Amsterdam: By Locals - An Amsterdam Travel Guide Written In The Netherlands: The Best Travel Tips Ab
Amsterdam: By Locals - An Amsterdam Travel Guide Written In The Netherlands: The Best Travel Tips Ab
Introduction
Amsterdam is a young and vibrant city, known for its rich heritage and picturesque locations. Iconic canals, famous museums, and upbeat nightclubs are the charm of this city. Also, home to some of the finest chefs in the world, this place is a paradise for foodies.
If you are looking for a city break that offers culture, history, nature, and fun, Amsterdam is the perfect destination for you. In this guide, we will share with you the best travel tips from locals who know and love this city. You will discover the top sights and attractions, the best neighborhoods and areas, the food and drink scene, the shopping and markets, and the day trips and excursions that you can enjoy from Amsterdam.
Ready to explore Amsterdam like a local? Let's get started!
Top Sights and Attractions
Amsterdam has a wealth of sights and attractions that cater to every taste and interest. Whether you are into art, history, architecture, or nature, you will find something to amaze you in this city. Here are some of the top sights and attractions that you should not miss when visiting Amsterdam.
Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is the largest and most visited art museum in the Netherlands. It houses a collection of over one million artworks, spanning from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. The museum showcases the works of Dutch masters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, Frans Hals, and Jan Steen, as well as paintings by foreign artists such as Rubens, Van Dyck, and Goya. The museum also features exhibits on Dutch history, culture, and science.
The Rijksmuseum is located in the Museumplein (Museum Square), a cultural hub that also hosts other museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum. You can easily spend a whole day exploring this area and admiring the artworks.
Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is dedicated to the life and work of Vincent van Gogh, one of the most influential and beloved artists of all time. The museum displays over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 700 letters by Van Gogh, as well as works by his contemporaries such as Gauguin, Monet, and Toulouse-Lautrec. The museum tells the story of Van Gogh's artistic journey, from his early years in the Netherlands to his final days in France.
The Van Gogh Museum is also located in the Museumplein (Museum Square), next to the Rijksmuseum. The museum is very popular, so it is advisable to book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is a museum and a memorial that preserves the hiding place of Anne Frank and her family during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. Anne Frank was a Jewish girl who wrote a diary while hiding in a secret annex behind a bookcase in her father's office. Her diary, which was published after the war, became one of the most widely read and influential books in the world.
The Anne Frank House allows you to see the rooms where Anne and her family lived, as well as the original diary and other documents and objects that belonged to them. The museum also presents exhibits on the history of the Holocaust, the persecution of Jews, and the impact of Anne Frank's legacy.
The Anne Frank House is located in the Western Canal Ring, a historic area with beautiful canals and bridges. The museum is very popular, so it is advisable to book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
Canal Cruise
One of the best ways to experience Amsterdam is by taking a canal cruise. Amsterdam has over 100 kilometers of canals, which form a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The canals offer a unique perspective on the city's architecture, history, and culture. You can admire the elegant canal houses, the charming bridges, and the colorful houseboats that line the waterways.
There are many options for canal cruises in Amsterdam, ranging from hop-on hop-off boats, to guided tours, to romantic dinner cruises. You can also rent your own boat or kayak and explore the canals at your own pace. Whatever you choose, you will enjoy a relaxing and scenic ride through the heart of Amsterdam.
Vondelpark
Vondelpark is the largest and most popular park in Amsterdam. It is a green oasis in the middle of the city, where you can enjoy nature, recreation, and culture. The park has over 10 kilometers of paths for walking, cycling, or rollerblading, as well as playgrounds, ponds, fountains, and statues. The park also hosts various events and activities throughout the year, such as concerts, festivals, and open-air theater.
Vondelpark is located in the south of Amsterdam, near the Museumplein (Museum Square). It is a great place to relax, have a picnic, or meet some locals and tourists alike.
Best Neighborhoods and Areas
Amsterdam is divided into several neighborhoods and areas, each with its own character and charm. Depending on your preferences and budget, you can choose where to stay and where to explore in this diverse city. Here are some of the best neighborhoods and areas that you should check out when visiting Amsterdam.
Medieval Centre & Red Light District
The Medieval Centre & Red Light District is the oldest and most central part of Amsterdam. It is where you can find some of the most iconic landmarks of the city, such as the Royal Palace, the Dam Square, the Old Church, and the New Church. It is also where you can experience the notorious Red Light District, a network of narrow streets and alleys that host sex shops, brothels, bars, and clubs.
The Medieval Centre & Red Light District is a lively and bustling area that attracts many visitors and locals alike. It is a great place to see some history and culture, as well as some nightlife and entertainment.
Western Canal Ring
The Western Canal Ring is one of the most beautiful and romantic areas of Amsterdam. It is where you can find some of the most elegant and historic canal houses, dating back to the 17th century. It is also where you can find some of the most charming bridges, such as the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) and the Blauwbrug (Blue Bridge).
The Western Canal Ring is a peaceful and picturesque area that offers a glimpse into Amsterdam's Golden Age. It is a great place to stroll along the canals, visit some museums and galleries, or enjoy some cafes and restaurants.
Southern Canal Ring
The Southern Canal Ring is another scenic and historic area of Amsterdam. It is where you can find some of the most prestigious and wealthy canal houses, as well as some of the most famous museums in the city. It is also where you can find some of the most trendy and fashionable streets, such as Utrechtsestraat and Reguliersdwarsstraat.
The Southern Canal Ring is a sophisticated and stylish area that offers a mix of culture and shopping. It is a great place to visit some world