About Amsterdam
YOUR CITY GUIDE TO AMSTERDAM 2015 | 2016
A publication by:
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O A A B L C Argentijns Grill Restaurant Originally Argentinian restaurants which is very easy to find in the heart of the city behind the Royal Palace We have alot of different fresh grilled Argentinian meat from the charcoal grill Fish mixed grill and tapas Come and taste the meat and hospitality from Argentina
Bienvenido
We have a second floor available for business groups dining Open from 12 noon until midnight, seven days a week we have more than 120 Seats Paleisstraat 15 - 1012 RB Amsterdam Telefoon 020 - 423 52 00 - Fax 020 423 51 94
WWW.laboca-restaurant.nl
Welcome to Amsterdam! Amsterdam’s rich heritage and culture, its spirit of commerce, innovative infrastructure, liveable human scale and creativity set it apart from other major European cities. Our city is both cosmopolitan and compact. Yet what we lack in terms of size, we make up for through greater openness, connectivity, accessibility and diversity. Amsterdam has welcomed visitors from all walks of life since its 17th-century Golden Age when it was the business and intellectual capital of the world. The arts flourished and people of all backgrounds became Amsterdammers, adding to the city’s vibrant tapestry. Today, Amsterdam is one of the world’s most diverse cities with 180 nationalities represented. The Amsterdam Metropolitan Area is home to more than 2,500 international companies. As Mayor of Amsterdam, I would like to offer one important tip: explore as much as possible. Whether this is your first visit to Amsterdam or you are returning to our city, you will find that the city is constantly changing and renewing. Once again, I bid you a warm welcome to Amsterdam. I wish you a pleasant, successful and inspiring stay.
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At Isola Bella we offer you the finest italian cuisine created from the freshest ingredients and served to you in our charming Italian style restaurant **Since 1960 we know exactly how to do our best for our guests** we are located by rembrandt square on the famous Thorbeckeplein we look forward to host you with our Pleasure
Thorbeckeplein 7 1017 CS Amsterdam T: 020-6269582 E: info@restaurantisolabella.nl www.restaurantisolabella.nl Open 7 days a week from 12:00 - 24:00
The Argentinian Steakhouse La Vaca has a typical South American cuisine. The specialty is of course the Argentinean grilled meat that will melt on your tongue. Therefore, we invite you to come over and visit La Vaca to enjoy the South American ambiance and the several dishes.
Thorbeckeplein 11-13 info@restaurantlavaca.nl 1017 CS Amsterdam www.restaurantlavaca.nl Tel: 020-6253999 Open 7 days a week from 12:00 - 24:00
Amsterdam’s premium cheese experience
Old Amsterdam Cheese Store & Cheese Tasting Damrak 62 Amsterdam - Open Daily 09.00 till 22.00
Read this Amsterdam Passport city guide for a taste of what this exciting and surprising city has in store for you. Whether it’s business or pleasure, we’re sure you’ll have a great time. And don’t forget to check www.amsterdampassport.com Need to know 8 About Amsterdam 10 To do 14 International & Dutch masters 20 Be your own captain! 23 Discover Amsterdam by bike 24 Doing business with the Dutch 26 Getting around 28 Shop till you drop! 29 Neighbourhoods 36 Breathtaking canals 52 Living on a beautiful canal 56 Dining 58 Red Light District 66 Outside Amsterdam 68 Events 70
Amsterdam Passport is a publication of RAI Amsterdam MANAGING DIRECTOR: Nynke de Ruiter EDITORIAL: RAI Amsterdam / Amsterdam Marketing SALES: Nathalie Melchers PRODUCTION & ARTWORK: Maaike van Dijk PRINTING: SDA Print + Media CONTENT: Micky Zuiderwijk & Emma Morrison © 2015 RAI Amsterdam, The Netherlands, amsterdampassport@rai.nl • www.rai.nl
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Welcome
Discover exciting Amsterdam!
Need to know
Need to know Embassy Most embassies are located in The Hague (Den Haag), but several consulates are located in Amsterdam. Emergency services Dial 112 for the police, ambulance or fire brigade. Internet Most cafes, hotels and other public buildings will offer Wi-Fi, often free of charge. Money matters The official currency of the Netherlands is the Euro (â‚Ź). Major credit cards are widely accepted, but it is best to check before sitting down for dinner. There are plenty of cash dispensers (ATMs) throughout the city.
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Tax-free shopping Non-EU residents are eligible to get back the 21% Value Added Tax (VAT) on purchases in the European Union (minimum amount spent is 50 Euros). To get a refund, visit customs before leaving the EU to get a stamp. You can either send the stamped receipt back to the store for a full VAT refund or make use of the following services: • Shop at retailers affiliated with Global Blue, ask for a tax-free cheque and then reclaim the VAT at their desk at the airport. Visit www.globalblue.com for more information. • Shop wherever you want to shop, save your purchase receipt and then reclaim the VAT online or at the VAT Free service desk at Schiphol Airport, departures hall 2. Visit www.vatfree.com for more information. Tipping Tips are not obligatory, but they are always welcomed. The norm is 5 to 10% but for smaller amounts in cafes and bars it is customary to round up to the nearest whole number. Tourist information The Amsterdam Tourism & Convention Board (ATCB) is the official source of information for visitors to Amsterdam. For the best suggestions on how to make your stay a memorable one you can contact the following agencies: • Amsterdam Airport Schiphol Holland Tourist Information • Noord-Zuid Hollandsch Koffiehuis, Stationsplein 10 • Amsterdam Canal Cruises, Stadhouderskade 550 • Het Muziektheater, Amstel 3 Shop opening and closing times Shops typically open at 10 am and close at 6 pm (5 pm on Saturdays). Large supermarkets are open from 8 am to 8 pm daily. On Mondays, most shops only open their doors at 1 pm. On Sundays, most of the shops in the city centre are open.
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Need to know
Smoking Smoking is prohibited in hotels (including rooms), public buildings, theatres, bars, clubs, cafes and restaurants.
Amsterdam: a treasure
Amsterdam: a treasure Amsterdam is a feast for the eyes, featuring everything from charming gabled houses to innovative contemporary architecture. The heart of the city known as the Grachtengordel (Canal Ring), constructed during the Dutch Golden Age, turned 400 in 2013. It remains a beautifully intact and vibrant part of the city, its lively and friendly energy generated by locals and visitors alike. Not surprisingly, Amsterdam’s Canal Ring was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2010. With more canals than Venice, one of the many mustdo activities in this beautiful city is a (guided) boat tour through Amsterdam’s waterways. On the cultural front, Amsterdam’s many famed institutions include the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Hermitage Amsterdam, Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art and the National Maritime Museum. Amsterdam is also home to the globally acclaimed Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, which celebrated its 125-year anniversary in 2013, and the Dutch National Opera & Ballet.
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About Amsterdam
About Amsterdam
From its humble beginnings as a 13th century fishing village to its current role as a major hub for business, tourism and culture, Amsterdam has a strong tradition as a centre of culture and commerce. Resourceful beginnings In the early 1200s a handful of adventurers came sailing down the Amstel River in hollowed-out logs. They settled in the marshlands and swamps surrounding the river and forged a structure of dams and dykes. These crafty ‘Aemstelledammers’ began exacting toll money from passing beer and herring traders. They quickly became expert boat builders and brewers, whose reputation attracted more inquisitive pioneers and entrepreneurs. In 1275, Count Floris of Holland formalised these activities by granting special toll privileges to the emerging merchant town. The right of free passage – meaning that traders could operate cheaply – proved to be crucial for the economic development of Amsterdam. Beer and herring became popular commodities. Golden Age In 1602 the Dutch East India Company (VOC) was founded. Amsterdam had a majority share in the company, which became the first multinational Amsterdam Passport
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About Amsterdam
in the world. The result was a period of unprecedented growth and prosperity, resulting in the 17th century becoming known as the Golden Age. During this period, the city underwent two substantial urban expansions: the foundation of the city’s canals and the building of the Jordaan neighbourhood. Thanks to trade with Indonesia (formerly the Dutch East Indies), Amsterdam acquired an important position in the world trade of spices. At the same time, the diamond trade with South Africa also began to thrive. The Dutch art scene also flourished at this time. In just 30 years, Amsterdam had become a thriving cultural city, bringing forth the legacies of Rembrandt van Rijn, Johannes Vermeer and Jan Steen. Industrialisation At the end of the 17th century, Amsterdam’s economy had come to a standstill, resulting in a period of decline and increasing poverty. But with the construction of the North Sea Canal in 1876, Amsterdam had gained a direct connection to the North Sea. From that moment on, steamships became part of everyday life in Amsterdam’s port. It was a turning point for the city. Last century The 20th century began on a high note. The Amsterdam School, an idealistic architecture movement, founded various districts, providing low-cost housing around the city. The city also expanded to include Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, which remains the home of national carrier KLM, the oldest airline in the world. During World War I the Netherlands remained neutral. Compared to other European cities, World War II caused limited physical damage to Amsterdam’s buildings and infrastructure. Amsterdam today Now, in the 21st century, Amsterdam is a multicultural city home to over 800,000 residents from 180 different nationalities. Amsterdam’s visitor economy generates an estimated €5.7 billion annually and creates 50,400 full-time jobs. The city welcomed 10 million visitors in 2014. The majority of visitors to Amsterdam come from the United Kingdom, Germany, the USA, Spain, France and the rest of the Netherlands. The most significant reasons for a visit to Amsterdam are cultural history, museums and the charming, easy-going and tolerant atmosphere. The Dutch are well known for their tolerance. 12 |
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To do
To do Welcome to the wonderful city of Amsterdam! A lively bustling European hub, rich with unparalleled amounts of history and culture. Unique in terms of exquisite architecture and lined with breathtaking canals, this city never ceases to amaze. Whether you enjoy shopping, sightseeing, fine dining, or visiting museums, take a stroll through this city’s 17th century streets and experience Dutch culture in Amsterdam’s friendly and relaxed environment. Always eventful and constantly offering a variety of activities, we invite you to hop on a bicycle and discover Amsterdam the Dutch way! City beaches Summer in the city can be very hot. Thankfully there is water everywhere in and around Amsterdam. Should you like to feel sand between your toes, but you don’t want to leave the city boundaries, visit one of Amsterdam’s ‘stadsstranden’ (city beaches). Strand West is located in the west of Amsterdam and is one of the larger city beaches. You can reach it by bike (approx. 20 min. from Central Station) or bus 22 from Central Station with destination Spaarndammerbuurt, to Spaarndammerstraat. Strand Zuid is located at RAI Amsterdam’s harbour. Right next to the exhibition halls and the Beatrixpark you can relax on comfortable beach chairs while sipping a refreshing drink. On many summer nights parties with DJs are organised here. There is no swimming allowed at this location. You can reach this beach by bike (approx. 25 min. from Central Station) or tram 4 from Central Station, with destination Station RAI, to Europaplein. And last but not least, Blijburg aan Zee is a very popular city beach that is open all year round. It’s the only one that officially allows swimming and many beach parties are organised here. You can reach this beach by bike (approx. 40 min. from Central Station) or tram 26 from Central Station, with destination IJburg, to IJburg Strand.
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The National Maritime Museum is housed in the historic building the Arsenal, the storehouse of the Royal Dutch Navy dating from 1656. The replica ship of East Indiaman moored beside the museum is the largest piece in the collection. Visiting the museum stands out as one of the most popular things to do in Amsterdam. A free audio tour will take you through the museum highlights. Open daily 9 am - 5 pm. Het Scheepvaartmuseum Kattenburgerplein 1 W www.hetscheepvaartmuseum.nl
The Royal Concertgebouw is one of the world’s most famous concert halls and is located about 10 minutes from the RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre. The Concertgebouw is renowned worldwide for its high quality concerts and exceptional acoustics. With 700 concerts a year The Concertgebouw offers a varied programme filled with much loved compositions, performed by leading international musicians, orchestras and conductors. The Concertgebouw W www.concertgebouw.nl/en
To Do
Strand Zuid
Skating As much as the Dutch enjoy the beach in the summertime, as soon as the ice is thick enough in winter they bring out their skates! You will see children and grownups alike skating on the canals. If the weather is milder in winter, you can skate on specially built ice rinks throughout the city. The most famous spot is the skating rink at Museumplein with Rijksmuseum as a theatrical backdrop. If you prefer to watch skating, you can sit inside the warm Brasserie Winters or outside underneath the heaters. At Leidseplein you will find a skating rink and a small winter fair where you can enjoy hot waffles, Gluhwein and many other delicious foods and drinks to keep you warm. At Westergasterrein, a covered ice skating rink is located next to club Pacific Park. During the evenings DJ’s will encourage you to skate and dance at the same time. All skating rinks offer ice skates for hire. If you prefer skating on a professional ice rink, visit Amsterdam’s most famous and largest: the Jaap Eden ice rink. You can reach it by bike (approx. 25 min. from Central Station) or by taking tram 9 with destination Diemen, to Kruislaan. 16 |
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The Heineken Experience is a self-guided interactive journey through the world of Heineken®. Discover the history of the HEINEKEN Company, the four natural ingredients, the brewing process and the tasting bar. At the end of the tour you can enjoy two Heinekens or learn how to draught the perfect Heineken®. Heineken Experience Stadhouderskade 78 W www.heineken.com/
heinekenexperience
At Cheese & More by Henri Willig the real cheese lover will find a variety of traditionally produced cheeses from their own cheese farms and an extensive range of delicacies such as mustard, cheese dip, chutney and the typical Dutch ‘stroopwafel’! If you want to learn how cheese is made and try some of the best cheeses while enjoying a glass of wine or beer you can also visit the ‘Proefzolder’ for a cheese tasting session. Cheese & More by Henri Willig
Different stores in Amsterdam W www.cheeseandmore.com W www.proefzolder.nl
To Do
During the summer months the ice rinks are closed, but every Friday night feel free to join the Friday Night Skate for a free city tour and workout at the same time. Every Friday night a group of skaters organizes a night skate with a meet up at 8 pm in Vondelpark at the round benches next to Paviljoen (the former Film Museum).
Ice skating on the canals
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At the Reypenaer Cheese Tasting Room in the centre of Amsterdam, you can test and evaluate the flavour, the aroma and the qualities of the Reypenaer cheeses, all under the guidance of an expert cheese master. Each cheese tasting session lasts approximately one hour, and caters for a maximum of 20 people per tasting. Reypenaer Cheese Tasting Room T +31 (0)20 3206333 W www.reypenaercheese.com
Gassan Diamonds, is located in a beautifully restored, originally steam driven diamond factory. Visitors can view the diamond polishers at their craft, while multilingual guides explain where diamonds are found and how rough diamonds turn into dazzling brilliants. After the tour you can visit our in-house Rolex boutique and browse our extensive collection of jewelry and watches. Gassan Nieuwe Uilenburgerstraat 173 - 175 W www.gassan.com
museUMS
International & Dutch Masters The Van Gogh Museum houses the world’s largest collection of paintings by Vincent van Gogh. The museum’s collection was originally in the possession of Theo van Gogh, Vincent’s younger brother. It consists of self-portraits, landscapes, drawings and still lifes. In addition to work by Vincent van Gogh, the museum has a rich and varied collection of other 19th century art. The artists represented include impressionists and post-impressionists: Van Gogh’s friends and contemporaries, those who inspired him, and those who drew inspiration from him.
The Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum has been entirely renovated and was reopened in April 2013 by former Queen Beatrix. Must-sees such as Rembrandt’s Night Watch and Vermeer’s Milkmaid are on permanent display here as are thousands of other works of art. Museum Het Grachtenhuis is where to start exploring Amsterdam’s canals. Since their inception, the canals have been renowned for their beauty, monumental architecture and picturesque character. The 17th century canal district is truly one of the world’s greatest urban projects. The museum, situated in a characteristic building on a canal, is a place where all the highlights of Amsterdam’s Golden Age come together in six rooms. 20 |
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The Hermitage Amsterdam is the most significant subsidiary of the renowned museum outside of Saint Petersburg. The museum organises exhibitions on specific themes, usually two exhibitions each year, in the 324 year old building. The exhibited art objects are transported from the State Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg. After the conclusion of an exhibition, all art objects are shipped back to Russia. Amsterdam Museum is a great place to enjoy a revealing, informative and at times hi-tech glimpse into the city of Amsterdam. It’s housed in the historic buildings and quiet courtyards of a former orphanage. The Schuttersgalerij, a public passage between shopping street Kalverstraat and tranquil square Begijnhof, features magnificent group portraits of famous guild members painted by contemporaries of Rembrandt.
The Rijksmuseum
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museUMS
Rembrandt House Museum is the former home of Dutch painter and etcher Rembrandt van Rijn. He lived in the old Jewish quarter during the peak of his career between 1639 and 1658. His work and living spaces have been restored to the original state with many of his most famous etchings on display.
museUMS
The Anne Frank House attracts many visitors who are inspired by the Jewish teenager’s diary, written while her family was in hiding here during WWII. After being deported she later died in the BergenBelsen concentration camp. The rooms of the Secret Annex, where the Frank family was hiding, have been kept in their authentic state following extensive preservation activities. The old canal-side house at 265 Prinsengracht, located next to Otto Frank’s former office, has been renovated. The significance of Anne’s diary play a central role in the museum. Her original diaries and other writings are permanently on display. The Stedelijk Museum (Paulus Potterstraat), with its eye-catching new wing, or bathtub as the locals are already calling it, reopened in 2012. The Stedelijk Museum is one of the world’s most influential modern art museums. Its acclaimed collection includes work from Picasso, Appel, Mondriaan, Dubuffet, and Tinguely. EYE, the new national film museum (IJpromenade), is popular with those who love the wonders of cinema. EYE seems to rise like a gigantic white bird from its perch on the banks of the river IJ in Amsterdam North. You can reach it by taking a free ferry behind Amsterdam Central Station. English and foreign language films in the Netherlands are not dubbed but rather subtitled in Dutch.
EYE, National Film Museum
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Be your own captain and explore the Amsterdam canals yourself. Hiring a boat is simple and there are plenty of locations to rent boats. A license is only necessary for boats longer than 15 metres or with a speed faster than 20 km/h.
Keep in mind that the maximum speed on the canals is 7.5 km per hour. Make sure to give way to canal cruise boats and never take any risks. Lots of people live next to the water, always respect their privacy. Did you know that‌ In the old days living on a houseboat meant you were poor? Originally houseboats were built to deal with the housing shortage in Amsterdam, nowadays they are extremely popular! Amsterdam Passport
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hiring a boat
Be your own captain!
Amsterdam by bike
Discover Amsterdam by bike Did you know that we have over 880,000 bicycles in Amsterdam and only 790,000 inhabitants? With its many cycle tracks the city is a cycling utopia. Whether it’s sunny or raining, bikes are Amsterdam’s favourite method of transportation. Of course this poses some logistical challenges. Since space is scarce in Amsterdam, a very special parking spot was built in 2001 in front of Amsterdam Central Station; the world’s first bicycle flat! This 3-floor bicycle flat has space for about 2500 bikes and the top level offers a stunning view of the city. The bicycle flat was supposed to be closed and removed in 2004, but it still exists today. The streets can be quite hectic in Amsterdam. But cycling in Amsterdam is practical and fun so discover the city as a real ‘Amsterdammer’ by renting a bike from one of the many rental shops around the city! For instance, you can rent a flashy red bike or electric bike at ‘MacBike’. They have multiple rental locations around the city. It’s worth spending a little extra on (sometimes obligatory) insurance in case your rented bike is stolen.
Cycling on water Pedal through the canals of Amsterdam at your own pace and rent a water bike! Take your time to admire the beautiful canals and don’t forget to bring your camera. A tour through the canals is a fun and active adventure! You can even go out when it’s raining as the boat is covered with rain shields. Canal bikes can be rented for a reasonable price for a few hours and a brochure with a map and route descriptions will be provided by the rental companies. Make sure you pay attention to the rules of the water! 24 |
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Amsterdam by bike
Amsterdam
10% discount + free cycle route
Discover Amsterdam by bike. Use this voucher and get 10% discount on your bicycle rent. 5 MacBike locations in town! Open: daily 9.00-17.45 hrs. www.macbike.nl
Did you know that… Between 12,000 and 15,000 bicycles are pulled out of Amsterdam canals each year by Amsterdam’s Water Authority? The Amsterdam canals were used as a garbage dump for years. Still many bicyles end up in the canals of Amsterdam.
Bike Rental Guided Tours
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BusinesS
Doing business with the Dutch With a strong tradition in international affairs, the Netherlands has one of the most open economies in Europe, and is heavily dependent on foreign trade. As one of the founding members of the European Union and one of the first countries to introduce the Euro, the Netherlands is one of the leading European nations in terms of attracting foreign investment. Understanding Dutch liberal values and the emphasis placed on efficiency and directness is critical to doing effective business in the Netherlands. The Netherlands may have the reputation of being a very tolerant country, but the Dutch do like to follow rules and procedures. Appropriate behaviour – both in private life and in business – is greatly appreciated. As a former seafaring nation and colonial power, the Dutch are known for their worldliness and language skills. Business lunches If you’re invited for a business lunch don’t get your expectations up too high: it might just be a cheese sandwich at the office. The meeting will probably continue, with the papers brought to the lunch table. Alcohol is not normally served; only juice, milk and buttermilk. When having lunch in a restaurant people may have a glass of wine or beer with their meal but it is not the norm. Exchanging gifts The Dutch do not normally exchange gifts during lunch or dinner. However, if presents are exchanged, they should be unwrapped straight away. Don’t spend more than about €25. Consensus The Dutch find consensus very important. In business this can lead to rather slow decision-making and lengthy negotiations, since input from everyone must be considered. Complaining and laughing The Dutch love to complain, particularly about the weather: It’s always too hot, too cold or too wet. Many conversations begin with a discussion of the weather. The Dutch also enjoy a good laugh. They’ll like it if you join in as long as remarks remain good-natured. 26 |
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Individuality and equality In Dutch society, the freedom of each and every citizen is highly prized and protected and tolerance for individual differences is highly regarded. Consequently, in Dutch companies seniority and power are not always emphasised, and equality between genders is encouraged. Punctuality and efficiency The Dutch place great importance on the efficient use of time and punctuality. Last-minute changes are usually not appreciated. The Dutch will not spend a lot of time socialising at meetings or during other business discussions; they tend to get straight to the point.
Zuidas, business district
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BusinesS
Upfront and honest The Dutch are very upfront and known for their straightforward and direct communication style. They may openly disagree with you and expect you to tell them if you disagree with them. ‘Yes’ to a Dutch person means ‘yes’: they are not familiar with the idea of saying ‘yes’ out of politeness and may be confused if you appear to change your mind later.
Getting around
Getting around Amsterdam is an accessible city and it’s easy to travel quickly from one part of the city to another. Buses, trams, metros, and taxis will take you wherever you need to go. Taxis Amsterdam’s largest taxi company is Taxi Centrale Amsterdam (TCA): +31 20-7777777. You can recognise official taxis by their blue number plates. All taxis are required to issue receipts, and to display their permit inside the car. Taxi stands are located throughout the city, however a phone call is often the most practical option. Public transport The OV-chipkaart is the nationwide public transport chip card for train, bus, tram and metro. The OV-chipkaart has a built-in chip, which you can recharge as often as you like, with credit in Euros or with a day or multi-day travel ticket. The card is available from stations, news agents and supermarkets across the city. For information on public transport in Amsterdam such as prices and timetables go to en.gvb.nl.
Car rental If you are only intending to stay in Amsterdam’s city centre, a car is usually more of a bother than a blessing. With the frequency of trains within the Randstad (the area including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht), it’s also easier to stick to public transport when travelling outside the city’s borders. For longer journeys, all major international car rental companies have offices in Amsterdam and at Schiphol Airport. 28 |
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With everything from multi-storey department stores and exclusive boutiques, to antiques and contemporary Dutch design: Amsterdam inspires even the most discerning shopper. As the city itself is multicultural and diverse, so are the shopping possibilities.
Luxury shopping The P.C. Hooftstraat is Amsterdam’s mini Fifth Avenue and is located in the Museum Quarter neighbourhood. Hardly anywhere in Europe will you see so many luxury cars parked in such a small street. The street is home to leading designer brands including Chanel, Cartier, Louis Vuitton, DKNY, Mulberry, Hermès, Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger. In case you’re not looking for a new outfit, the P.C. Hooftstraat also offers jewelry and home decoration shops. In nearby Van Baerlestraat luxury shopping continues (don’t miss Dutch designer Mart Visser around the corner at Paulus Potterstraat, across from Stedelijk Museum). In Van Baerlestraat you will find designer Paul Noyen for shoes and bags, Pauw fashion for men and women and beauty treatments at Soap and Dr. Fish. Famous Dutch designers, such as Sheila de Vries, have shops on the Cornelis Schuytstraat, which is located very close to the city centre in the upscale Amsterdam South, only four tram stops from Leidseplein. If you’re lucky you may catch a Dutch celebrity shopping or having lunch here. The Amsterdam Hilton hotel, famous for Yoko Ono and John Lennon’s Bed-in, is 180 metres away. Amsterdam Passport
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Shopping
Shop till you drop!
Welcome to
House Brands
the of
Luxury
shopping at
de Bijenkorf Instant cash or credit card Tax Refund De Bijenkorf launched a brand new Tax Free Lounge, which allows non-EU customers to get an instant cash or credit card Tax Refund after shopping. It is the first of its kind - and the only permanently situated one - in the Netherlands and is conveniently located in the centre of Amsterdam. The Lounge, with its luxurious interior, can be found on the fourth floor of the premium department store. The Lounge is also equipped with two self-service kiosks to ease the process, and there are hostesses present to assist customers in several languages. Enjoy Tax Free shopping when spending 50 euros or more.
Shopping
The Beethovenstraat is a lot less crowded than other shopping areas. It is a wide street offering fashion, perfumeries and upscale patisseries. Located in the affluent Amsterdam South district, it’s the perfect place to shop for luxury items at a leisurely pace. The Bijenkorf, located on the Dam Square, has an outstanding selection of high-end brands including Michael Kors, Louis Vuitton and Chanel. Every year in September or October, Bijenkorf has 3 days of sales, called the Crazy Sale Days. If you visit Bijenkorf during one of these days you will soon find yourself surrounded by a frenzy of shoppers. The two main shopping streets in Amsterdam’s city centre are the Kalverstraat and the Leidsestraat. The Leidsestraat features exclusive shops like Filippa K, Karen Millen, Paul Warmer, Shoebaloo and Abercrombie & Fitch. The Kalverstraat is home to the shops you would expect to find in any large European city: H&M, Monki, Urban Outfitters, Nike, Forever 21, Pull & Bear and Zara.
Dam square
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Enjoy walking around, nowhere else will you find so many interesting shops cramped into such a small area of the old town. The area offers a great overview of the architectural style of Amsterdam’s heritage. An ideal neighbourhood to get to know Amsterdam in all its variety and beauty.
The Nine Streets
Tulips, clogs, cheese and delftware Don’t forget to reserve some time for souvenir shopping. On every street corner you will find gift shops, allowing you to bring home some of Amsterdam’s unique character.
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Shopping
Upscale stores & vintage boutiques Located in the heart of the city’s historic canal district, this area of nine narrow streets called the Negen Straatjes, is full of original shops and wonderful eateries. The Negen Straatjes intersect the main canals between the Leidsestraat and the Jordaan district, and are dotted with great restaurants, cafes, bookshops, art galleries, jewellers, boutiques and vintage shops. Fans of vintage clothing can shop at Laura Dols, Episode or Zipper. With an exceptional array of styles and trends for all budgets, this area is truly a shopper’s paradise.
Shopping
Art & antiques Following the construction of the Rijksmuseum in 1900, the Spiegelkwartier emerged as Amsterdam’s centre for antiques and art. It’s the perfect place to shop for these items. Around 70 upscale shops line the streets, offering everything from sculptures and porcelain to jewellery and furniture. Many of the pieces are one-of-a-kind and make ideal mementos of time spent in the Netherlands. When entering the galleries you sometimes feel as if you are in a museum. You can see works by Dutch Masters ranging from Karel Appel to Vermeer. Another centre for antiques and art is the Amsterdam Antiques Centre located on the Elandsgracht. A unique location in the Jordaan neighbourhood, in the heart of Amsterdam. It’s the largest indoor antiques centre of the Netherlands with more than 1,750 square meters of antiques, art and collectables.
BRILLIANT VOUCHER UPON RECEIPT YOU WILL RECEIVE 10% DISCOUNT ON THE GASSAN BRANDS • •
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VAT REFUND OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
Craftsmanship for 70 years Gassan Diamonds Nieuwe Uilenburgerstraat 173 - 175 1011 LN Amsterdam, Holland P +31(0)20-622 5333 I www.gassan.com
City Centre
Amsterdam City Centre Central Amsterdam, the most touristic part of Amsterdam, is the area running from Central Station along the Damrak to Dam square. It’s walking distance from many attractions. Central Station Every day 250,000 people pass through Amsterdam Central Station. The station offers train connections to domestic and international destinations. The impressive Neo-Renaissance building has been open to the public since 1889. Central Station was designed by Petrus J.H. Cuypers - a famous Dutch architect -, assisted by Adolf L. Gendt, who was responsible for the structure of the station’s building and the platform halls.
Amsterdam Central Station
The Royal Palace Amsterdam The Royal Palace in Amsterdam is an imposing building on Dam Square next to the Nieuwe Kerk. It is one of three palaces still used by the Royal Family. This building was originally built as a city hall for the mayor and magistrates of Amsterdam in 1648. In 1808 King Louis Napoleon Bonaparte transformed it into a palace, which it has remained ever since. 36 |
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The Royal Palace Amsterdam
Nieuwe Kerk The Nieuwe Kerk is a 15th century church in Amsterdam, located next to The Royal Palace. After the Oude Kerk (Old Church) became too small for the expanding population of the town, the bishop of Utrecht gave his approval for the construction of a second parish church, the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church). The Nieuwe Kerk managed to escape major damage by two fires in 1421 and 1452, although two centuries later (in 1645) it burnt down almost entirely. After the church was rebuilt, it underwent major renovation in 1892-1914 and 1959-1980, when many neo-Gothic details were added. Nowadays, this gothic building is the site of Royal coronations and weddings, as well as art exhibitions, but not for regular church services. Flower market When you are in Amsterdam make sure you visit the only floating flower market in the world, located between Koningsplein and the Muntplein. From all sorts of tulips to daffodils and other bulbs and flowers; you will surely find them here! You can visit the floating flower market every day of the week between 9 am and 5.30 pm and on Sundays between 11 am and 5.30 pm. Take tram 1, 2 or 5 to Koningsplein.
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City Centre
The Royal Palace houses one of the world’s most extensive collections of Empire style furniture and decorative arts, which includes magnificent hand painted ceilings, marble floors, sculptures and bronze chandeliers from the 17th and 18th centuries.
City centre map
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City Centre
Nieuwmarkt The Nieuwmarkt is one of the city’s oldest squares, located just inside the old city gate. Spend your day people watching on one of the many terraces or enjoy a drink in one of the lively bars. The most remarkable building on the square is De Waag, built in 1488 as part of the medieval city walls. There is a daily market and an organic market on Saturdays. On Sundays you can enjoy the antiques market, which runs from May to October and is open from 9 am to 5 pm. Vondelpark Amsterdam is bursting with green, featuring many beautiful parks. The Vondelpark, the most famous and the busiest park of Amsterdam, is like the backyard of everyone who lives in Amsterdam. A large and lively park right in the centre of the city and the perfect spot for a picnic. It’s the place where people enjoy dog-walking, jogging or lazing about in the grass. In addition to the grass, there are a few places in the Vondelpark to hang out. During the spring and summertime, you can also enjoy free theatre and music at the open air Vondelpark theatre. jordaan The Jordaan, located west of Central Station, was originally a workingclass neighbourhood and is undoubtedly the most sung about, at least by Dutch folk singers. The famous singers Johnny Jordaan and André Hazes, for example, sang their songs on the streets or in the neighbourhood bars. Several of these musicians now have a statue in their memory at the corner of Prinsengracht and Elandsgracht. The Jordaan was developed in 1612 when the city needed to expand. During the 19th century this neighbourhood was the most densely populated area and home to the poorest people. Nowadays, the Jordaan is one of the most expensive and desirable areas in Amsterdam. The Jordaan is known for its narrow streets, beautiful courtyards, brown cafes and the spontaneity and jovial character of its old-fashioned communityoriented residents. When you visit the Jordaan, be sure to explore the Noordermarkt where a flea market is held on Monday mornings and an organic farmer’s market on Saturdays. Sing along in traditional bar Café Nol or visit one of the art galleries, specialty shops or restaurants. Other highlights include the Anne Frank House, Noorderkerk and Westerkerk.
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City Centre Vondelpark
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Amsterdam South
Amsterdam South Amsterdam South is a fashionable and upscale district of Amsterdam. With almost 140,000 inhabitants and 8,500 homes per square kilometre, it is one of the most densely populated areas of Amsterdam. Amsterdam South is considered to be the most posh neighborhood of Amsterdam. The Royal Concertgebouw The Royal Concertgebouw is considered one of the three top concert halls in the world, famous for its acoustics and its first-rate international programming. With more than 700,000 visitors a year it’s also one of the best attended concert halls of the world.
The Royal Concertgebouw
The Museum District The Museum square in Amsterdam is home to some of the world’s most famous masterpieces, and unites 4 of the city’s most prominent cultural institutions. The Rijksmuseum is one of Amsterdam’s grandest museums and has reopened its doors following 10 years of renovation. The museum’s internationally revered collection includes art by Vermeer, Frans Hals and most famously Rembrandt’s Night Watch. If you don’t wish to go inside, you can also walk through the building’s tunnel. Don’t be surprised if you hear a talented kid play the violin or saxophone here, the acoustics are great! Also a fun fact, the tunnel is not only accessible by foot, but cyclists can also pass through the building‘s tunnel. 42 |
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The iconic Dutch post-impressionist artist Vincent van Gogh has a museum dedicated to his work, showcasing his impressive oeuvre on this square. Worth a visit, if you don’t mind waiting in a long queue of art fans. The Van Gogh museum is situated right next to the Stedelijk Museum. The museum is open every day from 9 am until 6 pm. On Friday and Saturdays you can visit until late in the evening, because they are open until 10 pm. The Museum Square includes one of the largest public parks in the city and is surrounded by restaurants, galleries and shops. Often this square is used for large public events such as festivals and concerts. The square enjoys a long history, but was reconstructed in 1999, by Swedish/Danish landscape architect Sven-Ingvar Andersson. Enjoy the atmosphere of this great location, where locals enjoy a picnic on the green grass in the summer time and ice skating in the winter when a large ice skating range is placed on the grass.
The Museum District
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Amsterdam South
The Stedelijk Museum, dedicated to modern and contemporary art and design, is housed in a futuristic construction that has been nicknamed the bathtub. Highlights include works by Malevich, Edward Kienholz, Willem de Kooning, and Andy Warhol. The Stedelijk Museum is open every day from 10 am until 6 pm. On Thursdays you can even visit until late in the evening, they are open until 10 pm!
Amsterdam South
De Pijp Young and old, artists and families; many have chosen to make this buzzing area their home. This is the reason that house prices in this area are amongst the highest in Amsterdam. Nowadays, over 150 nationalities are represented. This neighbourhood is sometimes referred to as Amsterdam’s Latin Quarter. You’ll find countless unique specialty stores, an abundance of cafes and restaurants and the Heineken Brewery. One of the main streets in this area is the Ferdinand Bolstraat, a street named after the artist Ferdinand Bol. Ferdinand Bol was a Dutch artist, etcher and draughtsman. Although his surviving work is rare, Rembrandt’s influence is obvious; Bol favoured historical subjects and portraits. Experience the real Amsterdam and be sure to visit Holland’s most popular street market with its typical Amsterdam sense of humour and atmosphere: The Albert Cuyp Market. It’s located in De Pijp and features 300 vendors selling everything from food to clothes from all corners of the world and of course famous Dutch cheeses and tulips. The street and market are named after Albert Cuyp, a painter from the 17th century.
Albert Cuyp Market
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Amsterdam South Albert Cuyp Market
With a history of over 100 years, the Albert Cuyp Market is the largest and most popular outdoor market in The Netherlands. It started out as a collection of street traders and pushcart vendors in 1904 and expanded over the years. In 1912, the market became a daytime market open six days a week. Nowadays, the Albert Cuyp is opened from Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm. The market attracts more than 40,000 people on an average Saturday. Rivierenbuurt The Rivierenbuurt is part of Amsterdam South and is situated in the southeast of Amsterdam. The Rivierenbuurt was built in the 1920s and 30s as a primarily middle class residential area, part of the ’Plan Zuid’ urban expansion programme designed by Dutch architect H.P. Berlage. The streets in this neighbourhood are named after Dutch rivers, such as the Maas, Waal, Schelde and Rhine. With its quiet wide lanes, trees and Amsterdam School architecture, the Rivierenbuurt is a great place to live and very popular with young families.
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Amsterdam North
Amsterdam North This neighbourhood of Amsterdam is situated to the north of Lake IJmeer, the body of water which separates it from central Amsterdam and the rest of the city. Despite its status of being off the tourist track, Amsterdam North is actually very accessible, creative and fun. North has an industrial feel and many hotspots are popping up. Hop on the free ferry and cross Lake IJmeer to explore this upcoming part of town. NDSM wharf After years of redevelopment, this former wharf is now mainly used as a space for exhibitions and festivals. With its unique atmosphere, it’s definitely worth a visit. Hop on the ferry behind Central Station and visit a whole different world; abandoned boats and trams, graffiti and industrial chimneys are typical for this area. Get inspired by the raw and industrial surroundings and enjoy the view of the IJ. There are many trendy restaurants for a casual lunch or dinner. If you are a vintage lover, it is a must to visit the IJ-hallen flea market; the biggest indoor flea market of Europe! 46  |
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Ferry to Amsterdam North
port of amsterdam The Port of Amsterdam is a seaport located on the bank of a former bay named the IJ and the North Sea Canal. The port was first used in the 13th century and was one of the main ports of the Dutch East India Company in the 17th century. Today, the Port of Amsterdam is the second largest port in the Netherlands. Explore the port area by bike; there are four signposted cycling routes, guided with information boards. Take a port round trip aboard the Peter the Great ship and watch the many ships sailing by; from container ships to gigantic cruise ships.
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Amsterdam North
IJ-hallen De IJ-Hallen is the largest secondhand market in Amsterdam. Once a month, two warehouses are filled with approximately 750 stands selling everything from vintage furniture to clothing. No commercial vendors are allowed, only private ones. Every first weekend of the month the IJ-hallen flea market is open on Saturday and Sunday from 9 am. To get there, you’ll have to take ferry 906 towards NDSM Wharf from Amsterdam Central Station. The trip will take only 15 minutes and once you are on the other side, it is just a 5 minute walk. The entrance fee is €4.50 (adults).
Amsterdam East
Amsterdam East Amsterdam East is one of the upcoming neighbourhoods in Amsterdam. This area lies between the Amstel River in the west and the IJ in the east and has a very different vibe compared to the city centre. Every part of East has its own culture and identity. When it comes to restaurants, there is enough choice for everyone. Besides many cheap ethnic eateries and supermarkets, you’ll find trendy coffee bars, industrial warehouses and concept stores. If you like shopping, visit the Czaar Peter Street and the Javastraat. In this part of town you’ll also find the Tropical Museum, the Botanical Gardens, the Maritime Museum, the Amsterdam NEMO and the Muziekgebouw aan ’t IJ. oosterpark In the east side of the city you will find Oosterpark. With 5.3 million visitors each year, the park has been amongst the most popular in the city for the past 100 years. This park is surrounded by many restaurants and cafes. The locals enjoy sports here, such as running, volleyball, yoga, Tai-chi and meditation. Children and their parents visit the toddlers pool on warmer summerdays.
Photo: Artis, Maarten van der Wal
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Artis Artis, short for Natura Artis Magistra, is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands and one of the oldest zoos of mainland Europe. Founded in 1838, Artis is where nature, culture and heritage come together. Artis is home to approximately 900 species of animals, including zebras, giraffes and elephants. Admire the tropical fish in the monumental Aquarium, surround yourself with thousands of butterflies or visit the Planetarium; a visual exhibit on stars and space. Micropia is a new addition, the first museum of microbes, the invisible and most powerful life forms on earth. The zoo is beautifully landscaped and contains fine listed buildings. Artis is open daily and is located on the Plantage Kerklaan.
Natura Artis Magistra
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Amsterdam East
Dappermarkt De Dappermarkt in Amsterdam is located along the Dapperstraat in the east of Amsterdam. This is a multicultural neighbourhood with residents from Surinam, Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe. The market is the place for inexpensive grocery shopping. In addition to the 200 market stalls, this area is full of cafes and interesting shops. Not only can you buy exotic food, but it is also a perfect spot for clothes and shoes. In 2007, this market was voted a ‘Top 10 Shopping Destination’ in the National Geographic Magazine, enhancing its reputation as one of the best markets in Europe. The Dappermarkt is located within walking distance of the Oosterpark. By public transport, you can reach the market using bus 22 or 42 or tram 3, 7, 9 or 14.
Amsterdam West
Amsterdam West Amsterdam West combines the former districts Westerpark, OudWest, De Baarsjes and Bos en Lommer. The area is popular for its proximity to Vondelpark, Leidseplein, Jordaan and the city centre. It includes a good selection of restaurants and shops. Bos en Lommer Bos and Lommer literally means forest and shade. This diverse and family-oriented neighbourhood is located in the newer part of the west of Amsterdam and is known for its multicultural atmosphere. The area is home to 127 of the 180 nationalities that call Amsterdam home. Highlights of this area include the wholesale market complex Markthallen, the outdoor market on the newly renovated Bos en Lommerplein, the green Erasmuspark and Podium Mozaiek, a multicultural theatre cafe located in a former church. De Baarsjes An up-and-coming Amsterdam neighbourhood with young and multicultural residents. Although it has a reputation for being an edgy spot, it’s worth a visit. De Baarsjes is one of the city’s most multicultural neighbourhoods with 126 different nationalities, including Surinamese, Turkish and Moroccan families. It’s the ultimate place to go for high quality, cheap ethnic food. The well-known Mercatorplein was designed by the internationally renowned architect HP Berlage in 1927. Visit Edel for its fantastic waterside terrace, the Witte de Withstraat if you are looking for art and culture projects and the Jan Evertsestraat if you enjoy shopping. Oud-West This small residential area has become quite trendy during the last few years. With lots of organic food (Marqt being a good example), children’s and baby clothing and trendy coffee bars, it is very popular with young families. Overtoom is one of its main streets, well packed with restaurants and cafes. Westerpark The area derives its name from the Westerpark. It has some 35,000 inhabitants and it’s close to the centre of Amsterdam. Westerpark is famous for its former gas factory, the Westergasfabriek. 50 |
Amsterdam Passport
Westergasfabriek In the west of the city, not far from Central Station you will find the 14 hectare Westergasfabriek site. At the end of the 19th century two coal gas complexes were built in Amsterdam. One of them was Westergasfabriek. Originally the gas was used for street lighting. In 1967, the Westergasfabriek ceased the production of gas as the city council started sourcing more and more of its gas from blast furnaces in IJmuiden and from Slochteren. By the time the factory shut down, the site was heavily polluted, making it difficult to find a new purpose for the area. For a short period of time it was used for storage and as a workshop area. From 1992, the buildings were used temporarily for creative and cultural activities. Adventurous entrepreneurs and artists flocked to the site. Now, Westergasfabriek is the city’s hotspot for creative buzz, with fairs, festivals and clubs drawing in visitors on a daily basis.
Westergasfabriek
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Amsterdam West
It’s a unique complex of industrial architecture from 1883. The red brick buildings now accommodate cultural institutions, such as film theatre Ketelhuis and MC Theater, and many restaurants with terraces.
canals
Breathtaking canals Amsterdam is famous for its wonderful canals. It has more than one hundred kilometres of canals with 1,500 bridges. The canals, known as the Grachtengordel (canal rings) were recently included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List. The three main canals, Herengracht, Prinsengracht, and Keizersgracht, were dug in the 17th century during the Dutch Golden Age. They form concentric belts around the city. The canal ring is lined with centuries-old gabled canal houses and 1550 monumental buildings. The best way to see Amsterdam’s architecture and countless famous sights is from the canals.
History Water plays an important role in Amsterdam. The city was founded around 1250 with the building of the dam that gave it its name. ‘Aeme Stelle Redamme’ is Medieval Dutch for: Dam in a Watery Area. The first canals were dug for water management and defence. The last part of the river leading to the dam was filled in, in 1922, and now connects Central Station to Dam Square. This street is called Damrak, which is Dutch for last section of the river. Today, a metro tunnel is located in the old riverbed. 52 |
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Herengracht (Gentlemen’s Canal) The Herengracht is considered to be the most important canal in Amsterdam. In the 17th century, the richest merchants, the mayors and the most influential regents of the city resided on this canal. Since 1927, Herengracht 502, which is sometimes referred to as the House with the Columns, is the official residence of the mayor of Amsterdam. In 1926, the president of the Nederlandsche Handel-Maatschappij, Johannes Karel van Aalst, donated the house to the city for use by the mayor. Today, the first floor and the main floor are used for receptions. The second floor is a meeting room and the attic floors are in use as the private residence of the mayor.
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canals
Singel The bridges that cross the Singel are breathtakingly beautiful. Did you know that Amsterdam has more bridges than Venice? Venice has 409 bridges, Amsterdam has 1281 bridges, three times as many! The Singel is lined by richly decorated canal houses built during the Dutch Golden Age.
canals
Keizersgracht (EmpEror’s Canal) The Keizersgracht is named after emperor Maximillian of Austria. The digging of this canal started in 1612. Originally a wide boulevard without water was planned here, but the future residents wanted a canal in front of their homes, so they could reach them by boat. Along the Keizersgracht you will find various canal houses. At Keizersgracht no 672 one of the oldest canal houses of Amsterdam is located. Seven days a week the house is open to the public. In the rooms, a large collection of paintings, fine furniture, silver and porcelain from different centuries is on display. Behind the house is a beautiful garden, a quiet green oasis in the busy city centre. The garden is laid out in formal style, and is bordered by the classical façade of the house. This is a unique chance to see the inside of a typical canal house so make sure to visit Museum van Loon. Prinsengracht (Princes’ Canal) The Prinsengracht is the longest of the main canals in Amsterdam. The canal is named after the Prince of Orange. Most of the canal houses along it were built during the Dutch Golden Age. The bridges over the Prinsengracht canal connect with the streets in the Jordaan. Sites worth visiting include: the Noorderkerk (Northern Church), the Noordermarkt (Northern Market), Amsterdam’s highest church (the Westerkerk) and the Homomonument (Gay Monument).
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The Amstel river continues all the way to Ouderkerk aan de Amstel, which is a charming little village to visit. Amstel’s river banks in the city are very lively, especially during the summer. Many cafes have terraces on the water, an excellent spot to enjoy an Amstel beer. Amstel beer is named after the river. The Amstel brewery and many other breweries, were situated close to the Amstel river because clean river water was used to produce the beer.
‘Skinny Bridge’, Amstel
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canals
Amstel Many of Amsterdam’s famous bridges cross the Amstel River including the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) and the Blauwbrug. The Magere Brug is featured in James Bond film Diamonds are Forever.
houseboat
Living on a beautiful canal: a chat with houseboat residents Sander & Ellen
Tell us a little bit about yourself We’ve been living on our houseboat for 12 years, after I bought the more than 100 year old boat I met Sander and he moved in and a couple of years later our daughter was born. It was a totally impulsive decision to buy the boat, I saw it and it was love at first sight . I had no idea what it meant to live on the water, but I can tell you now that I have never regretted my decision. I guess it’s something you either love or hate! What are the differences with living in a regular house? Boats require a lot of maintenance and upkeep. You can’t shop at IKEA, everything needs to be custom made. As everything is constructed out of wood you can literally use a saw to remodel your house. Our daughter for example sleeps in a cupboard bed that we made for her. The seasons are a totally different experience from the water, when the canals freeze we have to keep the area around the boat free from ice, storms make you feel quite vulnerable and fine summer days bring hordes of tourists and traffic on the canals. We always see many smiling faces around us, and people wave at us when they see us on our boat. Many can’t believe that we really live on a boat! Even though it’s crowded all around us, people respect our privacy so we never feel uncomfortable. 56 |
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“We always see many smiling faces around us, and people wave at us when they see us on our boat.” Can your house boat move around? There are types of houseboats that can sail and types that can’t. Our boat has a motor but we never use it. When you purchase a boat you also purchase the right to leave your boat in the canal, but you don’t own the water! Is there a sense of community between people who live on house boats? Many people keep to themselves, but there is a high level of social control. For instance, one of our neighbours had a frozen water pipe when he was on holiday. This could have had drastic consequences, his boat could have sunk, but luckily we were able to warn him before anything happened!
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houseboat
What is it like to live in the centre of a busy and touristic city? The only days that are extremely busy are the Canal Parade (part of Gay Pride) and King’s Day. On both of these days there is a lot of traffic on the canals, so much that you can’t see the water! Over the years we have got to know lots of people who have little boats and the same people return every year to moor their boats around our houseboat to enjoy the festivities. While they have a perfect spot to enjoy drinks with their friends, their presence gives us a sense of security forming a buffer from the hectic celebrations all around us. We even got to meet Queen Máxima once, who complimented us on our unique house, quite an honour!
DINING
From quick snack to exclusive dining Looking for a quick snack, a refreshing drink or a three-course dinner? Amsterdam is home to many cultures and flavours. From informal cafes and historical bars to Michelin Star restaurants, Amsterdam provides every option imaginable. The Foodhallen Looking for a quick snack or a refreshing drink? Foodies will enjoy visiting the Foodhallen, located in a former tram shed on Bellamyplein in Amsterdam West. At this indoor food market you will find 21 different stands of local food entrepreneurs. From croquettes and sushi to a cheese platter or Vietnamese snack; drop by for every option imaginable. Due to its industrial design and relaxed vibe, this market takes eating out in Amsterdam to a whole different level! The Foodhallen is part of a complex hall of 16,000 sqm with a movie theatre, a library, a hotel, TV studios, workshops and restaurants. On weekdays this indoor food market is open from 11 am to 8 pm and in the weekends until 9 pm or even longer. When you visit the Foodhallen, remember not to forget to take a look at the outdoor Ten Kate market outside the complex.
The Foodhallen
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DINING
Try real Dutch food The Dutch are well-known for many things: from windmills, many bikes to tulips and museums filled with art. When it comes to food, there are also typical Dutch dishes. Try at least some of the traditional Dutch food items in the list below while you are visiting Amsterdam. Fresh herring In Holland, people have been eating raw herring for over 600 years. Maybe it is a bit strange to eat a raw fish but it is very popular in Amsterdam! Try ‘Hollands Nieuwe’, the first herring of the fishing season between May and July. Dutch herring are traditionally eaten by holding the fish by the tail high above your head. Most Amsterdammers eat their herring topped with chopped onions and pickles. You can buy herring all around Amsterdam, especially at street stands.
Fresh herring
Pannenkoeken ‘Pannenkoeken’ are common around the world, but the Dutch version of the pancake is thinner and larger than the American one. Pancakes are often eaten with bacon, apples, cheese, raisins, stroop (Dutch sugar syrup) or icing sugar and are sometimes rolled up and eaten by hand. Kroket Have you already tried a Dutch ‘kroket’? This delicious, deep-fried snack, filled with meat ragu and served with spicy mustard, is definitely a must-try! Enjoy it as a sandwich on a soft bun: you can get them at the famous ‘food from the wall’ spots in Amsterdam. ‘Bitterballen’ are a smaller version of kroketten. If you’ve never tasted one, order them at a cafe as the perfect accompaniment to a beer! 62 |
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DINING Bitterballen
Stroopwafel You cannot visit Amsterdam without stumbling across the famous ‘stroopwafel’, a waffle made from two layers of baked dough with caramel-like syrup filling in the middle. It’s a tasty treat, especially when freshly baked! If you aren’t lucky enough to buy them fresh and warm at a ‘stroopwafel’ stall, you can always buy them at a supermarket. cheese The Dutch produce 350 million kilos of cheese every year. On average the Dutch eat 14.3 kilos of cheese per person per year! No wonder that the Netherlands has a worldwide reputation for being a cheese country. Try delicious Dutch cheese yourself and taste the flavours of many different regions of Holland. Visit L’Amuse on the Stadionweg, De Kaaskamer in the Jordaan or Kaashuis Tromp on the Utrechtsestraat or Elandsgracht. The most renowned perhaps is the Reypenaer Shop and Tasting Room (on Singel). Drop The Dutch love liquorice or, as we call it, ‘drop’. With more than 2 kilograms per year per person, the Dutch consumption of liquorice is the highest in the world. The candy is available in sweet and salty versions and in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, including coins, shoelaces, cat and herring shapes, to name only a few.
Cheese
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DINING
High-end dining Amsterdam has a lot to offer when it comes to quality, high-end dining. The city is proud to have a total number of 11 Michelin-star chefs, who have been awarded a combined number of fourteen Michelin stars – three restaurants were awarded 2 stars, and eight restaurants received 1 star. The restaurants vary greatly in ambiance and location; from restaurants located in a top-end hotel, to small cosy restaurants tucked away in a canal house in the city centre and modern restaurants in newly developed trendy areas with a great view of Lake IJmeer. The food that is on offer is also varied; from Asian and fusion to French fine-dining, everybody who has a love for good food and wine, great service and a special ambiance, can find a place to spoil their taste buds in Amsterdam. The Michelin-star restaurants in Amsterdam in 2015 are: &Samhoud Places, Bord’Eau, Bridges, Halvemaan, La Rive, Vermeer, Vinkeles, Yamazato Restaurant, Ciel Bleu, Le Restaurant, RON Gastrobar, Librije’s Zusje, Restaurant Sinne, Sazanka in Hotel Okura and Lastage. Most offer both lunch and dinner, and they are all within easy reach by taxi from anywhere in the city. Especially later in the week and in the weekends, these restaurants tend to be fully booked well in advance, so try to make a reservation as soon as you can to ensure you get a good taste of the gastronomic side of the city. hotel bars Hotel bars provide a good atmosphere for a business drink or meeting. Young professionals choose hotel bars more and more often for their networking or business meetings. Almost every Friday you will find the popular VrijMiBo or ‘vrijdagmiddagborrel’ (Friday afternoon drinks), the traditional start of the weekend in hotel bars and cocktail bars. Cocktail bars For a delightful evening out, stop by one of Amsterdam’s cocktail bars to sip a well-made classic or inventive new mix. No matter where you go, the cocktail menu is often extensive and filled with surprises. Many cocktail bars also serve food, ranging from snacks to the possibility to sit down for dinner.
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Red Light District
Red Light District The famous Red Light District, also known as De Wallen or Rosse buurt (red neighbourhood), is located in the city centre. In the 1960s window prostitution was legalized and it has enjoyed a long tradition of tolerance. Since October 2000, window prostitutes have been allowed to legally practise their trade but regulations for prostitution became much stricter in 2006 in order to restrict criminal activities. The Red Light District leaves very little to the imagination. Women of all nationalities show off their curves in windows lit up with red lights. Don’t forget that taking photos of the working ladies is strictly forbidden! The Red Light District is located in the oldest part of Amsterdam, boasting a long and rich history. This area is located on the Oudezijds Achterburgwal, once home to 16 different convents and monasteries. Nowadays the street is filled with windows, sex shops and of course the famous Casa Rosso.
Red Light District
Experience the Dutch Golden Age in a special way on the Oudezijds Voorburgwal. Visit the museum Our Lord in the Attic (in Dutch Ons’ Lieve Heer op Zolder), a 17th century house with a top floor converted into a church. Jan Hartman bought this house and the two adjacent buildings on Heintje Hoekssteeg 350 years ago. He had the attics of the three houses rebuilt into a Catholic church conforming to the conventions of the day, yet nothing on the outside suggests that there was a church inside. 66 |
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Red Light District Oudezijds Achterburgwal
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Outside Amsterdam
Outside Amsterdam Volendam After only a 20 minute drive from Amsterdam, you will find the world famous fisherman’s village Volendam. This village has preserved its unique character for over six centuries. The characteristic and picturesque small houses, narrow streets, fishing boats and canals are well worth the visit. Don’t forget to eat eel or other fish specialties. It is guaranteed to be the freshest and the best you can eat in the country. Zaanse Schans The Zaanse Schans is almost like an open-air museum, located just 20 minutes outside Amsterdam in Zaanstad. Admire the wooden windmills, barns, houses and museums and see what life was like in the 17th and 18th century. Enjoy viewing the typically Dutch wooden architectural style, relocated here piece by piece since 1961 and watch traditional crafts such as clog and cheese making. Take a boat trip, dine in one of the restaurants or explore the shops and boutiques. Admission to the Zaanse Schans is free of charge, there is a separate charge for some of the attractions. Keukenhof (open 24 March 2016 until 16 May 2016) Keukenhof (kitchen courtyard in Dutch) is one of Holland’s largest flower gardens, with a special emphasis on flowering bulbs. Every spring, Keukenhof attracts thousands of visitors from across the world who admire the sea of flowers and the fresh smells of hundreds of different types of Holland’s favourite flower, the tulip. The site has a rich history. During the 15th century, game was hunted and food collected in the region’s untamed woods and dunes for the kitchens of the castle of Jacoba van Beieren. This is where Keukenhof gets its name. The landscape architects who designed Amsterdam’s Vondelpark redesigned the castle gardens in 1857. The very first flower exhibition was held in 1949 and it has been an annual event ever since. Alkmaar Cheese Market About 30 minutes from Amsterdam, you can visit the Alkmaar cheese market. Every Friday at 10 am at Waagplein, special carriers bring out local Alkmaar cheese and fill the square with cheese. Volunteers show you how the cheese was carried, weighed, tasted and sold in the 16th and 17th century. 68 |
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Tulip field
Events
Events Amsterdam Dance Event | 14 - 18 October 2015 The Amsterdam Dance Event, or ADE as it is also called, is one of the biggest dance festivals in the world. For five days, electronic music lovers can visit over 300 dance events that are held around the city. The event attracts over 300,000 visitors from all over the world. Amsterdam Marathon | 18 October 2015 For almost 40 years, thousands of international runners have flocked to Amsterdam on the third Sunday in October to run through the city for a Kids’ Run, an 8K run, a half marathon or the marathon. The marathon is known for its fast track as there are no hills or mountains around the city. Its course takes you along some of the city’s best known and often historical locations. With over 40,000 participants, the Amsterdam Marathon is only slightly less popular than the Damloop during which 60,000 participants run from Amsterdam to Zaandam, a 10 mile run. Nonetheless, the city is filled with music and very enthusiastic spectators. As the marathon course runs through the city, please note that trams and buses are be diverted.
Amsterdam Marathon
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Events Amsterdam Light Festival
Museum Night | 7 november 2015 Every year, during a night in November dozens of museums are open from 7 pm until 2 am. With one ticket you can visit all of them (if only there was enough time!). Many museums offer free drinks, guided tours and workshops free of charge or for a reduced price during this night. Amsterdam Light Festival | 26 november - 18 january 2016 In the winter Amsterdam lights up during the Amsterdam Light Festival. For 50 days, the inner city transforms into an art and light spectacle. Every year artists are challenged to create a piece of light-art within a specific theme. In order to see the art, you can take a free walking route (called Illuminade) through the historical part of the city, or buy a ticket for a special boat ride (called Water Colors) with a guided tour that will explain the art to you while you enjoy the city.
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Kingsday
Sinterklaas | 5 december 2015 Sinterklaas is a traditional winter celebration for children based on 4th century Saint Nicholas. He had a reputation for secret gift-giving, by leaving presents in children’s shoes, and he later became the inspiration for Santa Claus, whose modern name comes from the Dutch Sinterklaas. Sinterklaas is celebrated annually by giving of gifts on Sinterklaas’ eve. National Tulip Day | 16 january 2016 The official start of the Dutch tulip season on National Tulip Day, starts on Dam Square in Amsterdam. The event is organised by Dutch tulip growers who for the occasion build a special tulip garden on Dam Square. The huge garden is filled with over 200,000 of the most colourful tulips and everyone is invited to pick free tulips here. King’s Day | 27 april 2016 During this festive day, the Dutch celebrate King Willem-Alexander’s birthday. In every city King’s Day, which is a bank holiday, starts with drinks and music during King’s Night on 26 April. On the 27th children and adults alike empty out their basements and attics and try to sell their old belongings. Streets and parks fill up with blankets and tables upon 72 |
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Liberation Day | 5 may 2016 Liberation Day is celebrated each year on May 5th to mark the end of the occupation by Nazi Germany during World War II.To this day celebrations are held throughout the country, many as Liberation Festivals with music and theatre performances. On the 4th of May at 8 pm the Dutch remember those who lost their lives during and since WWII and there is a two minute silence held throughout the country (Dodenherdenking – Remembrance of the Dead). On Dam Square the King and Queen lay down flowers at the National Monument.
Gay Pride
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Events
which products and foods are displayed for low prices, and bargaining is playfully enjoyed. Everywhere in the city you will find stages and several large music festivals are organized.
Events
Amsterdam Gay Pride | 5 - 7 august 2016 Every first weekend of August the city is filled with music to raise awareness and celebrate Gay Pride. For several days and nights the streets and squares of the city are alive with festivities. On Saturday the Canal Parade takes place, starting at 1:30 pm). Make sure you find a spot with a good view of the canal as it gets very busy! Uitmarkt | 26 - 28 august 2016 The Uitmarkt is the national opening of the cultural season and is held during the last weekend of August. The Uitmarkt has taken place for over 35 years and has evolved into a festival attracting 500,000 visitors who visit performances at over 30 venues in the city. The performances are mostly snippets from theatre shows that will tour the country in the upcoming season. They are all free of charge. The festival takes place at two primary locations, for example larger squares such as Museumsquare or Leidsesquare. Musical and theatre performances are held at numerous theatres, museums and venues near the two primary locations.
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