Imagine this: you put on a VR headset and suddenly you’re standing in the middle of the Botermarkt, Amsterdam, in 1675. Street vendors are calling out their goods, merchants are hauling baskets, and the smell of fresh bread fills the air. You look up and see the façades as Rembrandt once saw them. This isn’t a dream, but the VR experience ‘De Botermarkt 1675’. In the Eggert Hall of De Nieuwe Kerk you experience Amsterdam from 350 years ago as if you were truly there. I tried it and I’d love to take you along on this special journey through time.
A unique journey through time in the heart of Amsterdam
The Botermarkt 1675 is a virtual reality experience that literally pulls you into the past. You’ll find it in the Eggert Hall of De Nieuwe Kerk, on Dam Square. The venue is easy to reach, right in the heart of Amsterdam. The Botermarkt was the former name of what we now know as Rembrandtplein. In 1675, it was a lively hub full of trade and daily life. Thanks to a collaboration between ENTR and De Nieuwe Kerk, you can now explore this place exactly as it looked 350 years ago.
The VR experience lasts around 15 minutes. You put on a VR headset and step into another world. It feels as if you’re truly walking among the people of Amsterdam back then. You hear the sounds of the market, see the colourful clothing, and discover what the city felt like in the Dutch Golden Age. Everything has been recreated in detail based on historical research, making it not only fun but also educational.
What makes this experience extra special is the location. The Eggert Hall is an atmospheric space within De Nieuwe Kerk, with tall windows and a serene feel. You’re not in an anonymous VR room, but in a monumental building that itself breathes centuries of history. It gives your visit an extra dimension.
What to expect from the VR experience
On arrival in the Eggert Hall you’ll be warmly welcomed by the ENTR team. They explain how the VR headset works and what to expect. The headsets are comfortable and easy to use—you don’t need to be tech-savvy. The experience is suitable for everyone aged 12 and over.
As soon as you put on the headset, you’re on the Botermarkt of 1675. You can look around 360 degrees. You’ll see the houses, the people, and even the cobblestones as they were then. Everything moves and feels alive. Street musicians play a tune, market women offer their cheeses, and children run across the square. You hear the sounds of horses’ hooves, market stalls, and chatter. It truly feels like stepping back in time.
What struck me most is the attention to detail. The façades are based on old drawings and paintings. People’s clothing is accurate down to the smallest button. Even the goods on the market are historically correct. You get a very realistic picture of daily life in the Golden Age. It’s not a static museum, but a vibrant experience you walk through yourself.
Why this VR experience stands out
Amsterdam has many museums and historic sites, but De Botermarkt 1675 really sets itself apart. You’re not just looking at old paintings or models—you experience the past first-hand. That makes it accessible and exciting, even if you don’t usually enjoy history. You don’t need any prior knowledge; everything becomes clear simply by looking and listening.
The creators worked with historians and experts from De Nieuwe Kerk, ensuring the story holds up and the visuals are trustworthy. You don’t just learn about the buildings, but also about everyday life. How did people earn a living? What did they eat? What did their day look like? You’ll find answers to questions you may never have considered.
For me, it was an eye-opener to see how busy and lively Rembrandtplein once was. Today it’s full of terraces and nightlife, but in 1675 it was a true marketplace. Through the VR headset, you see the city with fresh eyes. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
Practical information and tips for your visit
The VR experience De Botermarkt 1675 is hosted in the Eggert Hall of De Nieuwe Kerk. The entrance is on Dam Square, close to the Royal Palace. The location is well served by public transport. From Amsterdam Central Station it’s less than a ten-minute walk, and several trams stop at Dam Square.
Tickets for De Botermarkt 1675 are temporarily available at a special launch price of €7.50. This is an introductory offer, so be quick. You can easily reserve tickets online via the websites of De Nieuwe Kerk or ENTR. The experience is suitable for visitors aged 12 and over. There are no complicated instructions; the team will help you get started.
The VR experience lasts about a quarter of an hour. Do keep in mind you may wait a short while before it’s your turn. The Eggert Hall is spacious and atmospheric, so that’s no hardship. Afterwards, you can chat about your experience or explore the rest of De Nieuwe Kerk. For example, combine your visit with the permanent exhibition or a stroll across Dam Square.
Three tips to make the most of your visit
- Book your ticket in advance: The launch price is temporary and daily capacity is limited. Reserve online to avoid disappointment.
- Combine with a city walk: After the VR experience, visit Rembrandtplein and compare it with the past. Wander the streets and try to recognise the old façades.
- Take your time in De Nieuwe Kerk: The church itself is worth a visit. Admire the impressive architecture and the rotating exhibitions. It makes for a complete day out.
The atmosphere and surroundings: more than just VR
What makes De Botermarkt 1675 especially enjoyable is the blend of modern technology and historical ambience. The Eggert Hall is a special space, with high ceilings and stained-glass windows. You can feel the history while you wait your turn. The staff are enthusiastic and happy to share more background about the experience.
Outside, you step straight onto Dam Square, the beating heart of Amsterdam. After your visit, enjoy the city buzz, grab a drink on a terrace, or take a loop past the Palace and the National Monument. Rembrandtplein is within walking distance, so you can also see the old Botermarkt in real life. It’s striking to notice how much the city has changed—and how much is still recognisable.
The area offers plenty of ways to complete your day. Consider the Amsterdam Museum, the Kalverstraat, or the canals. Everything is within walking distance of De Nieuwe Kerk. It’s easy to turn your visit to De Botermarkt 1675 into an inspiring day in the city.
Who is De Botermarkt 1675 for?
The VR experience is intended for everyone aged 12 and over. It’s highly recommended for Amsterdammers who want to see their city in a new way, and for visitors keen to get a feel for Amsterdam’s past. You don’t need to be a history buff to enjoy it—the images and sounds speak for themselves.
The experience is low-threshold and not too long, making it perfect if you’re short on time. You can combine it with other nearby attractions. For families with older children, it’s a fun and educational activity. It’s also an original idea if you’re out with friends or colleagues.
Please note: VR headsets are not suitable for young children or people with certain medical conditions. If you’re unsure, ask the ENTR team for advice—they’ll be happy to help.
Why you shouldn’t miss this journey through time
De Botermarkt 1675 in VR is one of Amsterdam’s most surprising outings right now. You literally step into the past and discover the city as you’ve never seen it. The mix of history, technology, and atmosphere makes it unique. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, this time-travel experience will stay with you.
With the temporary launch price of €7.50, it’s also a very affordable outing. You get real value for money and you’ll learn something along the way. My advice: seize the moment while you can. Reserve your ticket, head out, and let yourself be surprised by Amsterdam in 1675. You’ll be amazed how close the past can feel.