Open left menu Amsterdam. Amsterdam is a charming city
Amsterdam is the most beautiful and one of the most attractive cities in the world. In addition to many attractions, you can visit excursion tour Crazy Amsterdam and Alternative Amsterdam. Such excursions are dedicated to the informals of Amsterdam, for example, punks, hippies and others.
Theoretical excursions are supported by real practice, visiting coffee shops. This kind of excursion will cost one person two hundred euros. Arriving at Central Station, you can see the division of the city into three parts - this is traditional and real Amsterdam, tourist Amsterdam and the Red Light District.
Getting to Amsterdam
If someone likes to travel by car, then it is better to get to Amsterdam by your own car. The main thing is to enjoy this journey. The distance between Moscow and Amsterdam is 2500 kilometers. In addition, you will have to travel through several countries before reaching Holland.
Only in this case should the car be suitable for such a trip, and costs for gasoline and other issues cannot be avoided.
Therefore, flights are the fastest and most expensive way to get to Amsterdam. KLM and Aeroflot airlines provide direct and convenient flights to Amsterdam Airport. Total time The flight is just under four hours. Some airlines provide connecting flights at a lower cost. Therefore, each person chooses his own way to achieve the goal.
Transport in Amsterdam
In Amsterdam, the historic center, where all the main attractions are located, occupies a small space, so there is no need for public transport. But there is still a tram driving around here - this will allow you to get to the right place comfortably and quickly. Although the buses do not run according to a specific schedule, they run almost around the clock, and such buses are also comfortable. Only at night the travel cards do not work.
It is not very convenient for tourists to use the metro stations, because they are not located in the most remarkable places in Amsterdam. The same ticket is used for any type of public transport. The cost of the ticket depends on the number of zones you need to travel through. More zones - more expensive to pay. For example, the historical center is considered one zone. Inside the buses and trams you can see a map of the zones.
As a rule, tickets are sold at special machines and from drivers. An hourly ticket costs 1.6 euros, and this does not depend on the number of trips. You can also purchase a profitable strippenkaart, which differs in the number of stripes. The first zone is two stripes, while the following zones are determined by one strip.
Amsterdam climate
Amsterdam is an attractive tourist city for large quantity of people. Therefore, there are no low seasons here. Perhaps in winter there are fewer tourists on the streets, of course, unless we are talking about Christmas. Since the sea is located near Amsterdam, the weather in the city is unpredictable, so local residents Always carry raincoats with you. Especially when using bicycles, umbrellas are very inconvenient protection from rain, so it is better to carry raincoats with you.
In spring, Amsterdam becomes amazingly beautiful, because at this time tulips bloom in endless fields. Especially on Queen's Day - April 30, the whole city dresses in orange, which is considered royal. But by the middle of the holiday, a lot of garbage accumulates in the city. On the Queen's Birthday, it's better to go for a walk around Amsterdam first thing in the morning. You should definitely go outside the city to the Kueckenhoff Tulip Park, where it becomes unusually beautiful.
The city of canals is beautiful at any time of the year, as the scenic spots are beautiful regardless of weather conditions. The warm climate and frequent rains encourage strolling through beautiful places in Amsterdam, or at least admiring the scenery from a café window.
Prices in Amsterdam
Before traveling to Amsterdam, any tourist determines the amount of cash that will be needed. Although it is difficult to name the exact amount, because you can take with you as much as you want. Although even with abundance Money, you need to find out the prices in Amsterdam in advance. On average, the cost of a flight from Moscow to Amsterdam is about 470 euros. It all depends on the season. If you rent a car, it will cost at least 60 euros for 24 hours.
The main expenses are related to accommodation, so you can find cheaper hotels, but here there is quite a large choice. Also, the cost of rooms depends not only on the status of the hotel, but also on the time of booking. At the same time in good budget hotels rooms run out very quickly.
The minimum price for a double room will be about 50-60 euros. Cheaper accommodation is provided by guesthouses and hostels. However, this question depends on the requests and wishes of the person himself.
It is difficult to say anything definite about food and nutrition. Someone can eat well for ten euros a day. But for complete nutrition in good restaurant more money needs to be allocated. In this matter, you can focus on Moscow prices, so the minimum cost of dinner in a cafe and restaurant is twenty euros.
What to see in Amsterdam
Over 600 bridges cross Amsterdam. At the same time, Mahere Brug and Blauburg are called the most beautiful. In the city, most sightseeing starts from the water.
Here you can find buildings built in the neo-Gothic style made of red brick, an example of which is the central station. It is from the station that many canals and streets of Amsterdam radiate. Perhaps the most popular place called the Grand Canal Quarter - this is the historical center of Amsterdam.
Located in the Grand Canal Quarter main square Ladies. In this place you can see Royal Palace with the most interesting museum inside. Interestingly, Amsterdam has its own Freedom Monument. The construction of the New Church dates back to 1408. And of course, not a single tourist can pass by the famous one, just like in other cities.
Since the most important attractions are located in this historical center of Amsterdam, nearby you can see the Berlagi Exchange building, the Shipwrights' House, and the Amsterdam Footstock. In addition, this wonderful city is known for its theaters and museums. No less remarkable place is flower market, which is located in the central part of Amsterdam. Here you can buy a whole armful of the freshest tulips for just five euros.
Amsterdam establishments: clubs, museums, observation decks
It's hard to imagine Amsterdam without the bustling nightlife. Nightclubs and discos are concentrated in three places in the city - the Rembrandplein area, Leidseplein and, of course, the Red Light District. A popular club in Amsterdam is Escape, which is one of the oldest in the city. Also, local people and tourists love to visit the Paradiso club - this place is distinguished by chic acoustics, a variety of melodies and a memorable interior.
The most major museum in the country it is considered National Museum The Rijksmuseum, which has undergone a major renovation. If you go to the "Masterpieces" exhibition, you can see a work of Dutch art from the 17th and 18th centuries. The collection consists of a rich collection of works by Hals, Jan Vermeer and Rembrandt, as well as other objects of historical value. Fans of the great Van Gogh can go to the Van Gogh Museum - this is a special attraction of the city. This place houses the largest collection of Van Gogh paintings.
If you go up to the Amsterdam Skylounge, it offers a beautiful view of the city from any angle. With this observation deck the entire city is visible at 360 degrees. It is noteworthy that thanks to your own bar on the terrace of the site, you can admire the beautiful view while drinking one of your favorite drinks.
Shopping in Amsterdam stores
For many years now, Amsterdam has been the capital of shopping, where there are a lot of jewelry and second-hand book stores - today this is a kind of calling card of Amsterdam. And avid shopaholics can enjoy a stroll through the city's flea market. Therefore, you can easily spend a lot of money on shopping.
The Nine Streets area is famous throughout Holland. Shopping can be fun here. Not far from Dam Square, shopping lovers can find many boutiques and shops. At the same time, between purchases you can relax in one of the many cafes with a cup of aromatic coffee.
A wide range of modern and vintage clothing is presented in the most popular retail outlets in Amsterdam. And if you go to local second-hand stores, you can find a truly rare item. Famous designer stores include Dexter Wong and Vivienne Westwood, which are located on the corner of Keizersgracht and Heudenstraat. Especially lovers of beautiful shoes can purchase interesting models.
While shopping, you should visit erotic shops and cosmetic stores, it all depends on your imagination and financial condition. Particularly attractive is Spanish faience, without which it is difficult to leave Amsterdam.
What hotels can you stay at?
Since Amsterdam is a destination for a large number of tourists, it has a well-developed hotel business. In the city center there is a cozy and small Alp Hotel, it is only six hundred meters away from the Jojan area. Guests are invited to relax in beautiful garden with a terrace, where there is also free Internet. The rooms are decorated in light colors.
And some have a balcony and a hot tub. Fruit and hot drinks are provided free of charge at all times at the hotel.
The Art Dulac Hotel is located in a historic building on Haarlemmerstraat. The modern hotel is elegant and features classic extra long beds. The hotel has a restaurant decorated in soul and jazz style. On a positive note, the rooms are soundproof. The famous Anne Frank House and the Royal Palace are located next to the hotel.
Also noteworthy is the Grand Hotel Downtown, where rooms are equipped with air conditioning, modern TV and a small minibar. Some rooms allow you to spend your evenings on the terrace, looking out over panoramic view Amsterdam. Not far from this grand hotel there are several interesting restaurants that attract the attention of most tourists.
Popular excursions for tourists
The capital of Holland has many beautiful places And historical monuments. Therefore, Amsterdam has the most interesting tourist routes. Tourists can only choose the most attractive excursion options in Amsterdam, which allows them to carefully explore the city. It is especially worth paying attention to the guide so that he knows the Russian language and all the places in the city.
In that European city large selection of excursions. If you are getting acquainted with the city for the first time, then you can go to the traditional sightseeing tour, which takes place in the historical center of Amsterdam. This place is surrounded by famous canals. By the way, the channels make up the popular a tourist route, on which cruises take place, delivering special pleasure.
An excursion to the Red Light District is also offered - it is called the heart of Amsterdam itself. It is noteworthy that the excursions are conducted in Russian, which allows you to enrich yourself with information as much as possible. As a rule, excursions take place by car if they go to remote areas or on foot to local attractions. In any case, you can choose a suitable tour of Amsterdam, which will allow you to have a good and interesting time.
Restaurants worthy of tourist attention
You can buy the famous Dutch cheese in supermarkets, cheese shops and markets in Amsterdam. A best time June is the month to eat herring. On almost every corner of the city there is a restaurant serving dishes of various nations, and less often - traditional Dutch cuisine.
Mostly restaurants with Asian cuisine are located on Zeedijik, this place is considered Amsterdam's Chinatown. The streets of Damstraat are for business people, there are many inexpensive cafes. It is also worth noting national cuisine Suriname, which is located in Albert Cuypstraat. If you plan to go to a decent restaurant, then you need to reserve a table in advance.
Excellent Italian cuisine Restaurant Bussia offers this place is famous for its excellent wines and romantic atmosphere, because it is located in the picturesque part of the Prinzengracht canal. A full dinner for two will cost 150-200 euros. If you want to choose from the kitchen various countries, then it is better to go to RED Amsterdam. This establishment has a wonderful atmosphere and wonderful food. And all this with fantastic service. The restaurant is especially popular among the population, so tables must be reserved in advance.
Amsterdam Netherlands - city view
Amsterdam is the largest city in the Netherlands, at first glance very free and relaxed. The famous Red Light District is located here, here you can smoke weed without fear of the police, strange freaks walk the streets all the time, but in fact, Amsterdam fascinates everyone forever. It’s worth visiting this city at least once and you understand that the stereotypes laid down are just stereotypes.
Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and the largest city in this country. Located in the western part, in the province of North Holland, at the mouth of the Amstel and IJ rivers. The population is more than 800 thousand people. This is enough ancient city, dates back to the 12th century, when there was a small fishing village, which over time turned into one of the most important seaports and trading centers. Amsterdam today tourist town, more than 4.6 million tourists visit it annually.
Transport accessibility
There are many ways to get to Amsterdam. The easiest way is by plane from Moscow or St. Petersburg. If you want to fly from other Russian cities, you can make a transfer in Moscow or Europe, where it will be more profitable. You can get from Moscow to Amsterdam by train; travel time is about 36 hours.
Weather
The climate in Amsterdam is temperate maritime. The location of the city near the sea contributes to frequent strong winds and even storms. In winter, the temperature rarely drops below 0, snow is not a frequent phenomenon, but it is common. Summer is warm, but don't expect too much heat. Most of the precipitation occurs from November to March. 
Hotels
If you don’t want to be disappointed, you should book your room in advance. But you won’t be able to save on accommodation here; even the most economical option will cost the same as a decent four in some other country. After all most of hotels are located exactly in the city center. 
Attractions
Amsterdam is very beautiful city, with all the architecture and history. It's impossible to get bored here. All kinds of festivals, cafes, shops and restaurants, excursions around the city and canals. Amsterdam has seven districts. Center is the city center, where almost all tourists spend most of their time. Outzeids – Historical Center. Nieuwezijdes – the main shopping alleys of the city are located here. Grachtengordel – this area is included in the List World Heritage UNESCO, and translated as Canal Belt. Jordan – a good part of the hotels, cafes and shops are located here. Zeid – This is where the museum quarter is located. Ost region is located on artificial islands.
Services for tourists that will allow you to save or get more for the same money:
- – the journey begins with choosing the best insurance; the service allows you to find the best option according to your requirements;
- Hotellook – search best prices to hotels from all booking systems (Booking, Ostrovok, etc.);
Amsterdam is a city where everyone can find entertainment. It is good for youth bachelor party style parties, for traveling with children, and for a relaxing trip if you are already tired of parties. What makes this city special? It is not for nothing that it is visited by a huge number of tourists from different countries peace every year!
Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands. If you have never visited this country, then you should start your acquaintance with this city. Like any capital, Amsterdam does not reflect the full essence of the country (after all, it is a more Europeanized city than small towns), but it will still allow you to feel the distinctive spirit of the Netherlands.
The city has a special charm
Amsterdam is a very compact city. We can say that the city has several centers - tourist centre, where exactly the red light district was located, and museum center where you can go with your children and not worry about moral standards.
The old part of the city has many souvenir shops and more classic Dutch architecture.
There are more modern houses in the museum quarter
A few days are enough to fully enjoy the city. This city is ideal for a short break after a hard week of work. If you don’t want to make a route yourself and think about ways to get around the city, the ideal option for traveling would be to take the Hop on Hop off bus (there are similar buses in many major cities). The bus route passes by the main attractions. You can learn more about the history of the city and its special places thanks to excursion program. If you are not a fan of this way of exploring the city, then you can plan your own route. Fortunately, public transport in Amsterdam is very well developed and you will not have any difficulties moving from one point to another.
Local trams are very comfortable
Let's talk a little about the main attractions of the city. The whole city is permeated channels . Walking along them, you are sure to come across hundreds of houseboats. Some boats function as museums and can be visited. Don't miss this opportunity!
Houseboats are parked everywhere
It’s very comfortable inside the houseboats
On some boats there is practically an entire garden
Also, you will find many offers for boat excursions. The city looks completely different from the water!
Almost every local resident has his own boat
A boat for a water excursion can be found for every taste
Corporate events on a boat are common for local companies
Many excursions start from central station
In the city you will not find wide alleys and avenues; small streets are the calling card of Amsterdam. This is why locals prefer to use a bicycle to get around the city rather than a car.
City streets
Damrak 26 - the main street of the city. It starts from the stop of the same name near the central station. There are always a lot of tourists there. This area is called the old part of the city.
Central station
Area near the central station
Damrak street leads to central squareI'll give(de Dam ) , which is worth a visit.
Dam Square.
Museum wax figures
The square houses the world-famous Madame Tussauds wax museum. Here he settled down and Royal Palace (Koninklijk Palais) belonged to the royal family. Nowadays it is used only for special occasions and celebrations. At the palace there is a museum that will introduce you to the history of the royal family. Visitors have the opportunity to look into some of the rooms and halls of the palace.
There is a building nearby Amrath Hotel. The building itself is interesting for tourists as an example of Dutch architecture. Next to it there are many buildings in the classic Dutch style, as well as a building Church of St. Nicholas (De Basiliek van de H. Nicolaas) . Also, near Dam Square there is old churchDe Nieuwe Kerk dating back to the 14th century. The church burned several times and was eventually rebuilt in the Gothic style. The decoration of the church, as well as its appearance, deserve attention.
In the old part of the city there is a well-known De Wallen) . It is located between Oudezijds Voorburgwal and Oudezijds Achterburgwal streets. This is where many tourists rush when they first find themselves in Amsterdam. The quarter consists of several small streets illuminated by red lights (this is why it got its name). In the windows of the first and second floors there are girls offering their services. By the way, prostitution in Holland is legalized and strictly controlled by the state. All girls must undergo medical examinations, have appropriate employment documents and regularly pay taxes to the treasury. In the area you will find many shops selling sex toys, clothing and other paraphernalia. There are also theaters here where you can watch adult performances right on stage.
Red light district. There are a lot of tourists here even during the day
When evening approaches, the windows are filled with red light
Sex shops for every taste are common in Amsterdam
Located not far from the Red Light District Chinatown (on Zeedijk street) with a large selection of Chinese restaurants serving delicious and cheap food. The largest one is located here Buddhist temple in EuropeHeHuaTemple . Tourists are always welcome here.
Once in the Old Town, be sure to visit floating flower market (De Bloemenmarkt) . You will find a large selection of local flowers (especially tulips, which are the symbol of the country). The variety of choices and the aroma that comes from the flowers is amazing.
One of the central streets of old Amsterdam. There are always a lot of tourists here
Amsterdam is famous for its flea markets. If you are a lover of vintage things, this is the place for you. Surprisingly flea markets Europe is very different from what we are used to seeing in Russia. They are more organized and you can actually find unique and valuable things there. One such market is the Western Market (Westermarkt). It is open every Monday from 9 am to 1 pm. But even after hours, this place is worth a visit to enjoy the narrow streets characteristic of the city and immerse yourself in the classic Dutch atmosphere.
If you are traveling with children, you will probably be interested zoo . Amsterdam Zoo is famous for its diversity. About 6,000 species of animals live on its territory! Also here you will find a planetarium, an aquarium and even Botanical Garden. You and your children will be delighted after visiting it.
Coffee shops - another calling card of Amsterdam. A huge number of them are located in the Red Light District. And this is absolutely not about drinking coffee. An ordinary coffee shop is a small room in which smoke vapors are always billowing. People always sit here with a lost look. In a coffee shop you can buy and immediately smoke weed, take a break and move on. And it will be completely legal.
Most coffee shops are located in the center; you won’t find them in residential areas
Museums
Jewish Museum - talks about the fate of the Jewish people in different time. The exhibition is very interactive and interesting. The museum pays special attention to the Holocaust and the victims who suffered during it.
Heineken Brewery (Heineken Experience) will be interesting for beer lovers. You can get acquainted with the process of its creation and try different varieties. Heineken is the pride of Dutch industry.
State Museum (Rijksmuseum) will be of interest to art lovers. The museums house an extensive collection of Dutch masters. Its highlight is Rembrandt’s “Night Watch”. In addition to paintings, the museum houses an exhibition of porcelain, costumes and archaeological excavations.
State Museum
Near the museum you can find many interesting sculptures
Van Gogh Museum is the largest artist museum in the world. Van Gogh is one of the most beloved and popular artists outside of Holland. The museum consists of 4 floors. On the first two floors there is an exhibition of the master’s paintings in chronological order, the third floor tells about the artist’s life. There you will find the artist's personal letters and his belongings. On the top floor there are paintings by artists who worked at the same time as Van Gogh. If you are a fan of his work, you definitely shouldn't miss this museum!
MuseumNEMO houses a huge exhibition dedicated to science and technology. This is more of an entertaining museum for children. The building, which resembles a huge five-story ship, houses a large exhibition. Here you will find a labyrinth of crooked mirrors, robots and much more. You and your child will definitely not be bored!
MuseumCorpus will tell you in detail about the structure of the human body. The museum is unique in that you will study the human body from the inside.
Shipping Museum no less popular among tourists. He talks about the traditions and achievements of Holland in shipping. The country has long been famous for its sailors. Even Peter I visited Holland to learn ship craftsmanship. It is for this reason that the museum is especially interesting to visitors. Here you will find marine-themed paintings, weapons, antique globes and navigational instruments. On the territory of the museum there are docks in which there is a replica of the East India Company ship Amsterdam. Visitors can board the ship and get acquainted with the usual life of sailors.
Museum of the Tropics (Tropenmuseum) - one of the largest anthropological museums in Europe. There are eight permanent exhibitions and many temporary ones. If you are interested in the culture of different nations, then this is definitely the place for you.
Canal Museum. Yes, there is one! If you want to fully immerse yourself in the city's water theme, this is the place to start. Here you will learn a lot about the history of canals and their design. After the museum, it will definitely be easier for you to navigate their diversity and a walk along the canals will be more enjoyable.
Many houses in Amsterdam are closely adjacent to canals
During a boat tour you can explore the entire old part of the city
Zaanse Schans - architecture museum Holland under open air. The museum is located a 30-minute drive from Amsterdam, but getting to it by public transport is not difficult (bus No. 391 leaves every hour from the central station to the museum, you can also use the train, which will get you there faster). If you have time left, and you’ve been exploring the city far and wide, then be sure to visit this place. Surely you know that the windmill is one of the symbols of Amsterdam. You can see different types of mills and get acquainted with the mechanism of their operation in this area. Many mills are still in working order and are used for grinding grain. Museum workers offer many excursions where you will learn about the features of this process. Also, here you can buy various souvenirs made by the hands of craftsmen. Perfect place, if you want to learn more about Dutch architecture!
Concertgebouw concert hall. Concerts for every taste are held here
What to try in Amsterdam
If you are a food maniac and love to try new food in every city, then you should definitely pay attention to local cuisine. First of all, I recommend that you try Dutch herring . Locals eat whole herring with a side dish of onions and cucumbers. Also, another way to eat herring is in a bun, like a hot dog.
They are no less popular bitterballen or deep-fried meat balls. They are usually eaten with wine.
Dutch waffles are another food attraction in Holland. They can be found in any store.
Despite the fact that Amsterdam is a capital city, it has not lost its charm and personality. This city is for everyone. Anyone will find something to their liking here. The architecture that is typical of Holland will not leave you indifferent. This city is equally great to explore from both land and water, with an extensive network of canals allowing guests to move freely by water throughout the city. They say that Amsterdam is a city of permissiveness. After all, here you can do what is prohibited in other European cities! This is what young people are coming for. On the other hand, Amsterdam is a city of museums. There are unique museums here. Most museums are interactive; walking around them and getting acquainted with their exhibitions is very interesting. This is why Amsterdam is loved by couples with children.
Many houses in Amsterdam look like toys
You see, Amsterdam reveals its own side for everyone! Which side of this city will open up for you is just a matter of guessing! Travel to Amsterdam and feel its spirit and spirit.
Amsterdam - a city on canals
When it's sunny, there are so many boats on the canals that they create a traffic jam.
Two titles
Amsterdam is the capital of which country, Holland or the Netherlands? In fact, this is not so important, since unofficially the state is often called Holland. However, this is not entirely true. Holland is the name of several provinces of the state, but not the entire country.
World of flowers
A magnificent city - Amsterdam. Which country's capital can boast the title of tulip capital? These wonderful flowers are literally a disease for local residents and, of course, for many it is a business. But it is a business that cannot be approached without love and awe. Throughout the country, fields of stunning beauty grow during the flowering period. Multi-colored tulips bow their heads, sway in the wind and, of course, invite tourists from all over the world to admire the breathtaking spectacle. In order for the whole world to endlessly admire Dutch tulips, more and more new varieties are being developed in the country. Plain and multi-colored, large and small, classic and fringed - all these are tulips grown in Holland. More than half of the world's tulip exports come from the Netherlands.
Bicycles and cyclists
Another passion of the Dutch is bicycles. Walking through the streets of Amsterdam, you get the impression that there are far more bicycles than cars. In the suburbs of the capital, tourists rent these vehicles to enjoy the landscape and colorful fields of tulips, and the local residents themselves saddle up their two-wheeled iron horses on weekdays and during well-deserved rest, going on business or for a walk. Travelers arriving from other cities and countries can rent a bike right at the airport or train station. Parking lots for this type of transport can be found throughout the city. Some were specially equipped, while others arose spontaneously.
Cultural program
Those who want to feel the culture of the country and learn a lot of new things should visit the museums of Amsterdam. Here you can find everything from classic art galleries to unique museums that have no analogues in the world. Art lovers should check out Rembrandt's house and the Van Gogh Museum, cat lovers will love the Cat Museum, and thrill-seekers will love the Torture Museum. The city has more than four hundred museums to suit every taste, even the most sophisticated. Some of them were located next to each other. This place is called Museum Square, here is the Steidlik Museum, Van Gogh, state museum Amsterdam and the Diamond Museum. And on the huge green lawn you can have a good rest between trips to cultural institutions.
Preparing for your trip
When going to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, it is better to prepare for the trip in advance and listen to reviews. Amsterdam will not let you get bored, but it’s better to find out from your acquaintances, pen pals or on the Internet what you need to take with you, what the special features are local color, and think thoroughly about your trip. In this case, only pleasant surprises await you, and unpleasant surprises will recede. Advice from experienced travelers will help you avoid unpleasant nuances and significantly save time and money.
Amsterdam is the capital of which country? We solve the issue
Now if you are asked, Amsterdam is the capital of which country, you can proudly answer that you know a lot about this city and, of course, name the country, or rather, the kingdom. A trip to the Netherlands will be peaceful and allow you to enjoy the atmosphere of modern Europe.
It is probably impossible to find a more multifaceted and unpredictable city in Europe than Amsterdam. “The capital of which country - you ask. It is the Netherlands that has this box full of surprises. On the territory, half of which is water, styles, races and eras of different historical periods of mankind comfortably come together.
A brief excursion into history
The name of the capital is translated from Dutch as “dam on the Amstel River.” The city was first mentioned in the act of Count Floris V, which spoke of the liberation of Amsterdam from the count's taxes in 1275. After just 25 years, the city acquires the status of a large shopping center and port.
Amsterdam is the capital of which country, the Netherlands or Holland? There is no difference between these names, because Holland is the unofficial name of the Netherlands. The country's "golden age" began in 1648 at the end of the war for liberation from the Spanish yoke. Then the United Provinces began to be created, and the Dutch school of painting flourished, the representative of which is Rembrandt, whom the whole world knows. During its peak period, even Peter I visited it.
Amsterdam is a magnet for tourists
This city, unusual in its layout, literally cut by a system of artificial canals that are connected by 600 bridges and 70 islands, attracts millions of tourists. all year round. Mahere Brug and Baluburg are the most charming bridges in the city of Amsterdam. Which country's capital, in your opinion, is one of the four magnificent European cities built on water? Of course, the capital of the Netherlands. In addition to her, the following cities received this honor: Bruges, Venice and St. Petersburg.
Life style
It is always noisy here; in a crowd it is better to keep an eye on your belongings - local pickpockets are famous for their professionalism. Amsterdam is the capital of which country? That's right, the Netherlands, which means that modern sexual trends are supported here. For example, just a few years ago, as soon as it was necessary to declare that the rights of a member of a sexual minority were being infringed, he/she would immediately be given the opportunity to obtain political asylum in Holland. Indeed, 30% of the population of Amsterdam are gay. They all live in their own separate world: they eat in gay restaurants, buy clothes in gay stores and go to gay cinemas. The Dutch treat them with respect, considering it one of the ways to show themselves. Motorists are not welcome in the city, so bicycles can be found everywhere.
What to see in Amsterdam?
The city offers a great variety of historical and cultural attractions; the museums of Amsterdam will not leave anyone indifferent. You should definitely visit the heart of the city - the Royal Palace, the Keukenhof flower park, and, of course, the Red Light District, which occupies a fairly large area and is located in the old part of the city. As reviews say, Amsterdam leaves an imprint on everyone’s heart, brings variety to life, and inspires. A trip to a romantic country with medieval castles, incomparable tulips and amazingly delicious cheeses will give you a boost of energy for the year ahead!
