This city is called the Venice of the North, the younger brother of St. Petersburg, and the diamond center of Europe, and ... the gay capital of the world.
Acquaintances, having learned about the upcoming visit to the city of water and willfulness, smile mischievously and, squinting, say: "That's lucky!"
There was no doubt: this article is for those who are going to the cultural and financial capital of the Netherlands - cosmopolitan Amsterdam in the near future, a city with the richest cultural traditions.
It doesn't matter how much time you plan to spend studying it: a day, three, or a week. Thanks to the information below you will visit unique places, take great pictures and return home fully aware that you have fully experienced the special atmosphere of Amsterdam.
How many days does it take to Amsterdam?
How many days do you need to spend on exploring the capital of the Netherlands? One day is enough for someone, someone is sad that a week was not enough. Therefore, it is worth building an excursion day taking into account your own interests and financial capabilities.
We will only list a few of the most interesting places and provide all the necessary information concerning them.
What to visit in 1 day
If you only have one day at your disposal, start your sightseeing tour at Dam Square, which gave its name to the city in 1270. A huge fish market was once located here.
It will not be difficult to get to it: the Central Station and Dam Square are only 750 meters away.
The white monument on the square, soaring into the sky, is a kind of shrine for the Dutch people... It is not accidental that it was installed in memory of the victims of armed conflicts on Dam.
On May 7, 1945, as the jubilant Amsterdamites were preparing to meet the liberators, a machine-gun burst was heard. 22 citizens were killed, 120 were seriously injured.
Today, the square hosts colorful fairs (especially Christmas ones), concerts, and excursion groups.
The latter is explained by the fact that the square serves as a good reference point: if you cross the Dam and go in a southeast direction, you will find yourself in the Red Light District; if you go west, you will appear in front of the Royal Palace and the New Church.
But first things first.
Top 10 attractions near Dam Square:
Royal Palace... The official residence of Queen Beatrix, and therefore you can get into it only in the absence of official events.
Both individual tourists and groups can admire the interior decoration and paintings by Dutch artists.
- Where? Dam, Amsterdam.
- How many? Adults - 10 euros, students - 9 euros, children under 18 years old - free.
- When? 11.00-17.00 (the days when visits are allowed can be viewed on the website: http://www.paleisamsterdam.nl/en/opening-hours.
Nieuwe Kerk (New Church). Church in honor of St. The catharines began to be erected in 1380 in the Gothic style. Today, only the western and northern facades of the church have been preserved original.
For many years, royal rulers were married in the temple. The last major development was the enthronement of Princess Beatrix in 1980.
The church is worth a look for a wooden organ from 1670 and a carved pulpit with figures:
- Justice,
- Faith,
- Mercy,
- Hope,
- Frugality.
In addition, Nieuwe Kerk is the resting place for the souls of noble Amsterdam citizens.
- Where? Dam Square, Amsterdam.
- How many? Free, you have to pay if there is an exhibition in the church.
- When? 10.00 – 17.00.
This is not just a 3-story museum. This is a complex of buildings and courtyards, walking along which you can see the famous wooden map "Amsterdam from a bird's eye view", learn about Amsterdam football fanatics, and play the bells.
- Where? Kalverstraat, 92.
- How many? Adults - 10 euros, visitors from 5 to 18 years old - 5 euros, under 5 years old - free. Attention: there is a stair lift for the disabled, a wheelchair for hire.
- When? 10.00-17.00.
Begeinhof. Shelter for runaway sisters (women who led a secluded lifestyle, but did not take tonsure).
You can get to the courtyard garden through the City Guard Gallery (part of the Historical Museum).
The highlight of the Begeinhof is the oldest wooden house in Amsterdam (Houten House), built in 1460.
- Free admission.
Flower market... One of the most fragrant attractions in Amsterdam.
On the floating barges moored on the Singel Canal, you can buy flowers in pots, arranged in bouquets, bulbs, etc.
- Where? 610-616 Singel.
- When? 9.00-17.00.
Red light district... It is better to walk along De Valleties in the evening, but a daytime visit to this place will make a visit.
In the illuminated showcases, you can see both real beauties and immense Fellini ladies.
Look through the windows and you will see that in this quarter sex shops coexist peacefully with offices, residential apartments and even kindergartens.
There is also the only recognized monument to a prostitute - the "Belle" statue.
Look carefully under your feet: one of the slabs, mounted in the pavement, looks like a woman's breast. For men who touch it, the plate "promises" to prolong the power and strength.
- Ban on photography.
Oude-Kerk... In this church, which bears the second name of the Old Church, Rembrandt baptized his children. But she is not famous for this alone.
Oude Kerk is gigantic in size (3.300 m 2), the oldest bell in Amsterdam hangs here and over 10 thousand citizens rest.
- Where? Oudekerksplein, 23.
- How many? Adults - 7.50 euros, students - 5 euros, children under 13 - free.
- When? Mon - Sat - 10.00-18.00, Sun. - 13.00-17.30.
Hashish and Marijuana Museum... The exhibition features thousands of items related in some way to marijuana:
- recipe books;
- stylish hemp clothing;
- smoking pipes;
- hookahs;
- components for greenhouses designed for growing these crops.
- Where? Oudezijds Achterburgwal, 148 (Red Light District).
- How many? Adults - 9 euros, children - free.
- When? 10.00-22.00.
Erotic Museum... Another place associated with Amsterdam debauchery.
The exhibition includes three floors of old engravings, figurines depicting either the genitals or the act of copulation.
Those who are especially sophisticated will be able to examine the private booth with the figure of a prostitute and enjoy the film "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs", which is prohibited from being shown on television screens.- Where? Oudezijds Achterburgwal, 54.
- How many? 7 euros (persons over 16 years old are allowed).
- When? Mon-Thu: from 11 am to 1 am, Fri. - Sun: from 11 am to 2 am.
Rembrandt House Museum... Renovated apartment by a Dutch artist with a small number of his works.
- Where? Jodenbreestraat, 4.
- How many? Adults - 12.50 euros, children from 6 to 17 - 4 euros, the rest - free.
- When? Every day from 10.00 to 18.00.
This is probably all that you can see in Amsterdam in 1 day.
Its logical conclusion will be a boat trip along the canals of Amsterdam. By the way, they are included in the UNESCO heritage list.
Companies carrying out route sightseeing tours:
- Blueboat City Canal Cruise (pier at Stadhouderskade, 30). Booking tickets and route overview http://www.blueboat.nl/en/canalcruise_daycruise.html
- CanalCompany (pier at Damrak, near Central Station). Ticket booking and route overview https://www.canal.nl/en/amsterdam-harbour-cruise
If you have 2 days
The first day can be organized as described above and the second day can be devoted to the Museum Square. It is known for its four magnificent museums located here:
- Diamond Museum,
- Van Gogh Museum,
- Modern Art Museum,
- Rijksmuseum.
Departure point - Amsterdam Central Station. Trams numbered 2, 5, 3, 12 and 11 stop here and will take you to Hobbemastraat (the so-called stopping point).
National Museum Rijksmuseum. Here is a unique collection of works by Dutch painters. Museum masterpieces:
- "Night Watch" by Rembrandt.
- "The Maid Pouring Milk" by Vermeer.
- "Madonna and Child" by Murillo.
- Petronella Oortman's dollhouse.
Photo and video filming is not allowed.
- Where? Museumstraat, 1.
- How many? Up to 18 years old - free, the rest 15 euros.
- When? 9.00 – 17.00.
Van Gogh Museum... A great place to enjoy the cosmic pictures of the great and unfortunate Van Gogh.
There are more than 200 of them here, among them the famous:
- "Sunflowers",
- "Bedroom in Arles",
- The Potato Eaters.
The artist's drawings are even more - more than 500. Canvases and rough sketches are arranged in chronological order.
Good to know: there is no audio guide in Russian.
It is better to take the queue in the morning.
- Where? Paulus Potterstraat, 7.
- How many? Under 17 years old - free, adults - 21 euros.
- When? On Friday - from 9.00 to 22.00, on other days - from 9.00 to 18.00.
City Museum of Contemporary Art. The pride of the museum is the work:
- Monet,
- Picasso,
- Cezanne,
- Chagall,
- Kandinsky,
- as well as an extensive collection of paintings by Kazimir Malevich.
- Where? Museumplein, 10.
- How many? Adults - 15 euros, students and children from 13 years old - 7.50 euros.
- When? On Thursday from 10.00 to 22.00, other days from 10.00 to 18.00.
Diamond Museum. The founder of the museum is Coster Diamonds, the company that carried out the order of the British Crown to polish the blue and white Koh-i-nor diamond.
At the factory, visitors watch the work of jewelers, and then view exclusive samples in the store of genuine diamonds.
- Where? Paulus Potterstraat, 8.
- How many? Adults - 8.50 euros, students and persons over 65 years old - 6 euros, children from 13 to 18 - 6 euros.
- When? 9.00 – 17.00.
Natura Artis Magistra - it can be visited in the afternoon. This is a huge zoo with over 6,000 animals.
In addition to observing the inhabitants of the zoo, there is an opportunity:
- stroll through the botanical garden with exotic flowers;
- look into a powerful telescope in the planetarium;
- take a look at the exhibits of the Geological and Zoological Museums.
- Where? Plantage Kerklaan, 40.
- How to get there? Waterlooplein metro station.
- How many? Children from 3 to 9 - 16.50 euros, everyone else - 19.95 euros.
- When? Works all year round. In season (March - October) from 9.00 to 17.00.
Good to know:
In high season (April to June), tourists line up in front of the National Museum Rijksmuseum.
It is better to plan your visit in the evening (after 4 pm).
If available for 3 days
The best continuation of exploring Amsterdam will be a walk through the Jordan quarter... This is one of the quietest and most prestigious areas in the city.
Sip a cup of coffee at one of the local cafes, visit the jofjes (city nursing home) and the Western Church (the great Rembrandt is buried there).
- Anne Frank House. Its sad exposition tells about the life of the family of a little Jewish girl during the Nazi occupation of Amsterdam.
- Where? Prinsengracht, 263-267.
- When? Open all days except October 4 (Yom Kippur). The opening hours vary depending on the season. From July 1 to August 31 from 9.00 to 22.00.
- How many? Adults € 9.50, visitors aged 10-17 € 5, children under 10 € 0.50.
- Western Church.
- Where? Prinsengracht, 281.
- When? The entrance is available on all days except Sunday, from 10.00 to 15.00.
- How many? Free admission.
If possible, climb the bell tower and look at the blue necklace of Amsterdam's canals.
The entertainment part of the route should include:
- Amsterdam Dungeon and Madame Tussauds (),
- beer museum Heineken Experience - interactive tour (),
- the most colorful flea market "Albert Kaupmarkt", which is in the area of \u200b\u200bDe Pijp.
What to see this week
If you are planning to spend a week in Amsterdam, then you can only be envied.
There is nothing better than taking a leisurely stroll through the streets of the city, lingering at the exhibit you like as much as you like and not thinking about the time.
Given enough time, a weekly plan for exploring Amsterdam might look like this.
| sights | The address | Full ticket price |
|---|---|---|
| The first day. Getting to know the city center | ||
| Royal Palace | Dam | 10 euros |
| Nieuwe Kerk | Dam square | Is free |
| Begeinhof | Is free | |
| Oude-Kerk | Oudekerksplein, 23 | 7.50 EUR |
| Flower market | 610–616 Singel | Is free |
| Rembrandt square | Rembrandtplein | |
| Canal walk | ||
| Second day. Artistic Amsterdam | ||
| Rembrandt House Museum | Jodenbreestraat, 4 | € 12.50 |
| National Museum Rijksmuseum | Museumstraat 1 | 15 euros |
| Van Gogh Museum | Paulus Potterstraat 7 | 15 euros |
| City Museum of Contemporary Art | Museumplein 10 | 15 euros |
| Historical Museum of Amsterdam | Kalverstraat, 92 | 10 euros |
| Day three. Historic Amsterdam | ||
| Anne Frank House | Prinsengracht 263-267 | € 9.50 |
| Schreierstoren Tower | Prins Hendrikkade 94-95 | |
| Coin tower | 1, 1111 AA Burgwallen Nieuwe Zijde | |
| Day four. Obscene Amsterdam | ||
| Erotic Museum | Oudezijds Achterburgwal 54 | 7 euros |
| Vodka Museum | Damrak 33 | |
| Museum of prostitution | Oudezijds Achterburgwal 60H | 7.50 EUR |
| Hashish and Marijuana Museum | Oudezijds Achterburgwal, 148 | € 9 |
| Diamond Museum | Paulus Potterstraat 8 | 8.50 EUR |
| Day five. Unusual city museums | ||
| Torture museum | Singel 449 | 7.5 Euro |
| Horror museum | Rokin 78 | 21 euro |
| Science Center "Nemo" | Oosterdok 2 | 15 euros |
| Glasses museum | Gasthuismolensteeg 7 | 4.5 Euro |
| Tulip Museum | Prinsengracht 112 | 6 euros |
| Sixth day. We leave the city | ||
| Zaanse Schans, Utrecht, Edam, Volendam, Haarlem, etc. | ||
| Seventh day. Entertainment in Amsterdam | ||
| Vondelpark (park where you can have sex in the evening) | Museumkwartier | |
| Theater of Sex "Casa Rosso" | Oudezijds Achterburgwal 106/108 | 40-50 euros |
| In the evening it is allowed to make love here | ||
The Amsterdam Botanical Garden is rightfully considered one of the oldest and largest in Europe. It was founded in 1638 and today has about 6,000 species of plants and trees.
Ortus Botanikus is famous for its greenhouses, each of which accurately recreates certain climatic conditions. So, in the local "tropics" it is very humid, where you can look at exotic vines and luxurious orchids. And in the "subtropical" greenhouse there is a bridge from which you can admire ferns and flowering fruit trees. The territory of the garden is huge - if you get tired of studying rare plants, take a break at the cafe on the territory.
The address:
Plantage Middenlaan, 2a
Website:
dehortus.nl
Wiki:Amsterdam botanical garden
Working hours: daily from 10:00 to 17:00 (special opening hours on holidays, in addition, the park is closed on January 1 and December 25).
2. Museum of hashish, marijuana and hemp
Recently, the trade of soft drugs has been limited in Holland: no more than 5 grams per hand, you cannot advertise and sell to minors. And from January 1, 2013 - a complete ban on the sale of hashish and marijuana to foreign citizens.
But no one forbids tourists to go to museums, even specific ones. Moreover, the Amsterdam exhibition of hashish, marijuana and hemp has a noble educational mission. The museum tells about the types and varieties of these plants, the methods of their cultivation, their medical properties, as well as the history of their use in various cultures and industries (our grandmothers, for example, wore hemp clothes).
The cost of the visit is 9 euros. Tasting of exhibits is not provided.
The address: Oudezijds Achterburgwal, 148
Website: hashmuseum.com
Working hours: daily from 10:00 to 23:00
3. The Pancake Bakery
Taste of Holland is the famous Amsterdam herring, kibbeling, croquettes and bitterbolens. But you won't understand anything about Dutch cuisine unless you try the pannenkoken. These are pancakes with all kinds of fillings - meat, cheese, fruits, chocolate, etc. But, unlike Russian pancakes, the filling in pannenkokeni is not wrapped, but superimposed on top, as for pizza.
The best pannenkokens in Amsterdam are served at The Pancake Bakery, near the Anne Frank Museum. The menu of this establishment includes 75 types (!) Of national Dutch pancakes. At the same time, prices “don't bite” - 5.95 euros for a large portion.
The address: Prinsengracht 191, 1015 DS
Website: pancake.nl
Working hours: daily from 12:00 to 21:30
In the very heart of Amsterdam, in the cobblestones of one of its streets, there is another unusual attraction - a monument to a woman's breast. The bronze composition, representing a lush female breast, lying in a man's palm, symbolizes Yin and Yang. The chest is a symbol of submission and femininity, and the palm is a symbol of firmness and masculine power. At the same time, the hand is chained to the girl's body, which means the codependency of female attractiveness and male strength. True, most tourists do not dig so deeply, for them the message of the sculpture is obvious, because it is located in the Red Light District.
Many urban legends are associated with this monument. According to one of them (the most beautiful), a young man and a girl once lived in Amsterdam, madly in love with each other. But the happiness of the young couple did not last long - the war separated them. The guy went to the front and lost his sight, and the girl became a prostitute due to poverty. Returning home, the guy was walking through the streets of his hometown, when suddenly someone called out to him. This was one of the priestesses of love. Touching her chest, the young man recognized his beloved.
In addition to legends, the monument is covered with signs. For example, men who stand on a bronze chest are guaranteed male longevity, and those who stroke it - many sexual victories.
The address: Prostitutiegebied, in de buurt van de Oude Kerk
Monument to the female breast in Amsterdam 5. Science Center NEMO
Where does lightning come from? Why do earthquakes happen? How do planes fly? Children always have a million questions, and adults do not know the answers to all of them. To satisfy the curiosity of "why" (and your own), go to the NEMO Science Center.
This is a unique museum dedicated to science and technology. Its peculiarity is that the rule "Do not touch with your hands" does not apply there. On the contrary, it is recommended to take the exhibits in their hands, twist, shake, press buttons - children should comprehend the world through personal experience.
The building of the center, reminiscent of a ship's stern, was built according to the project of Renzo Piano. The architect deliberately "exposed" ventilation pipes and other functional elements, as this correlates well with the concept of the museum. On the roof of NEMO there is observation deck, which offers a wonderful view of Amsterdam.
The address: Oosterdok, 2
Website: e-nemo.nl
Wiki: NEMO Museum
Working hours: Tuesday-Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00
6. Tattoo Museum
The Tattoo Museum is a relatively new establishment in Amsterdam. It was founded by Henk Schiffmacher in 2011. As a tattoo artist, Henk collected all sorts of exhibits related to tattoos for many years. As a result, so much accumulated that the artist decided to open a museum.
And this is really a must see! Tattoo machines, needles, photographs, paintings and even a piece of real tattooed skin of a Boston sailor - more than 40 thousand items in total.
The address:
Plantage Middenlaan 62 1018 DH
Website:
tattoomuseum.wordpress.com
Working hours: daily from 10:00 to 19:00
7. Coster Diamonds Diamond Factory
Everyone knows that Amsterdam is a city of flowers, but only a few people know that it is also a city of diamonds. However, the capital of the Netherlands has several factories that cut the hardest minerals on Earth, and one of the oldest is called Coster Diamonds.
It was there that in 1852 the famous Koh-i-Noor diamond was re-cut, which is part of the treasures of the British crown and is kept in the Tower of London. After this cutting, the diamond became pure white and "lost weight" from 191 to 108.9 carats.
Konhinur is not the only jewelry masterpiece created within the walls of Coster Diamonds. What other diamonds turned into diamonds there will tell you on free excursion, which, in addition to the theoretical part, also includes various master classes - you can try yourself as a grinder or cutter.
The address:
Paulus Potterstraat, 2-6
Website:
costerdiamonds.com
Virtual tour
Working hours: daily from 9:00 to 17:00
8. Bridge Python
Officially, this bridge, which connects the Sporenburg peninsula with the island of Borneo, is called Pythonbrug. But it is big, red and curved like a crawling snake, so tourists nicknamed it "Python".
The serpentine pedestrian crossing was built in the Venice of the North in 2001. The project was developed and implemented by West 8, using steel as the main material - it is light and flexible, which allows you to create fancy designs. The length of this one is almost 100 meters. The bridge is also decorated with 2,000 light bulbs, which makes it especially beautiful at night.
The address: Pythonbrug, 1019 Zeeburg
9. Sex Museum
Amsterdam is a city of tolerance. Here they treat with understanding any manifestations of sexuality and believe that carnal Love is worthy of a separate museum.
The Museum of Sex, or rather the Temple of Venus (as the owners prefer to call it) was opened in 1985. For almost 30 years, a solid collection of exhibits has been collected: from the statue of the Goddess of Love, meeting visitors at the entrance, to Merlin Monroe with her skirt raised in the wind.
The Sex Museum is located not far from the famous "Red Light District" in an old building of the 17th century. At the same time, the exhibits are exhibited in its back and front parts, as well as on the stairs connecting these rooms, - a kind of frank labyrinth is obtained.
If you are over 16, then be sure to visit this exhibition (ticket price - 4 euros) and take pictures with extravagant exhibits (give ava against the background of a huge erect phallus!;)).
The address:Damrak, 18
Website: sexmuseumamsterdam.nl
Working hours: daily from 9:30 am to 11:30 pm
10. Bob's Youth Hostel
Bob's Youth Hostel is one of the best hostels in Amsterdam, a must for young people traveling in Europe. The walls of the rooms are painted by local and visiting artists, which creates a special atmosphere.
For 18-23 euros you will receive a bed, clean linen, breakfast and a luggage room. From 8 am to 3 am, a bar is open, selling pretty cheap beer. In addition, there is no “curfew” at the hostel, but only persons over 18 years of age can check in.
The address: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal, 92
Website: bobsyouthhostel.nl
11. Art Plain Spey Market
Every Sunday, 25 professional artists gather on the small Amsterdam square called Speuil. On street stalls to the sounds of a live violin or harp, they present their paintings (less often - sculptures and crafts). Next weekend, other creators will come in their place to show the world their art (about 60 artists trade in the market, entering into one creative association and replacing each other).
Art Plaine Spey is both a gallery (you can just wander between the aisles and admire the painting) and a marketplace. There you can buy works of contemporary Dutch artists, and much cheaper than in a gallery, which usually requires a commission - 50% of the cost of the painting.
The address:
Spui Plein, 1012 WZ Amsterdam
Website:
artplein-spui.nl
Working hours: on Sundays from 10:00 to 17:00 (closed in winter)
12. Restaurant De Kas
De Kas is a unique bio-restaurant that offers its visitors only the freshest products, literally just picked from the garden. After all, De Kas is a restaurant located in a greenhouse.
In 1926, a greenhouse was built in Frankendael Park to grow fruits and vegetables for local social institutions. However, the need for this soon disappeared, and the greenhouse fell into disrepair. So far, in 2000, the enterprising Gert Jan Hagemann bought the building (for 1 euro!) And opened an unusual gastronomic establishment.
The biorestaurant is surrounded by garden beds, where fresh vegetables, fruits and flowers ripen all year round, which later end up on the plates of visitors. But do not think that meat lovers have nothing to do in De Kas - the menu includes not only vegetarian dishes (meat is supplied by a nearby farm). So in this place you can taste the best Dutch cuisine (De Kas awarded with a Michelin star). At the same time, a bio dinner for one will cost about 50 euros, and a lunch for two - 75.
The address: Leidseplein
Monument "Did not drink the branch on which you sit"
In 1956, another B-80 project 611 Zulu submarine was built in Riga. Its combat equipment included 22 torpedoes and 36 mines. And in 1991, the B-80 submarine was bought by Dutch businessmen and arrived at the port of den Helder, where it turned into a floating cafe.
Then, in 2002, the submarine was bought by the Amsterdam architect Mikel Naidam and transported to the capital's port. Naidam planned to make a conference room out of the B-80, but the idea did not work out. As a result, the Soviet submarine was resold several times, but new and new owners could not find a worthy use for it. Currently, the boat is mostly idle, only occasionally private parties are held in its compartments.
The address: NDSM Amsterdam
Submarine B-80 in the port of Amsterdam These are just some of the unusual attractions in Amsterdam. Complete this list in the comments. How do you remember the Venice of the North?
Despite its small size, the quantity interesting places Amsterdam can easily compete with the largest cities in Europe. The magnificent architecture, picturesque canals and the extraordinary atmosphere of Amsterdam make it a unique city, in which many intriguing surprises and simply interesting sights are hidden.
You can get to know them yourself, or you can choose one of the guided city tours or our audio guide. Don't forget to download our offline app (for Apple and Android) with maps and tips before your trip so you don't get lost in Amsterdam.
In honor of one of the most prominent natives of Holland, a huge four-story museum was built, which today enjoys fantastic popularity among tourists. The Van Gogh Museum houses the world's largest collection of the artist's paintings, as well as his letters. The first two floors are arranged, displayed in chronological order, so that visitors can observe the evolution of the artist's style. The third floor is completely devoted to the life story of the master. The fourth floor displays works by artists who worked at the same time as Van Gogh.
The address: Paulus Potterstraat 7, 1071 CX
Stop:Van Baerlestraat or Museumplein
Working hours:daily from 9:00 to 17:00, Friday from 9:00 to 22:00
Ticket price: 15 euros, entrance for children under 17 is free, you can buy
Walk through the canals of Amsterdam
Amsterdam is often referred to as the "Venice of the North" due to the large number of canals that line the city. The famous ones appeared in Amsterdam in the 17th century, initially they were built for a purely practical purpose - to control the flows of the Amstel River. Today they are one of the most charming sights of Amsterdam, and a short cruise is an opportunity to enjoy the classic architecture of Dutch mansions built on the banks of the canals.
The address: most boats leave from the pier near
Working hours: daily
Ticket price: from 15 euros, there are several cruise options
National Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum tells about the centuries-old history of Dutch shipbuilding and navigation. Exhibits and artifacts with a maritime theme occupy 18 spacious rooms. Here you will learn about how Amsterdam became one of the richest cities in the world, how the Dutch were able to conquer the sea, and what helped sailors while away their days on long voyages.
The address: Kattenburgerplein 1, 1018 KK
Stop: Kadijksplein
Working hours: daily from 9:00 to 17:00
Ticket price: 15 euros, for children from 5 to 17 years old - 7.5 euros, admission for children under 5 years old is free
Anne Frank House
The home where Jewish families hid from the Nazis during World War II is a memorial to the victims of the Holocaust and has been Amsterdam's most visited attraction since 1960, when it began operating as a museum. Here visitors can see the original of Anne Frank's diary and other manuscripts, as well as objects from her short life and interactive installations on the topic of human rights.
The address: Prinsengracht 263-267, 1016 GV
Stop: Westermarkt
Working hours: from November to March - daily from 9:00 to 19:00, on Saturday until 21:00, from April to June, September, October - daily from 9:00 to 21:00, on Saturday until 22:00, July- August - daily from 9:00 to 22:00
Ticket price: 9 euros, for children from 10 to 17 years old - 4.5 euros, entrance for children under 10 years old is free, you can buy a combined ticket to the museum and a walk along the canal
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace in Amsterdam is one of the three residences of the Royal family of the Netherlands. It was built on the site of the city administration in the 17th century for King Louis I, brother of Napoleon, and was even considered the eighth wonder of the world at that time. The palace is still used by the royal family for major events, but is open to the public for most of the year.
The address: Dam, 1012 JS
Stop: Dam or Dam Square
Working hours: Tuesday-Sunday from 11:00 to 17:00
Ticket price: 10 euros, entrance for children under 18 is free
Coffee shops
If beautiful museums, palaces and parks can be found in fact in all cities of the world, then this is a truly Dutch chip that brings the country more than 100 million euros a year. Previously, this pleasure was available to all tourists, but now the Dutch authorities are gradually tightening access to non-residents. In many Dutch cities, the entrance to coffee shops for tourists is already closed, but in Amsterdam, this opportunity still exists.
Vondelpark
The largest and beautiful park Amsterdam was named after the Dutch playwright Jost van den Vondel. The park is loved not only by tourists, but also localswho often gather here on sunny days for picnics. During the summer, the Vondelpark also has an open-air theater, where you can watch wonderful performances for free.
Stop: Hobbemastraat
If you like parks, be sure to visit the legendary Keikenkoff as well.
Amsterdam is famous for its original landmarks, and one of them is a series of red-lit windows in which representatives in seductive underwear beckon clients. The area also has adult theaters and many sex shops. Despite the peculiar character of the Quarter, it is quite safe to visit, as tourists constantly crowd here under the watchful eye of the police.
Stop: Dam
This small kingdom of flora in the very center of Amsterdam is the only floating one in the world. Throughout the week, vendors can be seen on the banks of the Singel Canal on barges loaded with all kinds of flowers, seeds and bulbs. Local residents also visit the Flower Market, but first of all it is entertainment for tourists. Many goods on the market are sold prepared for export so that guests of the city can easily take home tulips, daffodils and other flowers as a keepsake of Amsterdam.
The address: Singel, 1071 AZ
Working hours: Monday-Saturday from 9:00 to 17:30, Sunday from 11:00 to 17:30
Stop: Muntplein or Koningsplein
Have a nice trip!
What do you know about the city of Amsterdam? Most likely, the fact that it is a city of tulips, bridges, the "Red Light District". But that's not all. Today we will tell you what to see in the city of Amsterdam, and also give some advice on what to fear here.
brief information about the city of Amsterdam... The capital of the Netherlands - the city of Amsterdam, stands at the mouth of the two rivers Ey and Amstel. The most interesting thing is that sixty percent of the inhabitants of this country are immigrants who have come here in search of a fun and carefree life. The capital of the country is a large cultural, financial and business center, here are the headquarters of the largest corporations in the world, the head office of the Greenpeace organization, the world's oldest stock exchange. There are many large banks, light industry factories in Amsterdam, and its food production specializes in potato processing, coffee and brewing. A huge local port brings a huge income to the treasury. Leading industries of the country - machine building, oil refining, aircraft construction, gemstone cutting, also bring considerable income to the budget of the Netherlands.
History of the city of Amsterdam... The guides tell a very interesting legend about the founding of the capital of the Netherlands. A long time ago, two fishermen were caught in a violent storm, they desperately fought the storm for their lives and prayed to God for help. In answer to their prayers, the boat was thrown into the deserted place of the confluence of the Amstel River into the Zeyder-Zeh bay. To keep themselves occupied, two friends built a hut and a new boat. They began to settle down a little, they liked the new place of residence so much that they brought their families and acquaintances here. This is how a new village appeared. To protect it from being flooded by the waters of a fast-flowing river during floods, they built a dam, and the settlement was named "Amsteledame", literally translated "Dam on the Amstel". The first mentions of this place are found in written sources since 1275. The capital of the Netherlands, the city of Amsterdam became much later, in 1814, when it was already a very large settlement. Amsterdam is a wonderful city that has made efforts for centuries to drain excess water. According to legend, in 1275, two fishermen, who survived the storm by the will of God, founded a fishing settlement on the banks of the Amstel River. The annual flooding of the river required the construction of a dam, and this began the arduous construction of the city on the water. It must be said that the history of the development of the city is continuously connected with the constant struggle of the local population associated with the recapture of drained territories from the water. The area around the future city consisted of numerous swamps, lakes, straits and small islands. It took people colossal efforts to drain the land: they brought bags of sand and earth, stones and other rubbish, pouring it all into the water, built their houses on high piles, erected the now legendary Dutch mills, which, by the way, have become the hallmark of Amsterdam. Between the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, rapid growth in urban wealth spurred Amsterdam's “tax-exempt” status as a city. He became a real magnet for merchants. Thanks to this, Amsterdam became a successful "business center" of that time and the largest seaport in the world. The city began to erect luxurious buildings, bridges, cathedrals. So what to see in Amsterdam?
Canals of the city of Amsterdam... There are three main canals in the capital of the Netherlands: Herengracht, Kaisergracht, Prinsengracht, forming three peculiar rings around the city, and together they are called the Grachtengordel Canal Belt. Canal Herengracht - "Channel of Lords and Lords", got its name in honor of the former rulers of Amsterdam. Today it is the main water artery of the city. And its embankment is the most fashionable area of \u200b\u200bAmsterdam, with the poetic name "Golden Bend". It is famous for its magnificent medieval mansions with remarkable architecture. Kaisergracht Canal - "Royal Canal". In winter, it is covered with ice, the very first, so winter sports fans are happy to use it for winter joys: ice skating. The Prinsengracht Canal - "Prince of Orange Canal" - serves as an invisible border separating the craft and commercial part of the city from the representative district with rich mansions. This canal is the busiest place and the longest of the three canals, with a huge number of ships passing through it every day. There are almost a hundred small and medium-sized canals in the city, over which more than a thousand bridges are thrown, in the dark they are illuminated by millions of lanterns, which makes Amsterdam at night a fabulous place.
The fact that the territory of the city is located on marshy swamps, as a result of which it is impossible to build skyscrapers, high-speed multi-lane highways, does not in any way affect the tourist attractiveness of Amsterdam. Its narrow stone-paved streets, decorated with numerous flowerpots and flower beds with tulips, ancient buildings standing on strong, high beams, numerous parks and a unique atmosphere of comfort, indescribable friendliness - all this attracts numerous tourists from all over the world to the city. The capital of the Netherlands is a unique blend of ultramodernity with medieval antiquity. Here, like nowhere else, ancient balustrades and mirrored facades of new buildings are harmoniously combined, museums stand next to fashion boutiques representing popular world brands, in modest democratic cafes you will be served surprisingly strong beer prepared according to ancient recipes of monks. This city is considered the most tolerant in Europe. In its many "coffee shops" it is legal to smoke marijuana, and in the glass windows of the streets of the Red Light District to look at the luring tourists, priestesses of love. By the way, visiting this quarter is a tourist "highlight" of Amsterdam. But besides this amazing quarter, there is something to see in Amsterdam: numerous museums, interesting art galleries, cathedrals, squares and ancient monuments. Another tourist attraction is the "Diamond Factory" of Amsterdam, where those who wish can visit the exhibition hall, look at the interesting process of cutting precious stones.
Travelers begin their acquaintance with the sights of Amsterdam by visiting the old part of it - Audseids - the historic center. The main attraction of the area is Oudekerk Church for eight centuries it has delighted and delighted the eyes of local residents and numerous tourists with unsurpassed pride and grandeur. She is the real embodiment of the spirit of the Middle Ages. Fishermen began to build the Oudekerk church in the thirteenth century, dedicating this temple to St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, who has long been the patron saint of sailors, merchants, and children. This church was wooden and was erected on the site of an old cemetery, in the middle of a swampy area. The construction was carried out for three centuries, during which time it experienced several fires, attacks by iconoclasts who destroyed the luxurious wall paintings. Later, the temple was built of stone. Today you can hear his bell, which is the oldest in Amsterdam, it was cast in 1450 by the master François Hemoni. Since then, he has been calling believers to the Sabbath service for seven centuries. The church is famous for its stunning sixteenth-century stained glass windows by Dirk Crabeth and Lambert Van North. The stained-glass windows depict scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary, and the paintings on the ceiling, dating from the fifteenth to sixteenth centuries, represent biblical scenes. Since the church was erected in honor of St. Nicholas by fishermen, images of ships can be seen everywhere here. Also, this church is proud of three organs, the oldest of which is 358 years old, the organ, collected in 1724, is considered the best organ in Europe. Oudekerk has excellent acoustics, so organ concerts are constantly held here.
"Red light district" - occupies most of the historic center. This is not a quarter, but a whole area, which the locals call "De Valletyes" - "Walls", because in ancient times the walls of city fortifications passed through here. This place was chosen by prostitutes in the fourteenth century, as it was next to the port and next to the church, taverns and brothels, that is, everything that was needed by sailors who arrived from a long voyage. Life here is in full swing at any time of the day, but the most interesting begins with the onset of darkness: illumination lights up, loud music begins to play, streets are filled with a heated crowd of people, glass windows are occupied by "priestesses of love" of all stripes, skin colors, sizes and ages. I must say that the bulk of the people are onlookers, not consumers. In this area is the Erotic Museum of Amsterdam, which displays erotic art from different cultures and times. There are sculptures, paintings, statues, photographs, old prints, various accessories and so on.
Church nieuweckerk - a temple dedicated to St. Catherine, they began to build it in 1380. It can be said to be the most eclectic building in the city. Its grandiose facades, surrounded by various buildings belonging to different time periods, do not immediately make it clear how old this building is. The construction has been going on for seventy years. During its five centuries, the church survived a terrible fire, as a result, only two of its original Gothic facades have survived. The history of this church is inextricably linked with the history of the Netherlands: Since 1814, weddings and coronations of the Orange-Nassau royal dynasty have begun here. By the way, the tradition has been preserved to our time, in 1980, the coronation of Queen Beatrix took place here. And also, concerts, exhibitions, antique fairs and lectures are held here.
Royal Palace of the city of Amsterdam Is one of those must-see places. The building was conceived as the location of the city hall: the administrative and judicial authorities of the Netherlands. The project was designed in 1648 by the architect Jacob Van Kampen. The palace was conceived to be erected in a classical style, as a reminder of the architecture of Ancient Greece and Rome. To implement the ambitious project, I had to work very hard: almost fourteen thousand twelve-meter, strong piles were driven into the silty soil, a platform was built on them, and only then the construction of the walls began. The building was decorated with chic: allegorical figures, a marble map of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, laid out on the floor of the central hall. This building houses great paintings by Dutch masters. Tourists can look at them by purchasing a ticket in advance. The Town Hall became a royal palace in 1808, after Napoleon came to power. He chose this luxurious building as his residence. Today, despite the fact that the royal court resides in The Hague, this building is at the disposal of the royal house of the Netherlands and is used for important ceremonies.
What else to see in the city of Amsterdam? Well, of course, museums! On the central square of the city - Dam Square, named after a dam erected in the Middle Ages on the Amstel River, there is a branch of the world famous Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum... It was officially opened in 1971, and since 1991 it has moved to its current address. Visitors to the museum can see the great Dutch painter Rembrandt, the scientist Albert Einstein, the famous Van Gogh, the genius Pablo Picasso and the unique Salvador Dali. In addition, there are amazing doubles of Madonna, Michael Jackson, Merlin Monroe, Kylie Minogue, Sir Elton John, Jennifer Lopez, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Johnny Depp and many others. The museum is open every day from ten o'clock in the morning until half past seven in the evening.
Van Gogh Museum - located in the Museum Square of the capital of the Netherlands. I must say that the artist's priceless canvases have come down to us by a miracle. The fact is that after the artist's death, his paintings were inherited by his brother, but he also soon died, and the artistic heritage of Vincent Van Gogh, along with his letters to his beloved brother, remained with the widow of his brother Theo. Her friends offered to get rid of this bad taste, but she carefully kept these canvases, and sent the letters for publication. The collection of the master's paintings was in the Van Gogh family until 1973. So far, his cousin, Vincent Willem Van Gogh, donated them to a museum specially built for this. Today, we can see here over two hundred original paintings, his sketches, numerous letters, as well as paintings by other impressionist masters, his friends.
Rembrandt House Museum - the exposition of this is in the building where the greatest painter and printmaker of the seventeenth century in the 17th century - Rembrandt Harmenszoon Van Rijn lived and painted. In total, he created almost three hundred paintings, the same number of engravings and two thousand drawings. The museum was officially opened in 1911. Today, in the house-museum, the atmosphere of the times of the master's life is accurately recreated: a kitchen, rooms, a workshop. The collection includes works by Rembrandt and paintings by his students, as well as Peter Lastman, his teacher, one of the halls is dedicated to the engraving technique.
Heineken Brewery Museum - this is a place where you can learn about the interesting history of the family of world famous brewers, get acquainted with old devices for brewing beer, and also taste it. There is a souvenir shop at the museum.
Since Holland is always associated with tulips, you should definitely visit the Flower Market in Amsterdam, where you can not only admire the variety of these beautiful flowers, take great photos for memory, but also buy several tulip bulbs as souvenirs to grow them at home.
Now let's talk about the precautions that you should follow in the city of Amsterdam. As in any major metropolis in the world, there is a rather high probability of pickpocketing, often carried out in the flea market near major attractions or public transport. Do not carry valuables, documents and money in your pocket. Since Amsterdam is a city of cyclists, and tourists also often rent bicycles for walking around the city, bicycle theft is a frequent type of theft. Therefore, you need to leave it in a special bicycle parking. Since the Netherlands is a country with the legalized sale of light drugs, you should not think that you can also freely bring them as a souvenir to your homeland, if they are found with you or in your luggage at the airport, long police proceedings are guaranteed to you. And also, on the streets of Amsterdam, they are fined for drinking alcohol, and the fines are considerable. Be very careful when visiting the Red Light District: and try to refrain from open photos and videos here. The ladies of the area do not like this and you can be punished by their guards. Smoking on the streets of Amsterdam is prohibited not only narcotic cigarettes, but also ordinary ones. And also, if you decide to visit local coffee shops, do not overdo it, out of habit, with hashish and mushroom pies. The packaging says: "No more than three pies a day" - believe them, otherwise you will be taken in the wrong place! And, as for the capricious local weather: Amsterdam residents always carry a raincoat with them, regardless of the season, because the proximity of the sea can cause rain at any time.
Amsterdam is a very controversial and unpredictable city, where beautiful old buildings, cathedrals and bridges across numerous canals, side by side with the depraved Red Light Street, and the Van Gogh and Rembrandt Museum with the Sex Museum and the Hemp Museum. But, the capital of the Netherlands is one of the most attractive tourist destinations, where there is never a "low season", and in the city of Amsterdam, there is always something to see.
A weekend in Amsterdam: what to see in two days?
Do you have a free weekend? A great excuse to have an Amsterdam weekend! Rather, book your accommodation in Amsterdam and plan your trip. And we will share insider tips on how to spend these two days in a varied and active way.
Here are two options for plans and ideas of what to do in the capital of Holland. Choose, combine, compose your own program according to your taste - and enjoy all the variety of emotions and impressions that Amsterdam is ready to offer you!
Classic weekend plan in Amsterdam
Suitable for you if:
Alternative weekend plan in Amsterdam
Suitable for you if:
- you want new impressions from this unique city
- you don't like to walk the beaten path
- you want to feel a little bit in Amsterdam and not just a tourist.
Advice! If you want to see the most important sights of Amsterdam, pay attention to the overview Russian-speaking excursion "Amsterdam at 15:15" ... Duration 2 hours, cost 20 euros.
So, let's begin!
Cultural program: hunting for the beauty of Amsterdam
Of course, such a hunt will not require much effort, because encounters with beauty await you at every step. But in some places, the concentration of beauty per square meter exceeds any expectations.
The classic version.Go to the most - (State Museum) and. Both are among the top 25 museums in the world, according to TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice rating. At the end of 2017, the Van Gogh Museum became the most visited museum in Holland, breaking all records: 2.260.000 people per year! The Rijksmuseum is in second place with 2,160,000 visitors per year.
If the second museum does not need any introduction at all, then the portrait Rijksmuseumit might be worth adding a few touches. It is there that the famous painting "Night Watch" by Rembrandt is located, as well as the works of Dutch artists - Hals and Vermeer, Wall and de Hoch. A museum with two hundred years of history, in 2013 it reopened after 10 years of renovation - which was a very long-awaited event for both the Dutch and foreign guests.
When planning your time, keep in mind that there will likely be queues at the entrance to museums. They can be avoided in advance buying tickets online... Having printed tickets on hand, you get the right to enter the museum through a special corridor. And in some museums - for example, in the Rembrandt house-museum, Madame Tussauds, Heineken Experience - when buying tickets on the website, and not at the entrance, you can also save money.
Attention! Since September 2018 tickets to the Van Gogh Museum are on sale online only.It is often almost impossible to buy tickets to the Van Gogh Museum online on a day-to-day basis. Plan your visit in advance and buy tickets at least in 2-3 days until the desired date. Hot season tickets better to buy in a week.
Alternative option... If the spirit of the city is for you not in its history, but in everyday life, then feel free to go to the markets of Amsterdam - Waterlooplein and Bloemenmarkt. Despite the fact that it is difficult to call them classic (after all, they are designed primarily for tourists), there is more than enough color and bright colors there!
- New article:
The market is open daily from 09.00 to 17.30. Average prices: 3 packs of tulips (ten in each) tulips - 10 euros, 3 magnets - 5 euros.
Photos from Amsterdam: Snapshots
During the trip, hundreds of frames will surely appear in your camera, which will simply take your breath away. Want some special photos? Here are at least two win-win locations for photo shoots.
The classic version.Two-meter letters I AMSTERDAM - one of the business cards and attractions of the city. They are located right on the Museum Square opposite the Rijksmuseum, so it is easy and convenient to combine this photo session with museum leisure. The Rijksmuseum itself will also appear in the frame! But so that there are no other “photo models”, you will have to try very hard - this installation is very popular with tourists.
Update: Attention! On December 3, 2018, the letters I amstedam were removed from the Museum Square. There is now a permanent installation with letters at Schiphol Airport. Plus there are "traveling" letters that are transported to different points of the city. where all the letters I amsterdam are at the moment.
Alternative option... A photo shoot with letters in the background is certainly a tempting idea. She has only one drawback: it's only interesting for the first time! If your album already contains this element of the obligatory program, then look for a positive yellow duck by bike... It is located at the intersection of Sint Antoniesbreestraat and Snoekjessteeg streets (a three-minute walk from the Waterlooplein market). And, apparently, according to the citation index on social networks, it will soon give odds to the famous letters!
Shopping: with just one eye (really!)
Well, how can you resist the temptation ...
The classic version.Go to Kalverstraat, the main shopping street in Amsterdam. There are stores of mass market brands - Zara, Vero Moda, H&M, America Today, Levi’s, Ecco, Diesel and hundreds of others. At Kalverstraat, you can update your wardrobe, buy gifts, and have a snack.
If you are interested in luxury brands (MaxMara, Burberry, Gucci), take a look at de Bijenkorf department store (an analogue of the Moscow GUM) on Dam Square (there you can find boutiques Chanel, Dior, Escada and many others).
- You may be interested in:
Most of the shops in Amsterdam are open from 10.00 to 19.00. On Sundays and Mondays, many of them open at 12.00, but on Thursdays, all large shopping centers have an extended working day - until 21.00.
Alternative option... You have already learned the new Zara collection by heart, and the number of Mango jackets on the inhabitants of your city dazzles in your eyes? In this case, give preference to the “nine streets” area, where small designer clothing and accessories stores, vintage and colorful second-hand stores are concentrated.
Cost: 3 - 3.5 euros per serving.
P.S. And remember the phrase Mmm, lekker! ("Mmm, delicious!") - you will definitely need it!
Alternative option... Order your favorite Dutch snack bitterballen (translated as "bitter balls", but this is exactly the case when the literal translation has little to do with reality) - small balls of meat stews, deep fried. Served with mustard or sauce (mustard + mayonnaise). They come especially well.
Cost: 6-7 euros per serving.
Fresh impressions: let's add some fire!
Looking for something hotter? Take your pick - let's go where the hottest things in Amsterdam live, or where they serve really spicy food!
Classic version
Sounds shocking and even criminal? Do not worry, this quarter is completely safe for tourists (the main rule that should be observed is not to take pictures of girls in booths, the "fighters of the invisible front" strictly follow this). Many of those travelers who came here for the first time note that “everything is neat and even cozy”.
And besides, it's legal. After all, as you know, prostitutes in Holland are individual entrepreneurs who work quite within the law: they officially rent a workplace, pay taxes and even have their own trade union.
Alternative option... Amsterdam is a very international city and each ethnic group brings something different to its atmosphere. Representatives of eastern cultures are very successful in this matter. Go to, which starts almost from the very central station and passes next to the red-light district, - and feel the whole variety of smells, types and tastes!
An unusual view of the city: changing focus
You can walk along the streets of Amsterdam for an infinitely long time: admire the canals, look at the colorful inhabitants, notice interesting details on the gingerbread houses. It would seem, what more could you want! But completely unexpected views will open to you if you decide to look at Amsterdam in the literal sense of the word from a new angle.
Classic version... Join one of the many canal tours - it is from the boat that you can best view all the breathtaking beauty of the houses and attractions of Amsterdam. A classic day trip (60 minutes) costs an average of 16 euros.
Attention! From July 12th to August 31st, 2019, you can get a discount on KINboat cruises:
- Small Open Boat Tour: discount 3 euros (total 13 euros instead of 16) with the promotional code SOBT-MINSK19
- Cruise Like a Local: 5 euro discount (total € 19.50 instead of € 24.50) with the promo code CLAL-MINSK19
Evening canal cruises can be successfully combined with dinner. You can opt for Pizza Cruise, which serves pizza + drinks (€ 42.50 per person), or you can opt for the Dinner Cruise, which serves a full dinner on board (from € 92.50). Cruise tickets are best booked in advance.
Life hack! Canal cruise tickets can be purchased in combination with museum tickets. These combo tickets will save you 5-7 euros. For example:
- combi ticket to Madame Tussauds + canal cruise (save € 7.5)
- rijksmuseum combi ticket + canal cruise (save € 5)
- combi ticket for the Heineken Experience + canal cruise (save € 7)
Alternative option... Take a look at Amsterdam bird's-eye! In May 2016, A’DAM Lookout was opened in Amsterdam with a 360-degree view of Amsterdam from a height of the 20th floor. Entrance fee - 15 euros (buy tickets \u003e\u003e). All guests - a photo for memory!
The A'DAM Lookout site is open from 10.30 am to 9 pm (at the entrance they are allowed to enter until 8 pm). And, frankly, the views of the evening Amsterdam are even more mesmerizing than the daytime! You can watch the sunset at the cozy Madam Bar on the 20th floor.
