Curator’s statement
With its charming canals, world class museums and rich history, Amsterdam offers a blend of culture and relaxation. Whether exploring the works of Van Gogh and Rembrandt, or cruising on the enchanting canals, the city is special at every turn.
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Where to stay in Amsterdam
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Things to do in Amsterdam
Visit the Van Gogh Museum: This museum houses not only the world's largest collection of works by Van Gogh, but also 500 drawings and more than 750 letters.
Canal Cruise: There is no better way than to step on a canal boat and travel on many of the over 150 canals and enjoy your first day while recovering from jet lag. Those Dam Boat Guys is my favorite supplier.
Taste the Apple Pie: A traditional dessert in Amsterdam is the apple pie. One of the most popular restaurants to sample the pie is Winkel 43.
Museum Van Loon: A residence over 400 years old and turned into a museum half a century ago. Walk out the back and view the enchanting garden while drinking a refreshment from the carriage house.
Keukenhof Gardens: Opened from March–May, the area covers over 400 acres devoted to growing tulips, daffodils, hyacinths and more.
Dam Square: This plaza is the heart of Amsterdam for historical buildings such as the Royal Palace and National Monument.
Places to eat & drink in Amsterdam
The Pantry: Traditional Dutch food that is homemade and provides ample portions. You can order prix-fixe menus or a la carte. I recommend the Goat Cheese Croquettes and for your main, the Oven Meat Dish! Reservations are required.
Humphrey's: The restaurant is warmly decorated and comfortable. Offering a fixed-price menu but with several options for each course. Reasonably priced. Try the Pulled Duck Spring Rolls and Mixed Grill. Reservations are required.
Cafe de Knopp: Located a few doors from Those Dam Boat Guys, where you can reserve a canal cruise, you will enjoy a choice of craft beers in a relaxed and cozy space. There are weekly events such as stand-up comedy on Wednesday evenings.
N'nea Pizza: Locals wait for months to secure a reservation, but take a chance and you may be seated as a walk-in. The dough is the secret to the pizza as the process begins two days prior with fermentation to make it the fluffiest dough you will ever taste!
Need to know
Uber is available throughout the city as well as the city's Tram. I find the joy of visiting Amsterdam is how walkable the city truly is and walking allows you to truly see all the shops and cafes in Amsterdam's many side streets.
Travel Advisor
Gail Collins
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