Amsterdam Travel Guide

Anne Frank House

This museum is dedicated to the memory of Anne Frank whose famous diary, recorded over a two-year period, describes the experiences of a Jewish teenager during World War II. Part of the house was used as a hiding place by the Franks and others to escape Nazi persecution. The families were later discovered and sent to their deaths in the concentration camps. Otto Frank was the only survivor. The original diary is on display as part of the permanent exhibition. The museum also hosts temporary exhibits that focus on related issues.

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is a definitive attraction in Amsterdam. Situated in a modern building, the simple architecture subtly underscores the artists' colorful and extraordinary work. The museum houses a permanent display of several hundred of Van Gogh's paintings and drawings, many of which will be familiar even to the untrained eye. The collection is organized according to three criteria. The first of these is the work of the artist, which is divided into five notable periods. Then there is the display of work of other artists including those of his friends and contemporaries. The third section is the showcase of the museum's history recording its progress with a feature on the development of the new wing designed by Japanese architect, Kisho Kurokawa, built to house the temporary exhibitions.

The Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum was opened in 1885 and is best known for its collection of 17th century Dutch Masters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, Frans Hals and Jan Steen. The most notable of these is Rembrandt's masterpiece, the Night Watch. The museum contains thousands of other paintings and artifacts in its Asiatic collection, Print Room, Dutch History and Applied Arts sections. A visit to the museum should include a trip into its delightful garden adorned with bright flowers, fountains, sculptures and summerhouses. Nestled within the garden is a collection depicting five centuries of Dutch architecture. It is advisable to consult a map or purchase a CD audio tour for an orientation to the extensive collection.

Note that the Rijksmuseum is currently undergoing renovations, and although still open to visitors, structural work is ongoing and scheduled for completion only in 2012.

Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art

The museum closely traces the development in art of the second half of the 20th century, showcasing the most impressive collections of modern art in Amsterdam. The permanent exhibition focuses on De Stijl, Cobra, Nouveau Realisme, Pop Art, Colorfield Painting, Zero and Minimalist Art while temporary exhibitions on design and applied art are housed in the new wing. The museum at Paulus Potterstraat is currently closed until September 2011, but a selection of works can still be viewed at the temporary location on the 2nd and 3rd floor of the Post CS building.

Rembrandt House

This museum provides an insight into the life and times of the famous painter. Rembrandt lived here between 1639 and 1658 at the height of his career. The museum presents a permanent collection of Rembrandt's work, a reconstructed 17th century studio together with temporary exhibitions and a collection of paintings done by his teacher, Pieter Latman, and those of Rembrandt's pupils.

Amsterdam Historisch Museum

Housed in a former orphanage, the Historical Museum explores Amsterdam's development from a small medieval settlement along the river into a thriving modern city. The museum's galleries showcase the progress of each century, with particular emphasis given to Holland's Golden Age. The museum provides a showpiece of Dutch Master paintings, archaeological discoveries, gold, silver, glass and earthenware and other artifacts. The museum fee covers entry to the Civic Guards Gallery. This is a glass-roofed gallery stretching between Kalverstraat and the Begijnhof, lined with portraits of Amsterdam's Civic Guards dating back to the 17th century.

Red Light District (De Wallen)

A visit to Amsterdam would not be complete without a stroll around the notorious Red Light District. The atmosphere can be chaotic with throngs of tourists jostling for space alongside city slickers, pimps and drug dealers. The prostitutes of De Wallen are part of a legal and regulated industry that includes compulsory health checks and taxable income. Prostitution is by no means the only attraction of the area. The district's architecture comprises a scenic mix that dates back to the Middle Ages. Areas to explore include Waterlooplein, Zeedijk and Nieuwmarkt Square. Waterlooplein is the location of the modern City Hall and Muziek Theater. The square was created in 1880 from two canals that were filled and then allocated to Jewish traders who used to ply their wares on its pavements. Nieuwmarkt Square was also once home to a thriving Jewish community, mainly Portuguese Jews who had fled from persecution during the Spanish Inquisition. The cultural diversity of this area extends to Zeedijk Street, which is often referred to as Chinatown. The street runs from the Saint Olof Chapel to De Waag.

Our Dear Lord in the Attic (Museum Amstelkring)

This concealed Catholic church (the combined top floors of a 17th century canal house) is a reminder of the Alteration period in Holland. Protestantism was declared the official religion and churches like this one relied on clandestine activity for their survival. The building's lower floors became a museum in 1888 housing a collection of church artifacts and paintings. It is located near the edge of the Red Light District.

The Dutch Resistance Museum (Verzetsmuseum)

A trip to this museum provides a fascinating insight into the activities of the Dutch Resistance Movement during World War II. Displays of false documents, weaponry and other equipment provide testimony to the bravery and innovation of its members.

The Royal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis)

Although the Royal Palace is the official Royal residence it is mainly used for functions as the family reside in The Hague. The building dates back to 1648 and was originally designed for use as Amsterdam's city hall. King Louis Napoleon however had other plans. In 1808 he turned the city hall into a palace. A large collection of furniture from this period adorns its interiors. Guided tours are offered to visitors (these need to be booked two weeks in advance).

Maastricht

Maastricht is the oldest city in the Netherlands, peacefully perching on the banks of the Maas River. It is also one of the sunnier spots, located at Holland's southernmost point, squeezed in between the Belgium and German borders. Ancient fortifications provide pleasant walking routes and some of these can be explored on the city's western outskirts. The Bonnefantenmuseum traces the city's historical roots, and makes for a good introduction to one's visit. Another must-see is the Basilica of Saint Servatius. It is a medieval cruciform basilica with a significant collection of religious artifacts as well as the burial place of Holland's first bishop. In the old center of Maastricht is a selection of shops and department stores. Here one can also savour the fine food that Maastricht has developed a reputation for. A selection of wines from nearby vineyards can be savoured with the cuisine that has been influenced by the distinctive tastes of its neighbors.

International Court of Justice

The Peace Palace was so named to import its significance as a place of arbitration for the maintenance and promotion of world peace. Situated in The Hague, the building houses the International Court of Justice, the Permanent Court of Arbitration and The Hague Academy of International Law. It was here (in 1946) that the first session of the International Court of Justice was held. Four guided tours are conducted daily. The Hague is located approximately 35 miles (57km) from Amsterdam.

Waterland Neeltje Jans

Enjoy a whole day with marine animals, experience fantastic attractions and see and learn about the world famous Delta Works at this spectacular water park. Attractions include the storm surge barrier, Delta Expo, a waterslide and water playground, whale world exhibition and a hurricane simulator.

Royal Delftware Factory

The white and blue decorative pottery, the trademark of Royal Delftware, was influenced by Chinese porcelain brought back from the east by the tradesmen of the Dutch East India Company. The Royal Delftware Factory (Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles) is the only remaining earthenware factory in Delft and dates back to the 17th century. Visitors to the factory can see painting demonstrations, attend painting workshops or visit the factory's museum and showroom. Delft is 30 miles (47km) south of Amsterdam, near The Hague. There is also a showroom in Amsterdam where visitors can also view a painting demonstration and view an exhibition. The address is Nieuwe Uilenburgerstraat 175-179 (on the premises of Gassan Diamonds).

National Maritime Museum

Covering four centuries of Dutch naval history, the National Maritime Museum allows visitors to glimpse into the adventurous seafaring past of Dutch explorers and merchants through exhibits of antiquarian maps, navigation instruments, paintings and ship models, creating one of the most extensive collections of maritime memorabilia in the world. A major attraction is the life-size reconstruction of a Dutch East India Company ship called the Amsterdam, which is docked behind the museum. Learn about dated maritime trade, naval combat, fishing and whaling and the intrepid journeys that took the Dutch fleet and her crew to remote destinations as far away as modern day Indonesia, India and South Africa. *Please Note:The National Maritime Museum Amsterdam will be closed until 2010 for major renovations. The Dutch East Indiaman Amsterdamis currently moored at the NEMO Science Center where it is open to the public.

Heineken Experience

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Amsterdam, the Heineken Experience is not to be missed. After opening its doors in 2001, with Heineken Experience has been attracting international beer lovers for almost a decade. Housed in the original brewery, visitors will learn about the history of the famous Heineken Company and its unique brewing process, visit cutting edge interactive exhibits and enjoy free Heineken beer at the two pit stops along the way. Don't go away empty handed, a gift of Heineken memorabilia is given to each visitor to ensure they remember their Heineken Experience. Unfortunately the Heineken Experience is currently undergoing major renovations and is scheduled to reopen towards the end of 2008. The new and improved Heineken experience will include a mini brewery, a new tasting bar and an opportunity to view Heineken's iconic Shire horses.

Amsterdam Coffee Shops

Amsterdam's coffee shops are an iconic part of the city and for many tourists they constitute a unique and essential part of any visit to the Netherlands. In Amsterdam, 'coffee shop' means a place where cannabis is openly sold and smoked, while 'café' refers to somewhere that sells coffees, tea and cakes. The coffee shops can legally sell marijuana to adults over 18 years of age. Travelers are warned, however, that the personal possession of drugs is illegal. There are a variety of coffee shops in the city, from laid-back and mellow to psychedelic and loud. It is expected of customers to consume not only the cannabis but also a beverage or snack while at the venue. Most coffee shops offer several kinds of weed or hash listed on a 'menu', which the staff can give advice on. The prices vary according to the quality and be warned: the local skunk is very strong!

Artis Zoo

Locally known as the Plantage, the Artis Zoo is somewhat of an oasis in the center of Amsterdam and a must for children and other animal lovers. Boasting over 700 species of animals and 200 trees, many of which are on the verge of extinction, the Artis Zoo will captivate and amaze visitors of all ages.

Eftling

Built in the 1950s, and one of the leading theme parks in Europe, the popular theme park of Eftling is a must for children of all ages. Its children's fairytale theme captivates children and transports them into their favorite imaginary world. Complete with a fairy tale forest, lakes and trails, kids will delight at the 1895 steam carousel, the award-winning Fairy Tale stage show, the Adventure Maze, and the wooden roller coaster called Pegasus.

Madurodam

Located around 30 minutes outside of Amsterdam in The Hague, and first opened in 1952, Madurodam is quite literally the smallest city in the Netherlands, featuring hundreds of miniature Dutch structures. From the houses and factories that reflect real Amsterdam architecture, to the little railway system that winds its way around the Madurodam, children will be captivated by the sheer genius of this little city. For a small cost, usually just a few cents, parts of the miniature models will actually start working, such as trucks moving down the little highway and planes landing rolling down the little runway at Schiphol Airport.

Kinderkookkafé

Founded in 1981 by three women who shared a vision for a community center where children could learn, Kinderkookkafé allows children to be grown-ups for a little while. Aprons and cooking hats come on and food fights and mess ensue while the kids are taught to cook meals, bartend and serve tables.

TunFun

Located in an old converted traffic underpass, TunFun offers plenty of opportunities for children to play, climb, creep and jump. Featuring everything from a kids' disco and slides, to ball pools and an inflatable 'Amsterdam street' jumping castle and trampolines. Adults gain free access to TunFun and can relax and enjoy a drink or bite to eat at the TunFun café.