Description
Amsterdam is a captivating destination with its charming canals, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture. This guide outlines the must-see attractions and off-the-beaten-path experiences to help you make the most of your first visit to Holland’s capital.
1. Cruise the Canal Ring
Explore Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed canal network through hop-on-hop-off boat tours, gliding past historic Dutch houses and famous bridges like Skinny Bridge. Many canal cruises offer drinks and food, making it a unique way to discover the city.
2. Enjoy Fine Art
Visit the Van Gogh Museum to see the world’s largest collection of works by Vincent Van Gogh. The Rijksmuseum, another must-see, houses over 8,000 art pieces, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Hals, and Vermeer. Art history tours provide deeper insights into these collections.
3. Cycle Around Amsterdam
Amsterdam is Europe’s bike capital, with extensive bike lanes and scenic spots like Vondelpark and The Nine Streets. Renting a bike or joining a guided tour offers a stress-free way to see the city.
4. Discover Amsterdam-Noord
Once an industrial zone, Amsterdam-Noord is now a trendy district with art galleries, skateparks, and the iconic A’dam Lookout swing. It’s a lesser-known gem for tourists seeking creative spaces.
5. Visit Flower Markets
Amsterdam’s love for tulips is showcased at the Bloemenmarkt, the only floating flower market in the world. The Amsterdam Tulip Museum and Keukenhof Gardens, especially during spring, offer more floral beauty.
6. Explore Dutch Heritage
Head outside the city to Zaanse Schans for a glimpse of traditional Dutch life. This open-air museum features windmills, clog-making demonstrations, and spring tulip fields. Nearby Edam and Volendam provide more cultural experiences, including cheese tasting.
7. Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is a poignant reminder of Amsterdam’s World War II history. The museum gives visitors insight into the life of Anne Frank and her family, who hid from the Nazis during the Holocaust.
8. Try Dutch Delicacies
Amsterdam offers a rich food scene, from stroopwafels to Gouda cheese. Food tours are an excellent way to sample Dutch dishes like bitterballen and explore Amsterdam’s Indonesian culinary influence.
9. Experience Amsterdam’s Nightlife
The Red Light District is famous for more than its sex work culture—it also offers vibrant nightlife, with bars, restaurants, and museums. Evening walking tours reveal its lively atmosphere under neon lights.
10. Explore Beyond Amsterdam
Other Dutch cities like Rotterdam, The Hague, and Delft are easily accessible via train. Highlights include Rotterdam’s Cube Houses, the Royal Delft workshop, and The Hague’s Peace Palace.