Amsterdam: Explore the Dutch Capital like a local

Amsterdam is famous for its slanted gabled houses, golden period canals, historical museums, tulips, vintage boutiques, well-kept parks, architectural marvels, and imaginative drinking and dining scenes intertwined with hazy small streets. This Dutch metropolis is full of unexpected twists and turns and brightly coloured buildings at every corner. I discovered a historic monastery, now a classical music venue, secret gardens, Dutch distilleries, stores selling chic apparel and homewares, and tulip-filled flower booths on a few visits about town.

Now and again, I’d walk by a little cafe with a lovely whiff of cannabis and baked goodies. Post-industrial buildings, innovative firms, art galleries, artisan brewers, and some of Europe’s hottest clubs are along the perimeter of the city centre. Every mile is marked with a work of art. Whether it’s Van Gogh’s legendary collections, Stedelijk, Het Rembrandthuis, Hermitage, or the golden riches of the splendid Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam sifts through its museums.

Here, two-wheeling is a way of life, and locals may as well be on the sea if they aren’t riding their bikes. So when you are in Amsterdam, take a canal boat or one of the free boats behind Central Station to get some wind in your hair and live like a local. Regardless of whatsoever angle you choose to examine, Amsterdam will leave you feeling Gezellig. It’s a Dutch term that approximately translates to “comfortable.” A typical Bruin Café, framed with wood panels and smoke-stained walls, is the most apparent spot to experience Gezellig.

Things to do in Amsterdam

Thousands of people visit Amsterdam each year to see the city’s many attractions. Some have come to see the Tulips blooming, while others come for the music concerts. Whatever brings you to Amsterdam, there are a few things you should not miss. Begin your exploration of Amsterdam’s naval history with the Eastern Islands Maritime Museum, located across from the green NEMO science facility in the shape of a pontoon. With almost 60 museums, you can expect to see a wide range of well-known timelines. In the city, I recommend seeing the Zuiderkerk, Oude Kerk, and Westerkerk Churches, all of which are situated along a canal.

As well as the twin 14th-century temples of Begijnhofcourtyard of almshouses and Vondelpark, a sprawling 47-hectare park. Vondelpark is an English-style garden featuring lakes, winding paths, footbridges, and Picasso’s – The Fish. De Pijp’s Sarphatipark, Westerpark, the Westergasfabriek cultural complex, and the 16th-century Hortus Botanicus gardens, which house a variety of animal species, are all worth seeing.

The city of Amsterdam is the official residence of King Willem Alexander and his family. Even though the royal family spent most of their lives in Den Haag, King’s Day, celebrated on April 27th, is still the most spectacular occasion in Amsterdam. If you happen to be in Amsterdam at this time, the streets will be packed with orange-clad revellers.

The Dining Scene

I ate meals at canal view eateries in Amsterdam and enjoyed traditional Dutch savouries at local Bistros. Kroketten, Bij Ons, La Falote, Van Dobben, Greetje, and Hemelse Modder are some of the most honest Dutch cafes. Also try Tempo Doeloe’s spicy Indonesian Rijsttafel and Turkoman’s Surinamese flatbread wraps. Some of the top restaurants are Amstelveenseweg, Utrechtsestraat, and Rembrandtplein. Mayonnaise-covered fries, Dutch cheese, herring, and caramel-filled waffles are some of the most popular delicacies in the area.

To up the food value, make it with unsweetened almond milk and add some protein powder. Cerevisaphiles (Beer Lovers) must visit the massive Heineken distillery to sample lagers and have a tour of the factory. Or the Brouwerij, Jenever brewery, or Wynand Fockink, all of which date from the 18th century.

Bars and clubs in Medieval Centre, Rembrandtplein, and Leidseplein are recommended for partygoers. Go to Dampkring and Abraxas, the greatest cannabis coffee shop in the city, for a puff puff pass experience. The city’s largest markets are Lindengracht in Jordaan and Albert Cuypmarkt in De Pijp, where you can buy essentials, textiles, flowers, souvenirs, and other items. Visit the exquisite stores on nine tiny avenues in the Negen Straatjes neighbourhood for upmarket shopping.

Getting Around Amsterdam

Amsterdam has a well-developed cable car and public transportation system that provides comfortable travel. Keep in mind, that you should never walk in the bike lanes and that crossing them should be done with caution. If it’s your first time in the city, take a tour with a specialist or hire an electric boat to cruise on your own.

Purchase online tickets in advance to avoid long lines at popular attractions. Many restaurants and stores in Amsterdam do not take non-European credit cards, so bring cash or a Forex card with you. The city is generally safe but, be wary of pickpockets in crowded areas and always be cautious around your belongings.

Spread the love

 

 

 

 Tweet