I want to start this blog with this statement: Amsterdam, the “Vegas” of Europe! Not for the casinos, but for the unique atmosphere, the large number of tourists and the energy of the city. However, all this in the European version. The old town of Amsterdam is like an open architectural museum. The typical building along the canals and the numerous bridges offer a pleasant view in every corner. However, the walk was often disturbed by the packs of bicycles, that lead Amsterdam.
We arrived in Amsterdam at noon on a Friday in November, prepared for cold weather and rain. But luck was on our side — the weekend passed without a single drop of rain and even with a little sunshine, which made the city even more beautiful. After checking in at the hotel, we had lunch at Gourmet Burger and then set off for a walk among the famous canals of Amsterdam. In the afternoon, we planned to visit the Van Gogh Museum, but unfortunately, I discovered that we had booked tickets to another museum by mistake.
Disappointed that I had not been more careful when booking, we headed to Van Gogh & Rembrandt in Amsterdam. More than a museum, it was a video installation that combined the works and perspectives of these two great artists. Although an interesting experience, I would describe it as a “tourist trap”. We spent the evening exploring the city lightened by the New Year’s lights, placed on every corner of the historic center.
Saturday started at Brunchie, a famous breakfast spot. We went around 10:00, to avoid the long lines. To taste a little bit of everything, we ordered “French Toast”, “Eggs Brunchie” and “Pannenkoek”. All were very tasty, although the portions were small. After breakfast, we visited the Royal Palace and Dam Square, enjoying the lively atmosphere of the city.
In the evening, we decided to explore Amsterdam’s red light district, a curiosity that needed to be satisfied. It was much more concentrated and touristy than I expected, but still an interesting experience.
Sunday was the day reserved for exploring the city by bike and boat. Early in the morning, I rented a bike and rode through the flat cobblestone streets of Amsterdam. I stopped at various points to take photos and enjoy the quiet morning.
Later, we took a boat tour through the canals of Amsterdam, where we learned many interesting facts about the lifestyle, traditions, architecture and history of the city, including the Anne Frank House. Unfortunately, the tickets to visit it were sold out for our dates. For this reason, I advise you to book at least a month in advance. After the boat ride, I took some snacks and dedicated the afternoon to Vondelpark. I enjoyed a walk among the greenery and the characteristic houses in the background. Thus ended the day, with this peaceful atmosphere.
Before preparing for the trip back home, I bought some tulip bulbs and a magnet, to take a little bit of Amsterdam home with me. Amsterdam was a city that surprised me and it is now on my list of European cities to visit again, along with Prague, London, Lisbon and Rome. During my next visit, I would definitely like to visit the Van Gogh Museum, the real one this time, as well as the Sex Museum.
* Afterthought on bicycles: Most sidewalks are flat to facilitate bicycle movement, and the lanes dedicated to bikes were not easily distinguishable, and required special attention from pedestrians.
Something that caught my attention were the bicycles themselves — old, simple and often creaking while pedaling. Electric bikes was very rare, and this added to the authentic feel of this city loaded with history and tradition.
