Celebrating 750 Years of Amsterdam

The vibrant and bustling city of Amsterdam is celebrating a huge milestone. On October 27th this year, the capital of the Netherlands will complete 750 years of existence. The beautiful city has undergone a phenomenal transformation over the past eight centuries.

The earliest history of Amsterdam dates back to 1275, when Floris V, Count of Holland, issued a document granting toll-free access to residents through the Amstel River. This document, known as the Toll Privilege, is often referred to as the “birth certificate” of Amsterdam.

From then, the city has experienced many ups and downs, from the 80-year war to the establishment of the Dutch East Indies Company, to significant cultural growth with artists and painters. A vast network of canals was built in the 17th century, on which the city still stands strong. The iconic Centraal Station was built in 1889, connecting Amsterdam with other cities in the country. World War II brought tremendous losses and deaths, from which the city took a long time to recover.

Over the past century, Amsterdam has seen massive progress and evolved into a hub of opportunities, art, culture, and diversity. It became the centre for new businesses and trade. Today, millions of locals and expats call Amsterdam their home.

750 Years of Amsterdam Celebrations Around the City

Thousands of events have been organised in and around Amsterdam to commemorate the huge milestone. The city is leaving no stone unturned in celebrating its 750th anniversary, with a range of events including exhibitions, art fairs, street shows, and party nights. Walking around the city, you will see plenty of streets decorated with the “Amsterdam750” banners and streamers.

While numerous events are happening in the city, we have shortlisted some of the most interesting ones so you can enjoy them and dive into Amsterdam’s rich heritage.

Story Pole North

Overhoeks

An open-air exhibition, conducted at Overhoeks, the Story North Pole, showcases important events that highlight Amsterdam’s history. The exhibition begins behind the ferry at Buiksloterweg, which is open to the public all year round for free.

Discover Oosterdok

Oosterdok

Discover Oosterdok is an interactive walking tour that allows you to learn about the history and culture of Oosterdok, one of Amsterdam’s most vibrant areas. It is a 90-minute fun and immersive experience. The walk covers nine spots that tell the amazing transformation of the area through interesting stories and games. It is open till the 31st of December and is free of charge.

Dijkreis

Nieuwendam

Discover the complex history of Amsterdam North through Dijkreis. It is an 11-kilometre-long walk along the Waterlandse Zeedijk. In 40 stories, you will discover how people in earlier times sustained wars, floods, and destruction, and also listen to stories of shipbuilders. This experience is available till the 27th of October and you can visit it for free.

From Rembrandt to Vermeer

Amstel 51

For fans of the renowned Dutch painter Rembrandt, the H’ART Museum is putting together 18 of his masterpieces for the first time. You can also see the famous artwork ‘Young Woman Seated at a Virginal’ by the 17th-century painter Johannes Vermeer, along with beautiful pieces by other influential artists. The exhibition is open until the 24th of August, and tickets are available on the official museum website.

Birth of the City

Vijzelstraat 32

Learn all about the medieval history of Amsterdam at the exhibition held at the Amsterdam City Archives. Dive deep into the fascinating facts about how the city’s transformation into one of the world’s most important ports unfolded. You can attend workshops and lectures on crime and punishment, as well as research on medieval sources, within this exhibition. It is open till the 6th of July and tickets are available on the city archives website.

One Club, One City – AJAX Amsterdam

Vijzelstraat 32

Along with the city’s special anniversary, this year marks another milestone. AJAX, the official football club of Amsterdam, completes 125 years this year. To celebrate, the Amsterdam City Archives has held another exhibition that tells the history of the club and Amsterdam’s connection with it. Renowned football players will share their unique experiences with the club, an opportunity you won’t want to miss. You can visit the exhibition till the 28th of September for free.

750 Years of Amsterdam in Sand

Oude Barnevelderweg 5, Garderen

Take a walk through Amsterdam’s rich history in the most unique way. De Beeldentuin (Sculpture Garden) in the Gelderland province is conducting an exclusive exhibition to celebrate the 750th anniversary of Amsterdam. One hundred fifty stunning sand sculptures, each telling a unique story, will revive the tales of the city’s most significant events. The exhibition is open until January 3rd, 2026, and tickets are available on their official website.

Amsterdam Eats: A History in Dishes

Old Turfmarkt 127

The culture of Amsterdam is incomplete without its scrumptious food and culinary heritage. The Allard Pierson Museum is commemorating the city’s milestone with a unique exhibition focused on food and recipes. This experience will take you on a journey through Amsterdam’s food traditions over 750 years. From staple foods in the Middle Ages to gourmet dishes in the current era, this exhibition is sure to provide a mouthwatering experience. Open till the 7th of September, you can purchase tickets on the museum’s website.

Read Also: How to Celebrate Your Home Country’s Holidays in the Netherlands (Without Feeling Too Homesick)

If you’re planning a trip to the city this year or looking for a day outing, you have plenty of activities to choose from when celebrating 750 years of Amsterdam. Make your stay in this lively city extra special by being part of this special milestone.