Amsterdam – a city shaped by canals and punctuated by hundreds of arched bridges. The historic canals stretch out in a concentric semi-circled pattern bordered by rows of slender gabled houses with colorful facades. The interwoven bridges are decked with bright-colored flowers that makes it attractive not only during the day but most especially at night when it is illuminated. The lights outlining these centuries-old bridges set the romantic mood of Amsterdam. Bicycles parked along the canals and bridges create a distinct character to the place aside from the thousands of bikes found in swarms in the streets. The city actually boasts an extensive network of bike lanes or bike paths making it as one of the top bicycle-friendly cities in the world.
Yet, Amsterdam is more than the canals and bridges and its horde of cyclists. It is about its rich culture of art and the notable buildings that witness the city’s triumph and defeat. It is about its pragmatic tolerance on prostitution and soft drugs legally sold in so-called “coffee shops.” It is about the heavenly taste of pancakes and delicious servings of raw herring. And most importantly, the lively yet serene city of Amsterdam is packed with exciting things to do that would make you want to stay longer. The list could be infinite but here are the top 10 things that would make your visit to Amsterdam unforgettable:
1. Explore the city on foot
Amsterdam is a compact city that you can easily get around by walking but always keep an eye out for the bikers. Simply mind the bike lanes and you will be safe from being hit. Meandering the cobbled streets of the city on foot is the best way to immerse on the tiny details and experience the sceneries at its best. You would not worry about the sun at mid-day because the canals are lined with trees and when you need rest, the benches are everywhere. It is always a good idea to sit by the canal and enjoy the gorgeous vibe of the city.
2. Cruise along the Historic Canals
Like Venice, Amsterdam is famous for its canals where your visit is incomplete without hopping a boat and see the city from another perspective. Whatever canal cruise option you choose, from hop-on-hop-off boat tours to a romantic candlelight dinner, you would surely love the experience. Learning about the city’s sights and attractions while floating along the canals is a perfect way to spend few hours of your stay in Amsterdam.
3. Rent a Bicycle
If you want to see more of Amsterdam in a day, renting a bike is a great choice especially if you love adventure. You could join bicycle guided-tours to maximize the time, create your own trail depending on your interest, or just get lost and pedal wherever it will take you. Exploring the city on two wheels is an enjoyable experience and would let you get around like a local.
4. Visit Museum Square
Amsterdam is a paradise for lovers of art and museums. The paintings of Dutch masters namely, Rembrandt, Van Gogh and Vermeer are displayed in Rijksmuseum. It houses a vast collection of Netherlands’ historic art including sculptures and artifacts that dates back hundreds of years. Van Gogh museum is dedicated solely for the masterpieces of the famous Dutch impressionist, Vincent Van Gogh, where visitors could clearly visualize how his artworks transformed thru time. In Stedelijk museum, the best of the country’s modern and contemporary art are showcased. These three major museums of Amsterdam are found within the compounds of the Museum Square (Museumplein).
5. Discover the Red Light District
A curious visitor of Amsterdam always finds time to catch sight of the women behind the large glass windows brightly illuminated with red neon lights in the city’s popular attraction – the Red Light District. Be aware that it is not permitted to take pictures and videos of the women inside the windows. It is totally safe to walk along the streets of the Red Light District so do not hesitate to experience its friendly atmosphere and be a witness to Amsterdam’s open-minded attitude.
6. Make your way to the Dam Square
A 10-minute walk from the Central station is Amsterdam’s historical center which is the venue for many events and celebrations over the years. The Royal Palace is the prominent building in the square with its elegant architecture originally built as a town hall and now used to hold official ceremonies. Today, the palace is open to the public so you will have the opportunity to admire its interior and learn about the country’s history.
Standing next to the Royal Palace is the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) designed in an early Renaissance style. It is the site for inaugurations and royal weddings and at times art exhibitions. Find time to get inside and marvel at the church’s stained glass windows.
In visiting the Dam Square, you will not miss the white column just in front of the Royal Palace. It is the National Monument constructed to commemorate the victims of World War II. Every day both tourists and locals flock around the pillar to relax and to get entertained by the scenery. If you have plenty of time, you could step in the world’s famous wax museum – Madame Tussauds. It is one of the highlights in Dam Square where you could enjoy the wax figures of popular personalities.
7. Learn history thru the stories of Anne Frank
Capture the life of Anne Frank during the World War II in her house at Prinsengracht 263 where she and her family spent over two years in hiding. Witness how they concealed themselves behind a moveable bookcase in the annex of the building until their hiding place was revealed. Anne Frank’s house illustrates the series of events that took place during the war through the excerpts from her diaries, photographs, and documents.
8. Relax and Enjoy in one of the many Parks of Amsterdam
The city has several green spaces where you could spend your time to contemplate and enjoy the view. Vondelpark is the crowd’s favorite where you could find plenty of jogging paths for runners. But others just enjoy the grass and have some picnics with families and friends. During summer, different types of concerts are held at the open-air theater for free. Westerpark is another extensive green space with restaurants and bars. It is a good place for barbeque picnics and a delight for children who love fountains.
There is a wide selection of nature parks within Amsterdam and if you have limited time just choose either what is convenient on your location or whichever interests you. Aside from the two popular parks mentioned, there are still plenty in the list, such as Amstelpark, Flevopark, Oosterpark and Beatrixpark, to name a few.
9. Stroll along the stretch of Albert Cuyp Market
It is a must for first-time visitors to experience the bustling street market in Amsterdam. Albert Cuyp Market is the largest open-air market in Europe with more than 260 stalls selling a variety of items from clothing and fashion jewelries to fresh fruits and vegetables and freshly-prepared food. You might get overwhelmed with the things you see and be confused on what to buy, but don’t leave without tasting the sweetness of stroopwafels.
10. Party at Rembrandtplein or Leidseplein
Partygoers never run out of choices in Amsterdam. When it comes to nightlife and live entertainment, the city has great selections. Dance the night away in one of the many clubs and bars in Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein. You will surely find your kind of music in one of these nightlife hubs and enjoy a great night out.
Amazing photos!
Wow thanka for sharing