What to see and do in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a small but impressive city. Its lovely canals, world famous museums and rich historical heritage have transformed it into one of the most romantic places in Europe. Full of colour, cheer and life, Amsterdam is the ideal city for enjoying with your family and in a group of friends. So, now you know. Rent a bike to get around this authentic Dutch city and discover the most iconic places there. Here are some of the city highlights and some ideas if you have never been to Amsterdam before.
RIJKMUSEUM – The museums are one of the major tourist attractions in Amsterdam and the National Museum of Amsterdam is considered one of the best art museums in the world. Amongst the 7,500 pieces making up its rich collection, the Dutch golden age paintings feature with famous works such as “Night Watch” by Rembrandt and “The Milkmaid” by Johannes Vermeer. They are currently carrying out remodelling works on the Rijkmuseum. It is expected to be finished in 2013 but visitors can currently go and see the top pieces in the museum. Where:Museumplein. Jan Luijkenstraat 1. When: Everyday from 9am to 6pm. Price: Adults 14 euro, under 18s free.
VAN GOGH MUSEUM – The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam houses the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh’s works. Here you will be able to come up close to famous paintings such as “Sunflowers” and “The Room”, amongst many other oil paintings, watercolours, personal items and letters that he wrote to his brother Theo. Where: Museumplein (Paulus Potterstraat 7). When: Everyday from 10am to 6pm. Fridays up until 10pm. Price: Adults 14 euro, under 18s free.
RED LIGHT DISTRICT – Right in the heart of the historic district is the Amsterdam Red Light District, a pretty neighbourhood that is very popular amongst tourists. It is most famous for its red light window shops and the prostitutes that offer their legal and regulated services. However, it is also usually a very lively area with numerous sex shops, bars and restaurants. Where: Between Dam Square, Damrak Street and Nieuwmarkt. Square.
BLOEMENMARKT (Flower Market) – One of the most fragrant places in Amsterdam where you will be able to find all kinds of tulips, daffodils and other flowers. This is the perfect place for buying bulbs and seeds that you can take home with you as a souvenir to plant at home or give as a gift. The unique thing about this market is that it is the world’s only floating market built on the city canal belt. Some impressive views are on offer and visitors can enjoy the colours and aroma of the typical tulips. Where: Singel t.o. 508. Reguliersdawarsstraat. When: From Monday to Saturday 9am to 5:30pm, and Sunday from 11am to 5:30pm. Price: Free.
THE HOUSE OF ANNE FRANK – The Anne Frank Huis comprises the house museum which Anne Frank hid in for more than two years during the Second World War. All the things that she wrote about in her famous diary happened here. In addition to the historical places related to Anne Frank, the museum hosts exhibitions. A definite stop off for those who read her diary. Where: Prinsengracht, 263-267. When: Everyday from 9am to 7pm. In summer they extend opening hours to 10am. Price: Adults 9 euro, 10 to 17 year olds and young person’s cardholders 4,50 euro, under 10s free.
These are only some suggestions to help you start discovering Amsterdam. Other must-sees in this beautiful city include Dam Square, Vondelpark, Ámsterdam Arena and Ajax Stadium. The truth is that there are so many things to see and do in Amsterdam. Get ready to enjoy one of the prettiest cities in Europe!
