Things To Do In Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the most cycle-friendly cities in the world with over 800 000 bicycles. Cycling in this city is a breeze thanks to its flat landscape and great cycle routes. Most Amsterdam streets have a lane solely for cyclists making getting around Amsterdam on a bike a pain free process. If you fancy heading further afield on your bike, why not try: * Ouderkerk aan de Amstel for a 12th century village experience * Sunbathe and swim Lake Ouderkerk * Head to the north-east of Amsterdam to experience the hip cafés and alternative events covering art, culture, music and more.

In need of a drink? Visit Amsterdam's historic breweries for an outstanding local brew. Most of these breweries feature on-site tasting rooms. Some places to get the best local beer include: * Brouwerij 't IJ - known for its exceptional ale including eight signature beers that can’t be found anywhere else in Amsterdam. Brouwerij 't IJ is one of the oldest craft breweries in the Netherlands, producing seasonal beers like fruity springtime Paasij. * Butcher's Tears - one of Amsterdam's most innovative breweries. Over the years, they have created line after line of tasty craft beers. It has an on-site minimalistic taproom where they often organize events such as live concerts, beer release parties, among other exciting events.

Amsterdam is among the world's leading entertainment hubs. The city has several concert halls, bars, and clubs where you can enjoy all kinds of music from classical jazz. Some of the must-visit spots include Paradiso, Melkweg, Chicago Social Club and Maloe Melo.

The capital city of the Netherlands has a long royal history. Start by visiting Royal Palace at Dam Square which is now u the official reception palace of the Dutch Head of State. Next, enjoy a breath-taking view of the Amstel river. Head to the southeast of the city to take amazing shots of the 13th-century castle ‘Muiderslot’.

Many canals surround Amsterdam, but if you want to take long strolls and don't have much time, there are three main canals you should not leave Amsterdam without visiting. The first one is the Herengracht canal, named after the iconic Heren Regeerders. This canal cuts across the city centre of Amsterdam. While walking along Herengracht, you will come across the popular ‘Golden Bend’. Make sure you have a camera handy to capture the beautiful wide mansions and picturesque inner gardens.

Next up is Keizersgracht, the wildest of the three canals in the city. Finish your trip by visiting the Singel canal. Amsterdam's innermost canal that runs from IJ bay to the Amstel river near Muntplein square.

If you want to explore the canals with zero physical effort, why not take a boat. There are hundreds of tour operators with boats across the city. You can book in advance or head to one of the kiosks that line the river

If you love nature, Vondelpark is the place to go. Vondelpark is full of walkers, joggers, and picnicking families. This most expansive green savanna land in Amsterdam is full of breath-taking flora. It is also surrounded by beautiful fountains and sculptures, making it a perfect place to spend the afternoons when the weather is nice.

The Verzetsmuseum, also known as the Dutch resistant museum, is an epicentre of inspiration. The museum carries the history of the freedom fighters who lived in the Netherlands during the Nazi era and tells the story of the resistance during World War II. Located near the Artis Royal Zoo it is equipped with original and authentic documents, photographs and films that tell the story of the occupation in the Netherlands.

If you want to explore Amsterdam at its best, this is the place to go. The Nine Streets is in the middle of the canal belt, near Jordaan. De Negen Straatjes is characterized by lively cafés, world-class boutiques, and world class restaurants. If you want to relax and watch the world go by, there are many leisurely places in these cosy streets where you can eat, grab a beer, enjoy a coffee, or shop at a leisurely pace.

If you are looking for a quiet place to unwind, Begijnhof Garden is the place to go. The Begijnhof is a secluded garden, located away from busy shops and restaurants, offering a peaceful haven in the city. When visiting the Begijnhof, you are expected to maintain silence, not to disturb the peace of residents and other visitors, and pay tribute to this unique ‘convent’.

The oldest church building in Amsterdam, the Oude Kerk sits at the heart of the Red-Light District. This architectural gem was built a century ago and still holds regular church services. It's also an official museum (since 2016) that has attracted artists from all over the world.

Climb to the top of Oude Kerk and enjoy an expansive bird’s eye view of Amsterdam.

There are a few dishes unique to the Netherlands that you need to try while visiting the city

Stroopwaffel Stroopwaffel has spread across the world but can be found in every café in Amsterdam. The stroopwaffel baked batter (waffle), filled with sweet syrup (stroop). Great with a coffee overlooking the canals.

New Herring One of the most famous local foods, Haring ‘Hollandse Nieuwe’ is usually served with onions and gherkins. These are usually served on their own but can be made into a sandwich or ‘broodje haring’. To truly be called ‘new herring’, the fish must be caught between May and July and has to be prepared in line with tradition.

Kroket A great snack food, served in most bars and pubs in the city, kroket is a meat filled roll, dee fried and often served on sliced bread. You’ll also find chicken or vegetarian Kroket options. You can even get a ‘McKroket’ in McDonalds!

Bitterballen A Dutch favourite that goes great with Heineken. These are deep fried balls served with mustard. Be careful when you bite in as the insides are often red hot.

Holland is famous for tulips and other flowers, and a trip to Amsterdam is not complete without them. If you are in Amsterdam during spring, you can enjoy various flower parades, and of course the citywide tulip festival. Finding tulips in Amsterdam isn’t a challenge. The city is filled with beautiful tulips. You’ll find some of the best in front of the Eye Film Museum, Rijksmuseum, or at the Vondelpark and Hortus Botanicus. Also check out the floating market in the spring, or head out on a day trip from Amsterdam to the Keukenhoff Gardens for a truly world class display.

The Jordaan is one of Amsterdam's most famous neighbourhoods, with several upscale art galleries, restaurants, street musicians. Visit Anne Frank House or enjoy a meal in the numerous cafes, brunch restaurants and breakfast spots, or take a trip to Woonbootmus, the only houseboat museum on the planet. It is a few minutes' walk from Anne Frank House. Spend the evening wandering around Lindengracht Market and Chilling out at local favourite, Bar Oldenhof.

Amsterdam is one of the few cities where you can enjoy the experience of the beach without necessarily stepping out of the city. Check out Strand Zuid, between Beatrixpark and the Exhibition Centre. Strand Zuid has nearly 7,000 square feet of beach (man made of course). This is the most luxurious beach and gets very busy in the summer. There are hammocks, sun loungers and a volleyball court. The others are Sloterplas, the best beach to head to for a swim, and Dok next to the IJ.