Climb the Church Towers

The church towers of Amsterdam offer a stunning view from the old city centre.

Every year from April to September the towers of Amsterdam's main churches can be climbed, every day of the week except Sundays.

One of the best views of Amsterdam is from the summit of the Westertoren, from which you can look out over the Jordaan quarter and the old city centre. But also the towers of Oude Kerk and Zuiderkerk offer spectacular views.

Westertoren temporarily closed

Usually, the tower can be climbed up to the first balcony. In the coming years, this will not be possible due to restoration work.

Carillons

Carillons are often housed in the church towers of Amsterdam's old churches. Theywere invented in the Low Countries — present-day Belgium, the Netherlands, and the French Netherlands — in the 16th century.

Westertoren   1638

The Westertoren (completed in 1638) is Amsterdam's tallest church tower with a height of 85m (278ft). It is one of the capital's most famous landmarks.

The Westertoren is by far the most sung about and described church tower in Amsterdam, nicknamed 'the Old Wester' or 'the Pearl of the Jordaan'.

Temporarily closed due to restoration work.

Oudekerkstoren   1562

The Oudekerkstoren is situated in the middle of Amsterdam's old historic centre.

The climb ends at 30 metres high (164 steps) where you can have great views of the oldest medieval part of Amsterdam, including De Wallen (Red Light District), Waag building on Nieuwmarkt square and Montelbaanstoren.

The Oudekerkstoren has 4 full-circle tower bells and 47 carillon bells.

Zuiderkerkstoren   1614

Built in Renaissance style by Amsterdam architect Hendrick de Keyser. The tower has a height of 68m (223ft) and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

From the Zuidertoren you have a good view across the Amstel River and Nieuwmarkt neighbourhood.

It is open to visitors during the summer months from April to September.