Visiting Europe can feel a little overwhelming, especially when you start doing some research and realize that there are endless adventures to schedule in your itinerary.
Do you prioritize the art museums and make it a point to check out the architecture? Do you book reservations at local farm-to-table restaurants and indulge in the wine and beer recipes offered? Do you visit the markets for fashion and souvenirs for loved ones?
Who knows where to start!
Luckily, some of the fun writers on our team have been to many places in the EU – Amsterdam included. So we decided to write about it, naturally.
If you’re heading to the Netherlands this year – or planning to book a trip soon – be sure to consider these to do’s. They’re absolutely fantastic.
Dam Square
An absolute must-see, showcasing the Royal Palace, National Monument, and Nieuwe Kerk. This “venue” is great for sight and people seeing. Catch guys and gals of all walks of life passing through. Take in your surroundings. Make a plan for the day ahead. Hint-hint, clue-clue: This is the prime spot to start your adventures.
De Kas
A fan-favorite restaurant in Amsterdam, De Kas takes the farm-to-table experience to an entirely different level. Fresh ingredients are brought in from the on-site garden that’s watered and taken care of regularly. Additional meats and cheeses are acquired from nearby farms. The chefs know just how to blend the two and create an addictive, yet entirely unique, palatable dish. What more could you desire?
Anne Frank House
Anne Frank was just a Jewish girl that went into hiding after the German Nazis invaded the Netherlands. Aiming to force the Dutch Jews out and into concentration camps, Hitler and his dedicated followers ruined so many lives. While they were stomping down streets and demanding front doors to homes be opened, Frank was jotting down all of her experiences in a journal. Little did she know that it would one day become a best-seller.
While in town, be sure to pay a visit to the Anne Frank House, where she stayed hidden for more than two years. Unfortunately and eventually, she was given over to the Nazi’s. But the true historical significance of her young life can still be seen today through artifacts inside the museum – including that of the original diary and her other notebooks.
Van Gogh Museum
A museum you absolutely cannot miss out on, the famous van Gogh. With exquisite dedicated works from across the artist’s various collections and lifetime, you’re sure to be stunned. Don’t forget to pay a mention to the exterior design done by Gerrite Rietveld. And while you’re in the area, take a peak (at least) at the Rijksmuseum. What do they call that? Three birds, one stone.
Heineken Experience
Did somebody say interactive journey and Heineken? The Heineken Experience blends the two at the oldest brewery in existence, offering visitors a self-guided tour where you can learn the history and brewing process. At the same time, you’ll be able to customize a bottle or glass souvenir to remember your beer-related journey. The best part? Two refreshing beverages are provided at the end… Heineken, of course.
Vondelpark
Fan of the outdoors? Then you have to visit the lungs of the city known as Vondelpark. This place takes relaxation seriously, offering vast open spaces and various trail routes. You can go for a run, toss a ball around, or participate in any activity you desire to. Just be sure to pencil in the rose garden and a quick swing by the open-air theater. Sometimes, you’ll be able to catch an impromptu show (shhh!).