Amsterdam: A city of bikes and bridges
Book your visit to Amsterdam
Explore Amsterdam, a city of weaving canals and picturesque streets that is constantly buzzing with energy. Spend your days walking through its cobblestone alleys, where the scent of coffee and patat (chips) intertwine with the laughter of locals gathered at quaint corner cafés. The canals are like a living postcard, with boats lazily drifting by and cyclists pedalling alongside.
Art isn’t confined to galleries here, it spills onto the streets, making everywhere quirky and inviting. There is culture on every corner, with its plethora of museums and historic landmarks to discover. Explore the canals, savour its flavours and indulge in the upbeat rhythm of Amsterdam.
Things to do in Amsterdam
A mosaic of culture and history awaits in Amsterdam, starting with an exploration of the Museumplein. It’s home to three major museums, most notably the Van Gogh Museum which has the world’s largest collection of his masterpieces. Step into Rijksmuseum, where centuries of Dutch history unfold before your eyes, including Rembrandt’s works. Nearby is the Concertgebouw which offers one of the best classical concert experiences you can find globally.
Naturally, a visit to the Anne Frank House is a must – a place where echoes of the past resonate through its walls. Close by, Amsterdam’s golden age prestige is still present in the grand merchant houses that sit along the Herengracht canal.
Activities in Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s spirit is best felt on two wheels. Hop on a bike and join the locals on the extensive network of bike lanes across the city. Take your bike on one of the ferries across the IJ to Amsterdam-Noord where expansive green spaces and beautiful local neighbourhoods make for a relaxing day out.
Vondelpark also beckons with its lush greenery and lively atmosphere. During the summer months, the park transforms into an exciting location offering free live music, theatre and cabaret from June to August.
For a quintessential Dutch experience, glide along the canals on a leisurely cruise. If you’re visiting in winter, the canal in Prinsengracht usually freezes over – creating a magical ice-skating scene.
Food in Amsterdam
Leidseplein is a hub for gastronomical adventures, with bustling restaurants and street performers creating an incredible vibe. There are plenty of restaurants serving international favourites as well as local Dutch cuisine.
For Dutch street foods, head over to Dam Square. Grab some patat on the go – Dutch fries served in a paper cone. To enjoy traditional Dutch cuisine, try raw herring fish, typically served with diced onions and pickles.
Discover Foodhallen, an indoor food market. With over 20 pop-up restaurants under one roof, it’s a paradise for foodies. For a more avant-garde experience, make your way to Westergasfabriek. This converted industrial building is now a cultural hotspot with hip restaurants and fair-trade food stores.
Shopping in Amsterdam
Amsterdam has something for every kind of shopper, from unique produce and souvenir items, to the latest in fashion.
Explore the outdoor market of Albert Cuypstraat to find everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. Bloemenmarkt is stocked with a dazzling array of flowers and is the world’s only Floating Flower Market, located on the Singel canal.
For something unique, visit the Fashion for Good Museum where you can learn more about Amsterdam’s sustainable values and eco-friendly practices. You can even create your own sustainable t-shirt.
Browse De 9 Straatjes (The 9 Streets) to ensure your suitcases are filled with European fashion, souvenirs or anything your heart desires. Its cobbled lanes are lined with independent boutiques, vintage stores and cosy cafés.
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