you'll love this article.
Follow the guide!
Port of Amsterdam: article summary
Port of Amsterdam, a landmark of the Dutch capital
When you think of port of AmsterdamIt's impossible not to evoke Jacques Brel's superb song. The Belgian poet sang of this place like no one else, and all you have to do is listen to this fascinating title to be immersed in the virile atmosphere of an iconic port.
Today, however, the atmosphere is very different! The port of Amsterdam is not exactly the same as it was in the song, and if it's upgradedBut that doesn't mean it's become uninteresting.
Let me introduce you to him!
Introduction to the Port of Amsterdam
The first evocations of Port of Amsterdam date back to 1342, so you can imagine the long history of this place.
When the city was just a a simple fishing villageit was already of primary importance. But it was during the Dutch Golden Age (1584 - 1702) that it really came into its own. international trade gives the Netherlands colossal power.
With the creation of the Dutch West India Company in 1602 and the constant flow of trade by sea from the 16th to the 18th centuryAmsterdam became one of the world's most important ports.
The Dutch fleet consists of more than 6,000 vessels and hundreds of thousands of barrels of merchandise passed through here, during the centuries of hegemony of the country envied by the rest of Europe.
Then its decline began, because of wars and competition on the seas. The port loses some of its superb reputation and is overtaken by Rotterdam, which becomes the country's No. 1 port.
Today, the Amsterdam harbor area has become residential. It's a new district, appreciated for its urban dynamism and artistic activity, that I invite you to visit. visit during your stay.
Port facts and figures
- It covers 600 hectares of water and 1,900 hectares of land.
- It's always the 4the port Europe's largest, after Rotterdam, Hamburg and Antwerp
- It is now used as a cruise and fuel storage area
What can you see and do in Amsterdam Port?
Although no longer as vibrant as it once was in the capital's glory years, the Port of Amsterdam remains a place to see. If you are looking for what to do in the cityHere are my suggestions for enjoying this area.
The Marine Museum
Amsterdam is home to many fascinating museums and one of the most interesting for ship and maritime history enthusiasts, is of course the Musée de la Marine.
It retraces 500 years of history through playful exhibits (including a striking VR experience). And you can see the replica of the royal bark, still in operation!
Discover artistic vivacity
Many artists have set up home in Amsterdam's Port area, which lends itself well to the most innovative creations. With colorful containers and space for street art, there's a lot going on.
You can take advantage of this by wandering the streets of the district at random, or by sitting down at one of the cafés or bars. restaurants in the capital!
Enjoy the view
While there are some lovely views of Amsterdam (notably from the A'Dam Lookout), it's nice to sit back at quay edge in Amsterdam harbor and enjoy the scenery. At sunset, it's very romantic!
The bike tour
One of the nicest ways to visit Amsterdam harbour is to rent a bike to ride the cycle paths laid out on site. 4 routes are available for walks ranging from 5 to 18 km. by bike with a view of the boats and the atypical architecture of the port!
How to reach the Port of Amsterdam easily?
The Port of Amsterdam lies to the east of the central station and north of the Jewish district (Jodenbuurt) and extends as far as the North Sea.
To reach the part closest to the downtownyou can opt for :
- Cycling, 5 minutes from Central Station
- Walk to it in less than 20 minutes from Central Station
- Visit metroline 50, nearest stop : Sloterdijk
- Visit tramwayline 12, nearest stop : Sloterdijk
Port of Amsterdam: opening hours and practical information
Here's what you need to know about Amsterdam harbor for a successful visit.
Opening hours
The port is always open. I recommend that you late afternoon for the best possible light.
Information you need to know
To organize your visit to the Port of Amsterdam, you can use the resources of the official website ; The MyPort application is very practical!
What to see and do in the area?
There's lots to do around Amsterdam harbor! Not sure where to start? Visit a few suggestionsfor fun and games in the area:
- Discover the Science Museum NEMO and exciting experiences
- Win the Rouge district to discover its naughty showcases and its coffee-shop
- Continue in the maritime atmosphere by discovering one of the Amsterdam beaches !
- Do a fast-food break in a FEBO from Amsterdamwith several establishments in the area!
What to do in Amsterdam in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, a week?
Whatever the length of your stay, I invite you to download my special Amsterdam guide.
It's free and in PDF format.
All you have to do is tell me below which e-mail address you'd like to receive it at.
EDIT: you can't enter your email?
Take the quiz at the top of this article and you'll be able to register your email address to receive the special Amsterdam guide!
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