Travel Journal

Amsterdam is a lively and charming city known for its canals, world-class museums, and distinctive historic architecture. This guide offers a practical overview of the best things to do and see, combining major highlights with lesser-known neighborhoods, local markets, and authentic experiences that help visitors understand the city beyond the typical tourist spots.

Exploring the Historic Center

The historic center of Amsterdam is where most visitors begin their journey. Its narrow streets, seventeenth-century buildings, and network of canals create a setting that is both picturesque and functional. The canals follow a semicircular pattern, making it easy to move between districts while admiring elegant bridges and traditional merchant houses. The central Dam Square is a convenient reference point, surrounded by notable buildings such as the Royal Palace.

The Museum Quarter and Its Cultural Icons

Amsterdam’s Museum Quarter is home to several of the city’s most important cultural institutions. The Rijksmuseum is the best known, exhibiting a comprehensive collection of Dutch art and history. Visitors often focus on masterpieces from the Golden Age, but the museum also offers a wide range of other periods and themes. Nearby, the Van Gogh Museum contains the world’s largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh and provides an extensive overview of the artist’s development. The Stedelijk Museum completes the trio, focusing on modern and contemporary art and design. The open spaces of Museumplein, the square that links these museums, offer a calm environment to rest between visits.

Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is another major site for travelers interested in Amsterdam’s history. Located on Prinsengracht canal, the museum preserves the rooms where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II. The exhibits provide historical context and help visitors better understand the environment in which Anne wrote her diary. Booking your visit in advance is essential, as the museum has limited capacity and is one of the city’s most visited locations. The surrounding Jordaan district, with its small streets and cafés, is a good place to spend time before or after a visit.

Discovering Amsterdam’s Canals

Amsterdam’s canals are central to the city’s identity. A canal cruise is an efficient way to view the architecture and layout from a different perspective. Various routes are available, ranging from short daytime rides to longer evening trips. Travelers who prefer a more independent experience can explore the canals on foot, moving between bridges and stopping at viewpoints along the way. The canal belt, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, demonstrates the city’s historic planning and remains one of its most attractive areas.

The Jordaan and Other Authentic Neighborhoods

The Jordaan is one of Amsterdam’s most characteristic neighborhoods. Once a working-class area, it now features independent shops, small galleries, and traditional cafés. The atmosphere is calmer than in the historic center, making it suitable for unhurried walks. Another interesting area is De Pijp, known for its diverse food scene and casual restaurants. This district attracts both residents and visitors, offering a more local experience while remaining accessible by public transport or bicycle. For travelers who want to see a different side of the city, Noord adds a modern contrast, with its contemporary architecture, creative spaces, and wide riverside views.

Markets and Parks

Amsterdam has several markets that give insight into local habits. The Albert Cuyp Market in De Pijp is one of the busiest, offering fresh produce, street food, and a variety of goods; here travelers can sample local snacks or purchase practical items. For a more specialized experience, the Flower Market along Singel canal presents a wide range of bulbs and plants, where visitors can learn about the country’s famous flower industry.

Parks provide an effective way to take a break from the city’s museums and busy streets. Vondelpark is the most popular and centrally located, offering long paths, ponds, and open areas suitable for walking or cycling. Oosterpark and Westerpark are alternatives that attract more residents than tourists and therefore offer a quieter atmosphere. These spaces are perfect for visitors who are looking to relax and spend time outdoors.

Continuing Your European Journey: Rome

If your travels through Europe extend past Amsterdam, the city of Rome, in Italy, is an excellent next destination. The capital combines centuries of heritage with a dynamic modern atmosphere, offering visitors an experience that feels both immersive and memorable. Rome’s main international gateway, Fiumicino Airport, connects smoothly with cities throughout Italy and abroad. Upon landing, you’ll find many transportation options , including trains, buses, and car rental services, that make reaching the city center and exploring the rest of the country simple and convenient. Thanks to this accessibility and the city’s remarkable appeal, Rome is a great addition to any European itinerary.

Amsterdam combines impressive cultural attractions with distinctive neighborhoods and everyday experiences that reveal the city’s character. With thoughtful planning and a flexible approach, visitors can explore both the iconic sights and the less familiar corners that make Amsterdam a memorable and engaging destination.

Find out more about Shop&Fly