Amsterdam Lookout Tower: 5 reasons why you shouldn’t miss it
Of course, the perfect city trip can’t be complete without a first-class view! Now that the trees and bushes are starting to blossom and the days are getting longer and warmer, you’re probably looking for a great sunset location. Of course, you could go to the beach (pssst… you only need 30 minutes by train from Amsterdam) – or you could pay a visit to the Amsterdam Lookout Tower – also known as ADAM Lookout or ADAM Toren .
The tower is located directly opposite our Central Station and is only a 5-minute ferry ride away. Especially if you’ve never been to the northern part of Amsterdam, it’s worth taking the short trip across the Ij River. The north of Amsterdam is perhaps the most underrated part of the city and has a few surprises in store. The Amsterdam Lookout is just the most obvious of these…
In addition to the great view, the Amsterdam Lookout Tower has a lot more to offer. Here you can find out all the important facts about the tower and 5 good reasons why you should definitely pay a visit to the Amsterdam Lookout Tower!
5 reasons why you should visit the Amsterdam Lookout Tower
The best view in town
Many people are initially sceptical about man-made tourist attractions, which we can understand. However, the Amsterdam Lookout Tower is a clear exception and is definitely worth a visit. As you’ve probably already noticed, the city is known for its cute canal houses, which rarely exceed a height of 10-12 metres. So if you really want to get up high, you should go to the Lookout Tower – here you are over 100 metres high and can see all the great parts of the city at your leisure. On a good day, you can even see as far as the sea from up there – unique!
Swinging on the highest swing in Europe
Even better than just looking out over the city is, of course, swinging above it! The more adventurous among you can purchase an additional swing ticket for €5 and enjoy the swinging experience from Europe’s highest swing.
You can also easily book the swing online. Simply choose a time slot that suits you and then the swing is just yours for 20 minutes.
Great dinner + DJ at the weekend
As the self-proclaimed culinary capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam has of course also created a great ambience with really good cuisine on the Lookout Tower. The panoramic restaurant MOON offers a panoramic view that you won’t get anywhere else in the city. A rooftop terrace feeling at its best, without having to be afraid of heights or freezing. Savour a cocktail or two there and try the delicious snacks. Or pop in for a 3-course menu and take your time to enjoy the evening on the restaurant’s revolving platform.
Insider tip: From Friday to Sunday, the MOON is transformed into one of the coolest indoor rooftop bars in the city, with changing DJs providing just the right atmosphere.
One of the coolest, hidden clubs in the city
While we’re on the subject of great atmosphere and DJs, we can also reveal the next secret of the Amsterdam Lookout Tower. It is home to one of the most popular clubs/event locations in the entire city: LOFT. Techno fans in particular get their money’s worth here, as the biggest international names appear on the impressive line-ups every week. LOFT is event-based, so it’s not a classic club where you can just pop in on the spur of the moment. It’s therefore worth checking the agenda a few weeks in advance and getting hold of one of the highly contested tickets in advance. If you do, you’re guaranteed a unique evening above the rooftops of Amsterdam – until the early hours of the morning, if you like.
Get to know the pearl Amsterdam Noord
If you visit the tower during the day, you can combine it with a visit to Amsterdam’s trendiest neighbourhood. Amsterdam Noord, and especially the western part around NDSM, is one of the most underrated places in the city, if you ask us. The free ferry takes you to the other side of the Ij river in no time at all and you can fully indulge in the artistic industrial flair. The best thing is that tourists rarely stray here, as Amsterdam Noord really is still run by the people of Amsterdam. The perfect place to get to know the city authentically and learn about its rich industrial background.
The most important information for your visit
When can I visit the Amsterdam Lookout?
The tower is open daily from 10:00 – 22:00, last admission is at 21:00.
How much does the fun cost?
If you book online, you can get an adult ticket for €16.50 and a children’s ticket (4-12 years) for €10.50. Important: Only card payment is accepted here, as well as in the tower. Swings cost another €5 on top.
How do I get the tickets?
It’s best to buy your tickets online in advance! Not only do you get a €2 discount on the price on site, but you can also pay by card and receive your tickets directly by email.
Tip: If you are a youth group/school class, we will also be happy to help you with the organisation – including a special Amsterdam love prize!
What else can I experience here?
In addition to the view, the swing and the restaurant, the Amsterdam Lookout Tower also offers various VR experiences. If you like this, take a look here and see what’s on offer.
By the way: you can get to the top in a specially light and sound-designed lift that takes you up in no time at all. The ride alone is a small highlight and is highly recommended for families and adults alike.
What makes Amsterdam Noord so special?
The unique mix of rich (industrial) history and the artistic flair of Amsterdam Noord make this part of the city a real highlight. Want to see for yourself what the North has to offer? Then why not join us on a Noord bike tour or the school tour in NDSM!