In a nutshell
- Amsterdam has some seriously great photo opportunities — our personal favorites are the former NDSM Wharf and the Wondr Experience.
- We’ve visited Amsterdam many times and have rounded up our top 4 Instagram spots in this article — so you know exactly where to point your camera.
- From industrial street art to storybook canal streets, these are the most photogenic locations in Amsterdam — tried and tested by us.
Wondr Experience: A Unique Photo Location
What do you need to know? Wondr Experience is basically one giant photo playground. Spread across several rooms, you’ll find backdrops and setups designed for the perfect souvenir shot. It’s one of the best Instagram spots in Amsterdam — but honestly, it’s just as fun even if you’re not chasing likes and just want some silly, memorable photos.
What can you photograph here? Selfies — but not just any selfies. Truly special ones. You can use your own camera or the cameras installed throughout the various rooms. Just keep in mind that commercial shoots require a permit.
Our tips: Check out our in-depth Wondr Experience review for everything you need to know before your visit.
NDSM Wharf: An Old Shipyard in a New Light
What do you need to know? The NDSM Wharf is a decommissioned shipyard on Amsterdam’s north bank. Over the past few years, creatives, restaurants, and artists have moved into the old industrial halls, giving the whole place a really cool, lived-in energy.
What can you photograph here? This is seriously one of the most underrated photography locations in Amsterdam. You’ve got crumbling industrial architecture, loads of street art, and a buzzing atmosphere that makes every shot feel alive.
Our tips: The free ferry from Centraal Station drops you right at NDSM — and the ride itself gives you some lovely views of the city from the water. Don’t skip it.
9 Straatjes: Charming Streets Straight Out of a Storybook
What do you need to know? Hartenstraat, Gasthuismolensteeg, Reestraat, Wolvenstraat, Berenstraat, Oude Spiegelstraat, Huidenstraat, Runstraat, and Wijde Heisteeg — these nine streets sit right at the heart of Amsterdam and are some of the most instagrammable places in the city.
What can you photograph here? Every one of the nine Straatjes is lined with cute little boutiques with elaborately decorated window displays, plus cozy bars and cafés. Photo opportunities are everywhere, and it pairs perfectly with sightseeing in Amsterdam — just wander and shoot.
Our tips: The 9 Straatjes are a fantastic spot to try your hand at street photography with a prime lens.
Red-Light District: Photograph Amsterdam's Edgier Side
What do you need to know? Amsterdam’s red-light district is both famous and notorious. It sits right in the city center and really comes alive after dark.
What can you photograph here? There are plenty of photo opportunities here, but you do need to be respectful. The women working in the windows are strictly off-limits, and passersby generally aren’t thrilled about being photographed either. The most rewarding time to visit is in the evening, when the neon signs light up and the whole district takes on a completely different look.
Our tips: We’ve put together a detailed guide to the red-light district in Amsterdam — well worth a read before you go.
