Amsterdam

Photo Credit: Liam Gant

Photo Credit: Chait Goli

Photo Credit: Tanathip Rattanatum

Amsterdam, the 17th century capital of Holland, is often called the "Venice of the North" due to its numerous, boat-navigable canals. Truly rich in history, the oldest part of this populous, multicultural city is Sloten, which dates all the way back to the 9th century.

Apart from the canals, attractions in Amsterdam include the Van Gogh Museum, Hermitage Amsterdam, the Heineken Experience, the Anne Frank House, and the Royal Palace of Amsterdam. Nightlife abounds as well, with many visitors drawn to its vibrant network of nightclubs, theaters and festivals.

Starting in 2014, the city has undergone an urban renewal effort, focused on expanding the city center and involving the construction of artificial islands. This is a one-of-a-kind city that begs to be explored by bicycle or boat tour!

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Public Transportation

For the most convenient and fastest way to Amsterdam’s city center, a direct railway line connects Schiphol International Airport with Amsterdam Central Station. Visitor can reach the downtown area in about 20 minutes.

For public transport in Amsterdam and the general area, the public transport chip card (OV-chipkaart), which can be used to travel on trams, buses and trains. The best option if you visit is a one-hour card or day card (valid for one to seven days). Buy one-hour tickets from the driver or conductor on the bus or tram.

Day tickets may be purchased in advance or purchased on the tram. Day cards are not available from bus drivers. Your ticket is valid across the whole network from the first use, allowing you to take as many journeys as you choose within a certain timeframe.

Amsterdam is on its way to making public transport completely cashless. Now, tickets can only be purchased using debit or credit cards.

Photo Credit: Alf van Beem

Amsterdam Light Festival

Light artwork/installations event held early December until late January.

Christmas Markets

Late November until early January.

Chinese New Year

Major celebration near Nieuwmarkt on February 12, 2021.

Open Garden Days

Across Amsterdam on the third weekend of June, visitors are given access to beautiful, private gardens behind houses along the city's canals.

Heritage Day

On the second weekend of September, the doors of approximately 4,000 of Amsterdam's monumental buildings are opened to the public.

Esther van der Voort: Mama is Boos

From 2/20/2026 - 11/21/2026

Esther van der Voort's show explores the chaotic life of a single mother navigating daily challenges with her four children. She humorously reflects on her life choices and the frustrations that come with motherhood. The performance combines relatable anecdotes with comedic insights, making it a lively experience for the audience.

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Amsterdam Tulip Festival

From 3/19/2026 - 5/10/2026

The Amsterdam Tulip Festival aims to bring the tulip back to the city by planting one bulb for every resident, totaling 800,000 tulips. This year's edition features half a million tulips planted in various public locations throughout Amsterdam. The festival includes activities such as helicopter flights over tulip fields, picking tulips, and visits to notable gardens and events in the region.

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