Built on a maze of extensive waterways many lying below sea level, this is a city known for its canals and cycles. It’s without question one of the main forms of transportation with bikes lanes getting the green light in the busy central city streets, and where multi storied parking buildings are home to thousands of bikes every day.
Bikes aside, the waterways which meander across the land, abound in history with classic Dutch architecture including Anne Frank’s home, hugging the banks. As well, it’s a city proudly showcasing great art museums like Van Gogh & the Rijks, both of which play a major role in the heritage of this laid back city. This place buzzes by day and night; restaurants, ‘space cake’ cafes, street artists, a lively Red Light District and a vibrant flower market all help make up the inner character of this thriving city.
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Amsterdam Fast Facts
• The largest city in The Netherlands.
• Population of around 760,000 in central Amsterdam (and supposedly over 1 million bikes).
• Very popular with tourists, over 3.5 million visitors a year.
• You will find that the majority of people speak excellent English.
• The name Amsterdam comes from the combination of the river Amstel and
the Dam that was built on it in order to found the original village know today as Amsterdam.
• Van Gogh & Rembrandt are two former residents of Amsterdam. |
Amsterdam Highlights
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Rembrandt Square (Rembrandtplein) - named after the famous Dutch painter Rembrandt it was originally the Botermarkt (Butter Market) and was established in 1668. These days it's a buzzing nightlife centre with hotels, clubs and cafes. A cast iron statue of Rembrandt stands in the middle of the square.
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Flower Market - on the Singel Canal where the flowers are displayed on floating barges, this is one of the most colourful and fragrant places in the city.
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Museumquarter - two of the big drawcards of this area are the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum. Van Gogh houses the largest collection of his paintings, along with drawings and litters, and the Rijksmuseum features a famous collection of Rembrandt works.
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Jordaan - a funky area that is popular with students and well-to-do business people. It has loads of atmosphere, narrow streets and picturesque canals with lovely little shops, restaurants and bars.
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Anne Frank's House - a really moving exhibition in the house where Anne and her family hid. Expecially of interest if you've read her diaries.
• Magere Bridge (Skinny Bridge) - one of Amsterdam's 1280 or so bridges. Built in the 1600s it is a traditional Dutch draw-bridge and opens approx every 20 minutes. Must be seen from the water and is striking especially in the evening which it is lit with fairy lights.
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'Brown Cafes' - these are to the Dutch like a local pub to the British. A casual place where you can grab a bite to and a drink. The term 'brown' comes from the dark wood and stained walls that supposedly owe their hue to years of smoking patrons.
Flights to Amsterdam
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Amsterdam Accommodation
With a range of accommodation in Amsterdam, there is something to suit every requirement and budget. Contact your
local House of Travel for full Amsterdam accommodation options.
Amsterdam Sightseeing
There is so much to see & do in Amsterdam! Contact your
local House of Travel for full Amsterdam sightseeing options.