This city has come a long way from the fishing village it was in the 12th century. This was also the trading hub of the western world during the 17th century, when ships sailed frequently to North America and Brazil, only a couple of examples. The trading network that was formed then also helped to distribute merchandise throughout Europe.
So what can you as a tourist actually spot of this long-forgotten financial hub of the world? Well, the canals naturally!
Amsterdam Canal Cruise
The canals are a result of careful city planning, that dates back to the 17th century. There are four half-circular canals that make out the primary canal network. In addition to these canals, there are also less-planned for canals in the eastern parts of the Greater Amsterdam area.
Sights In Plenty
The famous painter Van Gogh has an entire museum dedicated to his art. The museum features the largest collection of his paintings and drawings. Should you be more of a Rembrandt fan, you can visit the Rembrandt House Museum first, but it’s worth visiting both monuental museums.
Anne Frank was a German girl, one of many victims during the Jewish holocaust. Her diary has been preserved and there is a museum dedicated to the ill-fate of her destiny.
The Red Light District
This is a location surrounded of controversy, with its legalized window prostitution. It has become a sight for many tourists, even those who are opposed of the phenomenon. It seems the mere fact that this exists in the heart of such a renowned European capital, has made it an even more famous (or infamous) tourist magnet.
Amsterdam Walking Tours
The streets of Amsterdam are many and picturesque. As the canals are connecting the different boroughs, you are welcomed with an extensive network of passages which more often than not, involves crossing a canal or two.
Should you feel less inclined to walk the streets of Amsterdam, you can always jump on a tram or, even more tempting, rent a bike. Amsterdam is known throughout the world as a centre for bicycles and cyclists. This follows logically from the fact that driving a car in central Amsterdam is discouraged. Not only that, but the parking fees are very high and many roads are even closed to cars.
At the time of our visit, spring was yielding for summer, so the choice of transport was not a major concern… Though we had some problems navigating the streets with the rented bicycles. Though after a while, we raced between museums, cafés and restaurants without the slightest hesitation.
P-C Markovski
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