With its elaborate facades and captivating canals, Amsterdam’s charm attracts travellers from all around the world. It’s a city filled with beauty, art, food and a rich culture; offering something for every type of traveller to enjoy! Here are just a few of our favourite ways to spend a day in this lively city:
Visit the Rijksmuseum
It doesn’t matter if you’re an art aficionado or not, a visit to the famed Rijksmuseum is certainly worth your time. This museum is home to some of the world’s most spectacular paintings from renowned Dutch artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer and Van Gogh, a collection of Delft pottery, a library that houses extensive documentation of art history, and other stunning exhibits that help you understand and appreciate the Dutch people and their past.
Take a canal cruise
A trip to Amsterdam would not be complete without a cruise along the canals and under the arched bridges that connect this city. Get an up-close view of the decorative homes and storefronts that give the city much of its character. For a more romantic experience, cruise at nighttime, when the buildings and bridges are illuminated.
Try poffertjes!
These mini pancakes, traditionally served with butter and powdered sugar are a Dutch favourite and can be found at pancake houses throughout the city, as well as at street vendor booths during national holiday celebrations and festivals.
Rent a bike
More than 75% of Amsterdam’s population own and ride a bike every day. In fact, there are more than 800, 000 bicycles in Amsterdam, making it Europe’s largest cycling city. For the most authentic way to see all the city sites, rent a bike … but, proceed with caution, the locals here are skilled cyclists!
Visit Keukenhof Gardens
If you’re paying a visit to Amsterdam in the spring, you can’t miss the perfectly planted rows of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths in Keukenhof. Each year, more than 7 million flowers bloom here, all arranged in stunning rows and designs and turning the garden into a true work of art. The flowers are only in bloom for about 8 weeks, so try to visit between late March and late May.
Visit Zaanse Schans
Just outside Amsterdam, you’ll find the most charming and well-preserved Dutch town of Zaanse Schans. Here, you’ll see traditional windmills, cheese shops, bakeries and wooden clog workshops – all that your Dutch dreams are made of!
Interested in experiencing Amsterdam from a new perspective? Check out our Holland river cruise itineraries today!
