If you think London is hectic, wait until you experience Amsterdam's fast-paced chaos. In this city of intersecting canals, roads, tram lines, and cycle lanes (even mopeds use them!), slow movers are left in the dust. Brace yourself for the Amsterdam walk!
Navigating from Centraal Station to Dam Square is like a survival mission. Bikes, cars, and pedestrians appear out of nowhere, all vying for their right of way. And the number of bikes in Amsterdam? Mind-boggling! You haven't truly grasped the magnitude until you're facing a sea of ringing bells right after stepping off a plane or train.
The hotel, located in the museum district, served as a decent base for our Amsterdam adventure. While it wasn't anything to write home about (except for the excessive safety deposit charge—TripAdvisor material), it was conveniently situated for exploration.
On the first evening, I stumbled upon Cafe de Orangerie, a charming pub in the Jordaan district. The place was filled with locals effortlessly switching between Dutch and English. The beer selection was overwhelming, as it is everywhere in Amsterdam.
The next day, a gloomy sky greeted me—a perfect museum day! After a stop at the Hard Rock Cafe for chocolate chip pancakes, I headed to the EYE Film Museum. The futuristic building housed decades of film history, accessible via a free pedestrian ferry ride. The €10 entry fee was a steal, and I found myself spending around 3.5 hours exploring the four-story museum.
No Amsterdam trip is complete without visiting Anne Frank's house. Arriving early is essential due to the long queues. The home holds a profound atmosphere, with film stars on the walls and the hidden annex faithfully restored. Walking up the steep stairs that Anne and her family once climbed, it's difficult to fathom the atrocities that occurred here. It's a sobering experience that will leave even the hardest hearts moved.
The Van Gogh museum is another must-visit, though the queues can be discouraging. Booking tickets online is a smart move to skip the line. The museum covers Van Gogh's life and evolving art styles across four floors. If you're an art enthusiast, you'll appreciate the experience, but be prepared for the crowds and potentially lengthy waits to read the descriptions.
A boat trip through the canals was a must-do with affordable trips available to jump on without pre-booking. The one that I chose may not have been extensive, but it offered a great water-level view and allowed me to explore unseen areas.
Amsterdam is a captivating city that warrants more than just a few days. Its maze of streets, wealth of museums, and endless beer make it an enticing destination. On my next visit, I might even brave the highest swing in Europe—maybe during the summer instead of a rainy February!
First written in 2018
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