Amsterdam: A Guide to the City’s Popular Places To Go

Amsterdam is a vibrant and historic city, located in the Netherlands. Founded in the late 12th century, it is known for its rich history, and it has grown to become the capital of the Netherlands and the most populous city in the country. From its canals and unique architecture to its laid back coffee shops and nightlife, Amsterdam is a popular destination for tourists from around the world.

Amsterdam is also home to numerous cultural institutions, including the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House, and many more. It is also home to a large number of popular tourist attractions, such as the Anne Frank House and the Canal Cruise. There are also plenty of places to go in Amsterdam for shopping, dining, and entertainment. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best places to go in Amsterdam.

History of Amsterdam

Located in the heart of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is one of the oldest cities in Europe. It was founded in 1275 by people from the nearby village of Geertruidenberg. The city was built around a network of canals that connected Amsterdam to various other cities, allowing for trade and travel between them.

The city grew rapidly in the 17th century, due to its strategic location on the Amstel River and its access to the North Sea. The city became an important trading center and was considered one of the most prosperous cities in the world. It also became a hub for art and culture, with many famous artists and writers making Amsterdam their home.

During the 19th century, Amsterdam saw an influx of Jewish immigrants escaping persecution in Eastern Europe. This was followed by a large influx of immigrants from Suriname after World War II. Today, Amsterdam is a multicultural city with a large number of immigrants from all over the world.

What to See in Amsterdam

When visiting Amsterdam, there are plenty of sights to see. Here are some of the most popular attractions in the city:

The Canals

Amsterdam is famous for its network of canals, which have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are more than 165 canals in Amsterdam, making it one of the most canal-rich cities in the world. Taking a boat tour through the canals is one of the best ways to explore Amsterdam.

The Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is one of Amsterdam’s most popular tourist attractions. Located in the heart of the city, it is a museum dedicated to Anne Frank, a Jewish girl who wrote her famous diary while hiding from Nazis during WWII. The museum features original documents and artifacts from her life, as well as an audio-visual tour that explains her story.

The Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is one of Amsterdam’s most famous art museums. Located on Museum Square, it is home to more than 8,000 works of art from Dutch masters such as Rembrandt and Vermeer. It also houses numerous other works from all over Europe, including paintings, sculptures, furniture, and more.

Vondelpark

Vondelpark is a large public park located in Amsterdam’s center. It spans more than 120 acres and features beautiful gardens, ponds, playgrounds, and plenty of green space. It’s a great place to relax or take a leisurely stroll through nature.

Dam Square

Dam Square is one of Amsterdam’s most iconic landmarks. Located in the center of the city, it is surrounded by some of Amsterdam’s most famous buildings, such as the Royal Palace and Nieuwe Kerk church. The square is also home to many street performers and vendors selling food and souvenirs.

Popular Tours To Take In Amsterdam

There are plenty of tours available for those wanting to explore Amsterdam further. Here are two popular tours you can take:

Canal Cruise Tour

A canal cruise tour is one of the best ways to explore Amsterdam. Taking a cruise through Amsterdam’s stunning network of canals offers an incredible insight into the city’s history and culture. You can book a canal cruise tour from many different companies. Book a canal cruise tour today to experience all that Amsterdam has to offer!

Amsterdam Bike Tour

A bike tour is another great way to explore Amsterdam. You’ll get to see all that this amazing city has to offer while experiencing it on two wheels. There are many different bike tours available in Amsterdam – you can choose between guided tours or self-guided tours, depending on your preferences. Book an Amsterdam bike tour today!

Conclusion

Amsterdam is a city with a rich history and plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. From its stunning network of canals to its world-famous museums and parks, there are plenty of places to go in Amsterdam for an unforgettable vacation. Whether you’re looking for culture or relaxation, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city!