A Tourist’s Guide To Amsterdam: The Must-See Attractions.
From its majestic canals and quirky windmills to captivating museums and colorful nightlife, Amsterdam has something to offer travelers of all types. Whether you’re looking to explore world-famous galleries or sample Dutch cuisine and culture, the city holds plenty of delights waiting to be discovered. Read on to find out all the top attractions that make Amsterdam one of the most visited cities in Europe.
Amsterdam is home to plenty of iconic canals, including the Singel and Herengracht, two of the city’s four main canals. Take a leisurely boat tour and admire some of the ornate architecture lining the water, or pick up a bike and get a more intimate look at the city’s bridges and secret waterways. One of the best ways to experience Amsterdam’s beauty is from its many terraces, located along many of its canals. Enjoy a refreshing beer or cup of coffee and soak in the unique atmosphere of this vibrant city.
No trip to Amsterdam is complete without a visit to Anne Frank’s House. This house museum memorializes the young Jewish diarist Anne Frank who hid from the Nazis during World War II. The museum, which has been restored to its wartime state, houses interesting artifacts, photographs and information about Frank’s family and their time in the Secret Annex. Visiting this inspiring place is a must, as the museum offers a moving reminder of the atrocity of the Holocaust.
On the exact opposite end of the spectrum is the Heineken Experience, one of Amsterdam’s most popular attractions for beer enthusiasts. Housed in the original Heineken brewery, the museum offers interactive exhibits, video presentations, traditionalDutch snacks and some of the freshest beer you’ll ever taste! Amsterdam’s many independent bars and pubs offer a great atmosphere and an even better variety of beers and ales.
After enjoying a night out, why not take in some of Amsterdam’s most famous art galleries? The Van Gogh Museum contains the world’s largest collection of the Dutch master’s work, while the Rijksmuseum boasts an impressive collection of traditional Dutch art, dating all the way back to the Dutch Golden Age. The contemporary art gallery, Stedelijk Museum, also offers a modern art collection worth checking out.
If you’re looking to stimulate your senses further, Amsterdam’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Canal Ring is the perfect place to do it. This series of 17th-century canals contains a plethora of photos and art studios, cozy cafes and unique shopping experiences. A must-see for any visit is the Skinny Bridge, one of the oldest and narrowest bridges in Amsterdam.
There’s no shortage of activities in the city, no matter what time of year. Visit one of the city’s famous markets, like the Albert Cuyp Market, and take advantage of the wide variety of fresh produce and antiques. Visit the beloved Zaanse Schans windmill park just outside of the city for a picturesque walk along the banks of the Zaan river. When spring arrives, watch the tulip fields bloom in the nearby countryside or enjoy an outdoor music festival.
From its beautiful canals to its captivating culture, Amsterdam provides plenty of unforgettable experiences that will keep you coming back again and again. Whether you’re an art connoisseur, beer aficionado, or a lover of all things Dutch, the city’s iconic attractions provide a wealth of sights that beg to be explored.
