Amsterdam: A Quick Guide

The Netherlands is a small country in northern Europe, famous for it’s engineering and maritime history. The country was once the center of global commerce in the 1600’s when the Dutch East India Trading Company reigned as one of the most powerful in the world. The Dutch also established a colony in North America, which later became New York. Dutch engineering is famous for their ingenious ways to control water flow as a quarter of the Netherlands lies below sea level. Dykes, pumps, canals, flood barriers and windmills work together to pump and control water movement and mitigate flooding. The cities are designed around walkable town centers, bicycle paths and public transportation, with an emphasis on green spaces. The Dutch are one of the tallest populations on the planet, they are straightforward, practical, and appreciate simplicity. I really loved it there! 

The charming streets of Amsterdam are alight with the warm and cozy Dutch culture. Windowsills burst with flower boxes and intimate restaurants are tucked into crooked brick buildings alongside canals. It is simple and beautiful. In keeping with tradition, the city is well laid out, easy to navigate and very practical. There are some fantastic things to do around the city, I will lay them out here in geographical order for efficiency getting around. 

Stay in a canal house:

Many of these iconic buildings are centuries old, built during the Dutch Golden Age. They are known for their large windows and decorative gables. The homes are exquisite with their exposed wooden beams and original fireplaces. Find one near the Jordaan and Nine Streets area so you can start your tour off properly. 

Explore Jordaan and The Nine Streets:

A fun neighborhood crossing the canals with vintage shops and specialty foods. If you are staying in the area this is a lovely spot to spend the evenings. 

Rent a Bike:

Amsterdam is compact with plentiful bike lanes and pedestrian streets. In fact, as the bicycle capital of the world, bikes outnumber people! Tourists, businesspeople, students, and families all ride bikes as a part of their daily routine. Rent a bike for the day and join the locals on the dedicated bike network. Since you are starting near Jordaan, make your way toward Central Station and then on towards the Royal Palace. 

See the Red Light District:

Medieval alleyways and neon signs greet you as you discover a unique world within a city. Stop in at a pub or find some quirky shops to explore. You can visit anytime of day, with the nighttime really ramping up optionality and variety. From here it is a short jaunt to Chinatown if you would like to check that out as well. 

Tour the Rembrandt House Museum:

Take a little detour to the former home and studio of the famous Dutch painter. Bonus stop, you can also swing by the Opera House nearby. 

Eat Fish n Chips:

It is still painful to remember scattering my beloved fish and chips across the railroad tracks when I almost crashed my bike. These were seriously one of my most favorite fish and chips I had ever had the pleasure of tasting- gone before their time. Very sad. Grab some lunch at Haringhandel Jonk and I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Take in the Bloemenmarkt:

Next, make your way to the floating flower market. It is most famous for tulips, but all kinds of flowers can be found, along with other goods and quirky shops. 

Visit the Albert Cuyp Market: 

Venture a little outside of the city center to the largest daytime market in Europe. It is closed Sunday so be sure to plan ahead. While there, make sure to try the Stroopwafels and Dutch Cheese. Fun fact, the Dutch are one of the worlds biggest exporters of cheese! The market is literally bursting with fantastic finds and souvenirs, so you’ll want to have plenty of time to spend here. 

Immerse in Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum: 

Nearby, the Rijksmuseum for Dutch Arts and History houses an extensive collection of Rembrandt and Van Gough. Is located just adjacent to the Van Gogh Museum. If you have time, both are highly recommended, but if you must choose one, then Rijksmuseum is probably your most efficient stop. 

Wander through Vondelpark:

Finally, spend some time breathing in the fresh air of this public green space. Complete with an open air theater, a playground, meandering waterways and luscious gardens, this is the perfect escape from the bustle of the city. 

Tour Anne Frank’s House:

A moving museum and the place Anne Frank and her family lived in hiding for 761 days during WWII. On the tour, you can see the concealed entrance behind a bookcase and the decorations in Anne’s tiny room which are still preserved today. The family was discovered in 1944 and Anne and her sister died around February 1945, shortly before the end of the war. Her father Otto, the sole family survivor, published her diary in 1947. Even if you have not read the book, take the time to absorb this important part of history. 

See the Windmills:

If you aren’t leaving the city, Molen de Otter is the perfect windmill choice for you.It is just a little jaunt from Jordaan, making it a perfect bike ride or evening stroll. 

Go on a Canal Cruise:

Last but not least, the area around Jordaan and Anne Frank House is best for hopping on a historic canal cruise. It is fabulous to take a cruise around sunset when the golden rays light up the rid bricks of the canal houses and bridges. Tours can last about an hour and should be booked ahead of time. 

I hope you get to experience the Dutch concept of “gezellighed” meaning togetherness and enjoying simple pleasures. Take a walk, gather in a candlelit cafe, and appreciate the beauty around you. Amsterdam is a fabulous destination for history, art, engineering and of course, the Red Light District. Have a great trip!