By Vijay Ved Prakash
Are you a tourist planning a trip to Amsterdam? From its iconic canals to its vibrant culture, there is so much to explore in the Dutch capital. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or longer, here are 5 essential tips for tourists visiting Amsterdam that will help you make the most of your time in this amazing city.
5 Essential Tips For Tourists Visiting Amsterdam
1) Get a City Card
A great way to make the most out of your visit to Amsterdam is to get a City Card. This card gives you access to many of the city’s attractions, discounts on restaurants and transportation, and allows you to skip the line at some popular attractions. The card is available in various lengths of time; one day, two days, three days, four days, five days or seven days. Depending on the length of your stay, you can choose the best option for you. With a City Card, you can easily visit the many attractions Amsterdam has to offer such as the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House. Additionally, you can save money with discounts on food and transportation. For example, the card will give you discounts at the Albert Heijn grocery store and GVB public transport ticket prices. So, if you are not renting a car in Amsterdam (which is a great way to travel around the city) then you will save a lot of money while using public transport thanks to the City Card.
2) Take a Free Walking Tour
Exploring Amsterdam on a budget can be difficult, but one of the best ways to get an introduction to the city is to take a free walking tour. There are a variety of different companies that offer free walking tours around the city, which typically last 2-3 hours. On these tours, you’ll be guided through the most iconic attractions and get a good sense of the city’s history. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other travellers and make friends in the city. Some companies also offer pay-what-you-can tours, allowing you to contribute whatever you can afford to the guide at the end of the tour. Be sure to arrive early for the tour, as spots fill up quickly.
3) Visit the Rijksmuseum
No trip to Amsterdam is complete without a visit to the renowned Rijksmuseum. Founded in 1809, this museum of art and history is home to more than one million works of art, including pieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other renowned Dutch painters. As such, it's the perfect place to get an introduction to Dutch culture and gain insight into the nation's rich history. The museum itself is located in the Museumplein, or Museum Square. You can easily access the area from many parts of the city by tram or bicycle. Once there, you can explore the numerous galleries of the museum, which contain Dutch masters as well as international artwork. Be sure to check out the Masters of Dutch Golden Age Painting gallery, which houses some of the most famous works from Dutch painters like Rembrandt and Vermeer. The museum also offers a range of special exhibitions that focus on different themes throughout the year. Whether you're interested in the history of the Dutch East India Company or exploring Rembrandt's painting techniques, there's something for everyone at the Rijksmuseum.
4) Go on a Canal Cruise
A canal cruise is the perfect way to explore Amsterdam’s stunning canals and bridges. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget, as you marvel at the beauty of the architecture that lines the banks of the canals. You can choose to go on a private or group tour, depending on your preference. Most tours last around an hour and a half and feature an audio guide to ensure that you get the most out of your experience. The experience of being on the water is truly unique, and as you pass by iconic landmarks like Anne Frank’s house, you can understand why this city is so special. From your vantage point on the water, you’ll have the chance to spot some of Amsterdam’s famous houseboats, as well as catch glimpses of the city’s hidden gems. You can also choose to take part in a nighttime canal cruise, which features a selection of drinks and snacks to enjoy as you take in the illuminated skyline.
5) Eat Dutch Food
One of the most important things to do when visiting Amsterdam is to sample the local cuisine. Traditional Dutch dishes such as Dutch pancakes (pannenkoeken), bitterballen, and stamppot are all must-try delicacies while in the city. Dutch pancakes are sweet, thin pancakes which can be served with fruit, chocolate sauce, syrup or other toppings of your choice. Bitterballen are deep-fried snacks filled with beef or vegetable ragout, often served as appetisers. And stamppot is a hearty dish made with mashed potatoes and a variety of vegetables and meats. If you’re looking for something a little more unique, make sure to try out some of Amsterdam’s specialty street food. Street vendors in Amsterdam serve up some of the most popular dishes in the country, including french fries with mayonnaise and kroketten (a type of croquette). Whether you’re looking for something traditional or something a little more unique, Amsterdam has plenty of delicious food for tourists to enjoy. So make sure to try out some of the city’s specialties while you’re in town.