Celebrating 750 Years of Amsterdam: A Walking Tour from Pillows Hotels

By Stefan Laarman, Concierge, Les Clefs d’Or

Welcome to Amsterdam. I’m Stefan Laarman, part of the concierge team at Pillows Hotels Maurits at the Park and a proud member of Les Clefs d’Or – the global network of the world’s most trusted hotel concierges. With the Golden Keys on my lapel, I’m here to help you uncover hidden gems, arrange exclusive experiences, and make every detail of your stay effortless and memorable.

There has never been a better time to explore Amsterdam, as the city is celebrating 750 years since its first official mention in 1275. To truly feel the city’s story come alive, I invite you on a unique journey: one that walks backwards through time, from our hotel’s early 20th-century beginnings all the way to the medieval heart of the city.

This route isn’t just a stroll, it’s a step-by-step travel back in history, exploring centuries of Amsterdam’s vibrant culture, architecture, and life.

1908: Pillows Hotels Maurits at the Park

Our starting point is right here, in our hotel building, originally constructed in 1908 as a medical research institute. It’s a striking reminder that history is alive, not just something in books but something you can experience firsthand.

1814: Brouwerij ’t IJ

A short walk or bike ride brings you to this lively brewery beside the iconic De Gooyer windmill. Set in a former bathhouse, Brouwerij ’t IJ connects you to Amsterdam’s longstanding tradition of craftsmanship and conviviality, a perfect place to pause and raise a glass to 750 years of city life.

Their cosy taproom is a favourite among Amsterdammers, offering signature craft beers like their IPA and seasonal specialties. Don’t miss their special anniversary brew at 7.50% alcohol, created to celebrate this year’s milestone. For the full experience, pair your beer with a bittergarnituur - a platter of fried snacks traditionally enjoyed with drinks.

1772: Luther Museum

Next, step inside this quiet museum housed in a former Lutheran orphanage. It offers a window into the faith and community that shaped Amsterdam’s diverse identity.

Located in the Wittenberg building, the museum features beautifully restored regent rooms, an elegant chapel with a grand organ, and a thoughtful collection of art, silver, and antique furnishings, all offering a glimpse into Amsterdam’s Lutheran heritage.

1662: Huis Vasari

On the historic Herengracht canal stands Huis Vasari, a beautifully preserved 17th-century mansion now home to de Vrije Academie. This summer, it hosts the Art Zoo Museum, an extraordinary exhibition featuring theatrical taxidermy art by Darwin, Sinke & Van Tongeren, including giant aviaries and a life-sized T-Rex. It’s a magical blend of nature, art, and history that captures the city’s spirit of wonder.

Before visiting the exhibition, enjoy a coffee or lunch in the garden at Bar Vasari. This inviting courtyard and its adjacent tea rooms make it a peaceful year-round spot for drinks or a light meal.

1665: Grachtenmuseum (Museum of the Canals)

A grand canal house hosts this fascinating museum dedicated to the canals that made Amsterdam famous worldwide. Its interactive displays tell the story of the city's waterworks, an engineering marvel critical to Amsterdam’s growth.

1519–50: Café In ’t Aepjen

One of the city’s oldest wooden buildings, this charming café once welcomed sailors who, legend says, paid their tabs with monkeys. It’s a cosy spot that carries centuries of stories in its timber walls.

Located near the Warmoesstraat, it was once a lively inn for sailors from the Dutch East India Company. The name inspired the Dutch saying “in de aap gelogeerd”, meaning to be in a tricky situation. Try their house beer or a glass of Dutch Jenever, the traditional spirit that preceded gin, and enjoy a quiet moment by the window.

1488: Café In de Waag

Located in the bustling Nieuwmarkt Square, Café In de Waag was once a city gate and later a weighing house crucial for trade. Today, it invites visitors to enjoy classic Dutch fare beneath beams that have witnessed 750 years of commerce and community.

A walk along the historic Zeedijk leads you to this medieval gem, now lit by over 300 candles. The setting is romantic and atmospheric — ideal for a dinner of classic European dishes served in a space rich with centuries of stories.

1306: De Oude Kerk

Our last stop takes us to De Oude Kerk, Amsterdam’s oldest building, consecrated in 1306. Here the city’s history truly begins, in a stunning Gothic church that also embraces contemporary art, a place where past and present beautifully intertwine.

Its dramatic history, including damage during the rise of Lutheranism, makes it, in my opinion, the most interesting church in Amsterdam.

1275: Dam Square — The City’s Birthplace

While not a building, Dam Square is the heart of Amsterdam, where the city’s story started with a dam on the Amstel River in 1275. Standing here, you’re literally at the birthplace of the city we celebrate today.

Looking Forward: SAIL Amsterdam 2025

As we honour 750 years of Amsterdam’s rich history, we also look ahead. From 20 to 24 August 2025, SAIL Amsterdam will fill the city’s harbours with majestic tall ships for Europe’s largest nautical event. It’s a spectacular tribute to Amsterdam’s enduring maritime heritage and a must-see if you’re visiting during the summer. We also have a private boat available for rental to experience SAIL 2025 up close. For more information, please contact: Reservations.amsterdam@pillowshotels.com.

So, why this route?

Because walking backwards through time lets you feel the layers of history beneath your feet, giving context to Amsterdam’s vibrant present. If you’d like, I’m happy to help plan your walk or arrange a private guide to bring these stories even more vividly to life.

Enjoy every step, you’re walking through 750 years of history.

Warm regards,
Stefan Laarman
Concierge, Les Clefs d’Or
Pillows Hotels Maurits at the Park