ARCHITECTURE WONDERS TO SEE FOR FREE

De Gooyer Windmill (Brouwerij ‘t IJ)

Overview: De Gooyer Windmill is a traditional Dutch windmill that has been converted into a brewery, Brouwerij ‘t IJ. The contrast of the old windmill and the brewery is a unique sight.
Highlights: Iconic Dutch windmill, craft beer, and a picturesque canal view.
Address: Funenkade 7, 1018 AL Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Website: Brouwerij ‘t IJ
Public Transport: Trams 10 and 14 to Zeeburgerstraat tram stop.
Days/Hours for Free: You can admire the exterior of the windmill for free. Brewery tours may have a fee, but you can still enjoy the view from the outside.

Overview: The Schellingwouder Bridge is a picturesque drawbridge that connects Amsterdam with the village of Schellingwoude. It offers a scenic location for a walk or bike ride.
Highlights: Scenic waterway views, traditional drawbridge, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Address: Schellingwouderdijk, 1023 BW Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Website: N/A (A historic drawbridge with no official website).
Public Transport: Biking or walking from Amsterdam city center is a pleasant way to reach the bridge.
Days/Hours for Free: You can visit the bridge at any time and for free.

Overview: St. Bavo’s Cathedral, located in the town of Haarlem near Amsterdam, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture with its soaring spire and intricate interior.
Highlights: Gothic architecture, the Müller Organ, and beautiful stained glass windows.
Address: Grote Markt 22, 2011 RD Haarlem, Netherlands.
Website: St. Bavo’s Cathedral
Public Transport: Trains from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Haarlem station, and then a short walk to the cathedral.
Days/Hours for Free: Entry to the cathedral is free, but there may be a fee to access certain areas or for guided tours.

Overview: The Oude Kerk is Amsterdam’s oldest building and a prime example of Dutch medieval architecture. It’s located in the heart of the Red Light District.
Highlights: Medieval architecture, historical gravestones, and art exhibitions.
Address: Oudekerksplein 23, 1012 GX Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Website: Oude Kerk
Public Transport: Trams 4, 14, and 24 to Dam tram stop.
Days/Hours for Free: The exterior and certain areas of the church are free to explore. Admission may be charged for special exhibitions and access to specific areas.

Overview: Amsterdam Centraal is the city’s main railway station and a masterpiece of Dutch Neo-Renaissance architecture. It is a central transportation hub and an iconic building on the Amsterdam skyline.
Highlights: Impressive clock tower, intricate brickwork, and a grand entrance hall.
Address: Stationsplein, 1012 AB Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Website: N/A (A public transportation hub with no official website).
Public Transport: Trains and trams converge at Amsterdam Centraal, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city.
Days/Hours for Free: The station is open 24/7, and you can visit for free. You can also admire the architecture from the outside.

Overview: The Royal Palace is located on Dam Square and is a prime example of classic Dutch architecture. It was originally built as a city hall in the 17th century and later became a royal palace.
Highlights: Stunning exterior, grand interiors, and historical significance.
Address: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 147, 1012 RJ Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Website: Royal Palace Amsterdam
Public Transport: Trams 1, 2, 5, 13, 14, and 17 to Dam tram stop.
Days/Hours for Free: The interior is accessible for a fee, but you can admire the architecture from the outside and the square for free.

Overview: Magna Plaza is a luxurious shopping center in a stunning Neo-Gothic building that was once Amsterdam’s main post office. It boasts intricate architectural details both inside and out.
Highlights: Gothic architecture, stained glass windows, and a central atrium.
Address: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 182, 1012 SJ Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Website: Magna Plaza
Public Transport: Trams 1, 2, 5, 13, 14, and 17 to Dam tram stop.
Days/Hours for Free: You can explore the building’s architecture and central atrium for free. Shopping and dining are at your own expense.

Overview: The Eastern Docklands is a modern residential area with striking contemporary architecture. It’s known for its innovative and sustainable designs.
Highlights: Modern residential buildings, waterfront views, and a contrast to historic Amsterdam.
Address: Various locations in the Eastern Docklands area.
Website: N/A (A residential area with no official website).
Public Transport: Trams and buses connect to the Eastern Docklands. Check public transport options for specific locations within the area.
Days/Hours for Free: You can explore the Eastern Docklands at any time and for free.

Overview: The Zevenlandenhuizen are seven houses in the south of Amsterdam, each representing the architectural styles of seven different countries. It’s a unique architectural ensemble.
Highlights: Diverse architectural styles, picturesque location, and a cultural blend.
Address: Roelof Hartstraat 42-48, 1071 RJ Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Website: N/A (A historical architectural site with no official website).
Public Transport: Trams 2 and 5 to the Cornelis Schuytstraat tram stop.
Days/Hours for Free: You can admire the exterior architecture from the street for free.