When you arrive in Amsterdam via train, you arrive right across from the Damrak, one of the main avenues in the city and one where there are tons of shops, unique architecture and restaurants. It’s unusual name comes from the fact that the street was on a straight part of the Amstel river and near a dam. It is the Wall Street of Amsterdam.
The Victoria Hotel sits at the corner and dates from 1890. It is a beautiful four start hotel located in the middle of everything.
There are wonderful old buildings that line the street. The main floors are full of gift shops, restaurants and shopping stores.
The famous Dancing Houses line one side of the canal. These tall, narrow houses can be found all over the city, but these on the Damrak are the iconic images that most people recognize as being part of Amsterdam.
And here in front of the Dancing Houses you can take a boat cruise of the canals to get a more in depth and personal view of the city.
Here you can see a Casino and arcade, one of the many tourist attractions on this busy avenue.
And there is a carnival at the end of the avenue in Dam Square, which is the historical center of Amsterdam. We didn’t make it there on this trip but if you go, you should try and see the Royal Palace, the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) and Madame Tussauds. We were just too tired and jet lag was starting to set in.
But beside the Casino I found this interesting building. 62 Damrak currently houses a book store. I wasn’t able to find out much about this building.
For buildings in Amsterdam, this one is relatively new, dating to 1886. But there is so much to see.
Urns, faces, reliefs, wrought iron, brick…
It really is a beautiful building.
Including these busts, one on each side.
I don’t know who they represent, but I am sure someone out there does know. Anyway, a lot to take in on Damrak Avenue in such a short time. Next, I have to tell you about the churches we saw.
This is not a sponsored post. This is my experience from my trip with Viking River Cruises. Email me to find out how you can save $100 when you book your first cruise with Viking through their referral program.
Leave a Reply