Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, is known worldwide for its artistic heritage, intricate canal system and narrow houses with gabled facades. A weekend in this vibrant city will certainly not be enough to explore all its beauty, but it’s a good start.
Start your trip on Saturday morning by visiting the Anne Frank House, a biographical museum dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. The museum gives you an insightful look into her life during World War II. It’s recommended to buy tickets online in advance as queues can get long.
Next stop should be the Van Gogh Museum which houses the world’s largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh. The museum has more than 200 paintings, 500 drawings and 700 letters by Van Gogh that provide insight into his life and work.
After spending some time at these museums, head over to Vondelpark for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. This sprawling urban park is Amsterdam’s largest green space and offers plenty of things to see and do including open-air theatre performances during summer months.
For lunch, try some traditional Dutch food like bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs) or stroopwafels (caramel-filled waffles). You can find these tasty treats at many street markets around town.
In the afternoon take a boat tour through Amsterdam’s famous canals. These waterways are one of the most memorable ways to discover the city’s sights and attractions – from historical buildings and picturesque bridges to colourful houseboats.
As evening falls upon Amsterdam make your way towards De Wallen – Amsterdam’s infamous Red-Light District. Despite its reputation it is also home to several historic buildings including Oude Kerk – Amsterdam’s oldest building now turned into an art exhibition space.
On Sunday morning visit Rijksmuseum – another must-see art museum showcasing masterpieces from artists like Rembrandt and Vermeer along with other Dutch and global artefacts. Afterward, have a quick lunch at one of the numerous cafes near the museum.
Spend your afternoon exploring Jordaan neighbourhood – known for its charming narrow streets, leafy canals and a dazzling array of vintage shops, galleries, and hip boutiques.
End your weekend on a high note by watching the sunset from A’DAM Lookout – an observation deck with an unrivalled panoramic view of Amsterdam. If you’re feeling adventurous you can also try Europe’s highest swing located here.
A weekend in Amsterdam will leave you enchanted by its blend of history, culture and modernity. It’s no wonder that this city is one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations. Remember to plan ahead as popular attractions tend to be crowded especially during peak travel seasons.
