Around Amsterdam Central

Heading towards Amsterdam Centraal Station, we passed by a few key monuments and tourist spots.

Dam Square

Dam Square lies in the historical center of Amsterdam, approximately 750 meters south of Centraal Station. Located within the square is the Royal Palace, which served as the city hall from 1655 until its conversion to a royal residence in 1808. Beside it are the 15th-century Gothic Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) and Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum. On the other side of the square is The National Monument, a white stone pillar in 1956 to memorialize the victims of World War II.

The National Monument

The Royal Palace is open for viewing despite ongoing exterior restoration.


New Church - now an exhibition center.
Interesting to note that there is an ongoing exhibition on Islamic Arts.


Amsterdam Centraal Station

It took us a while to walk to Amsterdam Centraal, being the main railway hubs in Netherlands. There was a lot of reconstruction ongoing around the station, supposedly due to the construction of the North/South metro line. As expected, the area is packed with commuters.


Canal Ring Buildings

The buildings around the canal rings along Amsterdam are probably most famous because of the unique architecture and designs. These comprises mostly of 17th century residences of wealthy merchants, artists, professionals and politicians. Because of lack of space, these houses are mostly narrow, some even tilting in front. They usually have big narrow windows and decorative gable tops. The distinctive architecture, complement with the scenic canals, make it a favourite photography spot among tourists and photographers alike.

Interestingly, Amsterdam's canal rings is part of Unesco's Heritage site.


Houses, canal, bicycles - The perfect shot!

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