Amsterdam

At the cusp of the XIII and XIV centuries, Amsterdam received the status of a city. It became a part of the County of Holland in 1317. Even back then, it was a center of maritime commerce, and the city’s economy was growing rapidly and flourishing. New canals were built and fortified in the XIV-XV centuries. This did not only provide new trading opportunities but also protected the city from enemies.

Amsterdam had been the largest trading and cultural center until the middle of the XVIII century. Gradually, the trading was declining. However, Amsterdam became the capital of the Batavian Republic in 1795. Later, in 1806, it was proclaimed to be the major city in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. In 1810, the Netherlands became a part of the French Empire. Amsterdam regained its status of the capital only in four years.

The city was invaded and occupied by the Germans in World War II. A wave of immigrants from Turkey, Morocco, Indonesia swept the city in 1950. Nowadays, trading and commerce still prevail over other activities in the city. Amsterdam also develops its service sphere. It’s considered to be one of the most important tourist centers in the country.

Summer brings hot and damp weather to Amsterdam. Thermometers show up to +30 °C, and the level of humidity can reach 80%. Almost empty streets during the daytime are the main advantage of this period. It’s also the season of musical and dancing festivals. Autumn in the capital of the Netherlands offers more pleasant weather and not less cultural events: Jordaan Festival, a marathon, Arrival of Saint Nicholas. You won’t be bored.

Winter is a special time when Amsterdam resembles a fabulous kingdom. For sure, Christmas is the brightest event. The weather is not too frosty. It’s actually more humid and foggy, with frequent rains. The average temperature is +2…+5 °C. It almost never goes below zero. The prices for hotels and apartments decrease by 30 % or even 50 % from November till the middle of December, and from the middle of January to March.

Thus, experienced travelers say that spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit Amsterdam while a winter trip is not the best idea.

Clearly, every traveler has his or her plans for Amsterdam. They depend on personal interests and preferences. However, there are things in the capital of the Netherlands that every tourist should do.

• Admire Amsterdam from the water. The city is called the second Venice not without a reason. It has over 1500 bridges and 90 islands. Amsterdam looks stunning from the water. Tourists can choose from organized group tours or rental ships and catamarans.
• Throw a museum day! Amsterdam offers more than 40 museum displays to its guests. The themes are diverse: Museums of Van Gogh and Rembrandt, the Rijksmuseum, the Anne Frank House, Heineken Experience with beer tasting, and even the Erotic Museum. Believe us, there are enough tours for more than one day!
• Buy flowers. Tulips are one of the symbols of Amsterdam and the Netherlands in general. However, you can also find other flowers here. The floating flower market Bloemenmarkt works on the Singel canal daily, except Sunday. There you can purchase both bouquets and bulbs of various plants.
• Rent a bike and cycle around the city. Bicycles are another symbol of the city. There are special cycleways, and rental services are almost at every corner. A bicycle tour around Amsterdam is your chance not only to see the city but also to have an excellent workout.
• Drop by a cheese shop. There are plenty of such shops around the city and there’s nothing surprising about this. The Netherlands takes the second place (after France) in cheese production. Every place will offer you a diverse assortment, interesting sauces, friendly salesmen, and free tasting. It will be delicious!
• Pamper yourself to some junk food. The national cuisine of the Netherlands does not have a wide range of dishes. French fries are considered to be a popular food in Amsterdam. You can find the most delicious one on Damrak Street. Be ready to stay in long lines. But don’t worry, the french fries here are worth the time wasted!
• Try the Dutch herring. This is the second gastronomical attraction in Amsterdam after the french fries. There are various ways to eat it. You can eat the entire herring as the locals do. They usually throw their heads back, hold the herring above it and try to take a big bite. You can also choose a traditional way: in the form of a sandwich or a salad with the herring, onion, and pickled cucumbers. No matter what method you choose, it’s a real must-try! The herring here is incredibly mouth-watering.
• Stroll along the Red Lights District. It’s important to remember that this is an amusement for adults only. The street was named after the red lights that were put into the windows of brothels. These establishments are still functioning here. Besides, there are sex shops on every corner where you can purchase original and exquisite presents for your friends. Try not to take pictures here. Locals don’t like it.
• Step by a coffee shop. It’s another attraction for adults. Of course, you can just enjoy a cup of coffee at the coffee shop. However, people come here to taste “magical” cupcakes, cookies, and other sweets. Don’t forget that Amsterdam is the city where cannabis is legalized. Just make sure you keep those “goodies” away from children.