Amsterdam is one of the most popular destinations in Europe, full of fun. There’s enough to do in one neighbourhood alone to keep busy for an entire month let alone a weekend. With cafes, museums, canals, bikes, and its history, Amsterdam is a premiere destination for all of the world to see. Check out the activities and attractions that can’t be missed.
Museums
There are over 100 museums in Amsterdam! There is literally something for everyone from art to history to books. The most famous and historic museums of the bunch are the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. Both located in the Museum Quarter, they are by far the busiest of them all. With works from Rembrandt, Picasso, Van Gogh, and other highly-known artists, Rijksmuseum is a local and tourist favourite. Tip: buy your museum tickets online to skip the long lines. It will save you hours!
The Red light District
By far the most famous district in the city, the Red light District is home to some interesting sights. Ladies of the night line the cobblestone alleys in glass rooms illuminated with red lights while tourists flock to the area to catch a free show, watching the prostitutes tap on the window, waiting for a buyer. This area is also known for it’s unusual museums, shows, and cannabis cafes. It’s quirky, outrageous, and completely Amsterdam. Buying one of the prostitutes is not mandatory, but visiting this part of Amsterdam should be, even if it’s for an hour- It’s like no other.
Canals
In a city that’s famous for its waterways, you can’t miss out on the canals. Canal tours are available throughout the day, ranging from hourly to dinner cruises. It’s a fantastic way to see the city from a different point-of-view. There are several attractions on the canals including floating flower markets and a cat sanctuary, where abandoned cats live on a boat and you can visit and adopt them.
Rent a Bike
Push bikes in Amsterdam are no joke. It seems that every resident of the city rides one around town. You’ll notice the heap of bicycles smashed together at any designated bike parking. Thousands of bikes are thrown about, and you’ll wonder how anyone actually finds their bike. Renting a bike is easy and can be a great way to see the city. Make sure you are briefed on the bike system and know the proper hand signals to ensure you won’t get hurt. If you’re uneasy about going alone, take one of the many bike tours available in the city centre.
Coffeeshops
Known for their space cakes and cannabis brownies, coffeeshops in Amsterdam are not the same as the ones at home. Full of tourists wanting to get legally high, it’s worth visiting just for people watching alone. There are thousands of coffeeshops around the city and popping in to one to have a look around is almost mandatory. It’s definitely a trip!
Regardless of where you go or what you do, Amsterdam is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It’s a favourite of many, and it continues to welcome the curious and open minded year after year.
