Amsterdam Travel Guide
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Loading... - Max Schneider
- 14 Oct 2022
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Amsterdam is famous for its coffee shops, canals, houseboats, historic architecture, and its Red Light District. Founded in 1275 (supposedly by two fishermen and their dog), the city grew in importance and wealth as Dutch colonies were set up around the world via the Dutch East India Company. Today, it’s one of the most popular destinations in Europe.
While the Red Light District put the city on the map, travelers have since realized that there is much more to Amsterdam than meets the eye. Here you’ll find dozens of art museums, beautiful parks, wonderful outdoor cafes, lots of history, and a love of life here. This city is by far one of the most beautiful in the world. There’s nothing like cruising around the canals on a sunny day or relaxing in Vondelpark with a good book!
I briefly lived in Amsterdam years ago and I can tell you the best of Amsterdam is found outside the city center in the smaller neighborhoods with their quiet charm and canal-side cafes. Don’t hesitate to wander and get lost in this city. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what you discover.
This Amsterdam travel guide can help you plan your trip to what remains one of my favorite cities in the world.
Other Things to See and Do in Amsterdam
1. Take a free walking tour
One of the first things I do in a new city is take a walking tour. They’re the best way to orient yourself to the city, learn some history, find out where the major sights are, and explore all those winding canals. I think free walking tours are a wonderful first activity in any city. I recommend Free Walking Tours Amsterdam and New Europe. They both run great tours that will get you started on the right foot. Just be sure to tip your guide!
2. Visit the Amsterdam History Museum
This museum features a comprehensive history of Amsterdam. It’s big so you need 3–4 hours to really go through it in detail. There are a lot of relics, maps, paintings, and audio-visual displays throughout the museum bring the city’s history to life. My favorite is the video that shows the growth and construction of the city over time. The museum is located in a former monastery that was also once an orphanage. I can’t recommend this museum enough. It’s one of the best history museums I’ve ever visited. Admission is 20 EUR. Read More...
