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Stand before the National Monument, where the flame burns not just as a tribute, but as a heartbeat of memory—each flicker at sunset whispers stories of sacrifice and peace, grounding you in Amsterdam’s soulful spirit.
Everything you need to know about National Monument
Hotel The Village Amsterdam is a top choice, just a 5-minute walk from the National Monument. Its design blends modern minimalism with Dutch heritage, featuring exposed wooden beams and local art. Guests enjoy complimentary bicycles to explore nearby attractions like Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum. The breakfast buffet offers authentic Dutch treats—fresh bread, cheese, and house-made jam—perfect for immersing in local culture.
Yes, the National Monument is perfectly located in central Amsterdam. It’s just a 5-minute walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station, where you can catch the Schiphol Express or regional trains to Schiphol Airport in under 10 minutes. Within the city, use e-bikes, GVB buses, or the Amsterdam Metro (Lines 1, 2, and 5) with a stop at Dam Square, only 300 meters away. For real-time schedules and ticketing, download the official GVB App, which supports multiple languages and integrates contactless payments.
Near the National Monument, don’t miss the daily noon flag-raising ceremony performed by the Royal Guard, showcasing Dutch military tradition. On May 4th Remembrance Day, a solemn moment of silence is observed, followed by floral tributes laid at the monument. You can also join a guided canal boat tour along Amsterdam’s historic waterways or take a Dutch-language walking tour that explores how the city evolved from a trading port into a global cultural hub. These experiences combine history, emotion, and local insight in an unforgettable way.
Yes, the Nationaal Monumentplein is a spacious green square perfect for families, featuring playgrounds, shaded benches, and open space for children to run. Nearby, the Amsterdam Museum offers interactive exhibits tailored for kids, including a "City Adventure" game that teaches history and geography through play. Just steps away, Dam Square hosts popular spots like Bert's Ice Cream, serving natural, additive-free flavors ideal for kids. Weekends often bring street performers, adding lively entertainment for the whole family.
The National Monument itself is a prime subject, especially during golden hour when sunlight casts dramatic shadows on its black bronze statue. Shoot from Dam Square facing the monument, with the Royal Palace and church spires in the background for depth. Another hotspot is the canal path east of the square, where morning mist reflects the monument and historic houses—ideal for poetic compositions. For a unique vantage point, climb the Sint-Nicolaaskerk tower, offering panoramic views of the square and monument, a must-visit for professional and enthusiast photographers alike.
Hotel Royal Amsterdam is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from the National Monument. Its rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the monument and Dam Square, while the rooftop terrace provides an ideal vantage point for capturing Amsterdam’s skyline and evening light shows.
The hotel’s prime location places it within a 10-minute walk of Amsterdam Central Station, with direct access to multiple metro and bus lines—perfect for visiting nearby attractions like Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum. Inside, guests can enjoy a traditional Dutch restaurant serving authentic dishes such as frikandel and poffertjes, immersing them in local culinary culture.
Notably, during King’s Day (April 30), the National Monument hosts a grand celebration. The hotel offers exclusive packages including priority event access and commemorative gift sets, making it an exceptional way to experience Dutch national festivities firsthand.
Near the National Monument, visitors should not miss the daily changing of the guard ceremony, a meticulously choreographed display by the Dutch military that reflects the nation’s tradition and discipline. Another highlight is the Dam Square Walking Tour, which traces Amsterdam’s evolution from a fishing village to a global city through its historic streets and hidden courtyards.
Photography enthusiasts will love visiting the canal district at sunrise or sunset for stunning reflections on the water. For a deeper immersion, take a guided canal cruise departing directly from the monument’s quay—navigating the intricate network of canals, passing by red-brick houses and Gothic churches. Many boats offer bilingual commentary (Dutch/English), revealing insights into architecture and urban history.
During weekends, outdoor markets pop up around Dam Square, featuring handmade crafts, local honey, and vanilla ice cream, accompanied by live music. At night, light art installations transform buildings into dynamic canvases using projection mapping, creating a magical atmosphere. These experiences combine heritage, creativity, and community spirit, offering a rich tapestry of Amsterdam’s identity.
The most convenient option from Schiphol Airport (AMS) is the Airport Express Train, which runs directly to Amsterdam Centraal Station in just 15 minutes. From there, walk about 10 minutes along Dam Square to reach the National Monument—simple, fast, and ideal for travelers with luggage.
For more flexibility, consider the airport shuttle bus, which stops at major city hubs, including areas near the monument. Alternatively, ride-hailing services like Bolt or Uber offer door-to-door transport, taking approximately 20 minutes but at a higher cost.
Note: While the Metro Line 52 (NDSM Line) serves the city center, it requires transfers and is less suitable for first-time visitors. To ensure a smooth journey, download the GVB app, which provides real-time schedules, ticket pricing, and route maps.
Upon arrival, take advantage of the free public bike-sharing system (OV-fiets) to explore the canal districts at your own pace, offering an authentic and efficient way to experience Amsterdam’s vibrant urban rhythm.
Marriott Amsterdam is an excellent family-friendly option, located within walking distance of the National Monument. It features a kids’ playroom, family suites with separate sleeping areas, and spacious layouts perfect for multi-generational stays.
The hotel offers a family explorer package including kid-sized maps, themed badges, and hand-drawn postcards, turning sightseeing into an interactive adventure. Nearby, Dam Square has a water fountain with interactive jets and weekly children’s theater performances on Saturdays, keeping young guests engaged.
Just a 15-minute metro ride away is Artis Zoo, home to a children’s nature discovery center and a mini train ride—a favorite among families. The hotel also partners with canal cruise operators to provide family-exclusive boat tours, complete with child-safe seating and fun quiz games.
All rooms include cribs and bottle warmers, catering to infants and toddlers. With thoughtful amenities and proximity to engaging attractions, this hotel ensures a stress-free, enjoyable stay for families exploring Amsterdam.
See what other travelers say about National Monument
Staying at XO Hotels Couture was a fantastic experience, especially due to the unbeatable location. The hotel entrance directly faces a tram stop, making it super convenient to reach Amsterdam Central Station in just about 30 minutes—no transfers needed. I loved how close we were to a budget-friendly grocery store where I could pick up snacks, drinks, and fresh bread without having to go far. Everything you need is within walking distance, which made the whole trip feel seamless. The comfort, cleanliness, and thoughtful touches throughout the hotel really stood out. This place offers excellent value for money and makes exploring Amsterdam so much easier. Highly recommend!
Staying at XO Hotels Park West was an absolute delight. The room and bathroom are both impressively spacious, and cleanliness was top-notch—everything felt fresh and well-maintained. The room came with a working air conditioner and a mini fridge, perfect for keeping drinks cool during the warm days. Large windows let in plenty of natural sunlight, making the space feel bright and airy. Best of all, there's a tram stop right out front—getting around Amsterdam is incredibly convenient. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this hotel offers comfort, practicality, and great value. I’d highly recommend it to any traveler looking for a smart, well-located base in the city.
Staying at XO Hotels Blue Tower was an absolute delight! The room was spacious and immaculately clean, with a calm, inviting atmosphere that made it easy to unwind. I felt truly comfortable throughout my entire stay. The front desk staff were incredibly kind and welcoming—always smiling, offering helpful tips, and going the extra mile to make sure we had a great experience. The location is perfect for exploring Amsterdam; it's just a short metro ride into the city center, and there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops nearby. Everything was so well thought out—from the cozy bedding to the thoughtful touches in the room. This hotel offers outstanding value and a genuine sense of hospitality. I’ll definitely be back and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Amsterdam.
Everything went smoothly during our stay— the hotel was spotless and the staff provided impeccable service. Located just a short walk from the metro, it’s super convenient for exploring Amsterdam’s main attractions. The neighborhood is lively with plenty of great dining options nearby. Clean, well-maintained rooms and a friendly team made our trip truly enjoyable. I highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Amsterdam—it’s a fantastic choice!
Staying at XO Hotels City Centre in Amsterdam was a great experience overall. The location is unbeatable—right next to the metro station, making it super easy to get around the city and reach major attractions within minutes. The only minor downside was that our room required climbing a few stairs with luggage, which was a bit tricky when carrying heavy bags. But beyond that, everything else was excellent: clean rooms, friendly staff, comfortable beds, and a fantastic value for money. If you're not put off by a short staircase, I highly recommend this hotel. It’s perfect for travelers who prioritize convenience and a cozy urban stay.
Staying at Hotel Van Gogh in Amsterdam was an absolute delight! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city center and surrounded by great cafes, shops, and attractions. The staff went above and beyond with their warm hospitality and helpfulness—always smiling and ready to assist. The room was clean, modern, and very comfortable, with all the essentials you’d want. What really stood out was how affordable it was for the quality and service. I left feeling completely satisfied and already thinking about coming back. If you're visiting Amsterdam, this hotel is a must-try.
We only stayed for one night, so we couldn’t fully assess everything, but overall it was a great experience. The hotel was spotless, and the room was surprisingly spacious—definitely more than expected. It’s located in a convenient area, just a short walk from the metro and close to all the main attractions. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the value for money was excellent. Even with such a brief stay, I’d definitely consider returning if I ever come back to Amsterdam. Highly recommend this place for a comfortable and hassle-free stay.
This was hands down the most comfortable hotel I stayed at during my European trip. The place feels brand new, with spacious rooms that make you feel instantly relaxed. It’s just two tram stops from Amsterdam Central Station—get off at Nord, which is the final stop—and it’s only a 3-minute walk to the hotel. Perfectly located for a quiet escape from the busy city center while still being super accessible. Check-in was handled by MIKA, who was incredibly friendly and helpful. I’d actually had trouble exiting the station earlier, but he quickly explained that scanning the Eurostar QR code would solve it. When I left, I was nervous—but sure enough, one scan and I was through. Huge thanks to MIKA! The breakfast was exceptional too. That coffee? The milk foam was so rich and velvety, it might be the best cup I’ve had anywhere in Europe. I even tried making waffles myself—fun and delicious! The room’s tea and coffee station was well stocked with capsules, tea bags, and everything else you’d need, and they were always refilled promptly. If I ever return to Amsterdam, this hotel would be my top pick without hesitation.
The location was excellent—just a short walk from major attractions and perfect for exploring Amsterdam on foot. The room was clean, modern, and well-designed, making it a comfortable base for our stay. While housekeeping services are available for an additional fee, the space felt fresh and tidy throughout our visit. Overall, it’s a great choice for travelers who want convenience without sacrificing style.
I absolutely loved the vibe of this hotel! The lobby is a real highlight—especially that serene little tree right in the center, it creates such a peaceful atmosphere. The location is unbeatable; just steps from the canal and super close to all the main tourist spots. I appreciated the thoughtful touches like the unique hotel ID design—very memorable and stylish. It’s clear they put care into every detail. A fantastic stay with great value and a calming ambiance—I’d happily return!
Staying at Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht was an absolute delight. The location couldn't be better—just steps away from the famous Nine Streets and surrounded by top attractions, making it perfect for exploring on foot. Being in the heart of the canal district, I highly recommend booking a river view room. Sitting by the window, watching the gentle flow of the canals and the charming architecture glide by, is pure relaxation. The hotel maintains excellent cleanliness and modern amenities throughout. The minibar is restocked daily and completely free—such a nice touch! Everything about this stay exceeded expectations. I’ll definitely return and would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone visiting Amsterdam.
A friend recommended this charming B&B, and it truly exceeded my expectations. Located in a classic canal house, the owner and his family live on the upper floors, while I stayed in a ground-floor room with a lovely canal view—quiet, intimate, and full of character. I was able to check in right upon arrival in the late morning, and the host kindly stored one of my suitcases during my short pre-cruise stay in Amsterdam—perfect for those traveling light. The room was cozy and well-appointed: a comfortable bed, a fully stocked bathroom, a small table with two chairs, and thoughtful extras like coffee, cream, and other daily comforts. Each morning, the host personally delivered breakfast to my room—fresh fruit, delicious croissants, rolls, a boiled egg, jams, butter, honey, and muesli. It was a delightful start to the day. I didn’t use the TV, so I can’t comment on that feature. The location couldn’t be better—steps from restaurants, shops, and all the major sights in central Amsterdam. Walking distance to everything makes exploring effortless. The host is also happy to offer personalized recommendations if you’re unsure where to go. One small tip: if visiting in summer, close the room-darkening curtains during the day, as the west-facing sunlight can heat up the room quickly. Overall, an exceptional stay with genuine hospitality and a wonderful home-away-from-home feel.
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