What Makes Amsterdam So Special?

Amsterdam is one of those cities that many people go to once and can never forget. With its colorful architecture, incredible canopy of canals, and incredible selection of attractions, there’s something for everyone. But what exactly makes Amsterdam so special?

Its Canals

When it comes to defining Amsterdam, the city’s unique canals play an integral role. In fact, it’s no exaggeration to say that Amsterdam’s canals are one of the best ways to take in its unique character and history – especially when gliding gracefully along in a canal boat. Unlike some of the city’s museums, performances and art galleries, taking to the city’s canals is a genuinely peaceful experience. From just a few inches above the ground, you’ll really appreciate Amsterdam’s tree-lined bridges and towering windmills, as well as its iconic gabled burghers’ houses – all without that classic Amsterdam bustle.To experience the city from its waterways at its best, we’d recommend joining one of the many great canal cruises on offer in Amsterdam – from hop on hop off sightseeing boats to dinner cruises and private vessel hires.

Its Vibrant Neighborhoods

When you explore Amsterdam’s neighborhoods, you’ll experience what makes the city so unique – every single area here feels dynamically different. From the unique mix of cosmopolitan restaurants and boho bars in idyllic De Pijp to silent cobblestoned squares in the peaceful canal district of Jordaan. And everyone’s favorite CBD (and a hotbed of innovative startups), the stylish Nine Streets.

Each neighborhood has a distinct character, and its own collection history and independent boutiques to explore. Take Dam Square for instance – it’s the heart of Amsterdam and a great place to get acquainted with its history, as it’s surrounded by iconic attractions such as the Royal Palace, Madame Tussauds, as well as major monuments like the Nieuwe Kerk.

Its Famous Museum Scene

Amsterdam really does have an impressive wall-to-wall range of museums, which makes exploring the city’s history seem like a much more interesting experience. Amsterdam’s most famous museum is undoubtedly the Rijksmuseum, with its extensive collection of Dutch masterpieces alongside other works from the Renaissance period to modern art. Another must for culture vultures is the Stedelijk Museum – one of the world’s largest modern and contemporary art collections.

But if that’s not your cup of tea – don’t worry – there are plenty of other things to do; from amazing automotive museums like the large-scale Autotron to multi-story mazes like Museum Het Schip, which shares tales of Amsterdam’s social housing development throughout the ages. Interactive experiences like NEMO Science Museum or EYE Filmmuseum offer an understanding on how certain scientific or cinematic technologies work.

Its Shopping Scene

Whatever you’re in the market for, Amsterdam’s got it all! From high-end labels like Louis Vuitton and Gucci on Kalverstraat (the capital’s usual fashion hub), to independent retail gems like Leidsestraat Boutique Shopping street and everything from vintage stores to street markets.

But there’s no better place for souvenir shopping than Bloemenmarkt; Amsterdam’s iconic floating flower market since 1862. And for specialist finds, there’s nothing quite like the weekly Albert Cuypmarkt, which has been delighting with its heaving stalls filled with delicious Dutch herring, cheese, pastries and more since 1906.

Its Craft Beer Scene

Craft beer lovers won’t be disappointed when they visit Amsterdam. Thanks to the relentless efforts of passionate craft beer drinkers who wanted to bring traditional Dutch beer back to life and spread this culture across new cities and towns, each year sees even more emergence of craft beer bars popping up around the city offering unique brews from all over Holland.

Some top bars to check out while in town include Brouwerij de Prael near central station; a cozy brewery with a series of homegrown beers plus a great little terrace where you can watch people walk past; multilayer taproom with over 60 locally-brewed beer tatters from all over Holland at The BeerTemple; and Brouwerij Troost, Amsterdam’s first ever co-working craft beer brewery housing over 15 compartments for all Amsterdam breweries.

Its Nightlife Scene

Forgotten all about nights out? Not anymore. In recent years, Amsterdam has seen its music scenes and venues go from strength to strength, meaning there’s something for everyone every night of the week – whether that be a cozy feel in craft speakeasies, tech house palace at De School or experimental jazz at Bimhuis making their home in places you’d least expect them – from disused theatres to urban canalside warehouses.

There are also plenty of traditional entertainment spots such as All Stars (a Dutch bar and restaurant serving beer and snacks); Club AIR (where all international superstars love to come and indulge in an epic night out); Club NYX (with its ten different rooms both indoors & outdoor); laid back club TrouwAmsterdam (which is known as one of Netherlands’ most creative clubs); and Escape (the home of hip-hop and R&B music).

Explore it with a Self-Guided Pub Trail in Amsterdam with Online App

If you want to explore Amsterdam on your own but don’t want to lose out on any adventure or knowledge on your trip than why not take a Self-Guided Pub Trail tour in Amsterdam with Online App? Discover some of Amsterdam’s hidden gems while following suggested walks full of stories told by real locals. With GPS markers showing your way along an itinerary created by insiders- this tour will let you experience unique local sights and advantages off the beaten track pubs, cafes and attractions. Plus get tips from locals on the best places to eat and explore further. Get your