Who has not always wanted to go to Amsterdam? With its reputation as libertine city, where drugs are legal and prostitution is legalized, it is surely one of the most beaten destinations, especially at a young age. Once you make a selection of the many hostels in Amsterdam and find the one that suits you, then you're ready to discover the city.
Amsterdam is not only made of Coffeeshop and we have decided to report here 10 things to do not miss in the Dutch capital, so the next time you go there, you will go prepared.
1. THE MUSEUM OF VAN GOGH
You can't come to Amsterdam without visiting the Van Gogh museum, since we are aware of his talent and his history. The museum is apparently small, but runs into a couple of floors, which tell the story of the painter. Better to book online, there is always a lot of queue at the entrance.
2. DAM SQUARE
The most famous square of the city, where is situated the royal palace, time ago it was the market place. Here there is also the national monument, represented by an obelisk high 22 meters.
3. A PICTURE IN FRONT OF I LOVE AMSTERDAM
This cannot be missid on your smartphone, the picture in front of the iconic I LOVE AMSTERDAM is a "must to do" that can not be avoided, otherwise it is almost like not being in Amsterdam .. and then is close to the Van Gogh museum and a short walk from the Rijksmuseum .. so you take the opportunity to visit it too.
4. MAKE A TOUR WITH A BOAT BETWEEN ITS CANALS
Amsterdam is not only beautiful cycling and walking, an alternative way to see it, it is by boat, choosing one of the many tours proposals that are located towards the harbor. See it from the water means the city reveals a different light.
5. THE FLOWERS MARKET
Charming, always, in any season is the flower market in Amsterdam, on Singel. All the flowers are displayed on floating barges since 1862, the year it was born, impossible don't want to walk by!
6. RIDE A BIKE
Amsterdam is famous for being one of the most viable city by bike, not coincidentally is also known as the bicycles city. Around the city there are several stores that offer a bike rental service, but if you have booked in one of the hostels of the Stayokay Amsterdam chain (Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark, Stayokay Amsterdam Zeeburg and Stayokay Amsterdam Stadsdoelens) then you also have the possibility to rent them directly at the property.
7. WALKING ALONG THE RED LIGHT DISTRICT
Don't access this area critically, of course, it is definitely something that in Italy you can't see, but for the Amsterdam inhabitants it is the normality, then walking through its streets with curious look, but always with utmost respect.
8. ANNA FRANK MUSEUM
Impressive museum, but it would also only seen for what it rapresents, since it is not right to forget what happened and keep the memory alive, especially regarding these events, it is a duty. Visit Anne Frank Museum in Amsterdam is not like going for a walk in the center, it is something that stirs people's feelings, and that lets in an unforgettable memory.
9. RELAXING AT VONDELPARK
Vondelpark is not the only park in Amsterdam, but it is certainly one of those to enjoy a walk. The park is very large and in the summer season are also organized free jazz concerts.
10. ORDER A GIANT PORTION OF FRENCH FRIES
We left it for last, but it is definitely one of the things you must to do in Amsterdam! We could make it seems like a taste of the local culture, considering that stalls selling bags of walking french fries are everywhere in the city. When it's your turn order them large and with mayonnaise, just as it's use!
Oh, and do not forget to also taste the famous herring sandwich!
photo cover by Javier M
