The Best Sights in Amsterdam

Welcome to Amsterdam! This charming and historic city is an absolute must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best that Europe has to offer. Whether you’re a first-time tourist or returning visitor, Amsterdam has something to inspire everyone. From its world-famous canals and bridges, to its unique art galleries and lively nightlife, Amsterdam is a city of endless possibilities.

With so much to see, it can be difficult to decide where to start. To help make your Amsterdam experience as enjoyable as possible, we’ve compiled this guide of the city’s best sights. Here, you’ll find a selection of must-visit attractions, including detailed descriptions and helpful tips to make the most of your stay. So let’s dive in!

History and Geography of Amsterdam

Amsterdam has been part of Dutch history for over 800 years, though the city is actually much older than its official founding in 1275. Amsterdam was originally a small fishing village located on the banks of the Amstel River, which is now the namesake of the city. Over the centuries, Amsterdam’s strategic location on the IJ (a shallow bay) would spark its growth into one of Europe’s most important trading cities.

Today, Amsterdam is home to over 860,000 people, making it one of the most densely populated cities in the world. The city is divided into four main areas: the canal belt (the city’s historical centre), the Jordaan (a popular neighbourhood known for its art galleries), the Plantage (a green area with several parks and museums) and the Western Docklands (a new business district). While each area has its own unique appeal, all are connected by Amsterdam’s famous canals and bridges.

Amsterdam’s Famous Canal Belt

For many tourists, the canal belt is the best place to start their Amsterdam journey. This region is home to the city’s oldest and most famous sights, including many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here are a few of our favourite canal belt attractions:

The Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is one of Amsterdam’s most treasured attractions. This museum is dedicated to Anne Frank and her family, who were forced to hide in a secret annex during World War II. The museum offers an intimate look at the Frank family’s life in hiding, as well as a poignant reminder of this tragic period in history. Visiting the Anne Frank House is an absolute must for anyone interested in learning more about this brave family.

The Moco Museum

The Moco Museum is a relatively new addition to Amsterdam’s canal belt. Founded in 2016, this museum is dedicated to modern and contemporary art. Here, visitors can find works from some of the world’s most famous artists, including Banksy and Andy Warhol. The Moco Museum is a great place for anyone interested in exploring Amsterdam’s modern art scene.

The Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is a massive national museum dedicated to Dutch history and art. Founded in 1809, it is one of Amsterdam’s most beloved attractions. The museum houses hundreds of thousands of works from some of the world’s greatest artists, including Rembrandt van Rijn and Johannes Vermeer. The Rijksmuseum is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore Amsterdam’s rich cultural heritage.

The Jordaan District

The Jordaan district is one of Amsterdam’s oldest and most beloved neighbourhoods. This area is known for its winding streets and beautiful canals, as well as its vibrant art scene. Here are a few of our favourite sights in the Jordaan:

The Begijnhof

The Begijnhof is one of Amsterdam’s oldest surviving courtyards. This serene spot was originally founded as an all-female community in the 14th century, and today it remains one of the city’s best-preserved historical sites. Visitors can explore the Begijnhof’s courtyard and chapel, as well as its beautiful gardens.

The Nine Streets

The Nine Streets are a collection of nine narrow streets lined with boutique shops and restaurants. This area is beloved for its unique atmosphere and its variety of local businesses. Whether you’re looking for vintage shops or trendy cafes, The Nine Streets have something for everyone.

The Albert Cuyp Market

The Albert Cuyp Market is a popular outdoor market in the heart of the Jordaan district. Here, visitors can find everything from fresh produce to vintage clothes and handcrafted souvenirs. It’s also a great place to sample some traditional Dutch specialties like stroopwafels (syrup waffles) or poffertjes (mini pancakes).

Popular Tours

For those looking to explore more of what Amsterdam has to offer, there are several popular tours that can take you around the city. Here are two great options:

Canal Cruise Tour

A canal cruise tour is a great way to explore Amsterdam from a unique perspective. On this tour, visitors will sail through Amsterdam’s network of canals and get an up-close look at some of the city’s most iconic sights. From historic bridges to stunning churches, this tour offers a fascinating glimpse of Amsterdam’s past and present. To book a canal cruise tour click here.

Walking Tour

For those who prefer exploring on foot, there are several walking tours available in Amsterdam. On these tours, visitors can get an in-depth look at some of Amsterdam’s most famous sights, such as its cobblestone streets and iconic canals. These tours also offer interesting insights into Amsterdam’s history and culture, making them a great way to get to know this fascinating city. To book a walking tour click here.

Conclusion

Amsterdam is a vibrant and historic city with plenty of sights and activities to explore. Whether you’re interested in exploring its canal belt or discovering its vibrant art scene, there are countless ways to make your stay in Amsterdam memorable. We hope this guide has given you some helpful tips on how to make the most out of your visit here!