Before this pandemic began, my husband and I were starting to talk about a trip to the Netherlands and Belgium. That trip didn’t happen, but I did get to visit Amsterdam on a Rhine River cruise with my daughter.
I remember reading about the canals of Amsterdam when I was a kid and I wanted to see them. I’m also partial to flowers, so that’s another draw. My husband loves beer, especially Belgian beer, so I want to take him on a tulip and beer river cruise.
Amsterdam is an exciting destination. With its rich history, artistic legacy, intricate canal system, and abundance of museums, you will find that there is so much to do and see in the time you are there to visit. Need some help narrowing down the options? Here are some suggestions of the top 5 things to do while you’re in Amsterdam.
1. Canal Ride
A historical canal tour of Amsterdam is something most visitors want to experience. There are hundreds of canals throughout the nation that were created just for travel. During your gentle water ride, you’ll get to view some of the country’s most detailed architecture and most beautiful landscapes.
2. Tulips and other bulb flowers
Amsterdam takes great pride in its bulb flowers, especially tulips. Visit the amazingly vibrant bulb flower park in nearby Lisse if you wish to see the tulips in all their glory. If you happen to miss the tulip season, don’t worry. There are plenty of bulbed flowers that grow year-round at the park.
3. Museums
Amsterdam has many spectacular art museums and history museums. Check out paintings by Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and other Dutch painters. Revisit history by walking into the Anne Frank House, where you can see the secret annex where Anne hid during World War II.
4. Explore Neighborhoods
Walk through De Wallen, the nation’s red-light district. Although it’s famous for some risqué behavior, there is much more to the city. Try out one of the district’s fine restaurants, small boutiques, or find more responsible entertainment at any of the places not lit up with red lights. For a faster way to venture through, rent a bicycle. You’ll find that you can rent a bike nearly anywhere in the country.
5. Dutch Cuisine
Last but not least, you mustn’t leave the country without trying some of its authentic Dutch cuisine. Have you seen a Dutch still-life painting that looked good enough to eat? Seek out fresh fruit and vegetables, Dutch cheese, and sausage. Although this isn’t my thing, many people travel from all over the world to Amsterdam to experience cannabis coffee shops in person. In Amsterdam, marijuana is viewed as a way to unwind, and these coffeehouses are some of the most reputable and reliable sources to enjoy a delicious bite to eat and a puff of smoke as you dine.
Would you like to visit Amsterdam? In combination with a river cruise or as a stand-alone trip? Either way, I’d love to help you plan it. Please read about my planning services here.
