Westertoren is part of the historic Westerkerk (West Kerk) situated between Keizersgracht (canal) and Prinsengracht (canal) in Amsterdam. This is a beautifully designed tower that can be admired from the outside and climbed to enjoy views of the city centre.
The tower was built in 1638 and is 85 metres tall, making it the the highest in the city. It is elegant with a steeple that resembles an Imperial Crown. You can enjoy views of Westertoren from either side of churh, along the canals, depending on the time of day and position of the sun. Just walk back around 50 metres or so from the church for good photograph spots.
If you are interested in climbing Westertoren (€7.50 per person), opening hours are 10am to 8pm daily. Tours take place every 30 minutes and it is advisable to reserve in advance during peak summer months.
Note: Westerkerk is next to the Anne Frank House, another important and popular attraction in Amsterdam. Considering the queues that regularly form, I'd suggest visiting Anne Frank first thing in the morning and then making your way to visit Westerkerk and climb Westertoren if this is something you are keen to do when...
Read moreI can only speak about the climb up Westertorn since the church itself was closed, unfortunately. They happened to be filming a television show there that weekend so no visitors were allowed. Luckily, we were still able to climb the tower.
The climb lasts about half an hour to go up and come back down. They start on every half hour, with the last tour leaving at 7:30 pm. There's a tour guide with you the whole time, who will teach you about the history of the tower itself. A tour costs 7 euros. You cannot purchase tickets online, but you can go early, buy your ticket, walk around the neighborhood, and then come back for your allotted time. This is what I would recommend. My boyfriend and I showed up at around 11, and the next available tour was for 1:30. This is most likely due to the fact that they do not let a lot of people up at a time (20 people per group).
The view from the top is amazing. You get a sweeping view of Amsterdam and you'll get about 10 minutes to take all the pictures you want. It was a great experience and gives you a different perspective...
Read moreStopped by here to this church in Amsterdam.
Located on the Prinsengracht, near the Jordaan district. The Westertoren (Western Tower) is the tallest church tower in the inner city and an iconic symbol of Amsterdam. The famous painter Rembrandt is buried in the church, and the tower is prominently mentioned in the diary of Anne Frank, whose hiding place is...
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