Amsterdam is a fascinating and dynamic city that attracts millions of visitors each year. With its picturesque canals, world-renowned museums, coffee shops, lively neighborhoods, and colorful markets, the capital of the Netherlands has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore the best things to see and do in Amsterdam, as well as the must-see excursions from the city.
1. Take a canal cruise in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is nicknamed the "Venice of the North" because of its many canals, which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A canal cruise is a must-do way to discover the city. Boats depart from different points in the city, and you can choose between a guided tour or a self-guided cruise. Most excursions last about an hour and offer breathtaking views of Amsterdam's beautiful buildings and bridges.
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2. Must-see museums in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is known for its many world-class museums, which attract visitors from around the globe. Here are some of the must-see museums:
- Rijksmuseum: This national museum is one of the world's most important art museums. It houses a collection of more than one million objects, including works of art and historical artifacts dating back to the Dutch Golden Age.
- Van Gogh Museum: This museum is dedicated to the artist Vincent van Gogh, who spent a large part of his life in Amsterdam. The museum houses the world's largest collection of Van Gogh's works, with over 200 paintings and 500 drawings.
- National Maritime Museum Amsterdam: This museum is dedicated to the maritime history of the Netherlands, from the Dutch Golden Age to the present day. It houses ship models, paintings, maps, and navigation instruments.
- Moco Museum: This contemporary art museum is located in a beautiful 19th-century villa. It features works by artists such as Banksy, Warhol, Basquiat, and Haring.
- Heineken Experience: This museum is dedicated to the famous Dutch beer Heineken. Visitors can learn about the brewery's history, visit a brewing room, and taste beer.
- NEMO Science Museum: This interactive museum is intended for both children and adults. It covers various scientific subjects, such as energy, light, water, and sound.
- Anne Frank House: This is one of Amsterdam's most moving museums. The house where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II is now a museum that tells the story of the Frank family and the persecution of Jews during the war.
- Amsterdam Museum: This museum tells the history of the city, from its beginnings to the present day.
3. Explore Amsterdam's red-light district
Amsterdam's red-light district, also known as De Wallen, is a famous neighborhood with a vibrant nightlife. Here, you'll find numerous bars, restaurants, and coffee shops, as well as the infamous red-lit windows. Although it's a popular tourist destination, it's important to respect the workers in this industry and follow local laws.
4. Discover Amsterdam's coffee shops
In Amsterdam, coffee shops are not just for coffee – they're also known for selling marijuana products. While cannabis is technically illegal in the Netherlands, it's tolerated in certain quantities and in designated areas. If you're interested in experiencing this aspect of Dutch culture, be sure to do so responsibly and follow local laws.
5. Take a nap in Vondelpark
Vondelpark is Amsterdam's largest and most famous park. It's a great place to relax, have a picnic, or even take a nap. There are also many sculptures and monuments throughout the park, as well as several cafes and restaurants.
6. Rent a Bike
Biking is one of the most popular modes of transportation in Amsterdam, and visitors can easily rent a bike for a day or longer. The city has an extensive network of bike paths and many of the major attractions are within easy cycling distance. It is important to note that biking in Amsterdam can be busy and chaotic, so visitors should be confident on a bike and aware of traffic rules.
7. Visit the Begijnhof Convent
The Begijnhof Convent is a hidden gem in the heart of Amsterdam. This secluded courtyard is home to several historic buildings, including Amsterdam's oldest wooden house. Visitors can also find a small chapel and a beautiful garden in the center of the courtyard.
8. Climb the A'DAM Lookout
The A'DAM Lookout is a must-visit attraction for anyone looking for a stunning view of Amsterdam. This observation deck is located on top of the A'DAM Tower and offers 360-degree views of the city. Visitors can also take a ride on the "Over the Edge" swing, which dangles over the edge of the tower at a height of almost 100 meters.
9. Walk Through the Albert Cuypmarkt
The Albert Cuypmarkt is Amsterdam's largest outdoor market and is a great place to experience the city's lively atmosphere. Visitors can find a variety of goods for sale, including clothing, jewelry, and food. The market is also home to several cafes and restaurants, making it the perfect place to grab a bite to eat.
10. The Royal Palace of Amsterdam (Paleis op de Dam)
The Royal Palace of Amsterdam is located in the city center and is open to visitors. This magnificent building was originally built as a town hall in the 17th century and was later converted into a palace. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace's interior and admire its impressive architecture and artwork.
Excursions from Amsterdam
11. Explore the Keukenhof Spring Park
The Keukenhof Spring Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Amsterdam in the spring. This beautiful park is home to millions of tulips, daffodils, and other flowers, and is only open from late March to mid-May.
12. Seeing the windmills at Zaanse Schans
Located just 20 minutes from Amsterdam, Zaanse Schans is a picturesque village that takes visitors back in time to the Dutch Golden Age. It is home to a collection of well-preserved historic windmills, which were used for various purposes such as grinding spices, producing paint, and sawing wood. Visitors can take a tour of the windmills and see how they work, as well as explore the village's museums and traditional Dutch houses.
How to get to Amsterdam?
Amsterdam is easily accessible by plane, train, and car. The city has one major airport, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, which is located about 20 minutes from the city center by train. The airport is served by numerous airlines, and there are direct flights from many major cities around the world.
The city is also well connected by train, with direct trains from major European cities such as Paris, Brussels, and Berlin. Amsterdam's central train station is located in the heart of the city, making it easy to get around.
If you prefer to travel by car, Amsterdam is well connected to the rest of the Netherlands and Europe by a network of highways. However, driving in the city center can be challenging due to traffic and limited parking.
Where to stay in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels and everything in between, there is something for everyone.
If you want to stay in the heart of the city, the neighborhoods of Jordaan, De Pijp, and Old Center are popular choices. These areas are close to many of the city's main attractions and have a lively atmosphere.
If you prefer a quieter location, the neighborhoods of Oud-Zuid, De Plantage, and Oud-West are good options. These areas are still within easy reach of the city center but offer a more relaxed atmosphere.
How to get around Amsterdam?
Amsterdam is a compact city that is easy to explore on foot, by bike, or by public transport. The city has an extensive network of trams, buses, and metro lines that run throughout the city and surrounding areas.
The easiest way to get around is by bike, which is a popular mode of transportation in Amsterdam. There are numerous bike rental shops throughout the city, and cycling is a great way to explore the city's many parks and attractions.
Conclusion
Amsterdam is a fascinating and dynamic city that offers something for everyone. Whether you want to explore the city's museums, cruise its canals, or simply soak up the atmosphere, Amsterdam is a destination that should not be missed. With so many things to see and do, it's no wonder that Amsterdam is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.
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