Historic black and white photo showing a building on Damrak in Amsterdam with white retouch paint spelling 'Effectenbioscoop' and a construction pit in front, indicating a fake April Fools' article about floor heating installation, Netherlands 1923

Beursplein, Amsterdam

Beursplein Amsterdam: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Beursplein, the historic heart of Amsterdam, seamlessly blends centuries of financial innovation, striking architecture, and vibrant urban culture. As the site of the world’s first stock exchange and home to the monumental Beurs van Berlage, Beursplein (“Exchange Square”) stands as a testament to the city’s enduring legacy as a global commercial powerhouse. Today, the square serves not only as a living museum of finance and architecture, but also as a dynamic venue for cultural events, open-air exhibitions, and social gatherings. This guide will equip you with all the essential information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, travel tips, and nearby attractions—ensuring a memorable visit to one of Amsterdam’s most iconic locations.

I amsterdam sign in Inner City Amsterdam The Netherlands

I amsterdam sign in Inner City Amsterdam

Amsterdamsche Postharmonie band performing at Beursplein Amsterdam in 1907

Beurs van Berlage building on the Damrak street in central Amsterdam with people walking in front on a sunny day

Beursplein square with Bible Hotel in the background under clear blue sky

Historic Beursplein 5 building in Amsterdam, home to Euronext Amsterdam

Beursplein square in Amsterdam in 1903 with Beurs van Berlage building on the left and Beursstraat 41-51 on the right

Crowd gathered at Beursplein square in Amsterdam during visit of Queen Wilhelmina in 1903 with Beurs van Berlage on left and Beursstraat buildings on right

Wethouders Cees de Cloe and Emile Schüttenhelm planting an elm tree on Beursplein in Amsterdam during a ceremonial event on March 16, 1977

Black and white photo from 1956 showing a group of people standing in an outdoor setting

Demonstrators gathered at Beursplein in Amsterdam with banners protesting new 1979 Foreign Workers Labor Law

Silent procession demonstration by Argentine exiles from Ver. Co So Fam at Beursplein, Amsterdam, 1978

Argentine exiles holding silent march demonstration at Beursplein Amsterdam 1978

Silent march demonstration by Argentine exiles from Ver. Co So Fam at Beursplein in Amsterdam on June 15, 1978

1978 demonstration in Amsterdam with Mayor Polak speaking at Beursplein under the slogan 'Bestek81 is slecht voor Amsterdam'

1965 Amsterdam stock exchange square filled with parked cars and city tram

Emile Roemer campaigning at Beursplein Amsterdam in 2010

SP leader Emile Roemer campaigning at Beursplein in Amsterdam

Dutch SP politicians Ewout Irrgang and Emile Roemer speaking to the press during an election campaign event at Beursplein, Amsterdam

View of Damrak from Beurspassage with Beurs van Berlage and De Bijenkorf under construction, September 1910

Street view of Papenbrugsteeg 1-11 in Amsterdam looking north with Beursplein on the left and Warmoesstraat on the right, 1911

Crowd gathered at Het Beursplein in Amsterdam during Queen's Day celebration on August 31, 1932

Vintage black and white photo of Het Beursplein in Amsterdam filled with people celebrating Koninginnedag, dated August 31, 1932

Crowd surrounding the Zilvertram tram at Beursplein Amsterdam during a fundraising campaign for Waterland flood victims in 1926

Iranians on hunger strike at Beursplein Amsterdam protesting executions in Iran December 1988

Children sitting on a lamppost at Beursplein during Queen's Day celebration in Amsterdam 1932

Historical Overview and Cultural Significance
Architectural and Financial Heritage
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Events and Activities
Practical Visitor Tips
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
Sources

Historical Overview and Cultural Significance

Beursplein occupies a central location between Damrak and Beursstraat, just steps from Dam Square and Amsterdam’s famed canals. Its evolution from a medieval waterway to a modern public square mirrors the city’s expansion and ingenuity in land reclamation (Amsterdam Local Gems). By the late 19th century, with Amsterdam’s economic boom, the need for a centralized hub for commerce led to the formal establishment of Beursplein, setting the stage for its enduring role as a center of finance and civic life.

Beursplein is intrinsically linked to the history of finance: in 1611, the world’s first purpose-built stock exchange opened nearby, heralding the birth of modern trading. The area quickly became synonymous with financial innovation, from the trading of Dutch East India Company (VOC) shares—the first publicly traded securities—to the introduction of continuous trading, options, and short selling (Amsterdam Stock Exchange History). This legacy continues today with Euronext Amsterdam headquartered at Beursplein 5.

Architectural and Financial Heritage

The architectural crown jewel of the square is the Beurs van Berlage, designed by Hendrik Petrus Berlage and completed in 1903. This red-brick masterpiece is celebrated for its rationalist style, blending functionalism with decorative flourishes, and is considered a precursor to Dutch modernism. Originally, it housed four distinct exchanges, reflecting the diversity of Amsterdam’s trading community (Explorial).

In 1913, the stock exchange moved to Beursplein 5, a building that remains the center of Amsterdam’s financial district and is now the headquarters for Euronext Amsterdam. The square’s symbolic bronze bull and bear statues, installed in 1998, represent the market’s cycles and are a favorite spot for photos (Amsterdam Local Gems).

Beursplein is also a protected urban space, with several of its structures—including the Beurs van Berlage, Bijenkorf, and Berlage’s lanterns and fountains—designated as national monuments (nl.wikipedia.org).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Square Access

Beursplein: Open 24/7 and free to enter as a public square.
Beurs van Berlage: Generally open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Monday–Saturday, and 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Sundays. Hours may vary during events—check the Beurs van Berlage official website for the latest information.

Tickets

Square: No ticket required.
Beurs van Berlage & Events: Admission fees apply for exhibitions or special events. Prices typically range from free to €25 depending on the event. Advance booking is recommended for popular exhibitions and guided tours.

Accessibility

Fully wheelchair accessible with smooth pavements, curb cuts, and pedestrianized areas.
Tram and bus stops (Dam Square, Bijenkorf) are within a minute’s walk; Amsterdam Central Station is 5–10 minutes away by foot.
Ample bicycle racks and a modern underground bike parking facility (space for 1,700 bikes) reflect Amsterdam’s commitment to sustainable mobility (nl.wikipedia.org).

Events and Activities

Throughout the year, Beursplein hosts a variety of public events, markets, and exhibitions:

Elephant Parade Amsterdam (May 19 – June 29, 2025): Fourteen hand-painted elephant sculptures and one duck will be displayed in celebration of Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary (Amsterdam Spotted).
Cultural Festivals & Open-Air Markets: Beursplein is a focal point for major city celebrations, including King’s Day, Amsterdam Pride, and the Holland Festival (Iamsterdam).
Beurs van Berlage Events: From art exhibitions and concerts to conferences and royal ceremonies, the building is a hub of cultural and social activity.

Practical Visitor Tips

Getting There

Public Transport: Trams 4, 14, and 24 stop at Dam Square and nearby Rokin. Buses and main train lines connect via Amsterdam Central Station.
Cycling & Walking: The area is extremely pedestrian- and bike-friendly. Use designated bike racks and respect local traffic rules.

Best Times to Visit

Weekday mornings or late afternoons offer a quieter experience.
Spring (May–June) is ideal; avoid peak tourist season in August (Full Suitcase).

Food, Drink, and Facilities

Cut Throat: At Beursplein 5, enjoy bottomless brunches and craft cocktails in a lively setting (Cut Throat Barber).
Bijenkorf: Offers upscale shopping and rooftop dining.
Public Restrooms: Available in department stores and cafés nearby for a small fee.
Wi-Fi: Provided in many surrounding cafés and shops.

Safety and Etiquette

Be vigilant against pickpockets in crowded areas.
Respect local customs: don’t block bike lanes, keep noise to a minimum at night, and dispose of litter responsibly (Happy to Wander).
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated.

Tours and Photography

Guided walking tours are highly recommended for historical context.
Photography: The Beurs van Berlage, Elephant Parade, and Damrak’s picturesque canal houses are standout spots—visit at golden hour for the best light.

Nearby Attractions

Beursplein’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring Amsterdam’s most famous sites:

Dam Square: Home to the Royal Palace, Nieuwe Kerk, and National Monument.
Damrak Waterfront: Known for colorful, historic canal houses.
Red Light District (De Wallen): Explore Amsterdam’s oldest neighborhood.
Bijenkorf Department Store: Upscale shopping and dining.
Nieuwe Kerk: Major art exhibitions and, in 2025, special rooftop access (Nieuwe Kerk).
Body Worlds Amsterdam: Unique museum experience (Amsterdam Tips).
F1 Exhibition at Kromhouthal: Major international exhibition in 2025 (F1 Exhibition).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Beursplein’s visiting hours?
A: The square is open 24/7. Beurs van Berlage generally operates 9:00 AM–6:00 PM (Mon–Sat), 11:00 AM–5:00 PM (Sun). Check the official website for updates.

Q: Is there an entry fee for Beursplein or Beurs van Berlage?
A: The square is free to access. Tickets are only required for exhibitions or events inside Beurs van Berlage.

Q: Is Beursplein wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with smooth paving, curb cuts, and step-free access to major venues.

Q: What events take place at Beursplein?
A: The square hosts year-round events, including open-air exhibitions (like the Elephant Parade), markets, and cultural festivals.

Q: What’s the best way to get to Beursplein?
A: By tram (Dam or Bijenkorf stops), bus, bike, or a short walk from Amsterdam Central Station.

Conclusion

Beursplein Amsterdam is a unique intersection of the city’s storied past and vibrant present. From the groundbreaking financial innovations of the Dutch Golden Age to today’s lively public events and cultural exhibitions, the square offers something for every visitor—whether you’re a history buff, architecture admirer, or simply seeking the pulse of Amsterdam’s city life. Enjoy free, 24/7 access to this historic square, explore the iconic Beurs van Berlage, join a guided tour, or soak up the atmosphere at one of the many events.

For an enhanced experience, check event calendars, book tickets in advance for major exhibitions, and explore nearby attractions on foot or by bike. Don’t forget to download the Audiala app for real-time updates, travel tips, and exclusive offers. Your journey through Amsterdam’s heritage starts at Beursplein!