The Damrak was a canal before it was filled with cement during the 19th century, making way for gift and food shops, hotels, bars and eateries. The body of water at the Stock Exchange is all that remains of the erstwhile harbor. The gabled houses backing onto this stretch of water are among the most picturesque in Amsterdam.
Travelers have many options to explore the Damrak as part of half- or full-day sightseeing tours that travel by hop-on hop-off double-decker bus, by bike, on foot, or via hop-on hop-off canal cruise. Specialized tours may incorporate a beer cruise, a meal, or a drink at a local bar. Trace eight centuries of Dutch history and cultural traditions on tours that include the Damrak can include other top attractions, such as the Royal Palace, Rembrandt House Museum, Anne Frank House, Dam Square, and the Red Light District.
The Damrak is the main street where people arriving by train first enter the center of Amsterdam. Several lines of trams and trains converge here and in Dam Square, giving visitors access to and from all parts of the city from this location. Throughout the year, there are frequent daily arrivals and departures.
The Damrak is open daily, year-around. High season for travelers is during the warm summer months. For fewer tourists and lovely mild temperatures, visit Amsterdam between April and May, or September and November, right before or directly after the summertime high tourist season. Deals on hotels and flights can be found in wintertime, outside of the Christmas holidays
For a more in-depth yet relaxed Amsterdam experience, take a one-hour canal cruise. Drift along picturesque canals, past classic houseboats, gabled merchant houses built in the 17th century, and charming stone bridges before reaching the old harbor. Travelers should also explore the small neighborhoods as the locals do, by bike or by local ferry.
