Oh, Amsterdam!
Last summer, I had a 3-week business trip that took me to 9 cities in 7 countries across Europe. It was a lot of work (!) but also a great chance to spend the in-between weekends in new places. I had never been to Amsterdam and always wanted to go, so that was an easy choice for my first free weekend.
As with every major European city, there is so much to see and do that 2 weeks wouldn't even be sufficient to experience it all. I had 2.5 days and set out to see and do as much as I could in the capital city of The Netherlands. There is so much more than "coffee bars" (aka marijuana joints) and the Red Light District, thank goodness, as neither are really my thing. No judgement if you want to partake - when in Rome..... LOL.
If you've read my other blog posts, you know that I am a sucker for just wandering around a new city. I love to get lost and think it's the best way to learn. Amsterdam is a perfect place to get lost; just set out on foot or bike - if you're brave enough! - and follow the canals. You can even hop on and off a canal boat by buying a day pass. My favorite neighborhoods to explore are Jordaan + the Western Canals for boutiques + cafes; De Pijp for a trendy, hip vibe; Southern Canal Belt for lesser-known museums; Vondelpark for its rose garden; and the City Centre for seeing where the ancient meets modern day life.
There are a few destination spots I highly recommend:
- Anne Frank House. I was incredibly moved by the experience of visiting the Anne Frank House. To ascend its tiny wooden steps and then be in the cramped spaces where multiple families lived in hiding was incredible. The pencil marks measuring Anne and her sister's heights on the wall remain as do the magazine spreads Anne hung over her bed. The audio tour is magnificent and helps bring it all to the life, and one can't help but be moved while there. I was admittedly quite emotional and left feeling strongly that everyone must visit the House to ensure atrocities like the Holocaust never happen again. Advance ticket purchase is required.
- The Van Gogh Museum, in itself an architectural wonder, houses the largest collection of this treasured artist's work in the world. It is set up to follow Van Gogh's journey as an artist throughout the various stages of life, with stories of his family and influencers as well as his mental illness. I just loved it.
- Oude Kerk. This beautiful 800-year "old church" is the oldest building in Amsterdam. It is "home" to over 2500 graves as it was built atop a cemetery. Somewhat eerily, its entire floor is made of gravestones. But you can imagine the history that the walls have witnessed. I highly recommend a tour. And keep your eyes open for crooked buildings wherever you go in Amsterdam, but especially here in the ancient city centre.
- Red Light District. I actually was trying to avoid this, to be honest. I just had no interest in seeing it. However, I was outside Oude Kerk taking photos and suddenly heard a knocking sound. Unbeknownst to me, my back was to prostitutes in their windows who were quite annoyed that I was blocking them! I suppose this is a must see so be on the lookout when walking around Oude Kerk!
- While in the area, grab a fresh-pressed juice at Juice by Nature and then stroll to the Royal Palace. I was short on time so did not take a tour, but I can attest that hanging out in the large courtyard in front is fun people watching! Located there is also the Dam Square (where Amsterdam was founded) and nearby is Nieuwe Kerk (aka the "new church", built in the early 1400's as Oude Kerk was being outgrown) where famous exhibitions are often held.
- When walking around the Western Canals area, plan to make a stop in the cheese tasting shop called Reypenaer Proeflokaal. Enjoy a tasting and glass of wine there, or take away for a picnic on a nice sunny day!
- If you love art, a trip to the Rijksmuseum is highly recommended. I wish I had more time on my visit because the 80+ galleries contain such exquisite works.
- Short on time? Take a canal boat tour. Hop on near the Anne Frank House, sit back and relax!
If wandering and shopping are your thing, be sure to read my blog post for Amsterdam's best shops. And while there, don't forget to tuck into a cafe, enjoy a glass of wine and just T A K E I T A L L I N.
