Exploring The Many Sides Of Amsterdam

A city popular with young and elderly holidaymakers alike, Amsterdam is a destination bursting with things to see and do. Whether you're hoping to immerse yourself in the history of the city or sample some of its cuisine, Amsterdam is sure to tickle your taste buds and leave you with lasting impressions. Prepare for some new experiences and set off to soak up the unique atmosphere of this friendly city.

Exploring Amsterdam on foot may be a wonderful experience, but if you're looking to see the city from a different angle, a tour of its canals has to be recommended. Declared a UNESCO monument in 2010, the canals of Amsterdam are an excellent attraction in their own right, but also offer a great way to sit back and enjoy a little sightseeing. Relax and remember to take a camera as you pass the fabulous architecture lining the Canal Belt, you're sure to want to snap a few pictures during your journey.

Amsterdam is a haven for art lovers, and visitors to the city will be spoiled for choice when it comes to galleries and museums. Highlights include the Rembrandt House Museum - where you'll find his former home restored to give an accurate impression of the way it looked during the artist's time - and the Rijksmuseum, where much of his work hangs with other influential painters from the history of Dutch art. The Van Gogh Museum is another must see, and seeing as it's the city's most visited museum, plenty of art lovers feel the same way.

As a city steeped in history, Amsterdam can be a great place to pay your respects to the past - as well as enjoy a range of modern comforts. The Anne Frank House museum is one such place, beloved of travellers from all over the world. Other reminders of World War II can be found at the Dutch Memorial Monument and the Homomonument, and this can be a spiritually and culturally rewarding experience during your trip.

On the other hand, if you're looking to while away a few happy hours shopping, you'll be glad to know Amsterdam has plenty to keep you browsing for as long as you've got the energy. From the fashion designers lining the P.C. Hooftstraat to the food specialists of Nieuwendijk and Haarlemmerstraat, you'll find there are shops to cater to all kinds of desires. If you're looking for fashion with a difference, the independent retailers based in the Nine Streets area are sure to satisfy and outdoor markets are a fantastic place to pick up all kinds of oddities and bargains. If outdoor shopping sounds like your idea of heaven, you're best booking your hotel in Amsterdam between April and September, to be able to make use of the sunny days.