
Built in the 17th-century, this wooden church can be found on the Amstelveld, one of the prettiest squares in Amsterdam. It was designed by Daniel Stalpaert, the renowned Dutch architect who helped create the Royal Palace, several city gates and 's Lands Zeemagazijn, the current home of the Scheepvaartmuseum. From Napoleon to now: During the French occupation of the Netherlands, a certain pint-sized emperor allegedly housed his horses inside the church. The Amstelkerk has come a long way since then and now boasts a neo-Gothic interior and a monumental 19th-century organ. It currently hosts church services and chamber concerts. NeL, the adjacent restaurant, also offers visitors a shady terrace that’s a perfect spot to enjoy a meal or a cool drink on a warm afternoon.