Things to do · Amsterdam
A'DAM Lookout tickets: how to choose
The ferry behind Central Station takes a few minutes to cross the IJ. On the other side the tower rises straight up from the quay, and from the top the whole of Amsterdam lies flat below you, the canal ring like a fingerprint.
In short: A'DAM Lookout
A'DAM Lookout is the observation deck at the top of A'DAM Tower in Noord, just across the water from Central Station. From here you see the city, the harbour and the flat land beyond. If you are brave, you can swing out over the edge. A ticket with a drink is enough for most people. To make an evening of it, choose dinner at the top.
How to choose a ticket
Just the view: a ticket with a drink. Go at sunset.
A special evening: a ticket with a table at Moon, the slowly revolving restaurant.
Lunch with a view: a ticket with a voucher for lunch or dinner in the tower.
Three ways to visit A'DAM Lookout
Choose whether you only want the view, or want to eat while you take it in.
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Good to know
Getting there
The free ferry to Buiksloterweg leaves from behind Central Station. The tower stands right by the quay.
Best time
A clear evening around sunset, so you get the city in daylight and with the lights on.
The swing
The swing over the edge depends on the weather and can close in strong wind.
Time
Allow an hour to an hour and a half, ferry included. With dinner it becomes an evening.
More in Noord
The EYE film museum is next door, and the NDSM shipyard with its street art is a short ferry ride further.
How Picolo chooses
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Stay by the canals
Canal ring
Pulitzer Amsterdam
- Canal views
25 canal houses between the Prinsengracht and the Keizersgracht joined into one hotel. The ferries behind Central Station are about a 15-minute walk.
Best for: For the canal houses
Herengracht
The Hoxton, Amsterdam
- Close to Dam Square
Five canal houses on the Herengracht, a few minutes from Dam Square. You get the canal ring on your doorstep without paying grand-hotel prices.
Best for: For the price
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More things to do in Amsterdam
A'DAM Lookout: frequently asked questions
How do I get to A'DAM Lookout?
Take the free ferry from behind Central Station to Buiksloterweg. The crossing takes a few minutes, and the tower stands right by the quay.
Is A'DAM Lookout worth it?
Yes, especially on a clear evening. Amsterdam has few tall buildings, so this is the best view of the city. The swing is a bonus for the brave.
Is the swing at A'DAM Lookout safe?
Yes, you are strapped in with a harness and a safety bar. It closes in bad weather and strong wind, and age and height limits may apply.
How long do you need at A'DAM Lookout?
An hour is enough for the view and a drink. With dinner at Moon, set aside the whole evening.
What else is there to do in Amsterdam Noord?
The EYE film museum is next to the tower. Further west is NDSM, an old shipyard with street art, cafés and a flea market at weekends.
Updated 6 Nov 2026All articles