Amsterdam: A Perfect Start to Your European River Adventure

After returning from a recent visit, I am still so fascinated by Amsterdam! It's not only me; this city continues to captivate 23 million visitors annually (as of 2023) with its perfect blend of historic charm and modern personality. The city's iconic canals, often label the city the “Venice of the North,” weave through the city like arteries, telling stories of the Dutch Golden Age when Amsterdam was the world's wealthiest city. 

A City Built for Exploration

The Dutch capital's compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot. The layout of Amsterdam is particularly pedestrian-friendly, with charming streets and picturesque alleyways. The network of canals, originally designed for transportation during the city’s Golden Age, creates a unique urban landscape that makes exploring by car impractical. Instead, the canals serve as a stunning backdrop for walking and boat tours, where you can admire the iconic gabled houses lining the waterways.

The city has an excellent public transport system that complements the experience of exploring Amsterdam. The underground metro and extensive network of trams, provide convenient options for traversing longer distances. These trams glide along making frequent stops at key attractions, allowing travelers to hop on and off with ease.

Two Wheels Rule the Road

You can’t say Amsterdam without bicycles coming to mind, and that is for good reason! They say there are over a million bikes for the 821,000 residents. The city’s two-wheeled culture is woven into its  DNA. Dedicated bike lanes crisscross the city, while massive parking facilities like the three-story underwater bike garage at Centraal Station showcase the city's commitment to cycling infrastructure. Visitors can easily join this biking revolution by renting from numerous shops, though take note of the locals' brisk pace and strict adherence to Dutch cycling etiquette – ring your bell, signal your turns, and NEVER block the bike lanes! This goes for walkers too!

Weather: Expect the Unexpected

We just visited in November and experienced all seasons in less than 2 hours! Pack layers and an umbrella – Amsterdam's weather is famously unpredictable. You might experience sun, rain, snow, and hail all in one day. But don't let this deter you; the city's charm shines through in any weather, and the cozy cafés offer perfect refuge from sudden showers. The weather does not seem to slow down the locals, they continue to dine in outdoor cafes and cycle through all of it!

Cultural Treasures

Amsterdam's Museum District, centered around the Museumplein, serves as a vibrant cultural hub. This area is home to some of the world’s most renowned institutions, including the Rijksmuseum; the Van Gogh Museum, and the Stedelijk Museum. It is beautifully designed with green spaces, sculptures, and serene canals, providing a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls or picnics (weather permitting).

We visited the Van Gogh Museum that houses the world's largest collection of the artist's works. Note: If you are looking for Starry Night, it is in the Museum of Modern Art in NYC!

TIP: Get your Van Gogh tickets online before your visit. We didn’t and learned that there is not a walk up option at the door. Luckily we were able to get tickets directly from our phone for the upcoming time slot and took the extra time to take a break at the Burger Room across the street. Why we liked this place: It’s moody whimsical decor, Wizard of Oz theme and creative cocktails. They were super accommodating to our schedule, service was friendly and quick and the food was delicious!

One of the city’s most famous sites, the Anne Frank House and Museum, provides a moving glimpse into World War II history seen through the eyes of a young girl. Her diary, which chronicles her thoughts and experiences while hiding from the Nazis, has become one of the most powerful symbols of resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity. The tour comes with an audio tour and there is one specifically for kids (they recommend 10 years and up) where it's told from Anne's point of view. It is worth a visit, and it’s strongly recommended to get your tickets in advance.

Dutch Culinary Delights

From Michelin star restaurants to street markets, Amsterdam's food scene combines traditional and modern flavors. Hit any of the city’s food stalls for traditional street snacks that delight visitors (and many are TikTok famous!)

• Poffertjes (mini Dutch pancakes) dusted with powdered sugar. These were my daughter’s favorites so much that we have started to make them at home!

• Fresh herring served with pickles and onions (a Dutch tradition dating back centuries)

• Bitterballen, crispy deep-fried beef croquettes perfect with local beer. We enjoyed these at the cozy Fonelyn Cafe.

• Dutch apple pie. We enjoyed a slice at Quartier Putain, next to the Oude Kirk. Other favorites include Patisserie Kuyt and Winkel 43. 

• We had to try a fried treat from FEBO, the vending machine style, walk up restaurant. 

• And of course, a stroopwafle. These come in a variety of sizes and flavors from street vendors to fancy sweet shops. Delish!

Gateway to River Cruising

As a major river cruising hub, Amsterdam serves as an ideal starting or ending point for European river adventures. The city's efficient Centraal Station connects seamlessly with river ports, making transitions smooth for travelers. Whether you're heading down the Rhine River or returning from the Danube, Amsterdam offers the perfect blend of experiences to bookend your river cruise vacation.

There are many itineraries that start or end in Amsterdam offering a variety of sights and excursions. Here's a few:

AmaWaterways

• Tulip Time (7 days): Roundtrip from Amsterdam (seasonal - spring)

• Rhine & Moselle Fairytales (11 days): Amsterdam to Basel

• Rhine & Moselle Delights (10 days): Amsterdam to Basel

  
  

Avalon Waterways

• Romantic Rhine (8 days): Amsterdam to Basel

• Tulip Time Cruise (8 days): Roundtrip from Amsterdam (seasonal)

• Grand German Sojourn (13 days): Amsterdam to Vienna

  
  

Riverside Luxury River Cruises

• Holland in the Heart of Tulip Season (8 days): Start and return to Amsterdam to see Holland immersed in a sea of tulips!

• The Romantic Rhine Northbound (8 days): Basel to Amsterdam

• Seasons Greetings from Germany to Holland (7 days): A week long NYE celebration from Cologne to Amsterdam

  
  

Uniworld

• Castles along the Rhine (8 days): Amsterdam to Basel

• European Jewels (16 days): Amsterdam to Budapest

• Holland & Belgium at Tulip Time (8 days): Roundtrip from Amsterdam (seasonal)

  
  

Viking River Cruises

• Rhine Getaway (8 days): Amsterdam to Basel

• Grand European Tour (15 days): Amsterdam to Budapest

• Tulips & Windmills (10 days): Roundtrip from Amsterdam (seasonal - March/April)

  
  

  If you are dreaming of European adventure or river cruise in your future, let's chat!