Amsterdam See the canals of Amsterdam

The trading industry in Amsterdam flourished in the 17th century as more and more merchants settled in to the ports of this city. To transport goods quickly about the city, many canals were built to provide a more convenient way to get from A to B. These artificial canals are now synonymous with the unique make-up of Amsterdam and have rightly earned the city UNESCO recognition. With a canal cruise, visitors get the chance to savour the city from a unique perspective, whether it’s marvelling at the beautiful buildings, largely untouched by past wars and conflict, or meandering streets and bustling crowds. Anyone who wants to learn more about the fascinating history of this city has plenty of opportunity to educate themselves. The Museum van Loon is probably the most famous of its kind. The building was once the home of Willem van Loon, the co-founder of the Dutch East India Company. The building has been beautifully preserved, with many of its original fixtures and fittings in place. The Willet-Holtuysen Museum and Geelvinck Museum, again with many of their original decors and furnishings intact, also provide insight into the lives of long-gone, wealthy citizens of the city.

Art lovers will get their money’s worth when they visit Amsterdam. One of the most famous places of interest is the Van Gogh Museum, housing the largest collection of works from the celebrated painter. Children and young people aged under 17 years can visit this museum completely free of charge, helping families save a small fortune during their visit to the Dutch capital. The Rijksmuseum is another must-visit destination, housing works from across the centuries from popular artists, including Rembrandt, Vermeer and Hals. A particular highlight of this museum is the The Night Watch, a renowned portrait of a militia company and one of Rembrandt’s most iconic works. Rembrandt also has a museum dedicated purely to his own works, with other items offering a fascinating insight into the everyday life of the famous painter. Although the house was subsequently occupied by other residents following Rembrandt’s death, extensive restoration throughout the 20th century has returned the building to its former glory. Audio guides are available in German, English, French and Dutch, giving visitors all the information they need to fully appreciate the sights around them.

In addition to art, culture and history, Amsterdam’s proximity to the coast means a day excursion to the coast is easily achieved. The beaches of Zandvoort and Bloemendaal can be reached by car within 30 minutes, letting you get away from the hustle and bustle of the cities for a chance to walk on the sand and enjoy the sea breeze. These beautiful beaches are perfect for a coastal stroll, sunbathing and other outdoor pursuits.

Due to its central location, Amsterdam-Schiphol Airport is incredibly convenient for all kinds of travellers. The airport has its own railway station, so you can be in the heart of town not long after touching down. These excellent rail connections serve popular destinations around the Netherlands that can be reached in no time at all, with cities including Rotterdam and The Hague just a short trip away. The North Sea coast is also within close proximity. The Netherlands is relatively small, but packed with attractions, so it’s easy to get around and get the most out of this beautiful country, even during a short stay.