8 things to do in Amsterdam
To walk, bike or boat … the many ways to explore the Netherlands’ modern capital
1 Get on to the canals
It doesn’t matter in what manner you undertake a canal tour in Amsterdam, but it’s imperative you do if you ever hope to comprehend the breadth and beauty of the city. From DIY sightseeing, hop-on-hop-off boats where you plug into your language, to small groups scooting along at sunset with snacks and Champagne, to guided history – or architecture – appreciation excursions, there’s a niche boat for every traveller.
2 Snack on stroopwafles
You’ve heard of Gouda the cheese (PS: it’s actually more like hou-dah), but another Dutch specialty is far better with tea than cheese and easier to stuff into the crannies of your suitcase. It’s the entirely scoffable, caramel-pressed stroopwafle biscuit. You can find them in Oz, but there’s something a little bit different (yes, better) about the ones adorning every spare inch of space at every tourist shop in the city.
3 Ride around town
Bikes are more prolific than cars in Amsterdam. Everyone is on a bike: dads pedalling toddlers to kindy, businesswomen in pumps, septuagenarians taking corners with nonchalance. Two wheels and half-a-brain is all you need to navigate the city. You can rent bikes from almost anywhere but, if you’re pedal-shy, a tour with We Bike Amsterdam (webikeamsterdam .com) will calibrate your mettle for solo cycles.
4 Wander in Vondelpark
On sun-filled days, a stroll and a grassy loll in this historic park trumps any other planned activity. The largest public park in the city, Vondelpark opened to pedestrians and equestrians back in 1865. Close to the Rijksmuseum and the van Gogh Museum, pop here for a pause on culture and to enjoy a beer at ’t Blauwe Theehuis.
5 Visit the Rijksmuseum
Spanning the Dutch masters to intriguing contemporary exhibitions, a giddy obsession with van Gogh or Rembrandt is not a prerequisite to enjoy this art museum. If the collections themselves don’t ignite dormant artistic ambitions, the grand grounds and architecture of the building will coax out a reverential appreciation for the cultivation of human talent.
6 Travel to The Hague
Less than an hour by train from Amsterdam, the Netherlands’ third-largest city, Den Haage, is home to the seat of parliament and the UN’s International Court of Justice. The pace is quieter and the vibe somewhat more intellectual than Amsterdam, providing a gentler pace. Tour Gothic buildings and art museums, such as Escher in the Palace.
7 Dine at Westergas
This West Amsterdam 19th-century industrial hub was once home to the city’s gasworks, but after a reimagining in 2003, it’s now lit with culture, rather than combustibles. Here you’ll find a rotating array of markets, festivals and events, as well as shops, galleries and restaurants.
8 Europe’s best flea market
One weekend each month, sellers converge in Amsterdam Noord (north) for IJ-Hallen (ijhallen.nl), Europe’s biggest flea market. From fashion and homewares to all manner of curiosities, anyone who loves a bargain should time their trip with this two-day rummage in mind.