5 Things You Must Do In Amsterdam

The Dutch capital and the most populous city in the Kingdom of Netherlands, Amsterdam has an honorary spot in every traveler’s bucket list. Amsterdam’s name derives from “Amstelredamme”, indicative of the city’s origin as a dam of the river Amstel. The city of canals, museums, and tulips, Amsterdam is one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world. It is also a city of tolerance and diversity. Rich in culture, lively nightlife, blooming flowers, extensive and little road traffic is what makes up the city of Amsterdam. Few cities meld history with modern urban flair like Amsterdam.

The city was originally established as a small fishing village in the late 12th century. It later became one of the most important ports in the world during the Dutch Golden Age (17th century). During that time, the city was the leading center for finance and diamonds. The 17th-century canals of Amsterdam and the 19–20th century Defence Line of Amsterdam are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, receiving more than 4.63 million international visitors annually, this is excluding the 16 million day trippers visiting the city every year.

* Cruising in the “Canals”

Often knows as the “Venice of the north”, Amsterdam has over a 100kms of the canal, about 90 islands, and 1,500 bridges. It was constructed in the 17th century; the canals in Amsterdam have become a global icon of the city. In 2010, the canal was officially added to the list UNESCO World Heritage sites. In 2013, it celebrated its 400th birthday! It is also one of the stunning backdrops for fantastic cultural events in the city. Some of the events organized alongside the water are- “King’s Day”, annual “Gay pride celebrations”, “The Grachten (canal) festival” and the famous “Light festival”. During this time the canal is decorated with barges, lots of colors, and music. Canal tours are one of the most memorable ways to discover city’s many sites. There are a number of departure points throughout the city and the tours are available in many languages. Whether it is an all-day cruise, hop-on-hop-off tours, child-friendly tours, or a romantic candle-light dinner, the Amsterdam holds some surprises for everybody. Whats more, in winter (if the temperature drops below -4°C) it is possible to ice skate over the frozen canal. Missing this would be a sin!

* Click photos with the moving “I Amsterdam”

Originally meant as the market campaign, “I Amsterdam” slogan has become the motto of the city and its people. It shows their pride, confidence, and dedication. Located at the back of Rijksmuseum on Museumplein, the slogan is the city’s icon and the most sought after photo op. Visitors take photographs in, around and on the top of the slogan. It is two meters and tall and 23.5 meters wide. A second set of the letter is at the Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. The third one is most special and changes location around the city, randomly showing up at fashion shows, fairs, festivals and various major events. The fourth set can be found at the Amsterdam Museum. So, be camera ready and take a photograph with “I Amsterdam”.

* Float in the smell of Tulips at the “Bloemenmarkt”

Amsterdam’s flower market is the only “floating” flower market in the world. This unique market exists since 1862. At Bloemenmarkt, all sorts of tulips, narcissus, and geraniums can be found, both in bouquets and as bulbs to plant at home. It also has shops selling various Dutch souvenirs such as clogs, wooden tulips, and cheese. The Bloemenmarkt showcases the various colors of the city and is a must go-to place.

* Roam the infamous “Red light district”

From Brothels and sex shops to museums and church, Amsterdam’s Red light district or The Rossebuurt (red neighborhood) as the locals call is, is unlike any other place. Prostitution is legal in Amsterdam and has enjoyed a long tradition of tolerance. Medical care, better working conditions, and safe environment are being provided to the women. Opened in 2014, brothel-turned-prostitution museum gives behind-the-scenes insights into the profession. Educate yourself about hash, marijuana and hemp at the Hash, Marijuana and Hemp Museum. It has a high concentration of cannabis coffee shops, jenever (Dutch gin) tasting house, charming bruin cafes (historic Dutch pubs) and an independent brewery Brouwerij de Prael. A variety of fast food, frites (fries), pancake and other street food are sold in the streets. Oude Kerk (old church), Amsterdam’s oldest church is also located in the RLD. Contrary to popular beliefs, it is one of the safest areas of the world and has a cluster of policemen, private bodyguards roaming around the city. It’s a must see.

* “Cycle” all the way

The roads in Amsterdam are owned by cyclists. It is rightfully called the Bicycle capital of the world and is equipped with an elaborate network of cycle paths and lanes. They are fully equipped with several guarded bicycle parks that can be used for a very nominally fee. These lanes are so comfortable that even toddlers and elderly people use bikes as the easiest mode of transport. It is used by all socio-economic groups and driving a car is discouraged. In Amsterdam over 60% of transportation is being carried on by bicycles. There are over 800,000 cycles in a city of 1.1 million people! Renting a cycle or taking a guided cycle tour is the typical Dutch way to get around the city. So, as they say, when in Amsterdam be a cyclist.