The capital city of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is a city intertwined with canal systems and hilly streets lines with bicycles.
Tip:While in Amsterdam, be sure to take advantage of the IAmsterdam pass. Granting you access to most of the cities attractions, you will find this pass invaluable as you skip the public queue (sometimes hundreds of people long at the more popular sites) and go straight in.
While Amsterdam is famous for its red-light district and coffee houses, it is its cultural sites that make Amsterdam such a unique holiday destination. The following are only a few of many.
Van Gogh Museum
This site is a must see for Art lovers and van Gogh fans. The museum hosts close to 200 paintings and 500 drawings by Vincent and his friends and contemporaries (Gauguin, Monet, Toulouse-Lautrec and Bernard). Many of the artist’s personal effects are also on display.
Rembrandt Huis
The former home of famous Dutch painter and etcher, Rembrandt Van Rijn, the Rembrandt House boasts an interesting history. As you walk through the domestic rooms of the artist, you will be able to see where Rembrandt lived with his wife and son for twenty years before declaring bankruptcy. The rooms have been reconstructed to their original condition and form part of the museum.
Anne Frank Huis
One of the most famous stories to come out of the Jewish population most directly affected by the Nazi invasions of World War II is that of Anne Frank. A young girl, in hiding with her family, kept a journal of the daily struggles they faced in their fight to stay out of the concentration camps. The diaries focus on Anne’s thoughts and acted as a way to fight boredom, yet offered a searing glimpse into the darkest time in Amsterdam.
Brussels and Antwerp Day Tour
Once you have enjoyed the museums and cafes of Amsterdam, take a day trip out of town and get a taste of all Belgium has to offer. Discover stunning architecture, admire centuries of history and enjoy local delicacies such as Belgian beer, waffles and chocolate. Load up on souvenirs and visit the local shops. Drive along the Royal Palace.
A buzzing centre, Amsterdam offers easy access to many neighbouring European countries by train and offers one of the easiest public transports systems I have ever come across. The IAmsterdam pass will ensure you have easy access to the best attractions in Amsterdam and the local tour companies will allow you to visit the tulips when in season and neighbouring towns and cities.
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