Berlage route Amsterdam: 9x beautiful buildings

The Berlage route in Amsterdam showcases the architectural legacy of Hendrik Petrus Berlage, one of the Netherlands’ most influential architects. Named in his honor, this path highlights the city’s rich architectural heritage, featuring numerous iconic buildings such as the Berlage Lyceum and the Olympic Stadium, among others.

1. Holland Casino

Depending on where you moor, the Holland Casino is the first or last attraction you will cruise past. This modern, slightly vaulted building is a great ending point to enjoy a drink, dinner or game night after your cruise.

2. Paradiso

A little way back along the canal you will find the city’s oldest pop temple. Paradiso was built in the neo-Romanesque architectural style and was used as a religious center for nearly 85 years. In 1965, the building was sold to a developer who wanted to build a hotel there. Two years later it was squatted by hippies and they enforced with the municipality to turn it into a music center.

3. The Rijksmuseum

Next, the two towers of the Rijksmuseum loom before you. This museum has served as a national museum since the year 1800, following the French example. Designed by Pierre Cuypers, here stands the fresh-looking neo-Gothic structure that houses Holland’s most famous museum.

4. The Heineken Experience

The next attraction is a favorite among foreign and domestic tourists, the Heineken Experience. On the Singelgracht, you’ll find a modern and interactive museum about the world’s most famous beer brewer, with a surprise tasting at the end of the tour. The museum is housed in the brand’s first Amsterdam brewery, built in 1868.

5. Lyceum Berlage

At the next stop, you can go right back to school, as these monumental buildings have always housed high schools. Since 1967, the school has been called the Berlage Lyceum, named after the architect of our waterway. Before that, it housed the Spinozalyceum for an unknown number of years, before it moved to another location.

6. The Harbour Club

A nice change in all the historical, architectural violence is the Harbour Club Zuid. This popular club houses a high-class seafood restaurant, bar and party venue and is the place to be for the nouveau riche of the Netherlands. A perfect place to stop by and have a drink.

7. Apollo Hotel

One of the city’s most luxurious hotels can be admired on this cruising route as you sail up the Noorder Amstelkanaal, the Apollo Hotel. The large concrete block with its abundance of glass is definitely a modernist landmark for the 1930s and was designed by architects Boeken and Zweedijk, along with sports hall the Apollohal.

8. Herman Gorterstraat

On this street there are a number of beautiful houses, delightfully overlooking the water. Modern structures are interspersed with monumental homes with more historical awareness. Well-known architect Theo Lammers designed a very famous monumental building in the style of the Amsterdam School.

9. Olympic Stadium

The last building along the route is the classic Olympic Stadium, erected in 1927 for the 1928 Summer Olympics. The Jan Wils-designed athletics stadium still regularly hosts concerts, events and sporting events. The edge of the building houses some businesses and a restaurant/bar.

Are you curious about the Berlage route?

At Bootuitjes, you can rent a private boat and choose from various arrangements to enhance your experience. This makes exploring the centre of Amsterdam even more pleasant.

Other routes

In addition to the Berlage route, there are other sailing routes available, including the Architecture route, Plantage route, the Red Light District route, and the Culinary route. Discuss which route you want to see and we will provide an unforgettable experience.