AMSTERDAM: The Land Of Freedom

AMSTERDAM: The Land Of Freedom

Amsterdam is the capital of Netherlands, known for its artistic heritage, elaborate canal system and narrow houses with gabled facades, legacies of the city’s 17th-century Golden Age.

Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, is a unique and charming Dutch metropolis with picturesque canals, narrow row houses, world-class museums and a youthful atmosphere. Wander along the cobblestone streets, enjoy coffee with waffles at a sidewalk cafe, or head out of town to see the windmills and tulip fields. With tons of streets to wander, museums to visit, and sights to see, Amsterdam’s options for fun and entertainment are endless.

An adult wonderland, Amsterdam is one of most bikefriendly cities in the world. Often referred to as the Venice of the North, Amsterdam’s gorgeous 17tcentury canals and bridges make cycling or walking a perfect way to see a picture-postcard vision of Amsterdam with its tilting homes. For an enchanting day trip, head out beyond the city borders to the majestic windmills of Zaase Schans, the famous tulip fields in and around Keukenhof, and the historic towns of Edam and Volendam.

Each area of Amsterdam has its own character, charm and hidden treasure. Check out the NDSM Wharf district — once an old shipyard turned into a creative haven. Here, you can mingle with a vibrant artist community, as well as enjoy a variety of bars and restaurants. Lose yourself for hours in the city’s lively Latin Quarter, known as De Pijp, where you can browse the famous Albert Cuyprmart street market, or take a stroll in the beautiful gardens of Sarphatipark.

Venture west of the city to the Bos en Lommer and De Baarsjes districts, where you’ll find cool cultural establishments, green spaces and a young, multicultural crowd. Or, for a peaceful escape, head over to the Jordaan district, where you can pop into galleries and boutiques as you walk or cycle along the lovely canals and avenues. Another quintessential Dutch activity includes shopping in The 9 Streets area — nine picturesque shopping alleyways often referred to as Amsterdam’s best shopping hub.

Soak up some culture in the Museumplein neighborhood, home to the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art. This area is an art lover’s utopia. Not far from here is the well-preserved Anne Frank House, which contains a thought-provoking museum.

Cycling and walking everywhere can bring on a hearty appetite. On the restaurant front, Amsterdam offers a culinary melting pot of tastes that will please your palate — from Indonesian and tapas to Mediterranean and modern Dutch dishes. Stop and indulge your taste buds with viaamse frites (a cone of fries) topped off with your favorite sauce. And, don’t go home without trying bitterballen (deep-fried, crispy meatballs served with mustard) or stroppwafel (two thin layers of baked dough with a caramel-like syrup filling in the middle). Or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, find a haringhandel (herring cart) to order a broodje haring (raw herring served in a sandwich with pickles and onions).