Amsterdam, Netherlands’ capital, is world known for its canals, typical narrow houses with charming facades, and vast artistic history. It is also known for its relaxed policy on marijuana use and famous Red Light District, lined up with brothels, sex shops and the Erotic Museum.
Quick facts about Amsterdam
- Name: Amsterdam
- Founded: 12th Century
- Population: 1.3 million
- Area: Land: 165.76 km2 (64.00 sq mi) Water: 53.56 km2 (20.68 sq mi)
- Known as: Venice of the North’
Amsterdam’s museums host masterpieces of Netherlands’ native old masters such as Van Gogh, Rembrandt and Vermeer, each representing unique style of Dutch painters. Numerous galleries are offering various art exhibitions, from historical art to modern and postmodern styles.
One of the main landmarks is Anne Frank House, where the Jewish teenage diarist hid during the WWII, until captured y Nazis.
And Amsterdam experience would not be complete without tulips in spring and bicycle ride throughout the year through narrow streets and across many bridges.
Main attractions in Amsterdam
There are plenty of attractions in Amsterdam, both inside the city and in immediate surroundings. We are listing here only few for now, more attractions are on the way!
Anne Frank House. Now a museum, it was a house where famous author of Diary of Anne Frank was hiding together with her family during WWII until Nazis captured them.
Rijksmuseum. A 19th century art museum, hosting European and Dutch Golden Age painting masterpieces. Van Gogh Museum. Naturally, this museum hosts world’s largest collection of van Gogh works, including paintings, drawings and letters.
Rembrandt House Museum. A historic house and art museum in Amsterdam dedicated to painter Rembrandt who lived and worked in the house between 1639 and 1656. NEMO Science Museum. This is a science centre in Amsterdam. It is located in the Oosterdokseiland neighbourhood in the Amsterdam-Centrum borough, situated between the Oosterdokseiland and the Kattenburg.
Dam Square. Large main square with Royal Palace, popular gathering place since 17th century. Vondelpark. Massive park with an open-air theater, playground and ponds.
Heineken Experience. For beer lovers – an interactive beer museum with guided tour to learn about this beer producer and enjoy some beer in the end.
The Royal Palace of Amsterdam is one of three palaces in the Netherlands which are at the disposal of the monarch by Act of Parliament. It is located on the west side of Dam Square in the center of Amsterdam, opposite the War Memorial and next to the Nieuwe Kerk.
The Oude Kerk is Amsterdam’s oldest building and latest art institute. The building was founded around year 1213 and consecrated in 1306 by the bishop of Utrecht with Saint Nicolas as its patron saint.
Top things to do in Amsterdam
Renting a bike and going for a ride (if weather is nice) is a must, you will experience real Amsterdam. There are plenty bike paths and city is completely bike friendly.
Visiting main attractions from the list above is also a must, that’s why we placed Heineken experience at the end, so you can go back to your hotel and relax after a beer (or a few) 🙂
Festivals and events in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is packed with festivals and events all year around. Here are some top recommendations.
Museum Night (first week of November), Arrival of Sinterklaas (Like Santa Claus, but Dutch version, November), Amsterdam Light Festival (December-January), Christmas markets and New Year’s Eve celebrations (December), National Tulip Day (January), King’s Day (April), Awakenings Easter Special (April), and many more.
Read more: Festivals and events in Amsterdam
Interesting facts about Amsterdam
Here are some interesting facts about this amazing city:
- Amsterdam has total of 165 canals.
- Amsterdam has over 1,500 bars and cafes.
- Approximately 20,000,000 tourists and day-trippers visit Amsterdam in a year.
Read more: More interesting facts about Amsterdam
Best time for flights to Amsterdam
The peak season for flights to Amsterdam is April, May and December. The low season for purchasing tickets is January, February and March.
Amsterdam is served by Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS). Direct flights to Amsterdam are offered by 60 airlines.
Top hotel offers in Amsterdam
These are current top hotel offers in Amsterdam. The list is updated automatically when page is refreshed.
Safe travels!
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