Home to extravagant canals, some of the world’s most recognisable art pieces and more bicycles than people, Amsterdam is your perfect weekend escape. It really is more than its cannabis and red light stereotype that it’s famous for.
Things to do in Amsterdam
Canal Cruising
Amsterdam is known as the ‘Venice of the North’ and has more canals than Venice itself. A canal cruise is the best option to be in awe of this pretty city from a different perspective. Taking this cruise at sunset is amazing as you can go from day to night for fantastic, magical views of the 17th-century architecture, houseboats, and multiple canals.
Another option is to create your own sightseeing trip and hire your own boat or pedal boats, where you and your companions can pedal to your heart’s content.
Cycle Like a Local
If you’re lucky enough to be spoiled with nice weather, I would highly recommend hiring a bicycle to discover the sights. Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most cycle-friendly cities and very easy to navigate.
If like me, you are a bit fearful of city cycling then get on yer bike and head to Vondelpark. This stunning retreat in Amsterdam is perfect to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. It homes an open-air theatre and numerous bars and restaurants to chill out in, making it a blissful haven for its guests
Museums For the Curious
If you’re an art fanatic, Amsterdam will make your heart flutter. It homes some of the world’s best museums, such as the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. Thousands of works of art, exquisite exhibitions and paintings are displayed in these jaw-dropping galleries. As well as the art and history museums, visitors can explore other interesting speciality museums. Random museums such as cheese, bags/purses, marijuana, tea, tulips and even a cat museum, just to name a few.
Be sure to plan your booking to the Anne Frank museum well in advance, as tickets can be snapped up quickly. 80% of tickets are released 2 months in advance of your planned visit and only 20% are available to buy on the day, so save yourself the disappointment of rocking up on the day with no ticket. Tickets are priced at €10 per adult and €5 per child and can be purchased here.
Red Light Secrets
Amsterdam has a tolerant attitude towards prostitution and soft drugs as opposed to other countries, so a lot of visitors take a stroll towards the infamous Red Light district to observe first hand.
I would recommend an early evening visit to avoid drunks and curious groups when it’s not as hectic. There are multiple museums and guided tours to participate in to learn the history and read stories, which really shows there’s more than meets the eye.
Amsterdam Lookout
Located just behind Centraal Station and a short ferry trip will bring visitors over to the Amsterdam Lookout. This is the spot to go to for thrill seekers. Marvel at the panoramic views of breath-taking Amsterdam and hop on Europe’s highest swing, which goes 100 metres above the city. For the tame, sip on cocktails whilst enjoying the view. Tickets cost €13.50 per adult and are available here.
Where to Eat in Amsterdam
Since Amsterdam is a cosmopolitan city, food choices here are incredible. Here are some tasty options to indulge your senses.
The Pancake Bakery
Pancakes are one of Amsterdam’s famous delicacies. The Pancake Bakery is one of the oldest pancakes restaurants in Amsterdam and only a stone’s throw away from Anne Frank’s house. This place serves real Dutch pancakes (and omelettes too). From the sweet to the savoury, this gem offers 77 different varieties of pancakes, including ice-cream, berries or chocolate to onions and bacon.
Burger Bar
Coming in at number 8 in the top 50 best burgers in Europe is – Burger Bar. The DIY, build your own segment, allows you to customise your perfect burger and who doesn’t love a good juicy burger! Their location in Warmoesstraat is the largest and customers can purchase wine and beer too.
La Perla Pizza
This authentic Italian restaurant imports their ingredients from Italy every week and fresh from a stone-baked oven which you can watch your pizza being made in front of you. It’s delicious and offers a range of options including pasta, pizza and lots of wine.
Sea Palace Restaurant
Located in the Centre of Amsterdam near Centraal Station, visitors will find Europe’s first floating restaurant, Sea Palace, nestled in the banks of Oosterdok harbour. It has become an Amsterdam landmark over the years and seats a cosy 650 people. So, if you’re looking for Chinese cuisine this restaurant has it all. From delicacies such as duck, beef and crab to Dim Sum to whet everyone’s appetite.
Where to Stay in Amsterdam
4* Corendon City Hotel
Situated in Amsterdam Nieuw-West. This hotel is located 15 minutes away by tram from Museum Square and Vondelpark. Unique in the hotel is the 737 Suite, which includes the cockpit of a real Boeing 737 and a separate living- and meeting room.
4* WestCord Art Hotel Amsterdam 4
The 4-star WestCord Art Hotel is situated on the edge of the historic centre of Amsterdam. A 15-minute walk through the Westerpark will get you to the heart of the city. It also includes a unique art collection of the famous Dutch painter Herman Brood.
5* Bilderberg Garden
Conveniently located in Amsterdam, this hotel boasts ease of access to a host of local attractions such as the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Ziggo Dome and the Concertgebouw. All which lies within a short distance of this hotel.
Amsterdam rightfully earns its place as one of Europe’s top cities, so why not book your weekend break away with Click&Go today?
