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The Netherlands’ capital, Amsterdam, stands out due to its vast array of cultural attractions, scenic canals as well as boastful energy. Tourists will find a range of first class art institutions such as Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum and Anne Frank House. Whether one is a culture buff, a history man, one seeking vacation or a modern compact city person, these places to visit in Amsterdam fits them all. It makes up for a wholesome destination to embark on for a perfect vacay.
10 Best Places To Visit In Amsterdam
Here are the top 10 places to visit in Amsterdam which offer unmatchable scenic beauty, historical knowledge and cultural heritage:
1. Rijksmuseum
Photo: Trougnouf (Benoit Brummer) / Wikimedia Commons
The Rijksmuseum is among the top tourist attractions in Amsterdam. This great museum has an impressive collection of Dutch art and history, including paintings of famous artists such as Rembrandt and Vermeer among many others. The remarkable nature of the building and the well organized displays take one through the various periods of Dutch civilization. Most noteworthy is surely the famous painting of Rembrandt, the Night Watch. There are other existing historical relics, crafts and ethnographic displays which makes it one of the best places to visit in Amsterdam.
Location: Museumplein, Amsterdam
Major Attractions: Rembrandt’s “Night Watch,” Dutch Golden Age art, cultural history
How To Reach: Accessible by tram or bike from the city center
2. Anne Frank House
Photo: Lệ Xuân / Wikimedia Commons
The Anne Frank House, situated in central Amsterdam, serves as an emotional historical center in memory of Anne Frank. This building has been transformed into a museum where you find a detailed view of Anne’s diary and the place where her family hid during the world war. The displays serve as a powerful testimony to the lessons about the holocaust. It tells more about the life of Anne, a very touching experience for all the visitors. The museum also commemorates the spirit of people during times of war. The visitors are also given a chance to enter the secret annex and are told who this section was for and who stayed there.
Location: Prinsengracht 263-267, Amsterdam
Major Attractions: Anne Frank’s hiding place, Anne Frank’s diary, Holocaust history
How To Reach: Accessible by tram, bus or walking from central Amsterdam
3. Van Gogh Museum
Photo: Dcoetzee / Wikimedia Commons
The Van Gogh Museum is a cultural gem. An artist, Vincent van Gogh, is one of the most revered artists in the entire history of art. The museum contains a large number of Van Gogh’s paintings, drawings and letters. The visitors can see famous paintings such as “Sunflowers”, “The Bedroom” and “The Potato Eaters” . At the same time, learn about the struggles the artist went through in his life. The museum includes some paintings created by the artists who were of Van Gogh’s period to get a better picture of modern art.
Location: Museumplein, Amsterdam
Major Attractions: Van Gogh’s paintings, life story, art history
How To Reach: Accessible by tram or bike from the city center
4. Begijnhof
Photo:Jean-Christophe BENOIST / Wikimedia Commons
Begijnhof is an unassuming courtyard located near the center of Amsterdam. It has more of medieval Amsterdam culture to offer to its visitors. It is situated next to the oldest wooden structure in Amsterdam’s buildings’ history which used to house a Beguine convent. The courtyard is filled with lush green vegetation and historical structures such as the English Reformed church. It provides a rare glimpse into the social and religious aspects of the city. In addition, there is an exclusive garden that is a part of the complex.
Location: Begijnhof, Amsterdam
Major Attractions: Historic buildings, English Reformed Church, peaceful courtyard
How To Reach: Accessible by walking from central Amsterdam
5. Amsterdam’s West Church
Photo: Mark Ahsmann / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most distinct structures in this Dutch capital is the Renaissance masterpiece known as the ‘Westerkerk’ Amsterdam West Church. Sitting next to the Anne Frank House, the church boasts of a striking tower from which scenic views of the entire city can be enjoyed. The church lies at the association with the Dutch Royal family and the burial ground of one of its famous sons Rembrandt. The church adds up to its importance by hosting concerts and other cultural events.
Location: Prinsengracht, Amsterdam
Major Attractions: West Church tower views, historical significance, architecture
How To Reach: Accessible by tram or walking from the city center
6. Vondelpark
Photo: Dguendel / Wikimedia Commons
Vondelpark is the most well-known and comfortable park in Amsterdam as well as the largest one located in the city center. Every person visiting the touristy and popular Vondel park has to appreciate the vast cycling paths and walking trails, ponds and green areas with open grass. One can jog, go for a family picnic or just enjoy themselves gazing at the trees. In addition to this, the park attracts crowds with its cultural events, open air concerts as well as fireworks displays during the holiday season and at other intervals. The park itself also has some beautiful statues and very nice and entertaining playgrounds, along with cafes.
Location: Vondelpark, Amsterdam
Major Attractions: Walking trails, bike paths, ponds, outdoor events
How To Reach: Accessible by tram, bike or walking from the city center
7. Heineken Brewery
Photo: Mtcv / Wikimedia Commons
Unlike most of the factories in the world, usually located on the outskirts of a city, the capital’s concentrated Heineken Brewery is in the heart of the city. Tourists are invited to a tour of the old distillery. Here one can learn how, when and where the renowned beer was made and what influence it has on different countries. Tasting would certainly be a part of the package, there will also be a visit to the modern center of the brewery for those who love beer. The Heineken Experience also shows the creative side of the brand focusing on marketing. There is also a sky bar, which is great as it has a panoramic view of the whole city.
Location: Stadhouderskade 78, Amsterdam
Major Attractions: Heineken beer history, brewery tour, interactive exhibits
How To Reach: Accessible by tram or bike from central Amsterdam
8. Bloemenmarkt
Photo: Txllxt TxllxT / Wikimedia Commons
Bloemenmarkt is the flower market located on the Singel Canal in Amsterdam. It was started in the 19th century and offers a variety of flowers, plants and curio souvenirs. This makes it a nice place for people to visit whether they are tourists or residents. Most of the market is filled with tulip bulbs, which are popularly associated with the Netherlands. People can walk along the stalls which are located by the canals and gaze at the lovely displays and even buy a few flower related items. It is ideal for anyone who wants to understand the Dutch obsession with flowers and the great outdoors.
Location: Singel Canal, Amsterdam
Major Attractions: Tulips, fresh flowers, souvenirs
How To Reach: Easily accessible by tram or walking from central Amsterdam
9. Royal Palace Of Amsterdam
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Amsterdam’s Royal Palace is an architectural marvel strategically located at the center of the Dam Square. Constructed in the mid 17th century as a city hall, the palace has since been repurposed as the official house occupied by the Dutch royal family. Guests are allowed to enter the opulent inner space, which comprises decorated sets, brilliant paintings and artistic lights hanging from the ceiling. The cultural heritage and design of the palace are ideal for people who are fond of the Dutch monarchy and history.The focus is made on the thorough explanation of the palace’s history and its place in the system of rule in the Netherlands.
Location: Dam Square, Amsterdam
Major Attractions: Royal rooms, historical artifacts, Dutch royal history
How To Reach: Accessible by tram or walking from central Amsterdam
10. The Upside Down Museum Amsterdam
Photo: Mustafa Kalkan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The End upside down museum, located in Amsterdam, is one that allows for a complete interactive experience. It, at the same time, challenges guests to think out of the box. The place is full of coloured chambers and installations where everything is hung upside down. Visitors clicked silly photographs and got lost in the optical illusion. Great for every age, each of the museums exhibit galleries allows for a more fun exploration of the idea with regards to perception and perspective. Be it creative photos or the engaging displays, this museum guarantees that you will have a fun time with plenty of chances for pictures.
Location: Amsterdam City Centre
Major Attractions: Upside-down rooms, photo ops, interactive installations
How To Reach: Accessible by tram or walking from central Amsterdam
Amsterdam has a wide variety of things to do and see that include history, culture, art and leisure which point to a well-organised vacation. Whether it is the iconic Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum or the heart wrenching Anne Frank House, these places to visit in Amsterdam serve as windows to the rich history. For those who love nature, there are Vondelpark and other suitable parks for relaxation, but also Efteling Park and cycling for some more action. Book a trip with TripXL to Amsterdam and admire these amazing places.
Cover Photo: Massimo Catarinella / Wikimedia Commons
