Category: Old City Center

Amsterdam’s medieval city center has two parts — and old side, and a new side.

Interestingly, the New Side is actually slightly older than the Old Side.

The Old Side (Oude Zijde) includes the city’s world famous Red Light District.

Begijnhof – Amsterdam Beguinage

Founded sometime in the 14th century for the Beguines, members of a lay Catholic sisterhood, the Begijnhof is one of Amsterdam’s oldest inner courtyards — and one of the city’s best known landmarks.

Even taking into account the effects of mass tourism, the Begijnhof remains for the most part a haven of peace and tranquility in the busy center of medieval Amsterdam.

Damrak – The Red Carpet into Amsterdam

Damrak is the main street that leads from Amsterdam Central Station, where most tourists arrive, to Dam square in the center of the medieval town.

This lively street, lined with centuries-old monuments, so-so bars, and gaudy souvenir shops, Damrak — which is in the middle of a makeover — offer a preview of what Amsterdam has to offer.