Overview

From its canals to its world-famous museums and historical centers, Amsterdam is one of the most romantic and beautiful European cities. There is nothing quite like this small capital and its deep cultural heritage. Not only is Amsterdam colorful, serene, and romantic, it is also exciting and sophisticated.

The cosmopolitan city of Amsterdam is ranked as Europe's fourth most important tourist center and is visited each year by over four million people. Although the majority of visitors come to Amsterdam to enjoy its architectural beauty and outstanding tourist sights, monuments, museums and art galleries, the city is also an important venue for business conferences and conventions, and is at the center of the recently formed European Union.  Amsterdam is just 9.5 miles from Schiphol Airport, the fourth largest airport in Europe, is also close to the continental motorway network, and is a major port used by ocean-going liners.  

Amsterdam is a cultural, historical, and architectural marvel. The city is laid out in concentric rings of canals around the old center, crosscut by a network of access roads and alley-like connecting streets. Most of the museums are clustered at the edge of the canal district and are among the best in Europe. In addition, visitors will want to see Europe's first stock exchange, which now serves as a grand concert hall and exhibition space, and pause for coffee at one of the first coffee houses in Europe. There is also the Anne Frank house, where the famous diarist’s family hid during World War II.  The Museum of the Resistance provides educational and historical information about the Holocaust.

Artis Zoo houses over 6,000 animals, most of whom live in outdoor enclosures that provide surroundings representing their natural habitats. The adjoining aquarium boasts one of the world's largest collections.   Interactive exhibits at the Science and Technology Museum provide children and adults with hours of educational fun. Other highlights of Amsterdam are its Floating Flower Market, where the merchandise is displayed on barges, and the Diamond District.  Many of the city's diamond polishers give free demonstrations of diamond cutting and offer sales of set and un-set stones.

Amsterdam's amazing energy, vitality and vibrancy extend throughout.  Dam Square is the real heart of the city.  The markets and streets are full of organists, peddlers, vendors, and performers of all kinds.   Many important buildings overlook this vast and bustling open space, including the Royal Palace, the Nieuwe Kerk and the War Memorial.   Primary uses of the square include ceremonies for the royal family, political demonstrations, street performers, remembrance day celebrations, and social gatherings.

As one might guess, the nightlife in Amsterdam is truly amazing! The Red Light District is world-famous.  Clubs everywhere are open until the wee hours of the morning, as are many coffee houses and bars. The Holland Casino Amsterdam, one of Europe's largest casinos, provides entertainment to guests 18 and over.

Looking at a map of Amsterdam, the city appears too large to explore on foot. It is actually possible to cover the entire flat expanse of the city during a four- hour walk.  Trams and water taxis are available when you’re ready for a rest or prefer to travel at a more leisurely pace.

Amsterdam is city of incredible beauty and charm in a land of canals, windmills, dikes, and picturesque countryside.  Its museums house some of the world's masterpieces, and its history is an important part of the story of Europe itself. This is a city in which culture, commerce, ambience, and romance combine with a proud and lively sense of humor and vitality. It is not to be missed!