Amsterdam is known as one of the most liberal and accepting cities in the world. Travelers from around the world quickly fall in love with Amsterdam, since the abundance of cafes, art galleries, museums and beautiful architecture, as well as the exciting nightlife of Amsterdam offer something exciting for everyone. Here are the top 5 places you should not miss in Amsterdam. On this website you can also compare and book the best flights to Amsterdam!
Anne Frank Huis (Anne Frank House)
The Anne Frank museum is the house where Anne Frank and her family sought refuge during the Second World War before the Nazis stormed in and marched her and her family away to a concentration camp. The Anne Frank Museum is not your regular museum experience – the haunting photographs of Nazi victims will make your skin crawl and take you back to the historical period when many lives were being taken every single day. Long lines queue to look inside, so it is best to arrive around 8.30 in the morning if you are not a fan of queuing. If you can, purchase a ticket from the hotel you are staying at, as this will also help you avoid the queue.
Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum
The Rijksmuseum is one of the best traditional art galleries in the world and is a must see for anyone who appreciates Dutch paintings. Many originals of famous artworks, stunning jewelry, and antique furniture are displayed here. Collections from past Dutch colonies in South East Asia are also housed here, contrasting against earlier works, and giving this museum a fresh ambiance.
Van Gogh Museum honors more than 500 drawings and 200 paintings from the Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh. This museum’s collection is well curated and highly informative of the different phases in the creative life of the famous Dutch painter. If possible, visit the Rijkmuseum and Van Gogh Museum on different days, so you don’t feel overwhelmed by the brilliant art works you will find there. Both of these museums are well worth a visit.
Nemo Science Museum
Families with young children will enjoy spending a day at the Nemo Science Museum. Children can learn a lot about the Dutch history, culture and science there, while also having a lot of fun. Stimulating technology and science exhibits and hands-on experiences are designed to captivate children’s attention. While there, you can also take a break at the Nemo museum cafe which has a gorgeous view of the Amsterdam Harbor.
Vondelpark
Vondelpark is the largest park in Amsterdam. Situated close to The Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum, and the Rijksmuseum, it is easily accessible for a break after touring the museums. During the summer, it is an ideal location to have a picnic. Vondelpark is loved by both tourists and the local people of Amsterdam. There are often free concerts at the park’s open-air theater. Nearby you will also find great cities like The Hague and Almere.
Red Light District
Any review of Amsterdam would be incomplete without a mention of the Red Light District, the tourist area Amsterdam notorious for women posing in shop windows, lit with bright red lights, trying to lure people into the buildings. At first, the Red Light District can appear daunting. If that’s the case, you can take a stroll down the lanes during the afternoon. At night, this area is more racy and daring. Tours of the Red Light are available through Amsterdam Red Light Tour. You can also visit a Brown Café while you are in the Red Light District. Brown Cafes are laid back places where you can have a local beer, friendly chat, and smoke.
Amsterdam offers a range of experiences from beautiful parks, attractive art galleries, world-renowned museums, to vibrant night life. Whether you prefer a walk in a beautiful park, a day among amazing art, or are up for a daring adventure, Amsterdam is the right place to spend your next holiday.