Amsterdam, city of canals, coffee houses, tulips and bicycles; can you think of anywhere better to spend a delightful weekend? With so much to see and do in Amsterdam, I’ve selected a few personal favourites to help you get the most out of your precious 48 hours there!
Shopping: The Negen Straatjes, which literally means “nine little streets”, is a wonderful area for quirky boutique shopping. It is full of cool little independent houseware and clothing shops as well as beautifully decorated cafes. It’s a lovely place for a wander around or even to stay if you can find a hotel in Negen Straatjes. Simply bursting with eccentric Dutch character!
Musuems: Naturally, the Van Gogh Musuem and the Anne Frank House are two of the most popular places with tourists in Amsterdam, and with good reason. Although often crowded and a little pricey, they are very interesting and worth dedicating half a day too. They are also fairly close to each other so you visit one after the other. There are plenty of hotels near to the Van Gogh Museum too, so finding accommodation here shouldn’t be a problem.
Something different: If you are more of a drinker than a smoker, the Heineken Experience is a classic Amsterdam attraction and can be a lot of fun as well as actually quite educational. It is a musuem located in a former Heineken factory where you can sample different beers and learn a little about the history of the company and the beer making process.
Wandering: The Old City Centre is the best place for an aimless wander. Here you can take in the Red Light District, the Royal Palace, Madame Tussaud’s, the canals and their boats as well as the coffee shops. If you want to be in the thick of things, look for accommodation in the Red Light District or any other part of the old centre.
With a musuem, a stroll, a bit of window shopping and a few beers, you’ve got yourself a fun-filled weekend in Amsterdam. Just enough to whet your appetite and come back for a week long stay the next time!
