Royal Palace Amsterdam (Koninklijk Paleis)
Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 147, Amsterdam, Netherlands, 1012 RJ
In the center of Amsterdam, the 17th-century Royal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis) is the official state palace of King Willem-Alexander. When dignitaries aren’t using it for state visits and gala dinners, it opens to the public for tours of its lavish rooms. Opulent chandeliers and marble statues, including a 6-meter (20-foot) statue of Atlas holding a globe, recall the city’s Golden Age.
The Basics
The Royal Palace in central Dam Square was built in the mid-17th century in classical style by architect Jacob van Campen. It rests on about 13,500 wooden piles to counteract the city’s unstable sandy terrain. Originally the city’s town hall, the building became a royal palace in 1808 when Napoleon installed his brother Louis as king. After the French left, the Dutch royal family put the palace to use for ceremonies and state receptions.
Inside the Royal Palace, you find grand interiors that highlight the wealth the city enjoyed in its Golden Age, including a central hall filled with marble carvings. A sculpture of Atlas holding up the world is a highlight. The palace is a popular stop on walking tours of the city and skip-the-line tickets can be prebooked.
Things to Know Before You Go
Entry to the Royal Palace is via paid ticket and includes an audio guide.
The palace is wheelchair accessible.
The palace is closed whenever there is a state function or other event.
How to Get There
The Royal Palace is located in Dam Square in the center of Amsterdam. It’s within walking distance from Central Station. It’s accessible on foot, by bike, and as part of many guided tours of the city.
When to Get There
People typically spend up to two hours visiting the palace. It’s a good choice to visit on one of Amsterdam’s frequent rainy days. Check that it’s open before you go as the palace is closed whenever there is a state function or event.
Visit the Hermitage Amsterdam
For history through the lens of art visit the Hermitage Amsterdam, a branch of the famous St. Petersburg Hermitage Museum. The museum displays works of art and sculpture from around the world, often with a focus on Russian works. The museum—along the Amstel riverfront—is housed in a former residence for the elderly, and the building’s original kitchens can still be visited.
Ways to explore
As an Amsterdam landmark, it’s easy to admire the exterior of the Royal Palace on a walking tour, a cycling tour, a hop-on hop-off bus tour, or a range of history and architecture excursions. Note that it’s set back from the water, so canal cruises are not the best choice. When it’s open to the public, you can also view its interior with an audio guide, which is included with your ticket, or join a guided tour or one of the dedicated kid-friendly visits.
Accessibility
The palace is wheelchair accessible. Companions of disabled travelers enjoy free entry, and wheelchairs are available for loan. Service dogs are welcome.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Bring your credit card (the palace does not take cash) and a small bag for your belongings, as large backpacks are not permitted.
What to wear
There’s no dress code, so dress for the weather, which usually means layers.
Not allowed
Still photos are fine, provided you don’t use flash, tripods, or selfie sticks. Filming and vlogging, even on your phone, are banned by royal decree. You can’t bring suitcases or large backpacks into the building, and the cloakrooms aren’t able to store large items.
Amenities
Restrooms, cloakroom
Address
The Royal Palace is located on Dam Square in the heart of Amsterdam, about 0.5 miles (800 meters) southwest of Amsterdam Central Station.
Driving
Driving is a terrible way to explore central Amsterdam. Make like a local and walk, cycle, or use public transportation.
Public transportation
The Royal Palace is a short walk from Rokin metro station, served by line 52. A range of trams stop on or by Dam Square, including 2, 4, 12, 14, and 17.
Best times to visit
The palace usually opens from 10am until late afternoon or early evening. Visit in the morning for a quieter experience.
Best days to visit
When it’s not in use, the palace is open seven days a week. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are usually the quietest days.
Best months to visit
The summer months often host exhibitions.
Special events
While the palace hosts a wealth of special events, including award ceremonies, state visits, and gala dinners, these aren’t open to the public.
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