Exploring Amsterdam: City of Unique Canals and Museums

Amsterdam is one of the most charming and attractive cities in Europe, a city that combines rich history, diverse culture and natural beauty. Amsterdam has a network of picturesque canals that roam the city and give it a unique romantic feel, as well as an impressive collection of museums with unrivalled art treasures and historical artifacts. Whether you are a fan of art or history, or looking for a new and distinctive experience, Amsterdam offers you everything you dream of and more.

In this article, we will take you on a comprehensive tour to explore Amsterdam, a city of canals and unique museums. We will explore its rich history and diverse culture, learn about the best boat tours through its charming canals, and visit its magnificent museums that house the finest works of art and history.

History and culture in Amsterdam

Origins and history of Amsterdam

Founding of the city: Amsterdam has its origins in the twelfth century when it was just a small fishing village at the mouth of the Amstel. Over time, the city grew and developed into one of the most important trading ports in Europe.

Golden Ages: During the seventeenth century, Amsterdam experienced an unprecedented period of economic and cultural prosperity, becoming a center of commerce, the arts and sciences. This period is known as the Dutch Golden Age, and saw the construction of many luxury houses and canals that still stand today.

Diverse cultural influences

Colonialism and trade: Thanks to its colonies in Asia, Africa and America, Amsterdam has become a cosmopolitan city that reflects the influences of multiple cultures. This commercial and cultural openness has contributed to making the city a global hub for arts and ideas.

Religious and intellectual tolerance: Amsterdam was known for its religious and intellectual tolerance, making it a haven for artists, intellectuals and those fleeing religious persecution in Europe. This open atmosphere contributed to the enrichment of the cultural and intellectual life of the city.

Historical architecture

Houses on canals: Amsterdam is characterized by its narrow and tall houses built on the banks of canals. These houses reflect the character of traditional Dutch architecture and provide a glimpse into life in past eras.

Public buildings: Highlights of the city include the Royal Palace of Amsterdam, originally the seat of the city administration, and the Church of Odikerk, which is the oldest church in Amsterdam and features its distinctive tower.

Explore picturesque canals

Canal system in Amsterdam

Planning and implementation: The construction of the canal network began in the seventeenth century as part of the city's expansion plan. The network consists of three main channels known as "channel belt channels", namely Herringracht, Kiesersgracht, and Breisingracht, in addition to several sub-channels.

Historical significance: The canals are an essential part of Amsterdam's identity and history and are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Originally used for commercial purposes and for the transport of goods, it is now part of the tourist character of the city.

The Best Boat Tours

Companies and tours available: Many companies offer boat tours that allow tourists to explore the city from a unique water perspective. Among these companies are Canal Cruises Amsterdam and Lovers Canal Cruises.

Evening and private tours: Some companies offer night tours that include dinner on boats, providing a romantic and distinctive experience to explore the city with its night lights.

Enchanting landscapes

Best places to take pictures: The channels offer many opportunities to take great photos. Among the best locations are the Belkanbridge Bridge, which offers a magnificent view of the surrounding canals, as well as the Magierre Brugge Bridge, which is a romantic symbol of the city.

Walking tours: Tourists can also explore the canals on foot through bridges and roads adjacent to the canals, allowing them to enjoy the scenery and tranquility provided by the water.

Unique museums in Amsterdam

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum houses the largest collection of paintings and works by renowned Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh, including paintings such as Sunflower and Starry Night. The museum opened in 1973 and attracts millions of visitors annually. It presents the evolution of Van Gogh's work from the beginning of his career until his death.

The museum regularly offers temporary exhibitions focusing on Van Gogh's contemporary artists or themes related to his art.

Rex Museum

The Rijksmuseum is the largest museum in the Netherlands and houses a huge collection of fine art and Dutch history, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.  The Hall of Honor is one of the highlights of the museum, displaying the most famous paintings such as Rembrandt's Night Patrol.

The museum underwent major renovations that ended in 2013, rehabilitating the building and modernizing museum displays to make them more interactive with visitors.

Leaning House Museum

History of the museum: This museum is considered one of the most exclusive in Amsterdam, showing how the city's clay soil affects the architecture of buildings and makes them inclined.

Interactive Displays: The museum offers a unique interactive experience that allows visitors to understand the engineering science that was used to build houses on wetlands.

Nemo Science Museum

The Nemo Museum offers an interactive science experience targeting all ages, where visitors can interact with hands-on exhibitions and scientific experiments. The museum has five floors filled with interactive exhibits covering topics such as physics, chemistry, and technology.  The museum organizes educational workshops and lectures aimed at promoting scientific understanding and encouraging innovation among young people.

Unique experiences in Amsterdam

Explore local neighborhoods

Jordaan District: Jordaan is one of the most popular neighbourhoods in Amsterdam, with its narrow streets, unique cafes and small shops.

De Bejeep: Known for its tranquil atmosphere and historical charm, De Bejeep is an ideal place to enjoy a quiet stroll away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Cycling experience

Bicycle rental: Amsterdam is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, and bicycles can be rented from many shops scattered throughout the city.

Best Trails: The Vondel Park Trail and the Osterpark area offer great cycling experiences in nature, as well as tours around the famous canals.

Shopping in local markets

Flower Market: Amsterdam's floating flower market is one of the most prominent tourist attractions, where visitors can buy a variety of flowers and seeds.

Flea Market: Held on Saturday and Monday, the flea market in Waterleoplin is a great place to find antiques, vintage items and second-hand clothes.

Local gastronomic

Traditional dishes: Visitors can try traditional Dutch dishes such as haring (salted fish) and strobowel (the famous dessert).

Best restaurants: Some of the best restaurants in Amsterdam include De Cass, which serves sustainable local cuisine, and Foxia, famous for its fine Italian cuisine.