Although Amsterdam is quite small compared to most European capitals, the city offers not only a wide range of world-class entertainment and abundance of cultural and historical attractions, but also some unique experiences that tourists couldn't have anywhere else.
If you are heading to Amsterdam in the near future for the first time, the following mini-list of 7 things you absolutely must do in Amsterdam will help you make your visit a memorable one.
1. Canal Boat Tour is a great way to see the city, which is completely different from viewing it when walking or biking around.
There are a lot of Canal Boat tours which provide one-hour introduction to Amsterdam. You will be able to see some of amazing Amsterdam sights in a short period of time. Sunset and night cruises are highly recommended if you are in romantic mood.
2. In case you want to get a taste of
cultural Amsterdam, there are lots of museums and galleries for any taste.
Anne Frank House, The Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art, Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam Historical Museum, Rembrandt House are most popular choices among tourists, but there are many, many more.
Those looking for some unusual experience should visit unique Erotic Museum, Sex Museum or the Hash Marijuana & Hemp Museum.
3. The capital of the Netherlands has so much to offer when it comes to
shopping experience.
Whether you are looking for high-end clothing, jewelry, antiques, furniture, books, cigars, chocolate or cheap food and goods, you will find all of them in local markets.
The main shopping areas in Amsterdam are "Nine little streets", Kalversrtaat, Leidsestraat, Dam Square Area, Utrechtsestraat, De Jordaan, Albert Cuypstraat.
4. Head to the
Vondelpark, Amsterdam's most famous and popular park among both locals and tourists.
You can just stroll though Vondelpark, enjoy outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, jogging or take a picnic and watch the world go by.
For many tourists and residents, the essence of Dutch lifestyle – tolerance, carelessness, peacefulness, friendliness – can be found in Vondelpark.
5. Don't miss a chance to try
Dutch beer, which is strong and fresh. You should visit one of the many breweries in Amsterdam.
One of the must see places for all beer lovers is the Heineken Experience beer museum, where you will learn how they do beer from beginning to the end.
Along the way you can get a couple of beers and stop at the souvenir shop where you can have a Heineken beer glass with your name on it to prove you have been there.
6. You can also indulge in adult activities when in Amsterdam, which is world-renowned for its tolerance.
The
Red Light District is quite safe, even at night due to substantial police presence. It's just interesting to see all those ladies of the night in the windows and live-sex shows.
Just remember that it's not wise to take pictures of the area or the females in the windows.
There were rumors that current Amsterdam mayor is going to move prostitution from Red Light District to other locations, so hurry up!
7. Whether you fancy a coffee or a smoke (or both of them) take a night off in Amsterdam and visit
local coffeeshops, relax and enjoy Dutch marijuana and hashish.
Even if you are not going to indulge in other than a cup of coffee, coffeeshop is a great place where beer, soft drinks and snacks are sold.
Most of them have appropriate food menus and outdoor seating as well.
Hotelscompare is a trademark from GloRes bv located in Netherlands. Hotelscompare is built using the latest Microsoft Dot.Net technology ensuring a very userfriendly, up to date site which works fast and reliable. The booking process is fully secured ensuring that your information is heavily encrypted as it is sent over the internet.
