If you’re looking for a vibrant and diverse city to visit in Europe, Amsterdam might be the perfect destination for you. Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands, and it has a rich history, a stunning architecture, and a lively culture. In this blog post, I’ll share with you some of the best things to do and see in Amsterdam, based on my own experience as a traveler and a resident.
Amsterdam is famous for its canals, which form a network of waterways around the city. The canals were built in the 17th century, when Amsterdam was one of the most powerful and prosperous cities in the world. Today, you can enjoy the beauty of the canals by taking a boat tour, walking along the bridges, or renting a bike and cycling around. You’ll see many charming houses, shops, cafes, and museums along the way.
One of the most popular areas to explore in Amsterdam is the Old Centre, where you’ll find some of the most iconic landmarks of the city. Here, you can visit Dam Square, the heart of Amsterdam, where you’ll see the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and the Nieuwe Kerk. You can also stroll through the Red Light District, one of the oldest and most controversial parts of Amsterdam, where you’ll find sex shops, brothels, and museums dedicated to erotica. If you’re interested in learning more about the history and culture of this area, you can visit Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder, a hidden church that was built in the attic of a canal house during the time when Catholics were persecuted.
Another must-see attraction in Amsterdam is the Anne Frank House, where you can learn about the life and diary of Anne Frank, a Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis with her family in a secret annex behind a bookcase. You can see the original rooms where Anne and her family lived, as well as some of her personal belongings and writings. The museum is very popular, so make sure to book your tickets online in advance.
If you’re a fan of art and culture, you’ll love Amsterdam’s Museum District, where you’ll find some of the most prestigious museums in the world. You can admire masterpieces by Dutch artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh at the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. You can also explore modern art at the Stedelijk Museum or visit the Diamond Museum to learn about Amsterdam’s role in the diamond trade. Don’t forget to take a photo with the famous I AMSTERDAM sign at Museumplein, a large square that hosts many events and festivals throughout the year.
For a relaxing break from the city hustle, you can head to Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s largest and most popular park. Here, you can enjoy nature, have a picnic, play sports, or watch street performers. You can also visit some of the attractions within the park, such as the rose garden, the open-air theater, or the Filmmuseum.
If you want to experience Amsterdam’s nightlife, you have plenty of options to choose from. You can go to De Pijp, a trendy neighborhood with many bars, restaurants, and clubs. You can also check out NDSM Wharf, a former shipyard that has been transformed into a creative hub with street art, music venues, and festivals. Or you can try some local beers at Brouwerij ‘t IJ, a brewery located next to a windmill.
These are just some of the highlights of Amsterdam, but there’s so much more to discover in this amazing city. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, or fun, Amsterdam has something for everyone. I hope this blog post has inspired you to plan your trip to Amsterdam soon!