Having visited cities all over the world with colourful festivals and history, I didn't expect Amsterdam to stand out much....how wrong I was! This has been my favourite trip by far!
I booked this trip as a surprise for my husbands birthday, easy and cheap to get too, can visit in a weekend and lots of unusual/pretty sights ;).
Amsterdams architecture is striking with tall narrow buildings that wouldn't look out of place in a hansel and gretal fairytale, grids of canals full of canal buses which will drop you off at various points and attractions through the city. bars and cafes on every corner and a really fun atmosphere.
Tips for Amsterdam
- Don't dress up, and heels are a big no, nearly all the streets are cobbled and you will just attract the wrong sort of attention if you go out in short skirt and heels.
- The red light district is a must for visiting, would recommend going in the evening, for some reason it seems less shocking than going in daylight.
- Get a canal bus, they are right outside central station and you can either stay on them and enjoy the views or get dropped off and explore various parts of the city.
- Albert Cuyp-market is worth a visit just for the food alone.
- The sex museum in the centre is a good laugh and a must (you may have to wade your way through giggling pointing teenage boys!).
- If you are going to Anne Franks house get there very early or expect to que for at least an hour.
- There are pizza, waffle and donuts on every street so if your on a budget and only staying for a short time, its quicker and cheaper to grab these while exploring than sit in for dinner.
- Watch out for bicycles (theres more of them than people!) and trams, neither will stop for you.
Below are some other points about amsterdam.
1. It's perfect for a romantic rendezvous
Many people consider Paris to be the city of love, but anyone who's spent a few days in Amsterdam with their significant other might beg to differ. The compact size of Amsterdam's historic city centre is just one of the many reasons that makes it a perfect destination for aromantic long weekend. It's more of a charming village than an overwhelming city. The cobbled streets and narrow alleys are perfect for strolling around and are also home to countless quaint spots to wine and dine. Discover the romantic side of Amsterdam with your special someone.
2. It's one of the safest cities in Europe
Surprised? That's right… Amsterdam is ranked one of the top 25 safest cities in the world, with a far lower crime rate than many other popular European capitals. Amsterdam is safer than you might expect, but it never hurts to use your common sense while exploring the city. Discover Amsterdam's laid-back spirit during your next visit.
3. It's green… in more ways than one
Amsterdam isn't green just because of the fair amount of rainfall that makes the more than 30 parks and public gardens lush and full of life. As an urban area dedicated to environmental innovation, the European Commission named Amsterdam one of the eight finalists (of 35 nominees) for the first-ever European Green Capital Awards in 2009. Find out how you can go green in Amsterdam with the city's growing dedication to sustainable tourism, one of the many reasons that the city earn this eco-honour.
4. It has more canals than Venice
Amsterdam's watery maze of canals could be considered its most distinguishing -- and most charming -- feature. But when people refer to the city as 'The Venice of the North', what they may not realise is that the tree-lined channels outnumber the lagoon-filled lanes of Amsterdam's Italian cousin (Amsterdam also has about three times as many bridges, more than 1,200). Amsterdam's grachten (canals) not only lend tranquillity to the bustling city, they also define local culture here. Come and experience canal life in Amsterdam!
5. It's close to plenty of beaches
Many people don't realise how easy it is to reach the beach from Amsterdam, whether by train, bus or ferry. Visit popular hotspots Zandvoort and Bloemendaal aan Zee for a Dutch-style beach party. Or venture out and find the tranquil dunes of the quieter stretches of the North Sea coast for a relaxing afternoon away from the city. Of course, if you prefer sand in your toes without leaving the city, you can always chill out on Amsterdam's urban beaches.
