Top 8 ideas for photos in Amsterdam
Indeed, Amsterdam is a perfect location in Europe for photography buffs and instagram lovers. Besides being an international business hub, the city is an important cultural and historical center. I traveled to the Netherlands in January to find the ideal spots for any travel photographer. I really hope that this guide will help you to find the top ideas of photos in Amsterdam.
1. Pansemertbrug
Alongside vibrant nightlife and bicycles, Amsterdam is a historical network of water. The city is well-known for its Canal Ring which was built in the 17th century. It’s a broad network of 165 canals. Due to its important historical and cultural value, the water network has always been protected. In 2010 the Amsterdam Canal Ring was added to Unesco’s World Heritage list.
Pansemertbrug is one of the 80 bridges in the Amsterdam Canal Ring. This view on the Amstel river makes you understand what living in Amsterdam is. The bridge is within 7 minutes by walk from Amsterdam Central Station. There is a good bakery named “The Pancake bakery” next to the bridge. I absolutely recommend their Dutch pancakes with stroopwafel chunks, cinnamon ice cream with chocolate flakes and whipped cream.
Amsterdam best photo tips
Try to avoid the New Year Eve season when planning to visit Amsterdam. I was surprisingly upset by the dirt everywhere. The best way to avoid summertime heat and large crowds is to visit the city in April or May. There are more than 500 hotels in Amsterdam. So, you have plenty of possibilities to book a centrally located hotel near the major photo locations.
Photoshoot in Dutch national costume
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2. De Wallen
Everyone heard about the iconic Amsterdam Red Light District. Amsterdam is the only city on the planet where the medieval center is a red-light district. The brothels and sex shops have always been situated in this area. The term “Red-light District” appeared in the 17th century. It’s a worth-visiting place that crosses the oldest canals of the city. Those interested in off the beaten track activities, can check our article about the Top 10 unusual things in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam best photo tips
The best time to take shots is at night when all the cabarets dress in red. Many people say that it’s a dangerous place to visit. But, it’s a quiet calm place. I am a solo female traveler who loves to visit the city at night. As you can see I’m still alive. If you are not convinced about its safety, you can try our Private Amsterdam Red Light District and food tour. Just combine your two passions (food and photography).
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3. Jordaan District
Jordaan is a must-see area for any travel photography lover. It’s in my top 10 gorgeous views of Amsterdam. It’s one of the iconic working-class neighborhoods in Amsterdam. It was created in the 17th century to host workers and immigrants from neighbor European countries. There are two versions of how the name Jordaan appeared. Some people say it comes from the French word “Jardin” which means “garden”. For others, the word is originated from the Jordan river, due to a large amount of Jews living here.
I remember getting lost for hundreds of times in its narrow streets with colorful 3-floor buildings. Jordaan will certainly fulfill the endless artistic desire of every instagrammer. In the warm season, the blooming flowers will make the area more enchanting and hereinafter more photo-friendly.
Amsterdam best photo tips
Try to wake up early in the morning in order to discover Jordaan on your own. The only inconvenient that you’ll have is insufficient sunlight.
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4. Damrak
It’s not by chance that Damrak is on our list of the great photo spots in Amsterdam. The dancing houses of Damrak are amazing waterfront buildings. This gorgeous Amsterdam spot won’t upset even an experienced photograph. Damrak waterfront is within 5 minutes by walk from Amsterdam Central Station. And if you love being photographed, you might probably enjoy having a private tailor-made photo shoot in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam best photo tips
Try to avoid wide crowds by visiting this place in the morning. There are a lot of cafes in the area with a wooden interior. Another tip for an ideal dutch-style shoot.
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5. Amsterdam Street Art
Amsterdam is one of the capitals of street art. If you’re done with Van Gogh museum, it’s time to get lost in the hidden areas of the city. Just try to wander around while walking and you’ll notice a lot of graffiti. For a more immersive experience, I recommend NDSM wharf graffiti. Here, you’ll certainly find a lot of creative artwork.
Do you remember Jordaan, the famous neighborhood in Amsterdam with tiny streets and picturesque houses? It’s also home to some great street art you shouldn’t miss out on.
Spuistraat is another ideal location for street art lovers. Besides plenty of graffiti artworks, it is also home to different historical monuments like Dominicuskerk.
I personally recommend taking a picture of Love me wall along the canal of Groenburgwal. It is in the city centre. This area is not far from the Amsterdam Centraal station. In addition to this, the sign is surprisingly beautiful from nearly every corner.
Amsterdam best photo tips
Amsterdam is full of high-quality street art. Just relax and enjoy every moment of your sightseeing day.
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6. Bloemenmarkt
There are 3 things that I assimilate to Amsterdam. It’s bicycles, free purchase of drugs and tulips. Whether you love flowers or not, I recommend stepping into the only floating flower market on the globe. Dive into the gorgeous world of colors and smells. Indeed, this is an amazing and very instagrammable spot. Besides flowers, you’ll also find different kinds of souvenirs. For instance, purchase a couple of magnets for your beloved ones.
Amsterdam best photo tips
The best season to step into this floating paradise is during tulip season in April. The market is located not far from the Amsterdam torture museum. The museum is one of the unusual activities in Amsterdam that you should absolutely try.
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7. Armbrug
One of the iconic photography spots is located in the Armbrug. It literally means “arm bridge” in Dutch. This area is not far from the central train station. In fact, the bridge itself doesn’t have any photogenic value. I recommend standing next to the bridge. Another good angle is from Cafe Aen’t Water. It will give you a panoramic view of the narrow houses and the bridge. The narrow houses located next to each other make a perfect shot opportunity no matter your exact location.
Amsterdam best photo tips
Try to capture this amazing spot early in the morning when there is literally no one. Otherwise, the waiting line can become long during the day making it difficult for you.
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8. Amsterdam Central Station
One of the iconic places for best instagram shots is Amsterdam Central train station. It’s one of the busiest hubs in the city. In fact, the transport system is really large and sometimes complicated in Amsterdam. The station hosts more than 250,000 people per day. So, this area gets really busy from 10 am.
The building itself goes back to the 19th century. It’s a Neo-Gothic and Neo-Renaissance style building. It’s largely decorated façade and red bricks make it a spectacular architectural creature. Unfortunately, I traveled to Amsterdam in January when the sunlight is always insufficient. But during warm seasons it’s quite possible to capture a breathtaking shot.
Amsterdam best photo tips
Try to stand in front of the main entrance. There is a bridge in front of the building just next to the busy avenue. It’s better to capture it during evening light. You’ll have more chance to capture a great shot of this spectacular red-colored giant.
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