Sites To See In Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a city with a rich and storied history. Founded in the late 12th century, the city has seen its fair share of wars, revolutions, and social unrest. Once a major trading center for Europe, Amsterdam has re-invented itself as a modern, cosmopolitan city with a strong focus on culture and creativity. With an impressive skyline filled with historic churches and modern architectural wonders, Amsterdam is a bustling hub of activity that is worth exploring.

Whether you’re visiting Amsterdam for the first time or you’ve been here many times before, there’s always something new to see and experience. From world-renowned museums and galleries to picturesque canals and parks, Amsterdam is full of unique sites to explore. Here’s a look at some of the most popular sites to see in Amsterdam.

The Canal District

The Canal District is one of the most iconic parts of Amsterdam. This area is home to three major canals – the Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht – as well as many smaller canals and bridges. It’s a great way to explore the city on foot or bike, as many of the streets are lined with cafes, shops, and historic buildings.

A great way to get to know the area is to take a canal cruise. These can be booked online or at the many canal tour companies located throughout the city. A canal cruise gives visitors a one-of-a-kind view of Amsterdam from the water, allowing them to take in the sights and sounds of the city up close.

The Red Light District

The Red Light District is one of the most famous parts of Amsterdam. Located in the city’s old town, it’s home to some of the city’s oldest buildings and streets. It’s also home to many of Amsterdam’s sex workers and is an important part of the city’s economy and culture. Although it has a reputation for being a bit rowdy and chaotic, it’s actually quite safe and has a variety of interesting things to do and see.

One of the best ways to experience the Red Light District is to take a guided tour. These tours are led by experienced guides who can provide fascinating insight into the history and culture of this area. Tours usually include a stop at one of the city’s famous coffeehouses as well as visits to some of the area’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Oude Kerk (Old Church), De Wallen (The Wall), and Prostitution Information Centre.

Vondelpark

Vondelpark is one of the most beloved parks in Amsterdam. Located in the heart of the city, this sprawling green space is filled with trees, flowers, and other foliage. It’s also home to many ponds, streams, and other water features that add to its natural beauty.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in Vondelpark, from biking and rollerblading to picnicking and sunbathing. There are also several cafes located within the park where visitors can grab a bite to eat or just sit back and relax while taking in the park’s natural beauty.

Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is one of Amsterdam’s most popular attractions. It’s home to a vast collection of Dutch art and artifacts from the 16th to 19th centuries, including Rembrandt’s renowned Night Watch painting. The museum also houses an impressive library that contains some of the world’s rarest books and manuscripts.

Visitors can explore the museum’s many galleries at their own pace or take a guided tour to learn more about the history of Dutch art. There are also several unique exhibits that offer insight into Dutch culture and way of life in centuries past.

Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is one of Amsterdam’s most important sites. Located in the city’s old Jewish Quarter, it was once home to Anne Frank and her family during World War II. Inside the house is an interactive exhibit that tells Anne Frank’s story in her own words, providing visitors with an intimate look at what life was like for her during that time.

Visitors can explore the museum at their own pace or take a guided tour to learn more about Anne Frank’s life and legacy. There are also several multimedia exhibits that provide further insight into Anne Frank’s life during World War II.

Dam Square

Dam Square is one of Amsterdam’s most famous public squares. Located in the heart of the city, it’s home to several important monuments and buildings, including the Royal Palace and National Monument. It’s also home to several shops, restaurants, cafes, and other establishments that make it one of Amsterdam’s most popular tourist destinations.

Visitors can explore Dam Square at their own pace or take a guided tour to learn more about its history and significance. There are also several events held here throughout the year, from markets to music festivals, that make Dam Square an exciting place to visit any time of year.

Popular Tours In Amsterdam

If you want to get even more out of your time in Amsterdam, then why not book one of these popular tours? From guided walking tours to canal cruises and bike rides through the city, there are plenty of ways to experience Amsterdam like a local.

Guided Walking Tour

A great way to discover all that Amsterdam has to offer is with a guided walking tour. These tours take visitors through some of Amsterdam’s most iconic sites while providing insight into its rich history and culture. They typically include stops at places like Dam Square, Anne Frank House, Oude Kerk (Old Church), De Wallen (the wall) as well as some lesser known gems such as Begijnhof (Beguinage) and Begijnensteeg (Begijn Alley). You can book a walking tour online or with one of the many tour companies located throughout the city.

Canal Cruise

As mentioned above, taking a canal cruise is an excellent way to explore Amsterdam from a different perspective. These cruises take visitors through some of Amsterdam’s most beautiful canals while offering insight into its history and culture. They typically include stops at sights such as Herengracht Bridge, Keizersgracht Bridge, Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug), and Anne Frank House. You can book a canal cruise online or with one of the many tour companies located throughout the city.

Bike Tour

Amsterdam is famous for its bike culture and what better way to explore it than with a bike tour? These tours take visitors through some of Amsterdam’s most picturesque streets while providing insight into its unique culture and way of life. They typically include stops at sights such as Vondelpark, Begijnhof (Beguinage), De Wallen (the wall), Jordaan (the Jordaan district), and Anne Frank House. You can book a bike tour online or with one of the many tour companies located throughout the city.

Amsterdam is an incredible city with plenty of sites to explore and activities to enjoy. No matter what kind of traveler you are – from culture enthusiast to outdoor adventurer – there is something for everyone here in Amsterdam! Whether you choose to explore on your own or join one of these popular tours, you’re sure to have a memorable time exploring this vibrant city!