Curator’s statement
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, has always been one of my favorite destinations. It is a special destination renowned for its rich cultural heritage, picturesque canals and vibrant atmosphere. The city's unique blend of historic charm and modern innovation creates a captivating experience for visitors. Amsterdam has many cultural and artistic treasures. You can visit famous museums like the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum, or walk through the beautiful streets of the Jordaan district. Its extensive canal system, lined with 17th-century buildings, provides a scenic backdrop for boat tours and leisurely walks. The city's forward-thinking and welcoming spirit is shown in its many different food choices, lively nightlife, and open-minded community. Amsterdam's bike paths and efficient public transportation make it easy to explore its many attractions. This makes it a must-visit destination for travelers who want a mix of history, culture, and modern living.
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Things to do in Amsterdam
Canal Cruise: Experience Amsterdam from its iconic waterways on a canal cruise. These tours offer a unique perspective of the city’s historic architecture and picturesque canals. Options range from daytime sightseeing tours to romantic evening cruises with dinner or cocktails.
Anne Frank House Tour: Visit the house where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II. This tour gives a touching look at her life. You can get into the secret room and see shows that talk about the history of the Holocaust and Anne's legacy.
Van Gogh Museum Tour: Explore the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s works at the Van Gogh Museum. Guided tours provide a deeper insight into his art, life and the stories behind his most famous paintings.
Rijksmuseum Tour: Discover the treasures of the Rijksmuseum, home to masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer and other Dutch Golden Age artists. Guided tours help you navigate the vast collection and highlight the most significant works.
Red Light District Walking Tour: Gain a better understanding of Amsterdam's famous Red Light District with a guided tour. Learn about its history, the lives of sex workers and the efforts to create a safer, more respectful environment.
Heineken Experience: Take a tour of the historic Heineken brewery and learn about the brewing process. The interactive experience includes tastings and insights into the brand’s history and global reach.
Bike Tour: Explore Amsterdam like a local on a bike tour. These tours take you through the city’s scenic streets and parks, offering a closer look at landmarks and neighborhoods beyond the typical tourist areas.
Food Tour: Taste your way through Amsterdam with a food tour that highlights Dutch cuisine. Sample local delicacies like stroopwafels, cheese, herring and more while learning about the city’s culinary traditions.
Jordaan District Tour: Wander through the charming Jordaan district with a guided tour that delves into its history, architecture and vibrant arts scene. Discover hidden courtyards, indie boutiques and cozy cafes.
Amsterdam Museum Tour: Visit the Amsterdam Museum to learn about the city's history from its beginnings to today. The museum offers interactive exhibits and guided tours that bring Amsterdam’s past to life.
A note from Cynamon
1. Zaanse Schans
Just a short train ride from Amsterdam, Zaanse Schans is a picturesque open-air museum that showcases traditional Dutch life in the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can explore historic windmills, see demonstrations of traditional crafts such as clog-making and cheese-making and stroll through charming, well-preserved wooden houses. It's a perfect spot to experience the iconic Dutch countryside.
2. Keukenhof Gardens
Known as the Garden of Europe, Keukenhof Gardens is one of the world's largest flower gardens, located in Lisse, about an hour from Amsterdam. It's a breathtakingly beautiful place to visit in the spring when millions of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths are in bloom. The gardens offer a vibrant display of colors and designs, along with themed pavilions, flower shows and stunning landscaped areas.
3. Utrecht
Utrecht is a historic city located just 30 minutes by train from Amsterdam. It's known for its medieval old town, beautiful canals and the Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, explore the charming streets filled with shops and cafes, visit the Centraal Museum for art and history and take a canal cruise to see the city from a unique perspective. Utrecht offers a delightful mix of history, culture and modern amenities.
Places to eat & drink in Amsterdam
De Kas: It's a restaurant that used to be a greenhouse. It has a menu that changes every day based on the freshest ingredients they get from their own gardens.
Restaurant Rijks: Situated in the Rijksmuseum, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves modern Dutch cuisine with international influences. The menu features seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
The Duchess: It's a fancy restaurant that's inspired by the elegance of the Belle Époque. It has a menu that mixes French and Italian food. The restaurant is known for its high tea and exquisite desserts.
Restaurant Vinkeles: It's a Michelin-starred restaurant in a former bakery in the Dylan Hotel. It serves modern French food with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients.
Ciel Bleu: This restaurant is on the 23rd floor of the Okura Hotel. It has a two-Michelin star rating and offers beautiful views of Amsterdam. The menu has new ideas and uses the best ingredients and cooking methods.
Daalder: This restaurant in the Jordaan district has a Michelin star. It is relaxed and refined. The menu is creative and changes often.
Ron Gastrobar is a restaurant with Michelin stars. It is a casual dining experience with good food. The menu features a variety of small plates designed for sharing.
Foodhallen: A trendy indoor food market in a former tram depot. It has many different street food stalls from all over the world, from fancy burgers to sushi and Vietnamese pho.
Brasserie Ambassade: Located in the Ambassade Hotel, this brasserie offers a classic French menu with a contemporary twist. The elegant setting is complemented by an extensive wine list.
Brouwerij 't IJ: A brewery and pub near a windmill. It serves a variety of their own craft beers and a menu of hearty Dutch snacks and dishes.
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Amsterdam. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Travis Tanner's guide, Discover Amsterdam: A Guide to the Best Sights and Food.