Amsterdam: famous for its quiet canals, neat gabled buildings and dreamy bridges. As the capital city of the Netherlands, Amsterdam has been one of Europe’s most significant metropolises for half a millennium; despite the fact that it’s compact enough to walk or, of course, cycle around. What it lacks in size, however, it makes up for in dramatic architectural beauty, and is regularly shortlisted among the most stunning cities on the continent.
With few of the drawbacks of a big city, Amsterdam is a dream for the discerning globetrotter. In the space of a day it’s possible to traverse the length and breadth of this canal-strewn city; its village-like charm lending itself perfectly to those looking to stroll its narrow streets or while away an hour or so in a waterside bistro.
That’s not to say the city is lacking in fascinating visitor attractions, however. From Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum, to Hermitage Amsterdam and the Portuguese Synagogue, this culturally rich city has no shortage of things to keep the mind occupied — however long you plan to stay in town
Few visitor centres in the world capture the poignant
history of WWII quite like Anne Frank House. Home to the eponymous teenage
diarist for two years before her and her family’s arrest by the Gestapo in
1944, Anne Frank House today serves as an evocative memorial for the
persecution faced by Europe’s Jews throughout the Holocaust. Established by
Anne’s father, Otto, in 1957, the writer’s house has been painstakingly
preserved to capture the final years of the young diarist, and is today
considered a landmark cultural institution of the Netherlands.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the historic heart of Amsterdam offers a fascinating glimpse into the preferred architectural styles of the Dutch Golden Age. Much of Amsterdam’s current town plan has remained unchanged since the 17th century, when a collective of Dutch architects came together to design rows of buildings which could withstand the city’s lack of firm, un-waterlogged land. They built their buildings narrow with deep foundations to create strong rows of houses, topping each off with gables and hooks which are today synonymous with the Dutch capital.
Where to find them
From street vendors to bakeries, you’ll find stroopwafels throughout Amsterdam, and they’re all about as delicious as each other. For the very best, however, we’d recommend the historic Lanskroon tea room in the heart of the city.
Lanskroon
Stroopwafels are synonymous with the Netherlands, and some
of the best are found on the streets of Amsterdam. Comprising two thin waffles
stuck together with syrup; they’re a humble local treat that make the perfect
accompaniment to a morning coffee. Enjoy warm and straight from the bag for the
true local experience.
Where to find it
As with stroopwafels, you’ll find traditional patat Dutch fries across Amsterdam, but try Grizzl Gelderlandplein for a rustic, authentic and hearty take on the classic.
Grizzl Gelderlandplein
Where to find it
The most famous place to enjoy raw herring is Stubbe’s Haring, a historic fishmonger beside Central Station. The Stubbe family have been serving herring for over a century, so you can trust that their fish is the freshest in town.
Stubbe's Haring
Where to find it
Head to the beautiful Negen Straatjes (Nine Streets) quarter to taste the produce at De Kaaskamer, arguably one of Amsterdam’s finest cheesemongers.
De Kaaskamer
