Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Brimming with amazing culture, incredible nightlife, world-class museums and historical gems, this is one city not to miss when thinking of a European city break.
1. Anne Frank House
It's one of the 20th century's most compelling stories: a young Jewish girl forced into hiding with her family and their friends to escape deportation by the Nazis. The house that Otto Frank used as a hideaway for his family kept them safe until close to the end of World War II. It was here that Anne wrote the diary that became an international bestseller after the war, just a few years after her death at age 15.
2. Amsterdam Central Station
Located in the center of the city, Amsterdam Central Station is the largest railway station in the Netherlands, as well as the most visited national heritage site in the country.
3. Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug)
Magere Brug is a bridge in Amsterdam that crosses the Amstel River. Its name translates as "skinny bridge" and comes from the original bridge that was so skinny, it was difficult for two people to pass each other while walking across it.
4. Jordaan
Jordan is the most popular of Amsterdam's Neighborhood and is well-know for its mix of residential areas with garden courtyards, lively markets, and upscale boutiques and eateries.
5. Dam Square
Dam Square is one of the most tourist-packed areas of Amsterdam, and for good reason. Dam square is also home to top tourist attractions such as the New Church, Madame Tussauds wax museum and the National Memorial Statue which is dedicated to Dutch soldiers who lost their lives in World War II.
6. Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam
Known for being Amsterdam's botanical garden, come here if you want to take in some of the best nature in the city. The garden used to be dedicated to medicinal herbs but now has exotic and tropical flowers that bloom in the summer months!
7. The National Monument
The National Monument is actually an obelisk that stands at 22 meters high. It is a memorial to the victims and veterans of the Second World War. It's moving reminder of the city's turbulent history.
8. Amstel River
Amsterdam might be most famous for its winding canals and the pretty locks, but it’s the Amstel River that the city was first built around, even deriving its name from its early settlement at the 'Amstel Dam'.
9. Albert Cuyp Market
Renowned as being Europe's biggest outdoor market, the Albert Cuyp Market, named after the 17th-century painter of the same name, has been trading since the late 19th-century. The market is open every day except for Monday and is an easy tram ride from the city center. Here, around 260 market stalls offer just about everything imaginable.
10. Cruise past canal houses and bridges
Created in the 17th century to keep the sea at bay, Amsterdam's UNESCO protected canal belt is the postcard-perfect vision of Amsterdam. It is an unbelievably pretty sight, especially after sundown when the bridges are lit up by fairy lights and the canals takes on a magical feel.
There is no place quite like Amsterdam, and you will find yourself wanting to return time and time again to embrace the city's many fascinating attractions. Hope this blog helps you make the most of your time in Amsterdam.
Thank you!