What to see
Zuiderkerk Church
Zuiderkerk is one of the city’s many churches which always proves popular with visitors. A Protestant church built in the 17 th century, it was the first stop for many artists visiting Amsterdam during that era. It had a special place in the heart of both Claude Monet and Rembrandt. Monet painted the church and its surroundings in no less than twelve different pictures, while the Dutch-born Rembrandt had his three children buried in its cemetery. Though there’s contention over whether or not the story is true, it’s also said that Rembrandt came to the church in 1642 to paint his painting, The Night Watch, because his own studio was too small to complete the piece.
Jewish Historical Museum
The Jewish Historical Museum (Joods Historisch Museum) first opened in 1932, but after the Nazis entered Holland it was shut down, and sadly many of its pieces were stolen or lost. The museum began operating again in 1955, though in 1987 it moved to a building which is situated in the middle of the city’s four main synagogues. Today, it displays more than 15,000 pieces which reflect Jewish art and history in the city and further afield, as well as an extensive research center with many documents in its archive. There are even occasional temporary exhibitions, with previous ones including work of the likes of Andy Warhol and Marc Chagall.
Western Church
Western Church (Westerkerk) was built between 1620 and 1635, and its design is quite striking, particularly the bell tower. It stands at 85 meters tall, and is one of the tallest structures in Holland. As you’d expect, it offers some really fantastic views of the city. The church itself is the work of famous Dutch architect and sculptor Hendrick de Keyser, and in its day, it was the world’s largest Protestant church. The simple yet aesthetically pleasing structure has seen over 400 years of history and is still a significant place of worship for Protestants in the city.
Vondelpark
Vondelpark hosts several cultural events each year and is the perfect place to relax after a long day’s exploring. The park is full of lush greenery, walking paths and tranquil little lakes, and is also home to an open-air theater. There’s also a few cafés dotted around, so you’ll be able to grab a bite to eat while you’re there. If you’re feeling energetic, you might want to do as the locals do, and jump on a bike to explore the park.
Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum was built in 1973 to the design of Dutch architect Gerrit Rietveld, and is home to 200, including some of the most famous, of the artist’s paintings, 500 of his sketches and more than 700 of his letters. Just some of the paintings on display are Irises (1890), Almond Blossoms (1890), Sunflowers (1889), The Bedroom (1888) and The Potato Eaters (1885). There’s also various artistic events held at the museum, while a workshop for children between the ages of 6 and 12 aims to inspire the next generation of artists. Of course the gift shop has a whole range of Van Gogh memorabilia on offer, so be sure to pick up something to remember your trip by.
The Rijksmuseum
More than a million people visit the Rijksmuseum each year, particularly to see the “Masterpieces” section, which exhibits pieces from the 17th century. The collection is home to work by the likes of Vincent Van Gogh, Johannes Vermeer, Harmensz van Rijn, Frans Hals, George Hendrik Breitner, Paul Joseph and Constantin Gabriel, and don’t be surprised to see crowds gathered in front of Rembrandt’s works too. In particular, his The Night Watch is exceptionally popular, as are The Little Street (1658), The Milkmaid (1660) and The Love Letter (1670) by Johannes Vermeer. There are also pieces from various other artists from around the world which add to the museum’s rich, diverse collection.
Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
French housemaid Maria Grosholtz, who lived between 1761 and 1850, worked for a doctor in Bern, Switzerland, who taught her all he knew about working in the medium of wax. After the doctor died, all of his wax models were left to Grosholtz. She later moved to Paris, married, and took on the name Tussaud. Soon she would move to London, where she began exhibiting her wax works. During World War II, most of her 400 figures melted in their exhibition rooms, but to keep the memory of her work alive, the British Museum Association decided to establish a museum showing what remained of her work, and other pieces in the same style. Thus, a world-famous chain was born, which now has locations around the globe. Amsterdam is no exception, and you’ll be amazed at how life-like the wax works on display here are. Picasso, Van Gogh, Dali, Herman Brood, Rembrandt, Prenses Beatrix, Brad Pitt, Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce, Lady Gaga, George Clooney, Robbie Williams, David Beckham and Ronaldinho are just some of the famous names who have been immortalized in wax. Be sure to takes some photographs… you might even be able to fool some of your friends!
Hortus Botanicus
The Hortus Botanicus was established in Amsterdam to meet the growing demand for medicinal plants, particularly since the area used previously was not large enough to produce the quantities required, and is now one of the most interesting places in the city. The botanical gardens are home to more than 6,000 species of plant, with its most notable resident being a 2000-year-old agave tree. Strolling through the gardens discovering plants and flowers you never knew existed is a particularly therapeutic way to spend a few hours, particularly if you want to take refuge from the busy streets of the city.
Dam Square
For centuries, Dam Square has been one of Amsterdam’s largest squares, and is one of the city’s most important, particularly because of the buildings and area which surround it. Many visitors start their exploration of the city here, and there are several significant historical buildings in the vicinity. For example, the Royal Palace of Amsterdam, once the seat of the Dutch royal family, looks out over the square and is now a popular tourist destination. Many events and open-air shows take place in Dam Square, and it is always full of street performers. Take some time to do some people watching in Dam Square, and see how the locals go about their daily lives.
Begijnhof Courtyard
Begijnhof has a collection of some of the oldest homes in Amsterdam, many of which surround this quiet and peaceful courtyard, and it’s a place definitely worth visiting while on your trip to the city. The house numbered 34 is regarded as the city’s oldest, and has been dated back to 1420. The 15th-century English Reform Church and the 1680 Catholic chapel are also to be found in the courtyard. When it was first built, Begijnhof and its courtyard was originally intended as a place of worship, and for a long time it was the home to a cloister of nuns. As you walk around the square, you’ll see verses from the Bible written on walls and plaques. It’s free to enter the courtyard, but be sure to observe the tradition of keeping the area quiet and peaceful.
What to eat
Dutch Apple Tart
Dutch apple tart can be found in recipe books dating back as far as the 16th century, and what sets it apart from other similar desserts is the fact that it’s absolutely stuffed with fruit. It’s simple to make but delicious, and you’ll find that cinnamon or lemon is often added to the tart. It’s served with different varieties of cream to compliment the flavor, and is a treat well worth trying while you’re in Amsterdam.
Bitterballen
Bitterballen are most often made with chicken or seafood, and are crispy on the outside, deliciously meaty on the inside. These croquette-shaped bites are well seasoned with black pepper and served with a variety of sauces, though mustard is most popular with the locals. Though you can ask for a salad on the side, they’re pretty good all on their own!
