Ever had that feeling when visiting a new city of wanting to explore and discover without the restrictions of time consuming tour guides? Looking for something that gets straight to the point, without sorting through the city’s many attractions, landmarks and eateries to give you an honest and clear guide?
Then this itinerary is just what you’re looking for!
You will experience the best of what Amsterdam has to offer, with some touches of local knowledge to help you along the way.
Here is a taste of what this guide offers:
Picturesque canals and gorgeous architecture
Navigating Amsterdam’s mazy streets and winding canals can be overwhelming at times for experienced travellers and first time tourists alike. By providing clear directions, specific maps and local advice this guide will prove to be a useful tool for enjoying the city’s diverse and vibrant atmosphere without the added worry of getting lost. And, to really get to grips with daily Dutch life, you will have the chance to experience the city by the nation’s primary mode of transport: the bicycle!
Immerse yourself in Dutch culture
With so much to see and (usually) so little time to see it, it is important to get the most out of your visit to Amsterdam. Of course, like most major cities, many of the main attractions require entrance fees and it is difficult to know which attractions are worth the ticket fee, and which are hidden tourist traps! Maybe you intend to visit some of the city’s numerous museums, but you are unsure about the best times to go, or which museums are recommended more than others; did you know, for example, there is a card which gives you access to all the museums for a set price? Often it is the little things that can make a big difference during your travelling – whether it is food, landmarks or museums, use this itinerary to give you a leg up as you tour the city!
This itinerary provides in-depth guides (walking, cycling and public transport) to the following areas:
- Dam Square
- Jordaan District
- Museum Quarter
- South Canals
- Nieuwmarkt
- Rembrandtplein
- The Old Centre
- Leidseplein
Sample page from the itinerary:
The actual itinerary includes additional maps, pictures and other points of interest.
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South Canals – 3:00pm – 5:00pm
Duration: 2 hours
[Map of South Canals with directions]
To fully appreciate the diverse and cultural spectrum of Amsterdam, there are few better areas then the Southern canals. The streets here are home to some of most imperial houses found in Amsterdam, especially those found on the ‘Golden Bend’ (between Leidsestraat and Vijzelstraat). In between the Louis XIV style architecture you will also find buildings ordained in colorful graffiti, lively gay cafés, galleries and small shops tucked away in alleyways, perfect if you’re looking to explore and shop around a more alternative scene.
My advice for the two hours spent here is to explore as much of the area as you can. At the bottom of Singel, on most weekdays, you can find a market which specializes in old and modern literature (there is also an ‘American Book Center’ and a ‘Waterstones’ here). To the southeast of Rembrandtplein is the Magerebrug (Skinny Bridge), undoubtedly the most photographed bridge in Amsterdam and an even more impressive sight at night.
Using the “Mint Tower” – a 15th-century clock tower which was once part of the medieval wall surrounding the city – as your point of reference, here are just a few recommendations for what to do in the area:
Allard Piersen Museum
Price: Adults €6.50, Children €3.50
Hours: Tue-Fri, 10:00am till 5:00pm
Address: Oude Turfmarkt 127
Website: www.allardpiersonmuseum.nl
The Allard Piersen Museum is home to the University of Amsterdam’s rich archaeological collection, with exhibits ranging from Ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome and the Near East.
Begijnhof Chapel
Price: Free, Donations welcome
Hours: Tue-Fri, 9:00am till 18:30pm. Sat-Sun, 9:00am till 6:00pm. Mon, 1:00pm till 6:30pm
Address: Begijnhof 30
Website: www.begijnhofamsterdam.nl
Built around a secluded garden and courtyard, this 14th-century chapel originally provided homes for a close community of women called the Beguines. You will also find here the ‘Engelsekerk’ (English Reformed Church), the ‘Houtenhuis’ (the oldest house still standing in the city) and a Catholic Church converted from two houses, which features some stunning stained-glass windows.
Local’s Tip: More a reminder than a tip, remember that you must remain silent during your visit as the chapel is very much active during the day. Also, keep a look out for the 17th and 18th-century painted stones behind the Houtenhuis, as each stone tells a part of the story from the Bible.
Bloemenmarkt
Hours: Mon-Sat, 9:00am till 6:00pm. Sun, 11:00am till 5:30pm
Address: Singel
The world’s only ‘floating flower market’ is a wonderfully Dutch experience and simply a must see.
Local’s Tip: Whilst the colorful array of flowers may be impressive, don’t be fooled by the tacky souvenirs; there are much better shops in the area selling similar items for considerably cheaper.
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If you still can’t decide…
- Feel free to email me (whiteleg@hotmail.co.uk) if you need any more information about this itinerary or any other questions. All feedback is much appreciated!
- Although this itinerary will help get the most out of your vacation, if it does not meet your standards then Unanchor will gladly refund your money. (See below for additional details.)
