Best Things To See In Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The city is steeped in history, culture, and beauty, with a variety of attractions for visitors to explore. Whether you’re looking for world-class museums, vibrant nightlife, or scenic canals and parks, Amsterdam has something to offer everyone.

A Brief History of Amsterdam

The city of Amsterdam has a long and fascinating history. Founded in the late 12th century, Amsterdam was originally a small fishing village located along the Amstel River. As the centuries passed, Amsterdam’s population grew and it transformed into a major trading hub for the Dutch East India Company. By the early 17th century, Amsterdam was one of the most important cities in Europe and one of the richest cities in the world. Despite its turbulent history, Amsterdam has managed to retain much of its original charm, making it a popular destination for tourists from around the world.

Today, Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and the country’s largest city. It is home to more than 860,000 people, making it one of the most densely populated cities in Europe. Despite its urbanization, Amsterdam still has a strong connection to its past and is known for its picturesque canals, quaint bridges, and cobbled streets.

Popular Attractions

Amsterdam is home to a variety of attractions and activities for travelers to explore. From its iconic canals to its world-class museums, here are some of the best things to see and do in the city.

Canal Cruise

One of the best ways to experience Amsterdam is by taking a canal cruise. This popular tourist activity allows visitors to explore the city’s many waterways and admire the charming architecture from a unique perspective. Most canal cruises last between one and two hours and offer guided tours with audio commentary in multiple languages. From the comfort of your boat, you can admire Amsterdam’s picturesque canals, bridges, and waterfront homes.

Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is one of Amsterdam’s most popular attractions. Located in the heart of the city, this museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Anne Frank, a Jewish teenager who documented her experiences during World War II in the famous diary The Diary of Anne Frank. The museum features her original diary, artifacts from her family’s time in hiding, and audio-visual exhibits that showcase her life story. The Anne Frank House is an incredibly moving experience that honors the memory of Anne Frank and serves as a powerful reminder of the horrors of war.

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is one of Amsterdam’s premier art galleries. Located in the city’s Museum Quarter, this museum houses the world’s largest collection of works by Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh. Visitors can explore three floors of artwork that span van Gogh’s entire career, from his early works to his iconic pieces such as Sunflowers and The Starry Night. The museum also features exhibitions devoted to other Dutch masters such as Rembrandt van Rijn and Jan Vermeer.

Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is one of Amsterdam’s most famous sights. Located on Museumplein in the city center, this museum is dedicated to Dutch art and history from the Middle Ages to today. Visitors can explore more than 8,000 objects on display, including masterpieces by Johannes Vermeer and Rembrandt van Rijn. The museum also features interactive exhibits that showcase Dutch culture and traditions, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Amsterdam.

Vondelpark

Vondelpark is one of Amsterdam’s most beloved parks. This sprawling green space is located just south of Museumplein and is home to lush gardens, winding pathways, and tranquil ponds. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy outdoor concerts and markets while admiring the park’s stunning scenery. Vondelpark is also home to several cafes and restaurants, making it a great place to spend an afternoon relaxing with friends or family.

Heineken Experience

The Heineken Experience is a must-see for beer lovers visiting Amsterdam. Located in the city’s former brewery, this interactive museum offers guided tours that showcase the history of Heineken beer and its production process. Visitors can explore interactive displays and participate in beer-tasting sessions before heading to the gift shop to purchase souvenirs and memorabilia. The Heineken Experience is a fun and educational experience that offers something for everyone.

Popular Tours

Amsterdam has a variety of popular tours for travelers to enjoy. From guided walking tours to boat cruises, here are two popular activities for visitors to explore:

Canal Cruise & Walking Tour

This popular tour combines two of Amsterdam’s most popular tourist activities: a canal cruise and a guided walking tour. The tour begins with a one-hour canal cruise that takes visitors through Amsterdam’s iconic waterways as they admire its picturesque architecture from a unique perspective. After disembarking from the boat, visitors can explore Amsterdam’s vibrant streets on foot with a knowledgeable guide who will provide interesting insights about the city’s history and culture. This tour is perfect for visitors who want to experience both sides of Amsterdam: its captivating waterways and lively streets. Book a canal cruise & walking tour today!

Amsterdam Bike Tour

Amsterdam is known as one of Europe’s most bike-friendly cities and a bike tour is one of the best ways to explore it. This popular tour takes visitors on a leisurely ride through Amsterdam’s quaint streets as they admire its charming architecture and vibrant culture. Along the way, visitors will have plenty of opportunities to take photographs and learn about Amsterdam’s history from their knowledgeable guide. This tour is perfect for visitors who want to get out into the city and experience it like a local! Book an Amsterdam bike tour today!

With its iconic canals, world-class attractions, vibrant culture, and endless opportunities for exploration, Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or some relaxation time, Amsterdam has something for everyone – so start planning your trip today!