Amsterdam: A’DAM Lookout with Revolving Restaurant Moon

If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam and looking for a unique way to see the city, the A’DAM Lookout combined with a meal at the revolving restaurant Moon is worth considering. This experience offers more than just a panoramic view; it provides a taste of the city’s iconic canals, vibrant neighborhoods, and modern attractions—all from a vantage point that’s hard to beat.

What really draws us to this experience are two aspects: first, the unrivaled perspective on Amsterdam’s layout from the observation deck, and second, the chance to indulge in fine dining while soaking in the skyline. However, a possible drawback might be the small portion sizes at the restaurant, which some visitors mentioned, especially if you’re expecting hearty meals.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love seeing cities from above, enjoy great views, and are keen to combine sightseeing with a touch of luxury. It’s also an excellent option if you’re into quick thrills or virtual reality rides—adding an extra layer of fun to your day.

Key Points

• Panoramic city views from the observation deck are spectacular.
• The revolving restaurant Moon offers an elegant dining experience on the 19th floor.
• The experience includes a free audio tour about Amsterdam’s history and culture.
• Optional thrills like the ‘Over The Edge’ swing and VR rollercoaster are available for adrenaline junkies.
• The ticket price includes a €20 deposit for lunch or dinner, which is deducted from your final bill.
• The experience is accessible and suitable for small groups, limited to 4 participants, making it intimate and personalized.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect at A’DAM Lookout

The moment you arrive at the A’DAM Tower, located in Amsterdam North along the IJ River, you’re greeted with a modern, eye-catching building right next to the EYE Film Museum and opposite Amsterdam Central Station. The main attraction here is the observation deck, perched 100 meters above the city, offering panoramic views that are truly impressive.

From the deck, you can see the UNESCO-listed canals, the historic city center, and the lively port area. It’s like having a bird’s-eye view of the city that’s both comprehensive and intimate. Many visitors have shared that the view was good enough to see all the way to Rotterdam on clear days, which really highlights just how expansive the vistas are.

The observation area features a state-of-the-art interactive exhibition and a free audio tour that provides background on Amsterdam’s history and culture. This makes the experience not just about the view but also about understanding the story of the city beneath your feet.

Dining at Restaurant Moon

The highlight for many visitors is the chance to dine at Restaurant Moon, located on the 19th floor of the tower. Your ticket includes a €20 prepayment, which goes towards your meal—either an a la carte menu or a 4-course meal for lunch, or a fixed 4-course dinner menu priced at €70 (excluding drinks).

The restaurant itself is a fine dining venue, with a sophisticated atmosphere and spectacular views that rotate slowly as you eat. The menu offers a variety of options — fish, meat, and vegetarian dishes — but some reviews note that the portions can be quite small. One guest mentioned, “the meals are tiny, think posh food,” which might be disappointing if you’re expecting large servings. Still, many find it perfect for a light, elegant meal with a view.

Lunch allows you to choose between the a la carte or the 4-course menu, giving some flexibility depending on your hunger and preferences. Dinner is a fixed menu offering a fine dining experience, which could be a special treat for a romantic or celebratory meal.

Extra Thrills and Experiences

While the observation deck and dining are the core experiences, the adventurous might be tempted by the ‘Over The Edge’ swing, which swings you 100 meters above the ground, offering an adrenaline rush with views of the city beneath you. It’s Europe’s highest swing, and reviews describe it as “scary but exhilarating.”

Plus, there’s the VR rollercoaster ride that takes you on a virtual journey through the city. Both options are not included in the ticket price and require separate tickets, but many reviews highlight these as fun add-ons if you’re craving more excitement.

Practical Details and Tips

Getting to the A’DAM Lookout is straightforward. You can take a free ferry from Amsterdam Central Station to the Buiksloterweg stop—it’s a short, scenic ride. If you prefer to drive, there’s a parking garage in the basement of the tower, costing around €1.15 per 20 minutes, which is reasonable considering the central location.

The entry ticket is valid for a specific time, so plan to arrive a little early to enjoy the exhibition and audio tour before heading up. The experience generally lasts around a couple of hours, depending on how much time you spend on the deck, dining, or trying out the rides.

Group size is limited (up to 4 participants), which makes the experience more personalized—perfect if you’re traveling with a small group or want a more intimate visit. The activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, adding flexibility to your planning.

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What Visitors Are Saying

Multiple reviews echo the sentiment that the views are the main draw. One reviewer called it “a must see,” mentioning the scary yet spectacular feeling of looking up at the tower and then standing at the top. Another appreciated the helpful staff and the value of the included lunch, saying it was “well beyond expectations.”

However, some noted the small portion sizes at the restaurant—especially for a fine dining meal. One person shared, “I had a tiny bit of beef brisket, and we had a small amount of chips and salad to share,” which is something to keep in mind if you’re really hungry.

The adventure rides received enthusiastic reviews. The ‘Over The Edge’ swing is described as “great fun,” and the VR rollercoaster offers a unique virtual experience that adds to the day’s excitement.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This tour is ideal for city lovers who want a comprehensive view of Amsterdam from above, coupled with a memorable meal. It’s perfect if you enjoy fine dining with a view and are open to adventure with the thrill rides.

While the experience is not specifically advertised as family-friendly, older children and teenagers who are comfortable with heights might find the swing especially fun. The small group setting makes it more suitable for travelers who prefer a less crowded, more personalized experience.

The Sum Up

Visiting A’DAM Lookout paired with a meal at Restaurant Moon offers a compelling blend of spectacular views, cultural insights, and fine dining. The experience is well-suited for those who appreciate cityscapes, modern attractions, or want a luxurious way to see Amsterdam. The inclusion of the audio tour and optional thrill rides adds a layer of engagement that can make your visit memorable.

While the portion sizes at the restaurant might not satisfy a large appetite, the overall value comes from the view and unique experience. The small group size and personalized touches help make it a more intimate, special outing.

If you’re after a picturesque, fun, and slightly upscale activity that showcases the best of Amsterdam’s skyline, this is a solid choice. Just be prepared for some small meals and consider booking the thrill rides if adventure is your thing.

FAQ

Is the A’DAM Lookout wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for all visitors to enjoy the views and attractions.

How do I get to the A’DAM Tower?
You can take a free ferry from Amsterdam Central Station to Buiksloterweg, which is very close to the tower. If driving, there is a parking garage in the basement.

What does the ticket include?
Your ticket grants entry to the lookout, a free audio tour, and a €20 deposit for lunch or dinner at Moon Restaurant, which is deducted from your final bill.

Can I choose my meal at the restaurant?
Yes, for lunch, you can opt for the a la carte or the 4-course menu. Dinner is served as a fixed 4-course menu.

What if I want to try the thrill rides?
The ‘Over The Edge’ swing and the VR rollercoaster are not included in the main ticket and require separate tickets.

Is there a time limit for the experience?
Your ticket is valid for a specific time slot, and you can enjoy the lookout, restaurant, and attractions at your scheduled time.

How long should I plan for the visit?
Expect around 2 hours, depending on whether you want to explore the exhibition, dine, and try out the rides.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-focused, older children comfortable with heights may enjoy the views and rides. Always consider safety and comfort levels.

What’s the best time to visit?
Clear days offer the best views, and the experience can be more enjoyable during daylight hours. Check the weather forecast before planning your visit.

This detailed look at A’DAM Lookout and Moon Restaurant hopes to help you decide whether it fits into your Amsterdam itinerary. It’s a mix of spectacular sights, fine dining, and some fun adventure—a memorable combination for many types of travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: