Amsterdam Anniversary: 750 Years of Living History

Amsterdam combines tradition and modern lifestyle like few other cities. In 2025, the Dutch capital will celebrate its 750th anniversary, with more than 200 events celebrating culture, creativity and a lust for life. Romantic canals, innovative projects, and local festivals – 750 years later, Amsterdam is more relevant than ever.

When people think of Amsterdam, they immediately picture canals, crooked houses, tulips and bikes, but also copious coffee shops and the notorious red-light district. And while these clichés are almost inevitable when visiting the city, the Dutch capital is much more than the sum of its parts. A stroll through Amsterdam shows a city that honours its history, while not being afraid to embrace innovation and look beyond its own borders.

Moreover, the stereotypical image of Amsterdam is mainly confined to the historic centre. The fascinating canal city, however, has many different sides to explore. From the charming Jordaan district to the multicultural De Pijp neighbourhood, where one top restaurant follows another, and Oud-Zuid with its world-famous museums and sought-after houses – why not leave your phone in your pocket and discover the city by simply following your nose. As you move away from the city centre, the stadsdelen become much more individual: the former industrial area in Amsterdam-Noord boasts new restaurants and cool street art; the east and west are popular for their lush green spaces and diverse recreational opportunities; and the south stands out as a modern business district with skyscrapers and upscale residential areas.

Bicycles in Amsterdam are more than just a cliché – they are the most efficient means of transport and used by virtually everyone, whether you’re in a suit or with children in tow. It is certainly no coincidence that the city has more bicycles than inhabitants. But the public transport system is also excellent for exploring the different districts. These days, you only need to check in and out with your card or smartphone – no need to worry about tickets. It may sound like a cliché, but ultimately, the best way to admire Amsterdam is to take a boat tour along the canals. As you sway past the dancing houses and under bridges, catch a glimpse into one of the many houseboats, and watch as the architecture becomes increasingly modern and avant-garde as you move away from the centre – the irresistible charm of Amsterdam. Some things simply have a timeless romance. Even after 750 years of eventful history.

Experience Amsterdam’s history: from the Golden Age to the present day

In this anniversary year, the motto ​“Voor altijd …” (“Forever …”) is a recurring theme in the celebrations. The message is that everyone should continue writing the city’s story for themselves. Instead of relying on tourist clichés, Amsterdam is focusing on inclusivity, neighbourhood initiatives and innovative cultural projects. To understand today’s Amsterdam, however, you need to look back. The anniversary offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s eventful history – a history that is as extraordinary as it is formative.

It all began in 1275 with the Tolprivilege, a document that granted residents toll-free passage on Dutch waterways and is still regarded as the official founding act. This was the foundation for a place that has repeatedly impressed with its ability to adapt and innovate. So, a city was built on the marshy land, literally resting on millions of wooden piles. Its charming crooked canal houses – the ​“dancing houses” – are a clear sign of these fragile foundations. In the 17th century, Amsterdam experienced its Golden Age; as the richest city in the world and the centre of global trade, it was a magnet for merchants, artists and visionaries.

At the same time, Amsterdam has always been a harbour of tolerance – a safe haven for immigrants, thinkers and nonconformists. It is no coincidence that the city still bears its Yiddish nickname Mokum (“safe place”), which captures Amsterdam’s cosmopolitan, open-minded spirit. This spirit is particularly tangible in the project 750 x Amsterdam. It has compiled the personal stories of 750 residents and admirers in a digital time capsule that will preserve the authentic Amsterdam of 2025 for future generations. A memory project that shows that the true strength of this city lies in the people who shape it.

Experience, celebrate, discover: Amsterdam’s anniversary programme

More than 200 programme events have already produced unforgettable highlights – from the spectacular ​“Festival Op de Ring,” where the A10 ring road became a stage for one day in June, to the maritime splendour of ​“SAIL Amsterdam,” a highlight of the summer months with over 10,000 ships arriving in August. But these experiences are simply the overture to the big event: the city’s actual birthday on 27 October. The historic Tolprivilege of 1275 – Amsterdam’s founding document – will be on display in the city archives, and the 750 x Amsterdam project will reach its symbolic conclusion with the publication of the final story out of a total of 750.

In addition to the flagship events, several initiatives will focus on the city’s districts. ​“24 uur Amsterdam,” is a particularly exciting series of 24-hour festivals showcasing life in the neighbourhoods. For example, in September, Amsterdam-Noord will reinvent itself for a day – with canoe tours at dawn, workshops in the NDSM shipyard and pop-up art along the water.

Museums and cultural institutions are using the anniversary to retell Amsterdam’s history: from a major Rembrandt exhibition at the H’ART Museum to a tribute to Amsterdam’s women at the Amsterdam Museum, and culinary journeys through the city’s food history at the Allard Pierson. Even the gardens of the Rijksmuseum are putting on a free outdoor exhibition with sculptures by Isamu Noguchi.

Sports is also on the agenda: the TCS Amsterdam Marathon celebrates its 50th anniversary on 19 October 2025. The route passes iconic landmarks such as the Rijksmuseum and Vondelpark, making the event a highlight for runners and spectators alike.

Taste will also be playing a key role: a special anniversary beer – Heineken Studio Mokum 750 – and one-off menus in top restaurants invite you to experience the city’s history through its cuisine.

Conclusion: the living time capsule of Amsterdam

Amsterdam is not only celebrating a birthday, but a way of life. In its anniversary year, the city is more open, inclusive and creative than ever before. For visitors, this means 2025 is the perfect opportunity to discover Amsterdam from an especially intense perspective – as a living time capsule that uniquely connects past and future.

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