Sightseeing in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and not just one of the most exciting metropolises in Europe with numerous shopping opportunities and a lively nightlife. In addition, Amsterdam is known for a wide range of museums and many other highlights.
The city is criss-crossed by a large network of canals, which significantly shape the image of Amsterdam. A canal cruise is one of the most beautiful experiences in the Dutch capital.
In the following we present you the most exciting tours, the most beautiful attractions and the best sights in Amsterdam.
1. Canal cruise
A canal cruise is definitely one of the most beautiful experiences in the “Venice of the North”. During this, you get to know the city and especially the impressive Dutch architecture from the water. Boat tours are offered on every corner; after all, the city’s sewer network consists of around 100 canals.
Both day and night tours are offered; the prices for such a canal cruise start from around 15 euros. The so-called hop-on hop-off boat tours, on which you can get off at the city’s most popular sights, are particularly popular.
2. Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is without a doubt one of the most important sights in Amsterdam. Inside you will find exhibitions on arts, crafts and history. In total, there are more than 8,000 exhibits to discover, including the famous Rembrandt “Night Watch”.
Even if you are not a regular museum-goer, you will be completely thrilled by the Rijksmuseum. The day ticket, which is available for 17.50 euros, should be ordered in advance on the Internet in order to avoid the sometimes quite long queues.
3. Anne Frank House
Anne Frank’s house is located on the famous Prinsengracht. Here she wrote her diaries during the Second World War, which everyone knows by now. If you are into a little history, this house should definitely be paid a visit.
In the Anne Frank House, in which Anne Frank once hid from the Jews, you can now visit, among other things, a permanent exhibition on the subject of the persecution of the Jews. The queues in front of this tourist attraction in Amsterdam are usually long. It is therefore well advised to visit the museum early in the morning or in the late afternoon.
4. Van Gogh Museum
Van Gogh is one of the founders of modern painting like hardly any other painter. The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam has the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works; the collection includes more than 200 paintings and around 500 drawings. “The Sunflowers” and “The Potato Eaters” are two of Van Gogh’s most famous works.
By the way: It is worthwhile to combine a visit to the Van Gogh Museum with that of the Rijksmuseum, because the two sights are not far from each other. By the way, children under the age of 18 visit the museum free of charge. If you reserve your admission ticket online, you not only save yourself queuing, but also often receive attractive price reductions.
5. Vondelpark
In the middle of the city of Amsterdam there is an extensive park that is ideal for walks. The green oasis is 47 hectares in size and accordingly offers plenty of space to relax and unwind. The Vondelpark is very popular with both locals and tourists for an extended picnic. In addition, there is an open air stage in the park, on which concerts and other events take place regularly.
There is also a lovingly designed rosarium and numerous dining facilities in the park. The “Blue Tea House”, where snacks are served at moderate prices, is particularly popular. There is a worthwhile water playground for the little visitors. All in all, the Vondelpark is an excellent destination to recover from a strenuous sightseeing tour.
6. Amsterdam red light district
The Amsterdam red light district is a special and quite unusual attraction not only because of the openly displayed prostitution. You can also discover typical Dutch architecture from the 14th century while strolling through the winding streets. The red light district called De Wallen is not far from the main train station; from here you can’t really miss it. The red light district is not only worth a visit for those who are hungry for sex, on the contrary.
Couples also like to watch the hustle and bustle. It is best to visit the district after 11 p.m., because only then does De Wallen really come to life. However, it is essential to observe a few rules of conduct. Be careful, especially when taking pictures, because not all women want to be photographed. If you don’t dare to go alone in the district, you can also book a guided tour.
7. Chinatown
As befits a world metropolis, you will also find a Chinese quarter in Amsterdam. In Chinatown you can not only try the Thai, Korean and Japanese cuisine, but also marvel at the largest Buddhist temple in Europe. Chinatown is quite easy to find in downtown Amsterdam, as it is located between the Nieuwmarkt and the red light district Le Wallen.
If you want to immerse yourself in a foreign culture in the middle of Amsterdam, you shouldn’t miss this legendary neighborhood. If you can, you should plan a visit to Chinatown for the Chinese New Year, which takes place in February every year. Then marvel at kite dances, fireworks, and lavish parades.
8. The most beautiful district of the Jordaan
The Jordaan is the most authentic neighborhood in the Dutch capital. This is where all the clichés really come together. Colorful houseboats and picturesque canals can be found as well as well-tended canal houses. In a nutshell: The Jordaan district offers an abundance of fantastic postcard motifs, which is why it is one of the most photographed sights in Amsterdam.
In addition, you will also find the two well-known shopping streets Haarlemmerstraat and Haarlemmerdijk. A visit to the Kaashuis should also be on the plan, where you can take part in a cheese tasting. The physical well-being is also taken care of; be sure to plan a visit to one of the coffee houses.
9. A’DAM lookout
Would you like to take a look at Amsterdam from above? Then you have come to the right place on the observation deck of the A’DAM Lookout. Located in the Noord district, this eye-catching tower was the main headquarters of the Shell Group for a long time. An elevator takes you up to the 20th floor in just 22 seconds.
Here you can not only enjoy a fantastic view, but also dine in the “Moon” restaurant. The very brave use the swing, with which you can swing over the edge of the high-rise. This is Europe’s tallest swing called “Over the edge”.
10. Royal Palace
In the heart of Amsterdam’s city center you will find the Royal Palace, which is located on the no less spectacular Dam forecourt. This is also one of the city’s main tourist attractions. Accordingly, there are many showmen and takeaways here.
You can also visit Madame Tussaud’s wax figure cabinet. If the palace itself is not occupied by the royal family, you can of course explore the interior as part of a guided tour. Note, however, that the palace is closed on Mondays.
