CTW Explores
Amsterdam
Country: Netherlands Language: Dutch Currency: Euro (€)
Amsterdam is the vibrant hub of the Netherlands. It is home to over 100 kms of canals, 1,500 bridges, 90 islands, and a million bikes (not including over 10,000 retrieved from the canals every year!) The city is full of life, but its relaxed atmosphere provides an ideal holiday destination for all. Amsterdam has music festivals and activities for young people, as well as a huge number of museums and art galleries for those looking for history and culture. Whatever your holiday plans, have a wander around what some call the 'Venice of the North' and enjoy the laid-back Dutch vibe.
Amsterdam’s Central Station is a beautiful building that sits at the base of the canals. The station opened in 1889 and is the second busiest station in the Netherlands. Near the train station sits the well-known St. Nicholas Church. This Roman Catholic church stands tall amidst the classic Dutch architecture and is one of the first things you see upon exiting the train station.
You can take a boat tour through the many canals to see the city from another perspective. Or, you can live like a local and rent a bike for the day. Be sure to remember where you parked your bike, and which bike is yours, as you will likely have a dozen or so parked in the same spot.
Amsterdam holds much important historic, literary and artistic significance. The Royal Palace is a grand palace located in Dom Square. It dates back to 1622 and is one of three palaces in the Netherlands. Amsterdam is also home to the Anne Frank House, where she and her family hid from the Nazis during World War II. You will also find the Van Gogh Museum, which contains the world's largest collection of his artworks including 'Sunflowers', 'Almond Blossom', 'The Bedroom' and many self portraits. Finally, the renowned Rijksmuseum includes the works of many Dutch Masters including Rembrandt, Vermeer and Jan Steen in its collection. The history and art that fill Amsterdam's museums attract many visitors to the lively city.
Amsterdam is the largest and most populated city in the Netherlands; it is full of fun! In the summer, the city comes alive with festivals, and events. In spring, you can take a day trip from Amsterdam to the Keukenhof Gardens to see the spectacular annual Tulip Festival. In winter, you can enjoy the Christmas markets, fresh snow, and hope that it will get cold enough to ice skate on the canals!
More European Adventures...
Keep your adventure going and check out our city guides for some other European cities!
Lisbon
Venice
London
