Exploring Amsterdam with QR codes
The City of Amsterdam has just introduced a new way to experience Amsterdam’s historical treasures. Discover the stories behind the façades with Amsterdam’s new interactive sign project.
Discover Amsterdam's neighbourhoods
In 2009, the City began the “Explore a different Amsterdam” initiative to introduce visitors to historical treasures throughout Amsterdam’s various neighbourhoods and districts. The latest element of this initiative is a QR code “tour” that offers visitors a fun and interactive way of discovering the secrets of Amsterdam’s most important buildings and locations.
History gets interactive
A total of 139 signs will be placed on buildings and places of interest across Amsterdam, including the districts of Westerpark, the Pijp, Oud-West, Oostelijke Havengebied, Oost (including the Plantage) and Noord. Each of the selected locations will have a sign comprised of 4 ceramic tiles handmade by Koninklijke Tichelaar Makkum, whose expertise in tile-making dates back to the 16th century. The tiles include a short description about the historical and current use of each location in both Dutch and English, as well as a unique QR code.
Visitors with a smartphone can scan the QR code to reveal additional information about each location, including background stories, little-known secrets, historical photos or pictures of the interiors. Based on your current location, you can also get tips about other points of interest in the neighbourhood. There are no fixed routes – instead, you can explore sections of the city at your own pace, based on your interests.
Grab your smartphone and get to know Noord
The signs are now posted and ready for visitors throughout Amsterdam Noord (North). For years, this district on the other side of the IJ has been one of the city’s best-kept secrets. It originally served as a hub for shipping and industry, but this quieter residential area of the city is slowly becoming a hotspot. The former shipyard is a breeding ground for artists and a creative companies, and the Tolhuis and brand new Eye Film Institute are bringing a touch of culture and fun to the North shore. Hop on the free ferry behind Central Station and start exploring a truly different side of the city!
The tiles will be placed in the other districts in the coming months. The “Explore a different Amsterdam” project was created in partnership with the City of Amsterdam Economic Affairs, the Amsterdam Bureau of Monuments & Archeology, the City Archive and the Amsterdam Tourism & Convention Board.
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