So if you’re planning your trip to Amsterdam and realize that there is only one day for sightseeing, don’t panic! But if you are organized and logical about what you want to do in a day and where you want to go then Rome and its history can really come alive. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you maximize your day in Amsterdam:
1. Begin Your Day at Dam Square
Begin your tour by traveling to Dam Square location which is the central business part in Amsterdam. Admire the architecture of the Upper Castle and the gothic Nieuwe Kerk. Visit the Dutch War Monument We also suggest you visit the very beautiful monument to the victims of the Second World War. Saying that, the location of this accommodation can be considered to be perfect for people who want to start their discovery of Amsterdam right away.
2. The Historic Canal Ring
Amsterdam is particularly well-known for canals that cut through the city and those should be visited. Stroll smoothly in UNESCO’s protected Canal Ring area or call for a canal boat tour for a different view of the city. Marvel at the numbers of exquisite 17th-century buildings surrounding the canals with numerous beautiful bridges.
2.1 Visit Anne Frank House
In a nutshell visiting Anne Frank House is an enlightening an absorbing tour. Take a tour in the hidden room through which Anne Frank and her entire family lived during World War II and how they were living. Indeed, due to the competitive ticket prices, long lines may be formed and it is advised that whenever possible one buys the tickets in advance.
3. Dive into art and Culture
Amsterdam is home to several world-class museums that should be on every art lover’s itinerary:
Rijksmuseum: It contains a huge stock of pieces of artwork originated from the Netherlands, works of Rembrandt and Vermeer included.
Van Gogh Museum: Learn more about one of the most talented and well known painters of all time, Vincent van Gogh.
Stedelijk Museum: Art lovers that are particularly interested in modern and contemporary art pieces should visit this museum.
One should book his or her ticket ahead of time to eliminate the likelihood of having to wait for long hours; particularly in the high season.
4. Indulge in Dutch Cuisine
In this case it is impossible to prepare for any adverse events when visiting Amsterdam without having a taste of some traditional Dutch cuisines. Try some of the Dutch cheese in restaurants or buy it at a cheese shop and certainly do not miss the Dutch pancake- ‘Poffertjes.’ For a quick snack try a “stroopwafel,” which is a Dutch caramel waffle.
4.1 Visit a Local Market
Make a stop at one of liveliest open air markets located in Amsterdam: Albert Cuyp Market or Flower Market. These markets consist of freshly harvested foods, traditional local foods as well as other pointed cultural gifts. Get to know the lively energy and take a glance at the daily life of the people.
5. Experience the Bike Culture
Biking has become part and parcel of Amsterdam’s culture and taking a biking tour is perfect for experiencing the city in its true character. Be one of the millions of tourists who rent bikes and explore the friendly bike lanes in this city. And please remember the traffic signals and always look out for the pedestrians or persons around.
5.1 Vondelpark
In Vondelpark, get away with the chaos of the city, as it is the largest park in Amsterdam visited by thousands of visitors every day. Spend a Sunday afternoon riding a bicycle or just walking through its appealing bike trails and neat lawns. There are also available several cafés and open air theatres for a cup of coffee or a snack or a pick nick space.
6. Get to See a Side of Amsterdam at Night
One thing that Amsterdam is especially famous for, is its exciting and colorful nightlife. In the evening, the visitors may take a walk around the Jordaan district, which is full of numerous beer cafes or go to the Leidseplein which is considered to be an entertaining center and it offers numerous bars, clubs, and entertainments. Be enchanted with the vibrant night life the city has and turn the city into the city of the Venetian like fame.
6.1 Red Light District
Other people might find it fascinating to have a tour around the city’s Red Light District if they want to know an aspect of Amsterdam’s culture. It is a district with windows with red lights that are legal to advertise the availability of sex workers. The rules of engagement should be followed strictly with perhaps tolerating any observed restrictions or policies within the district.
7. Make Your Day Interesting by Going for a Canal Riding
Before the day ends, kill time through a canal cruise along the magnanimous water ways of Amsterdam. Admire the luminous view of the city from the water and feel the charming atmosphere. Because while the boat rocks softly, and the sound of the water lulls one into a full relaxed state, it is the perfect way to bring some sort of closure to the day in this remarkable city.
As you have realized, to visit most of the attractions within one day you need to be organized and flexible enough to get the most of the limited time you will have. Spend time getting to know the specific culture of this city, enjoy the beautiful architecture and the unseen beauty of the historical background that make Amsterdam quite different from most of the European capitals.
