Attracting more than 16 million day visitors a year, Amsterdam is truly one for the bucket list of any prospective traveler. The romanticism of this truly magnificent city is a real draw. Amsterdam proudly showcases its world-famous Red Light District and openly embraces liberal cannabis laws. However, there is more to this truly wonderful city than cannabis and ‘ladies of the night’. The city offers attractions that many common tourists may not be aware of. Thankfully, Last Night of Freedom has discovered Amsterdam’s best-kept secrets:
Condomerie
A whole museum dedicated to the protection of the latex variety, the Condomerie is the world’s first condom museum. The window display boasts some weird and wonderful shapes and themes, which draw in punters and celebrate a definite niche when it comes to museums. And where else better to have a whole building devoted to the ‘Rubber Johnny’ than slap bang in the middle of the world-famous red light district?
The Torture Museum
A one for the sadistic travellers amongst us, the Torture Museum is pretty much what you think it might be – a place that celebrates all things suffering. The museum’s exhibits reveal the city’s painful past, offering powerful insight into life centuries ago. The building layout is somewhat of a labyrinth, with over 40 devices on display including the skull-cracker, Inquisition Chair and the ever-popular thumb screws.
The Torensluis Bridge
Amsterdam is known for a lot of things – bikes, Tulips and bridges. But one of the city’s oldest bridges holds a dark secret. You’ll be oblivious unless you’re told, but the Torensluis Bridge is a former under-water prison. As well as being the widest bridge in the city, it is also home to the oldest and scariest dungeon in Amsterdam. If you’re lucky though then you may be able to take the guided tour, but make sure you’re not locked in when the tide comes in.
The Bulldog
The Bulldog isn’t just another Amsterdam coffee shop—it hides an ironic twist behind its famous name. It’s housed in a former police station, complete with displays of old police and criminal memorabilia.
Guests can sip lattes, enjoy pastries, or partake in a puff while soaking in the quirky atmosphere. Yes—where the law once ruled, relaxation now reigns.
De Engelse Reet
Roughly translated as the English Ass, the De Engelse Reet is unlike any pub you’ll likely ever visit. Staff pour drinks in the backroom and carry them into the main parlour, where only drinking and talking are allowed. The same family has owned and run this traditional pub for four generations, spanning 85 years. It’s a sort of café/ bar cross which is the sort of place you need after a long day walking around the beautiful cobbled streets of Amsterdam.
For more travel inspiration, then head over to our Amsterdam guide. Or if you’re looking to plan the ultimate stag or hen do, then please visit Last Night of Freedom
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