Amstel
Beautiful canals, stunning architecture and an impressive art scene.
Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands, located in the southeastern section of the providence of north Holland. The official language is Dutch, although the majority of residents do speak English. The Euro is the currency. Peak tourist season is during July and August (Summer). The name Amsterdam comes from the cities origins, as Dam of river “Amstel”. It is easy to get around Amsterdam, the city is walkable and it is very easy to rent a bike and explore the city this way. The Public transport system is great and includes, the metro, buses, trams and ferries. Amsterdam, a city full of life, culture and a rich history. Beautiful buildings, picturesque scenery and a stunning canal.
A visit to the Netherlands
I have visited this wonderful city, twice. Both times I stayed in a backpackers located near the center of the city. Once in the autumn (fall) and again during the winter period. Both times were very fulfilling and an enriching backpacking experience. Autumn provided us with nice weather, enabling us to make the most of the parks and outdoor scenery, even renting a bike to experience the craze of the bicycle capital! A must do! Heineken beer, cheese tasting, exploring the red light district and experiencing the famous coffee shops I would definitely return to this wonderful city for a third time!
Highlights and must-sees of Amsterdam
- Walking tour of the city: It is free and great way to get your bearings whilst learning about the history of the city.
- Anne Frank house: The house where Anne Frank hid during world war two and wrote her diary. A very rewarding visit.
- Oldest pub: Cafe Karpershoek claims to be the oldest pub in the city. Opening in 1606! So why not enjoy a drink whilst sitting in history!
- Coffee shops: In the Netherlands, coffee shops are defined as alcohol free, but where cannabis is sold and consumed. There are approximately 200 coffee shops in Amsterdam.
- Van Gogh Museum: The worlds largest collection of beautiful artwork from Vincent Van Gogh.
- Vondelpark: I love the outdoors, and this urban park is a great way to spend a day outdoors.
- Jordaan: A beautiful neighbourhood to walk around and immerse yourself into the Dutch lifestyle.
- Rembrandt House Museum: Historic house and art museum.
- Dam square: The heart of the city. Located in the historical center of Amsterdam.
- Royal Palace of Amsterdam: Still used by the royal family. Rich in history and stunning architecture.
- Science center NEMO: I love science and this is a great interactive museum to explore and discover science and technology.
- Leidseplein: Great place to sit back, relax and enjoy the atmosphere of the city.
- Venustemple sex museum: Worlds first and oldest sex museum.
- Red light district: Window parlours, sex shops, brothels and even museums, the infamous attraction of Amsterdam is worth the visit.
Roaming free - tales of wanderlustbykelley 
Great post!, I hope one day I get to visit Amsterdam. Do you think is a good place to take teenagers or it’s mostly for adults? Do you consider it an expensive city?
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Love the pictures! Amsterdam is the place my DH really wants to see and I can see why! Those canal pics are awesome!
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I love your pics. I swear the houses look like toy houses. lol . This definitely looks like somewhere I could visit. As a coffee addict, I think I would fit right in! You must definitely feel at home here if you visited more than once.
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I have been to Amsterdam for the first time this past summer with my husband. He has traveled there a few times. I loved Amsterdam. The Anne Franke house was amazing. There is NOTHING like the feeling of walking through the place where she wrote her diary. Amsterdam is amazing. I loved the food and museums. Great post!
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Wow! Great post! I’d love to go to Amsterdam someday. Your post sounds like you had an amazing experience!
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This is on my bucket list! When I finally go, I’ll have to read your guide again to nail the trip!
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Amsterdam has always been on my bucket list of places I want to visit. It has so much history and beauty.
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I never really thought about going to Amsterdam before, it looks beautiful though. May need to add it to my want to do list.
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Amsterdam is definitely on my list of places to visit, it looks incredible. You shared so many great tips on places to visit I will have to keep these in mind when I finally get to visit!
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I love Amsterdam and your pictures capture the city perfectly. I need to go back soon for a visit. Thank you for the tips on what to do and see – I missed a few of these spots when i was there a few years ago.
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I wish I had traveled more before we had kids. Now my list of places to go keeps getting longer and longer.
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You have shared such beautiful images! I’ll be honest Amsterdam wasn’t on my list of places to visit, but I think it may be now. As an art enthusiast, I would love to see the Van Gogh museum.
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I just love Amsterdam! My boyfriend has never been, and we’ve been looking for cheap flights to take a long weekend there. This is a great list!
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I have been a lot of places, but this is not one of them! After seeing your gorgeous pics I definitely think I have to add this to my “Places to go” list! Thank you so much!
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I was in Amsterdam exactly 10 years ago, and now after reading your post, i started missing it ))) Luckily I don’t live that far, so may be it’s time to pay it a visit 😉
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I’ve always heard about the coffee shops in Amsterdam. I’d love to try them when I do go.
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Looks like you had a great time in the Dutch capital! I went there a few years ago for New Year, and it was so fun! I really liked wandering around the city, up and down all the canals, and of course having a few beers in the pubs hehe x
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Wow, so many amazing things to see. great photos.
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