Amsterdam is a city that has captured the hearts of many travelers from around the world. With its picturesque canals, world-renowned museums, and vibrant nightlife, it’s no surprise that Amsterdam attracts millions of tourists every year. In this post, we will discuss the top things to do in Amsterdam on your next holiday.
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Explore the canals
One of the most iconic things about Amsterdam is its beautiful canals. The city has a total of 165 canals, which cover a distance of over 100 kilometers. The canal system was built in the 17th century during the Dutch Golden Age. It was designed to facilitate trade and transport goods from the city center to the outskirts. Today, the canals are a UNESCO World Heritage site and are one of the top tourist attractions in the city. Exploring the canals by boat or on foot is a must-do activity in Amsterdam. You can take a canal cruise to learn about the city’s history and admire the beautiful architecture along the way.
Did you know?: The canals were once used as a form of transportation for residents, and many buildings have hooks on their rooftops to facilitate the moving of goods through the windows since stairs were narrow and steep.
Visit the Van Gogh Museum
Vincent van Gogh is one of the most famous Dutch artists in history. His works, including “The Starry Night” and “Sunflowers,” are among the most recognizable paintings in the world. The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam houses the largest collection of his works, including over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 700 letters. The museum also features works by Van Gogh’s contemporaries and those who were influenced by his style. Visiting the Van Gogh Museum is an unforgettable experience, as you’ll get a glimpse into the life and works of this remarkable artist.
Did you know?: Van Gogh only sold one painting during his lifetime, but his work has since become some of the most valuable in the world.
Visit the Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is one of the most visited museums in Amsterdam. It’s the former home of Anne Frank, a Jewish girl who hid with her family during World War II to avoid persecution by the Nazis. Anne wrote a diary during her time in hiding, which has since become a symbol of hope and resilience. The museum provides an opportunity to learn about Anne’s life, the events that led to her family going into hiding, and the experiences of those who were persecuted during the war.
Did you know?: Anne Frank’s father, Otto, was the only member of the family to survive the war. He returned to Amsterdam and found Anne’s diary, which he published in 1947.
Visit the Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is the largest and most prestigious museum in the Netherlands. It’s home to a vast collection of Dutch art, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other famous Dutch masters. The museum’s collection spans over 800 years of Dutch history and includes paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts. The Rijksmuseum is a must-visit for art lovers and anyone interested in Dutch history and culture.
Did you know?: The museum’s most famous painting, “The Night Watch” by Rembrandt, was once stolen from the museum in 1990. It was later recovered, and the thieves were apprehended.
Experience Amsterdam’s Nightlife
Amsterdam is famous for its vibrant nightlife, which attracts visitors from around the world. The city has a diverse range of bars, clubs, and music venues, catering to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed bar to enjoy a drink or a high-energy club to dance the night away, Amsterdam has it all.
Part of this is also to visit the Red Light District. The Red Light District is a famous area in Amsterdam that is known for its sex industry. The area is home to several brothels, sex shops, and peep shows. While the area may not be suitable for everyone, it is an iconic part of Amsterdam’s history and culture. The district has been in operation for centuries and has evolved over time to become what it is today.
Enjoy Dutch Food
When in Amsterdam, you cannot miss out on trying the Dutch cuisine. Some must-try foods include the stroopwafels, bitterballen, herring, poffertjes, and the famous Dutch cheese. These foods can be found in the local markets, cafes, and restaurants around the city. The Dutch also have a strong coffee culture, and there are many cafes that serve coffee with delicious pastries.
Cycle Around the City
The Netherlands is known for its cycling culture, and Amsterdam is no different. Cycling is one of the best ways to explore the city, and there are many rental shops available where you can rent a bike for the day. Cycling around the canals, parks, and streets of Amsterdam provides a unique perspective of the city and allows you to experience the city like a local.
In conclusion, Amsterdam is a city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. Exploring the canals, museums, and cuisine are just a few of the many things to do when you visit Amsterdam. Whether you are interested in history, art, or just want to enjoy the city’s vibe, Amsterdam has something for everyone.
If you have any questions, or want some help to plan your next holiday, feel free to contact me.
