10 Things to Do and to See in Amsterdam

  

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, has long been called the “Venice of the North” due to its connection with the water. With its 165 canals and 600 bridges, it is a multicultural, lively city that's a must-visit at least once in your life. I recently had the opportunity to explore this city, and it was a fascinating and surprising experience. Amsterdam is truly a delight to visit, offering a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions.

 1. ANNE FRANK HOUSE

The Anne Frank House, located in the center of Amsterdam, is the hiding place where Anne Frank wrote her famous diary during World War II. The experience of visiting the empty rooms in the hidden annex where two families lived for more than two years while hiding from the Nazis is unforgettable. The original diary is on display as part of the Anne Frank House's permanent exhibition.

 2. VAN GOGH MUSEUM

This modern building houses the world's largest collection of works by the legendary Dutch artist, Vincent van Gogh. It's a must-visit for art and art history lovers. The museum features over 200 paintings and 500 drawings by van Gogh and his contemporaries, including Gauguin, Monet, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Bernard. Don't miss iconic works like "Potato Eaters," "Sunflowers," and "Wheat Field with Crows." Tickets can sell out quickly, so be sure to purchase them online in advance.

 3. ZAANSE SCHANS (40 minutes from Amsterdam)

The scenic Dutch village of Zaanse Schans is famous for its windmills. Once used to power various industries, these windmills now operate as part of an open-air museum. Stroll through the village, admire the preserved architecture, and witness locals at work in traditional ways. Best of all, admission is free.

 

4. MOCO MUSEUM

Amsterdam's Modern Contemporary Museum (Moco Museum) is my favorite, featuring inspiring art, including exhibits by mysterious British street artist Banksy, surrealist Salvador Dalí, and pop artist Roy Lichtenstein. The museum is a privately owned initiative known for featuring artists with unique and often ironic visions. Housed in a classic Dutch mansion designed in 1904, visiting the Moco Museum is an immersive experience that goes beyond traditional art appreciation.

 

5. RIJKSMUSEUM

The Rijksmuseum is the largest and most attractive museum in the Netherlands, with a remarkable collection of 17th-century Dutch Golden Age masterpieces. It features famous works like Rembrandt's "The Night Watch," Vermeer's "The Milkmaid," and Jan Steen's "The Burgomaster of Delft and his Daughter." These paintings reflect the history and character of the Dutch. Tickets are available for €22.50, and admission is free for visitors aged 18 and under.

 

6. BLOEMENMARKT

Amsterdam's Bloemenmarkt is the most beautiful flower market in Europe, located at the southern end of the city center next to the canal ring. It's the world's only floating flower market, where you can not only see but also smell the wonderful flowers. For over 150 years, boats have been bringing freshly picked flowers from the fields to the heart of Amsterdam. You can shop for flowers, bulbs, seeds, dried flowers, and souvenirs like Dutch wooden clogs and cheese. Be prepared to be tempted by the vibrant displays. The market is open daily until 17:30 and is free to enter.

 7. UPSIDE DOWN MUSEUM

The Upside-Down Museum, co-founded by influencer Anna Nooshin in 2020, offers a playful and fun way to experience modern Dutch culture. Visitors can walk upside down in various themed rooms, view inverted artworks, and even take photos to share on social media with the hashtag #upsidedownmuseum. The experience is immersive, allowing visitors to set their own rules for hours of fun. There's also a bar inside where you can enjoy drinks, food, or coffee. Tickets are priced at €25.

8. A'DAM LOOKOUT

Located in northern Amsterdam, the A'DAM Lookout offers a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the city. It's an exciting attraction where you can even swing your legs over the building's edge for an adrenaline rush. The A'DAM Lookout is open daily from 10:00 to 21:00, with the last admission at 20:00. To reach the platform, you can take a free ferry across the IJ river, and then an elevator will whisk you to the 20th floor. Admission is priced at €23.

 

9. TONY'S CHOCOLONELY STORE

Do you love chocolate? In Amsterdam, you can not only taste but also make your own chocolate bar at Tony's Chocolonely Store. You get to choose the design and flavorings of your bar, and it's a delightful experience for just €8. Return after two hours to collect your customized chocolate bar. Tony's Chocolonely is a Dutch confectionery company dedicated to producing and selling chocolate that is traceable, ethically sourced, and purchased at a fair price.

 10. MINI CRUISE

The canals of Amsterdam are the heart of the city. Exploring the city via a boat trip offers a different perspective and a relaxing experience. There are canal cruises available for all budgets and at various times of the day. Don't miss the chance to take an evening cruise and see Amsterdam at night from a different viewpoint.

A visit to Amsterdam is a journey filled with history, art, and unique experiences. These ten attractions provide a glimpse into the city's rich cultural tapestry and vibrant spirit. Enjoy your time in this beautiful and diverse city!

 Today's Blogger

Hi, everyone! I'm Agnese Lollobrigida, I'm in the 5th year of Liceo Scientifico and I'm very excited to write for Let's Blog.  I hope you like my articles, and I can't wait to create more for you. Have a good day!