Fodor's To Europe!
Amsterdam
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Days 1-2
A cornucopia of activity and a gateway to Europe, Amsterdam is known for its nightlife, top-notch museums, welcoming cafés, and cozy bars.
Learn more about Amsterdam »
- Food and Wine
- Shopping
Experiences
- Walk along the canals of the Jordaan, one of Amsterdam's most beautiful neighborhoods. Prinsengracht is especially worth exploring.
- The Rijksmuseum holds many of Amsterdam's art treasures; van Gogh has his own museum just around the corner.
- One of the most moving experiences in the city is a visit to the Anne Frank House, maintained as it was when she was hidden there.
Festivals
- Art Amsterdam, the city's modern-art festival, takes place at the end of May.
- The Taste of Amsterdam Food Festival is held during the last week of June.
Side Trips
- Alkmaar, 25 mi/40 km to the northwest, is known for its cheese and its beautifully preserved 15th-century weigh house.
- Zaandam, 10 mi/16 km to the northwest, is home to an open-air museum.