If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam any time soon then you’re in for a unique experience. Simply walking through the streets, along the canals or sitting in one of the cafes is enough for some people.
However, for those who want something a little more exciting, there are some places in Amsterdam that you just can’t miss out on. The following are a few attractions and places that you should check out on your next visit to Amsterdam.
1. Take A Canal Tour
A major feature of the city is its beautiful canals. The canals themselves were declared a world heritage site in 2010 by UNESCO. While they’re the perfect picturesque attraction, they also served as transportation and defense to Dutch citizens in the 17th century.
You should take the opportunity to jump on one of the many waterborne tours available during your visit. These tours allow you to take a look back in time as you travel past some the city’s monumental architecture that lines the Canal Belt. Whether you charter a private boat or choose one of the many canal cruises available, you’re sure to have a wonderful time.
2. Explore Dutch Art
Amsterdam is filled with museums dedicated to preserving the art of some of the most famous artists around. The city has housed and promoted the fine arts for centuries. Perhaps the most famous of these structures is the Rembrandt. Rembrandt is a household name for the Netherlands and the museum is a restoration of the artist’s house. His classic De Nachtwacht can be found at the Rijksmuseum along with thousands of other masterworks from all throughout Dutch history.
The classics aren’t the only thing an art-lover can find in Amsterdam. They are also home to some well-known modern art pieces as well. The Van Gogh Museum serves as a tribute to the post-impressionist artist. The Stedelijk Museum is another spot for modern art enthusiasts with the likes of Yves Klein, Henri Matisse, and Piet Mondrian gracing their walls.
3. Stop and Smell the Flowers
The Netherlands are famous for their tulips. They’re the pride of the country and it’s evident if you visit Keukenhof. The flower park in Lisse takes about 35 to 40 minutes to get to from Amsterdam, but it’s well worth the trip. You can get their by bus or through the use an affordable car hire, like those on https://www.carrentals.co.uk/ and others like it. You’ll get to visit the outdoor wonderland, featuring rows upon rows of different colored tulips.
If you’re worried about missing tulip season, have no fear. Amsterdam is home to the Amsterdam Tulip Museum that has exhibits dedicated to showing off its manifold breeds. Here you can also learn the cultural history of the flower up until the present. Don’t forget to stop by the flower market and pick up your own specially packed tulips.
4. Explore De Wallen
De Wallen is famously known as being Amsterdam’s red-light district, but this area is so much more to offer than what the name denotes. The windows with the infamous red lights are often connected to the monumental architecture and historic townhouses. Within these streets, you can find the Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder (Our Lord in the Attic), the Oude Kerk (Old Church), and a number of fine dining options.
5. Hop on a Bicycle
Cycling is a huge part of Amsterdam’s culture. More than half of the locals in the area get around during their days via bikes. When it comes to getting around while you’re visiting, why not try doing as the Dutch do and ride a bicycle?
You can find several options for bikes all over the city. Blend in with locals by getting an omafietsen, or comfortably get around by riding one of the more conspicuous models from a rental company. You can find your way around town by using one of the specialized maps that they offer.
The Bottom Line
If you’re planning on traveling any time soon, Amsterdam should be on the top of your list of cities to consider. The vibrant life combined with a culture steeped in tradition makes it a destination you’ll remember for the rest of your life.
