21 Jul Amsterdam – Dutch Capital
Welcome to Amsterdam
For us, Amsterdam is a new culture, an exciting city, all unknown waiting to be explored. It is the capital of the Netherlands, known for its artistic heritage, culture, and liberal mentality.
During your Amsterdam travel, you will explore world-renowned museums, cosy cafes, vibrant nightlife, beautiful canals and gabled facades of narrow houses.
So if you’re thinking about how to use that extra free time now that your kids have flown the coop, the Amsterdam Netherlands trip will never disappoint!
Our visit to Amsterdam was indeed one-of-a-kind and unexpected, but the experience exceeded my expectations. In this Best guide to Amsterdam, we explored the narrow streets of the Jordaan district to Dam Square’s lively bars and cafes. We soaked up everything Amsterdam offers, not to mention how affordable it compares to other European destinations.
How To Get There
If you’re looking to fly straight into the Netherlands, the main airport you’ll want to use is Schiphol Airport (AMS). It’s located just outside of Amsterdam, and it’s one of the busiest airports in Europe. You can fly into Schiphol from anywhere in the world, so chances are good that there will be a flight for you.
Amsterdam is also well-connected by train. If you’re coming from another European city, taking the train can be a great option. It’s usually faster than flying (especially when you factor in security lines and travel time to and from the airport) and more scenic, too!
Taking the bus might be your best option if you’re on a budget. Flixbus and Eurolines both operate routes to Amsterdam from various cities in Europe. The bus is usually the slowest option, so I don’t recommend it if you’re short on time.
Driving to Amsterdam from another European country is also possible. However, you should note that parking can be challenging (and expensive) in the city. So, it might be worth renting a car unless you’re planning on driving out of Amsterdam.
Places Of Interest
Anne Frank House
Anne Frank House is a popular place to visit in Amsterdam. It’s a museum located in Amsterdam dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. It’s a small and unassuming house from the outside, but inside it’s crammed with photos, documents, and personal belongings that tell the tragic story of Anne Frank and her family. You can see Anne’s original diary, read extracts from it (in Dutch and English), see what life was like for Jewish people hiding in Amsterdam during the war, and learn about how Anne’s story has inspired people worldwide. It’s an emotional place but always worth visiting.
Van Gogh Museum
A visit to Van Gogh Museum is also a must. It houses the world’s most extensive collection of artworks by Vincent van Gogh, including his famous paintings “Sunflower” and “The Night Café”. There’s also a cafe to eat or drink and a shop selling Van Gogh-themed merchandise in the museum.
A'dam Lookout
Head to A’dam Lookout if you’re looking for a panoramic view of the cityscape. You can stay at the outdoor terrace or watch the breathtaking views indoors from their floor-to-ceiling windows. There’s a revolving restaurant and bar up there, so you can enjoy a bite or drink while taking in the stunning scenery.
De Wallen
De Wallen is the medieval city center surrounded by the neon-lit red-light district and is the oldest part of Amsterdam.
Canal Cruises
Amsterdam Canal Cruises is also one of the best ways to experience the city of Amsterdam. A typical canal cruise lasts an hour, but more extended options are available. During the canal cruise, the boat captain or guide gives commentary and insights into the history and architecture of the city. Many boats also have glass roofs, making them ideal for sightseeing on sunny days.
De Zaanse Schans
Another highly recommended place to visit in Amsterdam is the Zaanse Schans. It’s a neighbourhood in the town of Zaandam, which is known for its traditional windmills and cheese farms. Many traditional historic windmills and distinctive green wooden houses were relocated here to recreate the look of an 18th/19th-century village.
Where To Stay
Hotel Okura Amsterdam
Hotel Okura is a 5-star hotel in Amsterdam that features luxurious rooms and suites, a world-class spa, a fitness centre, and on-site dining. It’s just a few minute’s walks from Dam Square, the Royal Palace, and the Anne Frank House. Guests and critics have praised the hotel for its timeless elegance and excellent service, which I can also testify on.
Corendon City Hotel Amsterdam
Corendon City Hotel is a 4-star in Amsterdam that offers guests a range of facilities and services, including a 24-hour reception desk, a lift, room service, and free Wi-Fi. The rooms are air-conditioned with a flat-screen TV, coffee maker, and safe. A hotel bar and restaurant are available for guests to enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Hotel Park View
The Hotel Parkview is among Amsterdam’s most booked 3-star hotels, offering a perfect view of the famous Vondelpark and the canals. It has everything to keep you comfortable- a spacious room, an on-site restaurant, and a convenient location near many of the city’s attractions. The hotel is also near famous spots, including The Van Gogh Museum and the Modern Art Museum.
Where To Eat
A Michelin-rated restaurant you don’t want to miss is Daalder. The menu features classic Dutch dishes like stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables) and international cuisines. It’s not the cheapest restaurant, but it’s worth splurging on a meal here if you’re looking for an authentic taste of Amsterdam.
You’ll also find a series of best-tasting foodies at Foodhallen. This unique eatery offers a variety of food options from different stalls under one roof. So choose from an array of options like the Chicken Teriyaki Bowl, Pulled Pork Sandwich, or Vegetarian Chili and then indulge in one of their creative cocktails to wash it all down!
For easy-to-find delicious snacks and desserts, turn to Rudi’s Original Stroopwafels. It’s a treat with two thin layers of waffle sandwiched around a layer of caramel syrup. I love the cinnamon-flavoured syrup, but you can also try other spices. They can be found at the most convenient store in Amsterdam!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a city break that offers you an abundance of activities, stunning architecture, and fascinating history, look no further than Amsterdam. This vibrant city is home to museums, art galleries, and unique shops that will keep you entertained for days. And if you want to detach from city life, there are plenty of parks and waterways to relax and embrace the beauty of Amsterdam.
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