Ferry Traveller

Book a ferry to Amsterdam

There is much to love about the city of Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands. Tourists from all over the world flock to this city to immerse themselves in history, in art, and to party! Make sure you get a taste of all three, when you come to visit.

The city is younger than some other Dutch cities, but still, there is plenty to tell of its history. It was established in the early 1300s and later, the Dutch led a rebellion against King Philip of Spain, which led to the Eighty Years War. This is how the Dutch won their independence. From that time, other groups fleeing religious and political persecution moved to this city, such as the French Huguenots and Jews from the Iberian Peninsula. Although it also lost some of its people to the plague, the city rose to its Golden Age in the 17th century, trading with various countries in Asia and South America, and establishing the first stock exchange in the world.

A second Golden Age started for Amsterdam in the late 19th century, with major canal constructions leading to increased trade both in Europe and the whole world. The two world wars also took their toll in the city, with many citizens endangering their own lives by protecting Jews. The most famous of Dutch Jews who were captured and sent to concentration camps was Anne Frank. A major reconstruction effort followed the wars, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Don’t miss the museums when you visit this city. The Van Gogh Museum holds the largest collection of this famous artist’s work. The Rijksmuseum holds paintings by Rembrandt van Rijn, Jan Steen, Frans Hals and Johannes Vermeer. It also holds a substantial collection of works from Asia. Take a trip to the Anne Frank Museum as well.

The city has 7,000 registered historic buildings. Thankfully, it did not suffer any major bombing during the wars. As a result a lot of the buildings and streets from the 19th century are still intact. There are even a couple of medieval houses that have survived. There are also several houses from the 15th and 16th century.

There are plenty of organized tours that will bring you on trips to diamond factories and canal cruises. There is also a tour that takes you through the horrors of the city’s history, with live actors. There are also plenty of street markets where you can buy fresh flowers and produce, as well as clothing, accessories and souvenirs.

Don’t forget the windmills! They will capture the fancy of children and the young at heart. The nearest to the city is De Gooyer. You might also like to try the city beaches. There are also plenty of free attractions such as the gardens and parks and free lunch concerts at several venues.

Amsterdam In Our Travel Blog