Architecture
One of the most impressive sights in Amsterdam is its architecture. You’ll find something visually appealing everywhere you turn, from iconic canals and bridges to grand cathedrals, churches, and enormous gabled houses. Amsterdam is home to various architectural styles, from Gothic to contemporary, and has an abundance of 17th-century buildings.
Let’s look closely at this beautiful city’s stunning architecture.
Visit the Amsterdam Canal Ring
The Amsterdam Canal Ring, or Grachtengordel, is one of Amsterdam’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage-listed landmarks. It was built from the 17th to 19th centuries. Then, Amsterdam’s historic canals were meant to be a system for transportation and defense. Today, these canals are a defining feature of the city’s landscape, with their story intertwined with its history as a major port for global trade.
The Amsterdam Canal Ring consists of four connected canals – Singel, Herengracht (Gentleman’s Canal), Keizersgracht (Emperor’s Canal), and Prinsengracht (Prince’s Canal). Stretching 3.6 km in length and encompassing 85 kilometers of the waterway, this stunning canal system consists of hundreds of houseboats and centuries-old houseboats that line its edges. Visitors can observe many historical architectural styles, such as neoclassical and traditional Dutch houses, and explore its charming waterside streets lined by street-side cafés and small artisanal shops.
When visiting this spectacular canal belt, take time to explore the surrounding areas, such as Begijnhof, which was historically part of an old 14th-century monastery, or along Herengracht, where you will find HouseHouse – a beautiful 17th-century mansion once home to famed Dutch painter Jan Vermeer. Or take in the views atop Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge), one of the oldest bridges in Holland, having been reconstructed multiple times since 1673!
No visit to Amsterdam would be complete without taking the time to experience all the Amsterdam Canal Ring offers!
Explore the Jordaan Neighborhood
The Jordaan neighborhood is a charming and diverse area of Amsterdam in the northwestern section of the city. From iconic bridges and peaceful canals to stunning architecture and the infamous Anne Frank House, exploring Amsterdam’s Jordaan district is a fantastic way to experience the Dutch capital.
At its heart lies intricate cobblestone streets that make up some of the oldest neighborhoods in Amsterdam, surrounded by quaint canals with their accompanying warehouses, cafes, and homes. Touring this area will take you through some of Amsterdam’s oldest buildings – including 17th-century merchant houses that overlook grachtengordel – still providing stunning views of gabled roofs and bell towers alive with bells pealing in harmony.
The Jordaan district is home to various masterfully crafted 17th-century gabled brick houses known as “Golden Bend.” These are arguably some of Amsterdam’s finest examples of classic Renaissance architecture. Neighboring Nieuwmarkt Square provides more architectural beauty with a unique blend of Spanish-style terraces and classical Dutch elements. It includes many fine shops and a variety of open markets where local stallholders sell fresh produce from land and sea every weekend.
Although there are countless attractions within this city, including coffee shops, art galleries, churches, parks, and historic sites, wandering down its picturesque alleys gives visitors a sense of what life was once like in Amsterdam’s past as you marvel at splendid monuments showcasing Dutch culture over centuries gone by.
Visit the Royal Palace
The Royal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis) is the heart of the Netherlands and certainly worth a visit when exploring Amsterdam, where it stands on the edge of Dam Square. The Royal Palace was originally built as the City Hall of Amsterdam in 1648 and originally served as a seat for the democratic government until 1808 when it became the royal palace for King Louis Napoleon. We can see the exterior façade and some interiors in its present form.
The building is grandly decorated with sculptures such as statues of Atlas and Apollo above a gilded portal entrance and lavish interiors, featuring gallery rooms complete with Murano glass chandeliers from Venice, 18th-century tapestries, and French rococo style décor.
Regular visitors may enjoy guided tours of this beautiful building, and frequent events are hosted at The Royal Palace, which includes opening hours for exhibitions in summer months. Access to the museum is free; however, tickets are available for special exhibitions or events held at The Royal Palace throughout the year.
Culture
Amsterdam is a city steeped in history and full of culture. Everywhere you turn, you’ll find something unique to enjoy. From classic Dutch architecture to traditional Dutch pastimes, Amsterdam has many different things to do.
In this section, we will take a look at some of the most popular cultural activities to do in Amsterdam:
Visit the Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is one of Amsterdam’s most popular attractions and one of the city’s top 10 visitor destinations. The museum displays permanent collection works and special exhibitions in the Museum Square area. One unique feature includes a digital presentation of ‘The Life & Works’ by Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh. Visitors can learn about his life story and trace his career as an artist, from early drawings to later oil paintings.
The museum houses an extensive collection of more than 200 paintings by van Gogh, which are divided into five overarching themes:
- Dutch roots
- Spirituality
- Portraiture
- Landscapes & Nature
- Still Life & Interiors
The museum also displays over 500 letters. Van Gogh wrote throughout his life and artworks created by artists who directly influenced the 19th-century Dutch master, including Emile Bernard, Paul Gauguin, and Anton Mauve. Additionally, retrospectives showcasing other renowned contemporary to 19th-century masters such as Jean-Baptiste Corot, Marc Chagall, Joan Miró, and Gustav Klimt can be found in this amazing museum.
Take a Walking Tour of the Red Light District
The Red Light District of Amsterdam is one of the most iconic sites in the entire city, and sure to be an unforgettable experience for any first-time visitor. By taking a walking tour, you’ll get a glimpse into this bohemian neighborhood from knowledgeable local guides who will take you past cultural sites like Oude Kerk (Old Church) and point out some of the unique architecture throughout the area. You may even witness brothels and sex shops along your walk. It’s important to remember that visitors should be respectful towards locals and other visitors, so please follow instructions if needed. Whether you’re a culture buff or just curious about one of Amsterdam’s oldest corners, this tour is worth your time.
Admire iconic Dutch Golden Age architecture by browsing the narrow lanes around Begijnhof Church and De Waag city gate before ending up in Dam Square in central Amsterdam. Explore the juxtaposition between beauty, religious sanctity, and seediness on this walking tour that immerses you in intriguing stories about centuries-old rituals. Get insights into traditional artisanship by visiting Chabouilleurs & Chocoux artisan shops and uncover hidden locations such as Begijnhof – one of Amsterdam’s oldest squares founded by nuns known as ‘Beguines.’ Finally, enjoy learning about ongoing plans to clean up the diverse district to make it more appealing while preserving its core identity as an internationally renowned habitat for creativity & entertainment, all amidst insight into altered cultural identity & a wealth of history, both colorful & dark!
Visit the Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is a museum in Amsterdam dedicated to remembering and honoring the life of Anne Frank, a young Jewish girl whose diary has become an essential piece of Holocaust literature. A visit to this HouseHouse, open for visitors seven days a week, gives visitors the unique opportunity to learn more about Anne Frank’s historical story and experience what it was like for her to go into hiding from 1942 until she was betrayed in 1944.
The atmosphere inside the HouseHouse has been preserved as a memorial and educational space. It makes it an invaluable source of information on life during the Holocaust and World War II and an important site of reflection and contemplation. Upon entering, visitors can see the Secret Annex hidden behind a bookcase. Then they can take their time wandering through different rooms and hallways while being presented with artifacts, including original items such as photos, documents, yearbooks, and original diary editions that Anne hid along with her family.
Located in Prinsengracht 263-267 along central Amsterdam’s glittering canal belt around which the city grew over centuries ago, visiting The Anne Frank House is one of the most meaningful things to do when exploring Amsterdam’s many attractions.
Shopping
Amsterdam is a wonderful city for shopping, with plenty of places to pick up unique gifts and souvenirs. There’s something for everyone, from small independent boutiques to large luxury stores. In addition, you can find a great selection of fashion, beauty, home decor, and accessories from Dutch designers, international brands, and local artisans.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the great selections of items you can find in Amsterdam:
- Fashion from Dutch designers and international brands.
- Beauty products.
- Home decor.
- Accessories from local artisans.
Visit the Albert Cuyp Market
The Albert Cuyp Market is one of Europe’s largest and most visited markets. Located in the De Pijp neighborhood of Amsterdam, the market opened its doors in 1905 and is home to hundreds of vendors offering everything from freshly-caught seafood to vintage clothing, handcrafted jewelry, Dutch cheese, and more. So stroll between stalls as you take in the sights and smells – this is one of Amsterdam’s top attractions for a reason!
Also known as the Albert Cuypstraat Markt, the market offers plenty of delicious options for hungry shoppers, like fresh falafel sandwiches, poffertjes (tiny pancakes), French fries with mayonnaise, Dutch croquettes, crepes and various types of herring – all popular local treats. You can also pick up souvenirs such as windmills made from wood or souvenir coffee mugs displaying clogs or tulips. So you can find something for everyone at this vibrant market near the Heineken Experience.
Explore the Nine Streets
The Nine Streets, or De Negen Straatjes, is a charming neighborhood of nine unique narrow alleyways offering a shopping and cultural experience unlike any other. This area comprises Koningsstraat, Reestraat, Hartenstraat, Huidenstraat, Wolvenstraat, Berenstraat, Gasthuismolensteeg, Wijde Heisteeg, and Oude Spiegelstraat. Located in the heart of Amsterdam’s canal district – between the Singelgracht and Prinsengracht – the Nine Streets are lined with small murals to add character to the old streets.
With plenty of independent boutiques carrying Dutch designer’s clothing brands alongside unique specialty stores and high-end fashion labels like Chanel or Alexander McQueen; gourmet delis boasting European cheeses; cozy cafés and authentic restaurants serving traditional Dutch dishes; vintage markets featuring antiques from all around Europe; and art galleries that bring a new expression to Amsterdam’s street life: the Nine Streets cover all types of shopping experiences. Moreover, there are regular flea markets during weekends where you can find exclusive items from the 19th century – some even older! Finally, you may want to check for those unique pieces in specialized vintage shops such as Local Vintage Store at Kirchhoffnl.
Take a stroll through these nine streets after lunch and enjoy discovering something new at every step while admiring the original architecture, like tiny gabled facades built centuries ago by wealthy merchants or wealthy shipowners who lived around here once upon a time. But, unfortunately, staying close to home can feel much farther away!
Visit the Flower Market
The iconic flower market in the heart of Amsterdam is the world’s oldest and only floating flower market. Open from Monday to Saturday all year long. Visitors can explore a wide selection of tulips, orchids, anemones, and other colorful blooms spilling off colorful little boats. So whether you’re looking for a unique bouquet for someone special or want to marvel at Mother Nature’s beauty, visiting this picturesque corner of Amsterdam will be an enjoyable experience.
The market offers flowers from nearby Dutch bulb farms and Africa, Italy, East Europe, and China. In addition, visitors can find traditional tulip bulbs in the season and ready-made bouquets and plants, including cacti and bonsai trees. Prices are determined daily, so look around before deciding on something particular!
Food
Amsterdam has a thriving culinary scene, so if you’re looking for a foodie getaway, this is the place for you. From traditional Dutch dishes to flavorful international cuisine, Amsterdam has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll look at the various types of food you can find in Amsterdam, the best restaurants to dine in, and the city’s unique food culture.
Sample Dutch Cheeses
Amsterdam is renowned for its food culture, and Dutch cheese is a shining example. From creamy to sharp, Amsterdam has a cheese for every palate. Here’s a quick look at some of the most famous Dutch cheeses that are sure to tantalize your taste buds on your travels:
- Gouda – This yellow cheese has a hint of sweetness and a nutty aroma due to its red wax coating. It can either be smoked or unsmoked and is typically aged for 1-8 years to develop more flavor.
- Edam – This hard cheese is named after the town of Edam in North Holland and has been produced there since the 13th century. It has been said to be one of the most protected cheeses in Europe, given its particular recipe and area of origin.
- Maasdammer – Also known as Holland’s “cracker cheese,” it is an old classic with a mild taste but an intensely rich flavor. Maasdammer usually has pink stripes evenly spread throughout its body that is created when cultures are added during the ripening process; these stripes also lend an eye-catching look when melted over a hearty meal!
- Leidse Kaas – Known for its intense smell and unique flavor, this piquant Dutch specialty is traditionally made from cow’s milk but sometimes mixed with goat milk. It will often be served with beer or bread, creating the perfect marriage between sweet & salty flavors!
- Speciaal Leidenkaas – As the name implies, this full-flavored variety of Leidse kaas contains caraway seeds that are added while aging to give it a nutty flavor with hints of caramelized onions or garlic depending on how long it is aged!
Try the Local Herring
When you visit Amsterdam, you should try the local Dutch herring dish. It is a small, salty fish that holds significant cultural and historical importance to the Netherlands, with many fish stands serving them for centuries.
The traditional way to enjoy this fish is raw and pickled in vinegar, usually with diced onions. It has a strong, distinctive flavor must be acquired through repeated tasting and patience. For those who cannot stomach the raw version, there are usually other varieties, such as marinated or cooked, prepared with different sauces that can also be enjoyed.
If herring isn’t to your taste, then Amsterdam also offers an array of culinary delights from all over Europe due to its long-standing trade links across the continent – so don’t worry!
- Crispy stroopwafels from bakeries have widely become popular among tourists due to their sweet caramel goodness.
- Gouda cheese is available widely throughout shops and markets.
- Bitterballen – fried balls of beef ragout filled with mustard and vegetable chunks, usually served warm with mayonnaise or mustard dip.
- Using local ingredients like white peas, pancakes, onions, and mushrooms is also traditional in some areas of the city, which look delicious if you’re looking for something extraordinary during your visit!
Enjoy a Traditional Dutch Pancake
A traditional Dutch pancake is served hot off the grill and topped with a variety of sweet and savory options. Dutch pancakes are thicker, softer, and topped with anything from bacon to cheese to applesauce. If you’re looking for an original breakfast treat, you will find it right in Amsterdam’s historic cafes.
You can also enjoy a Dutch pancake at local eateries such as Pancakeland, where they serve up pancakes of all varieties, from the classic-style pancakes with a hint of butter and powdered sugar to more outrageous options like the ‘Nutella Surprise’ or the ‘Banana Splitter.’ Come early, as mornings can mean long lines of hungry patrons looking for this local specialty. Another excellent spot for handmade Dutch pancakes is De Carrousel in the Jordaan district. They have both dutch styles of pancakes and crepes; however, for many locals, their mainstay is their regular Dutch pancakes filled with fresh cheese, bacon, or ham.
If you’d buying souvenirs for family and friends back home, Dutch Pancakes are often sold frozen in grocery stores or local markets, ready to puff up when heated in your oven or microwave at home.