Anne Frank is one of the world's most famous writers, and before her death in 1945 she left a legacy in literature and history that continues to move people around the world. Read on to learn more about her story and what you'll find at the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam — one of the most popular places to see in Amsterdam today.

Who was Anne Frank?

 

Anneliese Marie Frank, better known as Anne Frank, was born in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, in 1929. After the rise of Nazism, she moved with her family to the Netherlands, joining over 25,000 Jewish people who fled persecution under the regime.

When Germany invaded the Netherlands in 1940, restrictions were imposed on Jews: their belongings were confiscated, they couldn't use public transport, practice professions freely, or attend non-segregated schools.

Current appearance of the entrance to the house where the Frank family hid

 

Concerned about the gradual arrest of friends and their deportation, Otto Frank decided to hide with his family in a concealed house behind his office. In July 1942, Anne, her sister Margot, her mother Edith and her father moved into what Anne called the “Secret Annex” — a total of eight people in hiding for over two years.

If you want to learn more about Amsterdam's history during World War II, the Amsterdam historical tour with cheese tasting is a fascinating way to discover the city's past while enjoying its culinary traditions.

Anne Frank's Diary: A Painful Legacy

Statue of Anne Frank in Amsterdam

 

Anne received her famous diary on her 13th birthday, a month before going into hiding. Her entries detail the harsh daily life in the annex: arguments over scarce food, cramped quarters and rising tensions over the fear of being discovered. Anne revised and edited her diary, intending to publish it as a novel titled “The Secret Annex.”

The last entry was on August 1, 1944. Three days later, the Gestapo discovered their hiding place. Anne, her mother and her sister perished in concentration camps. Only Otto Frank survived the war and decided to publish his daughter’s diary. The Diary of Anne Frank was first published in 1947.

A great way to contextualise this history while exploring the city is a walking tour of Amsterdam with a specialist guide.

The Anne Frank House: A Must-Visit Museum in Amsterdam

The Anne Frank House, located by the Prinsengracht canal

 

The Frank family’s hiding place is located along Amsterdam’s canal belt and is one of the most popular museums in the Dutch capital, welcoming nearly one million visitors each year. Inside, you’ll see the 45-square-metre attic and the original diary on display behind glass.

You can walk from Amsterdam Central Station, or take tram lines 13 or 17 to “Westermarkt”. Address: Westermarkt 20, 1016 GV Amsterdam.

Hours

Open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
December 25 and 31: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Closed on October 5

Prices

Adults: €14  •  Youth (10–17): €7  •  Children (0–9): €1

 

If you want to explore the Jordaan neighbourhood and surroundings in the most complete way possible:

● Complete Amsterdam Tour — on foot, by bike and by canal boat, including a meal at a traditional restaurant.

● Amsterdam Bike Tour — the most local and fun way to explore the historic centre, passing through Jordaan, the Rijksmuseum and Vondelpark.

● Bike Tour with Canal Cruise — combines the best of cycling with a cruise along the famous canals.

 

There’s much more to explore beyond Amsterdam. Check out the best day trips from Amsterdam, including Volendam, Edam, Marken and Zaanse Schans, or the stunning Keukenhof Gardens in spring.