Nieuwe Kerk Amsterdam (New Church): The Complete Visitor Guide
Tickets, exhibitions, royal history and practical tips for the Nieuwe Kerk on Dam Square.
Address
Dam, 1012 NP Amsterdam
Opening hours
Daily 11:00–18:00
Current exhibition
Queer Amsterdam: The Pink City
Best for
Exhibitions, history, architecture
Duration
About 1–1.5 hours
Book Nieuwe Kerk Tickets
Standard admission or a combination. Each card shows what is included. Dates only open when you ask for them.
The New Church Amsterdam: Entry Ticket
Standard admission to the church and its current exhibition.
View details on Tiqets →
Amsterdam: Lovers Canal Cruise + The New Church
A one-hour canal cruise and the New Church on one booking.
Check dates and availabilityView details on Tiqets →
Fabrique des Lumières + The New Church Amsterdam
An immersive digital art centre and a historic church, for a varied day.
Check dates and availabilityView details on Tiqets →
Rijksmuseum Guided Tour + The New Church Amsterdam
A guided tour of the Rijksmuseum with the New Church in the same booking.
Check dates and availabilityView details on Tiqets →Booking is handled by Tiqets. Affiliate links: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Why Book in Advance
The church hosts large exhibitions, and busy weekends can bring queues. Booking in advance lets you choose your day and fit the church around the Royal Palace and other sights on Dam Square. It is also closed at times for ceremonies, so a booked date helps you plan.
What is the Nieuwe Kerk, and why visit?
The Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) is a 15th-century church on Dam Square in Amsterdam, next to the Royal Palace. Today it is a cultural venue known for large exhibitions, and it is still used for royal ceremonies, including the inauguration of Dutch monarchs.
Why Visit the Nieuwe Kerk?
The Nieuwe Kerk is at the centre of Amsterdam, and it combines a historic setting with modern exhibitions. If you are already on Dam Square, it is an easy addition to a visit to the Royal Palace.
The exhibitions change, often covering art, photography and cultures from around the world. The Tiqets listing shows the current exhibition as Queer Amsterdam: The Pink City, running until 4 April 2027.
A Short History of the Church
Building began in the late 14th century, and the church was called the New Church to distinguish it from the Oude Kerk. It has been damaged by fire and rebuilt more than once.
The church has been the stage for royal inaugurations since 1814, including that of King Willem-Alexander in 2013. It now serves as a cultural venue rather than a regular place of worship.
Top Highlights
The Exhibitions
Large temporary shows are the main reason to visit. They change several times a year.
The Carved Pulpit
The 17th-century pulpit is a masterpiece of Dutch woodcarving.
The Organ
The organ case dates from the 17th century and is a striking feature of the church.
The Tomb of Admiral de Ruyter
The naval hero Michiel de Ruyter is buried here, among other well-known figures.
What to Expect Inside
The church is large and bright. The exhibition fills much of the nave, and signage guides you through the displays. It is a quiet place for a short visit.
How Much Time Do You Need?
About 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the exhibition.
Closures
The church can close for ceremonies and events. Check the booking page for your date.
Visitor Information
- Address: Dam, 1012 NP Amsterdam, next to the Royal Palace.
- Opening hours: Daily from 11:00 to 18:00 according to the booking listing. Check for closures.
- Ticket price: Entry tickets are around €20 or more, depending on the exhibition. Confirm the price on the booking page.
- Accessibility: Check the church's accessibility information before you visit.
- Annual visitors: About 250,000 people visit each year, according to the listing.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings after opening are usually calm. Dam Square is busiest in the afternoon, so an early slot makes the walk easier. Winter and rainy days are good times to visit.
How to Get to the Nieuwe Kerk
The church stands on Dam Square, about a 10-minute walk from Amsterdam Centraal. Several tram lines stop at Dam, including 4, 14 and 24. Check your journey planner for the best option.
Local Insider Tips
- Check which exhibition is on before you book.
- Visit the church and the Royal Palace on the same day.
- Look at the pulpit and the organ in the nave.
- Arrive at opening for the quietest visit.
- Combine with a canal cruise from nearby.
Choosing the Right Ticket
The standard ticket is enough for most visitors. The canal cruise combination suits a first day in the centre. The Fabrique des Lumières combination mixes digital art with a historic church, and the Rijksmuseum combination suits a museum day.
Who It Suits
Exhibition Lovers
The temporary shows are the main draw.
History and Architecture Fans
A good example of a late-Gothic church in a busy city.
Short on Time
A one-hour visit fits easily between other sights on Dam Square.
Nearby Attractions
- Royal Palace Amsterdam: directly next door.
- Madame Tussauds Amsterdam: on Dam Square.
- Oude Kerk: Amsterdam's oldest building, a 10-minute walk.
- Begijnhof: a quiet courtyard in the centre, a short walk.
For more options, browse our Amsterdam museums guide or compare the best museums in Amsterdam.
Suggested Itineraries
Half Day
Nieuwe Kerk and the Royal Palace in the morning, lunch on a side street and a canal cruise.
Historic Centre Day
Nieuwe Kerk, Royal Palace, Oude Kerk and Our Lord in the Attic on foot.
Rainy-Day Plan
Nieuwe Kerk, then Madame Tussauds or the Moco Museum.
Nieuwe Kerk Amsterdam FAQ
What is the Nieuwe Kerk used for today?
It is a cultural venue for large exhibitions and is also used for royal ceremonies.
How long do you need?
About 1 to 1.5 hours.
What are the opening hours?
The booking listing shows daily 11:00–18:00. Check for closures.
What is on now?
The Tiqets listing shows Queer Amsterdam: The Pink City, until 4 April 2027.
Where is the Nieuwe Kerk?
On Dam Square, next to the Royal Palace.
Is the Nieuwe Kerk new?
No, it dates from the 15th century. 'New' distinguishes it from the older Oude Kerk.
Can I combine it with the Royal Palace?
Yes, they stand next to each other on Dam Square.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, depending on the exhibition.
How do I get there?
Walk from Amsterdam Centraal in about 10 minutes or take a tram to Dam.
Do I need to book in advance?
Not essential, but it helps on busy days.
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Final Verdict
The Nieuwe Kerk is an easy and rewarding stop on Dam Square. Check the current exhibition, pair it with the Royal Palace and enjoy a quiet hour in a historic building.
Who should visit: exhibition lovers, history fans and visitors already on Dam Square.
Who may skip: visitors who are not interested in the current exhibition.
Overall rating: 7.9 / 10