Hotels in Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands

Verified by Pablo Aznar Cristeto
from the blog Aprendizaje Viajero

Situated in the western Netherlands, Amsterdam is built on River Amstel, which is diverted into a number of canals at the city's centre. Amsterdam is the country's capital and its largest city.

Notwithstanding its compact size, Amsterdam is a city of great variety. Its bustling markets, impressive architecture and world-famous museums all combine to make it an attractive destination for all travellers.

Originally founded as a small fishing village, Amsterdam achieved city status in the early 14th century. Conflict with Spain in the 16th century resulted in a hard-won tradition of religious and political tolerance, which is still taken seriously today.

Amsterdam's most expensive hotels are in the centre, next to one of the main canals. Cheaper accommodation can be found in the Vondelpark area, in the Museum Quarter or near the Central Station.

Neighbourhoods of Amsterdam

Amsterdam is divided into eight boroughs or districts. Centrum is the historic centre of Amsterdam, home to many museums and the famous canal-ring. West has a number of fine restaurants and trendy care bars. A free ferry from behind Central Station can take you to Noord, which has green spaces and impressive modern architecture. Or you can head east to Oost, where the visitors can find places to eat, drink and shop, or alternatively just relax in the beautiful Oosterpark.

What to see and do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has many world famous attractions:

• Anne Frank Huis: The Anne Frank House is one of the most popular museums in the Netherlands, with over half a million visitors every year. Tourists can see the house where the Franks hid from the Nazis for two years. The House also hosts exhibitions on discrimination and persecution.
• Koninklijk Paleis: The Royal Palace of Amsterdam was originally built as the town hall in the 17th century. It is still used today by the Dutch Royal family for official functions. It is a beautiful building full of sculptures, chandeliers and maps.
• Magere Brug: The Skinny Bridge is a popular tourist attraction, which opens several times a day to let boats pass through.
• Rijksmuseum: The Dutch National Museum is dedicated to the country's art and history, with objects from the 18th century to the present day. The building is too large to see everything in a day, so it is advisable to plan your visit.
• Van Gogh Museum: This four storey museum not only showcases Van Gogh's life and works, it also houses temporary exhibitions and works by other 19th century artists. This is the most popular museum in the Netherlands and so booking ahead is advisable.

What to eat in Amsterdam

The eetcafes of Amsterdam offer erwtensoep or a thick pea soup with vegetables and pork. This could be followed by stamppot, which is mashed potatoes with smoked sausage and vegetables. For dessert there is stroopwafel or waffles with syrup. Beer is the drink of choice, but fine wines are also available as is jenevers or Dutch gin.

Typical events and festivals in Amsterdam

As befits a capital city, Amsterdam has a full calendar of events. 26 April sees Koningsday, where the city hosts the world’s largest flea market and street parties are held to celebrate the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. In the second Saturday of May, windmills are open to the public as part of Nationale Molendag. Around the third Saturday of August, Amsterdam hosts Grachtnefestival, which showcases classical music, jazz and ethnic music. On the third Sunday in October, 1,750 runners take part in the Amsterdam Marathon. The Sinterklaas Parade occurs is mid-November, as St Nicholas arrives on a white horse. This is in preparation for Sinterklaasavond on the evening of 5 December, when St Nicholas gives presents to all the city's good children (and a lump of coal to the naughty ones!)

How to move around in Amsterdam

One of the best ways to get around Amsterdam is by bicycle, which can be hired for a reasonable rate. Alternatively, you can purchase a public transportation pass for a 1-7 day period and which allows travel on the Metro (underground railway), buses and trams.

The climate in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has a temperate climate, with four distinct seasons. In the months of July and August you can expect temperatures of just above 20 degrees Celsius, whilst in the winter months the temperature hovers around freezing and snow can be expected.

More interesting facts about and sights in Amsterdam

There are approximately 1 million bikes in Amsterdam, but every year over 10,000 of them are pulled out of one the city's canals!