Thing to do
Albert Cuyp Market
A long-running street market on Albert Cuypstraat in De Pijp, with around 300 stalls selling food, fabrics and household goods six days a week.
A’DAM Lookout
An observation deck on floors 20 and 21 of the A'DAM Tower in Noord, with views over the IJ and old centre and a swing over the roof edge.
At a glance
- Type
- Observation deck
- Area
- Amsterdam-Noord, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Opening
- Open daily · 10:00–22:00
- Official site
- adamlookout.com
Good to know
- Rooftop swing
- Online discount
- Free ferry nearby
- Open late
- Skybar and restaurant
Why we recommend it
The A'DAM Lookout sits at the top of the A'DAM Tower, the former office tower of Shell on the north bank of the IJ, directly across the water from Central Station. The building was converted into a mixed-use tower with a hotel, restaurants, music businesses and offices, and its top two floors, 20 and 21, now form the city's best-known observation deck.
A fast lift takes you up while light and sound effects play, and you arrive at an indoor deck with floor-to-ceiling windows. Climb on to the open rooftop for 360-degree views over the harbour, the historic centre with its church towers and canal rings, the newer districts of Noord and, on a clear day, the flat polder landscape stretching to the horizon. It is a useful way to understand how Amsterdam is laid out around the water.
The most famous feature is Over the Edge, a swing on the roof that launches riders out beyond the side of the building, about 100 metres above the ground. It costs extra and is not for anyone nervous of heights, but many visitors are happy just to watch. The tower also has a skybar and restaurant, so you can stay for a drink or dinner with the view.
The deck is open daily from 10am to 10pm, with last admission at 9pm, though hours change around some events, such as the Amsterdam Dance Event in October. Buying tickets online is a little cheaper than paying at the entrance. Sunset is the most popular time and the most atmospheric, so book ahead for that slot, or come in the morning if you prefer it quieter. Allow about an hour, longer if you plan to swing or have a drink. It is a good choice for couples, groups of friends and families with older children.
Getting there is part of the fun. Free ferries leave from behind Central Station, and the F3 to Buiksloterweg runs every few minutes around the clock, taking just a few minutes to cross. The entrance is on the waterfront opposite the Eye Filmmuseum, whose café terrace and exhibitions make a natural combination with a visit. From here you can also explore the creative venues of Noord.
A’DAM Lookout FAQs
How do you get there?
Take the free ferry from behind Central Station towards Buiksloterweg; the entrance is on the waterfront opposite the Eye Filmmuseum.
Is it cheaper to book online?
Yes, tickets bought online are discounted compared with buying on the day.
What are the opening hours?
Daily from 10am to 10pm, with last admission at 9pm; hours can differ during events.
What is Over the Edge?
A swing on the roof that takes riders out over the edge of the building about 100 metres up.
Which floors is the deck on?
Floors 20 and 21 of the A'DAM Tower.
When is the best time to go?
Sunset is the most popular; mornings are quieter.
Is there food and drink?
Yes, the tower has a skybar and restaurant.
What is nearby?
The Eye Filmmuseum is just opposite the entrance.