Dear Wandering Spirit,
Is Amsterdam the place to be in 2021? Sure, it is, just like it was before! 
Although I have already visited this fascinating city a few times before, I decided to spend my 2020 late Summer vacation there, as I love city breaks and road trips. My favourite activity was art diving in Amsterdam.
Enjoy Variety in Amsterdam
I had the feeling that I must stay here longer to be literally wrapped up in the Amsterdam good vibes. The Dutch capital city is a kaleidoscope of places and feelings. Each time you go, you discover another Amsterdam.
From the young people looking for fun at the many hotspots to sporty tourists up to art lovers and city breakers, the best thing anyone can do is explore Amsterdam on two wheels. 🚴
Be careful. It can be both a lovely and an adrenaline-fueled activity, especially if you are not quite familiar with bike road traffic. I tried this twice, and I am glad I am still alive!
Relaxing Holiday in Amsterdam
Staying at a hotel next door to the museum district was the best choice for me, as I was in an artistic mindset. Strolling downtown or riding my bike to the hotspots was pleasant too.
Lucky for me, there were great sunny days during my stay in Amsterdam last time, and I could make the most out of my holiday. I enjoyed the many parks all around the city centre, the relaxing “hofjes” and the well-structured grid of canals.
I can wholeheartedly recommend that you lunch break at the amazing Vondelpark. 🌳 Alongside parks, Amsterdam is also a city of many famous squares, including Rembrandtplein, Leidseplein, and Waterlooplein.
Amsterdam's Hot Spots
Dam Square was my benchmark to start my daily Amsterdam visit. From there, you can admire the National Monument, the Royal Palace, the New Church, and you are able to quickly jump into several public transport means. 🏛️
A few minutes ride from Dam Square, you can see De Wallen (the old city walls and also the house of the Red Light District), where another church deserves a visit: Oude Kerk.
What kind of activities should you consider when visiting Amsterdam? It is impossible to say. There are plenty of things to do for every taste and pocket. 💶
Art Diving in Amsterdam
I paid extensive visits to the national museum, known as Rijksmuseum, as well as Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum and the contemporary Moco Museum. Here, you will have one of the best modern art experiences of your life 🖼️ with its street art, impressive sculptures and colourful video installations.
Also, Amsterdam offers several interesting culinary experiments. From local cuisine and craft beer bars (check out “Brouwerij’t IJ”, the notorious independent windmill brewery in the Amsterdam Oost area 🍺) to trendy spots and incredible Asian or fusion restaurants. You will not stay hungry for long!
Plan Your Visit in Amstedam
When should you plan your visit to Amsterdam?
Spring is always the best time as the city and its surroundings are blooming. It gets crowded with tourists in summer like any other main city in Europe, but even winter is a good moment, as there are many indoor activities.
As you are staying in a Northern European city, do not forget a windbreaker and many cloth layers. My mother always reminds me to dress like an onion 😊
Is Amsterdam expensive? It might be if compared to other European cities, but you can choose between infinite options for accommodation and eating out.
What more can I say? You must discover Amsterdam with your own eyes. The best view of Amsterdam is the one you will get from Europe’s highest swing on A’DAM sky deck – if you are brave enough. 🎡
There is so much to say about Amsterdam that it requires further posts. But I want to give you a first impression if you have never been there.
Let me know in the comments which was your favourite spot in Amsterdam! Also, do not forget to check out my Holland travel journal.
