The Netherlands' most popular and populous city, Amsterdam, has made a name among tourists. Its name means ‘the dam on the River Amstel’, as the town was initially mounted on the Amstel River. What originated as a small village, Amsterdam is now one of the most important cities in the world due to the significance of its busy and imperative port in the global finance hub. The city is filled with astounding landmarks and attractions, with warm and welcoming people, making it a perfect place for a tour. The most admired destinations include the Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, Royal Palace Amsterdam, and Van Gogh Museum. At the same time, if you wish to taste the delicacies of this city, which are Stroopwafel, Stamppot, and Bitterbalen, visit the local cafes and restaurants such as Cafe-Restaurant de Bazel or Grand Cafe 1884.
Try interacting with the locals to understand their culture and significant practices. This will help you make meaningful connections and elevate your experience. Amsterdam is known not only for its food and places but also for the exquisite canals and architecture. Once you visit this city, you are bound to leave with endless memories, knowledge, and pictures, which will make you come here again.
Places to visit in Amsterdam
Want to create the best itinerary when exploring this magnificent city? Well, look no further! Following are some of Amsterdam's best attractions and landmarks that you cannot miss.
- Rijksmuseum: Rijksmuseum is one of the world’s most famous museums due to its artefacts and masterpiece collection. Some of the most talked about pieces in this museum are the Milkmaid by Vermeer, Self-portrait by Van Gogh, and Rembrandt’s Night Watch. The architectural beauty of this destination and the pivotal history of the masterpieces displayed inside make this place a tourist favourite. You can easily book your ticket for this museum on the official website and explore this 11-storied beautiful attraction of Amsterdam.
- Anne Frank House: The renowned Anne Frank House is where author Anne Frank and her family lived and hid during World War II. A museum today, it was once the home of one of the most famous authors of all time. The significance of this attraction is due to the artefacts and the original diary displayed in the museum that narrates the tales from that grim period.
- Vondelpark: A peaceful and famous public park, Vondelpark has its uniqueness and beauty that captures the attention of every visitor. This park was named Nieuwe Park (New Park) but was later renamed after playwright and poet Joost van den Vondel. Unique aspects of this park are the open-air theatre, various food stalls, and a playground built inside to entertain visitors. Although this park has undergone several modifications, the serenity of this place will surely leave you in awe.
- Van Gogh Museum: The Van Gogh Museum is one of the prime reasons many tourists visit Amsterdam. This museum is dedicated to Van Gogh and his works. You will find approximately 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and over 700 letters here. This museum has a cafe and a souvenir shop for all the tourists to take home their memories in the form of souvenirs.
- Body World: For all the science enthusiasts, this is your place to explore and learn about the body parts with elaborate descriptions. With over 200 natural plastinated bodies displayed in this gallery, this destination is bound to amaze you. You can learn about the reactions, movements, and practices that affect our mood daily.
- Royal Palace of Amsterdam: The official residence of the monarch, the Royal Palace of Amsterdam stands in the middle of this capital city. This place is open for visitors to look at the life of the royals closely and is known to host some of the most remarkable events all year. The Royal Palace also exhibits some scarce and significant artefacts that will help you learn Amsterdam’s legacy in great detail. If you are visiting Amsterdam for the first time, don’t forget to add this royal landmark to your itinerary.
- Eye Filmmuseum: The Eye Filmmuseum is a two-gallery exhibition space in which one gallery is dedicated to technical and historical cinema. The other gallery exhibits the experimental cinema, also known as expanded cinema. This museum is a hub for all cinema lovers globally.
Amsterdam Airport (AMS)
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), also named Schiphol Airport, is the main airport of Amsterdam. It is one of the busiest airports in the world and caters to several flights to and from Amsterdam on a daily basis. It has a single terminal divided into three departure halls which handle domestic, regional, and international flights. Located at a distance of 9 km from the city centre, you can easily book public transport like a bus, taxi, or train and reach the airport on time for your flight. Being one of the leading international airports, the services offered by this airport include a pharmacy, shower area, meeting rooms, and first aid facilities.