Amsterdam Destination Guide

Amsterdam is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, famous for its beautiful canals, cycling culture, and Red Light District. It is the capital and most populous city in the Netherlands and often referred to as the “Venice of the North” because of its expansive system of bridges and canals.

Here are some of the key points to remember as you plan your trip to Amsterdam.

Must-See Attractions

Most visitors begin their Amsterdam adventure in the Old Centre, which is full of traditional architecture, shopping centers, and coffee shops. Don’t miss the Dam Square and the areas around Spui and Nieuwmarkt. The infamous Red Light District is also in this area. The top museums to visit are the Rijksmusuem, the Ann Frank House, and the Van Gogh Museum.

If You Have Time

There are several other unique districts in Amsterdam, and you should try to explore as many of them as time allows. The Canal Ring is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was originally built to attract wealthy home owners and is a hub for celebrity spotting and nightlife today.

Free Things to Do

Have a picnic and bring a bottle of wine to relax and people-watch in Vondelpark
Soak up some sun at one of the city’s beaches
Take a stroll along the canals, smell the flowers, and browse markets along the way
Hop on one of several free ferry services across the IJ River for lovely city views

Transportation

Travelers should be aware that Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is one of the busiest airports in the world. This airport is located about 15 kilometers southwest of city center. You can catch a train from Schiphol to Amsterdam Central Station, which has many connecting routes. It’s typically not a good idea to drive a car to the city center because traffic is congested and parking is difficult to find. Cycling is incredibly popular here, and it’s easy to find cheap bike rentals around town.