The Rembrandtplein is, just like the Leidseplein, a famous night life district for locals and tourists. Hang around, dance around or entertain yourself in one of the many bars and pubs around the square. If you like to stay in this area, check our hotelmap for available rooms on the Rembrandtplein or in the vicinity.
Rembrandtplein (Rembrandt Square) is named after the famous Dutch painter Rembrandt van Rijn. The Rembrandt House Museum, where he worked and lived, is just a few minutes' walk away from the square.
Song ♫ 'Onder de bomen van het plein'
Various songs has been written about the Rembrandtplein. Many of these songs has one thing in common. At least the text “Onder de bomen van ‘t plein, daar kun je zo gelukkig zijn” can be found repeatedly in several different Rembrandtplein related lyrics. This part is originally composed by Max Tak. Translated into English it means: “under the trees of the square, you can be so happy there”.
Please note that the music clip below is about the Rembrandtplein, but has been recorded elsewhere. It's recorded at the Johnny Jordaanplein, about 15 minutes walk from the square.
Cast iron Rembrandt monument
In the middle of the square you will find a cast iron Rembrandt statue. It’s the oldest existing statue in Amsterdam and is cast in one piece. The Rembrandt sculpture is from a naturalistic design by Louis Royer and is seen as one of his top pieces.
The statue was revealed by King Willem III and Prince Henry in 1852. Since 2002 it has been included in the national monument register because of its importance for 19th-century Dutch sculpture as well as its cultural and historical value as a reminder of one of the greatest painters of Dutch history.
Public transport
When travelling from Central Station, take tram line 4 to Station RAI or tram line 14 to Flevopark. Bus/tram stop Rembrandtplein is the 3rd stop from Central Station (intermediate stops: Dam, Rokin). Both tram lines takes you to the middle of the square. With an OV-chipcard the estimated costs are approximately €1,26.
History of the Rembrandtplein
In a period of a few hundred years, the function of the Rembrandtplein and surroundings has changed several times. The area originally served as one of the gateways to the city and therefore it was also part of the defensive system. This was only for a short period.
After the expansion of the city, it was no longer functioning as a gateway anymore and the area was becoming a meeting place where farmers could sell their products.
More than 200 years the area was called Botermarkt (butter market). It was in 1867 that the square received his current name “Rembrandtplein”. Nowadays the square is known because of the many catering and entertainment establishments at the square and in the vicinity.