The city of Amsterdam in the Netherlands is one of Europe’s most popular cities! This is why we choose to include it on so many of our tours. This is a vibrant city that is full of attractions, colour, art and Dutch culture. Here are Expat Explore‘s three favourite reasons to visit Amsterdam:

Amsterdam is home to so much culture!

Did you know that Amsterdam has around 75 museums? There are also 55 concert halls and 141 art galleries (at last count!). If you like art and stage performances, this is the place to be. Some of the museums you can visit on a tour to Amsterdam include the Rijksmuseum and Rembrandt house, where you can see works by some of the most famous Dutch painters. At Anne Frank House you can learn more about World War II and the effect it had on the Jewish people. The Tulip Museum is a great place to find out more about the Dutch national flower and how it is grown.

One of the best ways to see the city is to go to a coffee house and watch locals go about their day. Café culture is a big part of the Dutch lifestyle. Most workers will break for ‘koffietijd’ around 10 or 11am.

Travel tip: Remember that there is a difference between a coffeehouse and coffeeshop. In Amsterdam, a coffeeshop also sells marijuana products, so be careful of the muffins! The term “Café” can cover coffeehouses, restaurants and bars.

And then there is the cheese! The Dutch are known all over the world for the wide variety of cheeses they make. If you travel with us, you will visit a Dutch farm, where we will see how Dutch cheese and clogs are made. It is a fun way to learn more about these traditional trades.

Related: Sink your teeth into the top cheeses around the world!

 

Amsterdam gets interesting after dark

Amsterdam has a lively nightlife. There are many different places to listen to live music and enjoy a drink (if you want). The city is known for its talented musicians, so if you like dancing, you are in for a treat. There are many clubs and dance events that go on through the night. Our tour leaders know all the best places that are safe to visit!

Another part of Amsterdam that many people like to visit is the Red Light District. Prostitution has been legal in the Netherlands since the early 2000s. De Wallen is the most well-known area where you can walk around and see the ladies calling from behind their windows. It is different from any other country, so it is an interesting outing.

Amsterdam is a green city

The Dutch take pride in their earth-friendly policies. Even though this is a modern city with lots to do and see, you will also find plenty of parks and green spaces. This is a great place to have a picnic lunch and enjoy nature. Another thing you must do in Amsterdam is enjoy a bicycle ride. The city is nice and flat, so it’s a great (and cheap!) way to get around on your free days.

Related: Discover more of Europe’s top green cities!

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Amsterdam is yours to explore on our exciting European tours. You can discover the city on the 8-day European Vistas tour or the two week Europe Jewel tour plus plenty more! For something different, discover Amsterdam on Expat Explore’s rail tours.  Both ways to travel are great options for travellers who want to see the best Europe has to offer! Should you wish to extend your stay in Amsterdam before or after the tour, have a look at booking.com for affordable accommodation options.