A Guide to Places to Visit in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich cultural history and boundless attractions. The capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam has been a major port and trading centre since the 16th century, when it was known as the “Diamond City’ due to its booming diamond industry. Today, Amsterdam is a popular tourist destination, boasting a range of art galleries, museums, parks and gardens, and unique cultural experiences. With its unique mix of architecture, culture, and cosmopolitan attractions, there are plenty of places to explore in Amsterdam. Read on for a comprehensive guide of the best places to visit in Amsterdam.

History of Amsterdam

Amsterdam has a long and varied history that dates back to the 12th century. The city began as a small fishing village on the banks of the Amstel river and grew to become a major port and trading centre in Europe. In the 16th century, Amsterdam was known as the “Diamond City’ due to its thriving diamond industry. The city was a centre for science and art, with figures such as Rembrandt and Spinoza having lived and worked here.

During World War II, Amsterdam was occupied by Nazi Germany. The city suffered greatly during this period, with many of its citizens being killed or deported to concentration camps. After the war, Amsterdam experienced a period of rapid growth and development, becoming an important centre of culture and commerce.

Today, Amsterdam is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. With its unique mix of architecture, culture, and cosmopolitan attractions, there are plenty of places to explore in Amsterdam.

Facts About Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the largest city in the Netherlands, with a population of around 851,373 people. The city is located on the banks of the Amstel river, a tributary of the Rhine, and is home to a number of canals and bridges. The city is served by Schiphol International Airport, which is located just outside of the city.

The official language spoken in Amsterdam is Dutch, although English is widely spoken as well. The city is known for its unique blend of art, culture, and cosmopolitan attractions. It is home to a number of museums, galleries, parks and gardens, as well as a vibrant nightlife scene.

Top Places To Visit In Amsterdam

When it comes to exploring the best places to visit in Amsterdam, there is no shortage of options. From museums and galleries to parks and gardens, here are some of the top places to visit in Amsterdam:

Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is one of the most popular attractions in Amsterdam. Located in the heart of the city, it is home to a vast collection of Dutch art from the 16th century onwards. The museum also houses works by renowned Dutch masters such as Rembrandt van Rijn, Frans Hals and Rembrandt’s Night Watch painting. Visitors can also take part in guided tours or rent audio guides to explore the museum’s collection.

The Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is one of Amsterdam’s most poignant attractions. Located on Prinsengracht canal, it was here that Anne Frank wrote her famous diary during World War II. Today, visitors can explore the house where Anne lived with her family and learn more about her life during this period. The house also includes a museum with exhibits on Anne’s life and her diary.

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is located in the heart of Amsterdam and houses one of the world’s largest collections of works by Dutch master Vincent van Gogh. Visitors can explore more than 200 works by the artist including his iconic Sunflowers painting. There are also interactive exhibits about van Gogh’s life and his works.

Vondelpark

Vondelpark is one of Amsterdam’s most popular parks. Located in the south-east corner of the city, it is a great place to enjoy a leisurely stroll or picnic with friends. There are also several cafes and restaurants dotted around the park which offer refreshments after a day of exploring the park’s attractions.

The Heineken Experience

The Heineken Experience is an interactive museum located at the Heineken brewery in Amsterdam. Visitors can explore the brewery’s history and sample some of its beers. There are also interactive exhibits about beer brewing and Heineken’s history. Visitors can also take part in beer tastings or learn how to pour the perfect pint.

The Jordaan District

The Jordaan District is one of Amsterdam’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. Located between Prinsengracht canal and Brouwersgracht canal, it is known for its colourful streets lined with cafes, restaurants and boutiques. It is also home to some of the city’s most famous attractions such as Anne Frank House and Noordermarkt market.

Popular Tours in Amsterdam

If you’re looking for an immersive experience in Amsterdam, there are two popular tours that will take you around some of the city’s best attractions:

Canal Cruise

A canal cruise is one of the best ways to explore Amsterdam’s picturesque canals and bridges. A typical cruise will take you around some of the most iconic sights such as the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, and Jordaan District. You’ll also get to see some of the city’s more off-the-beaten-track attractions such as its historic windmills and vibrant street art scene. Most canal cruises last around an hour or two and include an audio guide or a tour guide to provide informative commentary about each sight you pass by. Book a Canal Cruise here.

Bike Tour

Exploring Amsterdam by bike is an experience like no other. On a bike tour, you’ll get to visit some of Amsterdam’s top attractions such as Vondelpark and Anne Frank House while also discovering some hidden gems along the way such as local cafes and street art hotspots. Most bike tours last around three hours and include an experienced guide who will provide interesting stories about each sight you pass by. Book a Bike Tour here.

Conclusion

From its picturesque canals to its vibrant nightlife scene, there’s something for everyone in Amsterdam. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or an adventure-filled getaway, this city has plenty to offer its visitors. From museums and galleries to parks and gardens, there are plenty of places to explore in Amsterdam—so don’t forget your camera! As well as exploring Amsterdam by foot or bike, visitors can also take part in popular tours such as canal cruises or bike tours to discover some of the city’s hidden gems.