Travel Guide Tuesday||Amsterdam,The Netherlands
If you have been following my plans for Christmas/New Year this year you will already know that the original plans were to spend the break in Paris. Well unfortunately after the recent attacks last month we decided to postpone our trip as we didn't really feel very safe to continue with our plans over the festive period.
The big decision which came next was 'Where shall we go instead?' we already knew we weren't spending in at home in London and as we had flights booked with Easyjet already we knew it would be relatively cheap to change them. So we opted for Amsterdam instead. This is somewhere I have never been to before but done lots of research on it and have been very intrigued by the City ever since.
My Last Travel Guide Tuesday post for this month is all about my planned trip to Amsterdam for Christmas/New Year. Hope you enjoy reading all about it.
The Facts||Amsterdam
Some notable figures who were from Amsterdam include Ann Frank, Vincent Van Gough and the philosopher Baruch Spinoza. Ann Frank House and the Vincent Van Gouch Museum are both found in the city centre (more on both later).
Amsterdam is know for a few different things which draw millions of visitors in each year and it is a very diverse City. Later on in this post I will go through a few of the most loved things you can see/do here.
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| Photo Credit: ytravelblog |
How to get here||Flights
Getting to Amsterdam from the UK couldn't be quicker or easier. Most airlines offer direct flights to Schiphol Airport Amsterdam. We booked our direct flights with Easyjet from London Gatwick.
Other carriers include British Airways, KLM, Flyebe, Cityjet, Blue Islands, Jet2 and Garuda which all offer direct flights from the UK.
Other airlines to fly to schiphol is Air France, Lufhansa, Aer Lingus, Swiss, SAS, Norwegian and Germanwings.
What to do||Sightseeing
Amsterdam is one of Europe's popular destinations especially amongst the younger crowd. There is lots going on in the city here's a few things you should put on your bucket lists...
#Canal Tours
Amsterdam is well known for its Canals. There are 165 in total in the city. Amsterdam's nickname is 'Venice of the North' but it actually has more canals than Venice.
There are also an extortionate amount of bridges around the city- 1,281 in total. So it is quite easy now to see why more people choose to walk around or cycle. A nice way to see the City in a different light is by going on a boat or canal tour. There are many to choose from and you can either book one for in the day or the evening. I would suggest booking them online from reputable companies as opposed to waiting till you get there, you can usually save a lot of money doing it this way.
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| Photo Credit: Wikimedia |
-Tours-
From 29 Euros pp
What you get:
Canal sightseeing cruise on a luxury glass-topped Canal boat and entrance to Amsterdam's 'Xtracold Ice Bar', where you can see lots of famous sights including Ann Frank House and the 'Skinny Bridge' (pictured above).
Enjoy 2 complimentary drinks of your choice
Take part in a 3d ride in the Ice Bar.
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| Photo Credit: I am Amsterdam |
Evening Cruise
From 17.50 Euros pp (online only)
What you get:
90 minute tour around some of Amsterdam's highlights as well as a tour through parts of the Red Light District.
One complimentary drink of your choice.
Personal audio system in 19 languages
Departure Info:
Depart from Stadhouderskade 78 (Opposite the Heineken Experience)
Departs at 8:15pm
Tour lasts 90 minutes
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| Photo Credit: Amsterdam Canal Cruises |
-Visit a Park-
The great thing about Amsterdam is that is full to the brim of green spaces and parks. According to the website Amsterdam.info website there are 'about 30 parks in the official list' in Amsterdam. That is a lot of Parks for one small city!! The largest city park is called 'Vondelpark' (45 hectares).
'Vondelpark' is also considered the most famous in The Netherlands. It is open to around 8 million visitors each year and in the summer months holds many events in the open-air theatre.
'Vondelpark' is situated near to the street 1e Constantijn Huygensstraat.
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| Photo Credit: Smart Layover |
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| Photo Credit: A blonde and her passport |
-Rent Bikes and Explore-
So this point kind of originates from the above, as I wrote about parks and green spaces I thought why not rent a couple of bikes and explore the city. Bike riding is very popular in the city and it is not unusual to see many cyclists around- it is the main way to get about in the city. They have lots of special bike lanes scattered around the city so if you are a bit of a novice or out of practise you won't feel like you are getting in pedestrian's way.
-Walk through the Red Light
District-
The Red Light District is always a controversial topic, but at the end of the day who really comes to Amsterdam and leaves without at least having a peak? I am travelling as part of a couple so for us visiting the RLD is purely out of interest and wonder. I have been intrigued by the whole concept and history of the RLD for a very long time now.
I have read many forums which outline exactly what to do and what not to do when visiting! I have recently learnt that you cannot take photos in the area and that you may get chased by angry bodyguards/pimps if you dare even get your phone or camera out! I have also read about the drugs and dealers around the area so will be avoiding them at all costs.
I think if you are sensible there act with respect and don't stay too long the experience should be a good one!
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| Photo Credit: Destinations Abroad |
-Coffee Shops-
Not to be confused with cafes which sell Coffee, these 'Coffee Shops' are shops which actually sell cannabis, which is legal in Amsterdam. (Only when smoke'n in these Coffee Shops though). There are lots scattered around the city and very popular amongst tourists. If you are looking for one to visit make sure you go to 'The Bulldog' which is located at Leidseplein 17' this coffee shop is the first one to have opened in Amsterdam so this one is very very popular. (Opened in 1985, the building is a former Police Station).
It is also a cocktail bar so more people come to this one because most coffee shops are not actually allowed to sell alcohol and cannabis alongside each other.
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| Photo Credit :Dutchamsterdam |
-Museums and other Attractions-
I honestly don't think any trip to Amsterdam would be complete without visiting a couple of museums. Amsterdam Museums are world class.
Where to Sleep||Hotels
There are loads of great hotels here in Amsterdam. One thing to note however is that the prices are quite a bit above the average you would normally spend on a hotel room in Europe. Even budget hotels can be pricey so you need to do your research before you book anything.
We have decided to spend our time in pure luxury (something we love to do on holiday) and have booked a 3 night stay in 'The Sofitel Legend Grand Hotel' which is situated in the centre of town- a 2 minute walk from one of Amsterdam's Red Light Districts. (Not sure how I feel about this yet) It is near Dam Square and overlooks the Canal It is central to lots of great bars and restaurants.
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| Photo Credit: Prestigious Venues |
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| Photo Credit: booking.com |
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| Photo Credit: Via Luxury |
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| Photo Credit: Trip Advisor |
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| Photo Credit: Travelmodus |
Where to Eat||Restaurants
Amsterdam has some fantastic restaurants and cafes to suit all budgets here is my guide of some of the best picks.
'Ciel Bleu'
Location: Okura Hotel, Ferdinand Bolstraat 333
If sophistication and attention to detail is your thing make sure you check out 'Ciel Bleu' restaurant on the 23rd floor of the Okura Hotel. The Hotel boasts 2 Michelin stars and some of the best views of the City. The extensive menu on offer changes four times a year so even the most frequent diners and guests here can have a different taste sensation each time they visit.
According to the reviews the most recommended thing to try here is the Tasting Menu- which of course can be shared. Why not check out some of Ciel Bleu's amazing reviews here.
Ciel Bleu is open Monday-Friday 6:3o pm until 10:30 pm and closed Sundays.
Book to avoid disappointment.
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| Photo Credit: Youropi |
'Blue, Amsterdam'
Location: 3rd Floor, Kalvertoren Shopping Center, Singel 457
Not to be confused with the 2 Michelin Star restaurant above, this cafe/restaurant is a lot more laid back and casual. The only real similarities of this place and the one above is the fact they are both located high up and have amazing views of the City (Blue has 360 views) and perhaps the names of both could be confusing to tourists. Both restaurants give very DIFFERENT dining experience and have very different menu's which is reflected in the price tag. Even though this place doesn't have a Michelin star it is still worthy of good reviews and there is usually no need to make any reservations- although you may wish to do so and it can get busy at times.
Check out the reviews and info here.
Blue is open Monday-Friday 11-6:30pm and is open late on Thursday till 9:00pm.
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| Photo Credit: 10best |
-Gauchos- Spuistraat-
Location: Spuistraat 3e (Overlooking main Amsterdam Street)
For those that follow this blog you should all know I LOVE steak especially a nice Argentinian Steak and Gauchos is my all time favourite Steakhouse chain. (will be doing a steak related post in the New Year) so when I saw that Amsterdam also had an Argentinian Steakhouse with the same name it got me thinking... What if it is THE Gauchos? it then got me thinking... What if its not? Do I really want to get my hopes up only to be let down. Well this is one restaurant I will be going to in order to find out if it is the real deal.
If you love steak too you should check it out, there are a few scattered all over the City but this one should be the easiest to find as it right on the main street (not far from the Sex Museum). You may need to book in advance.
Gauchos is open Monday-Sunday at 5:00pm till 11:00pm.
Where to Party||Clubs/Bars
So once you have had a bite to eat you are probably thinking about drinks and where all the night life is? Well Amsterdam has some fantastic night life and as this is a special New Years post here are some places you should check out for this years celebrations.
'Xtracold Ice Bar'
Location: Amstel 194-196
No City break would be complete without a trip to the Ice Bar! I have been two a couple now, 1 in London and 1 in Rome a few months back. Although you can pretty much guarantee the experience will be the same- COLD the interior design and layout of the ice bar differs in each country. So you know exactly what to expect before you arrive make sure you read the terms and conditions on the website or to be sure ask the company directly.
You will usually go into the Ice bar for 40 minutes (if you want to stay in longer you will need to purchase additional tickets)
You will receive a thermal cape and mittens for the duration of your experience (you will need to give these back when you come out)
You will also receive 1 drinks voucher of an alcoholic drink or an non-alcoholic drink of your choice. There is options to buy additional drinks.
The opening hours are as follows:
Daily 12.45 pm-1.00 am
Friday-12.45 pm- 1.00 am
Saturday-12.00-2:30 am
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| Photo Credit: Expendia |
'Supperclub'
Location: Singel 460
When I saw the reviews for this bar/club I really wanted to give it a visit. I love how unique its set up inside is. It is one of the first clubs I have come across that actually has giant bed/loungers inside! As someone who loves to lounge with friends over some great cocktails this please really appeals to me.
If you get a bit peckish you can also grab a bite to eat here. They often have performers on set days too so if this is something of interest you should definitely check out their website here and see what events they have coming up.
Opening Times:
Sunday-Tuesday 7.30 pm-1.00 am
Wednesday 7.30 pm-2.oo am
Thursday-Saturday 7.3o pm-4.00 am
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| Photo Credit: Drafted Magazine So there we have a couple of clubs and bars which I recommend you check out if you are looking for a great night out. Getting Around||Transport So you may already know that Amsterdam is quite hard to get around in a car (too many canals to watch out for) most locals choose to either walk around or bike!! You will see thousands of bikes in the city. Amsterdam also has a metro which is relatively new compared to some operating in Europe (It opened in 1977). There are currently 4 lines (or routes) with 52 stations. The Metro opens from 6am and stops at around midnight (with some journeys ending earlier) Below are the different routes and where they go from/to... Route 50- Ring Line, East Line Going from Isolaterweg to Gein Route 51- Amstelveen Line, East Line Going from Westwijk to Central Station Route 53- East Line, Gaasperplas Going from Gaasperplas to Central Station Route 54- East Line, Gein Going from Gein to Central Station There is also a Route 52 (North to South Line) which is currently under construction and expected to open in 2017. Tickets... You can purchase paper tickets for short journeys or one-off journeys which cost 2.90 Euros for 1 hour. You can also get tickets which are valid for 1 to 7 days as well. If your journey is a return and exceeds 1 hour it is suggested that you purchase a multi-day ticket instead. You may want to invest in a an OV-Chipcard (a bit like the Oyster card in London) it costs 7.50 euros and can be purchased from most stations/shops. It doesn't come already with credit, you have to put this on yourself by downloading it on from a special machine located at stations and most supermarkets.  |
As this post is all about spending New Years in Amsterdam I thought I would put a little list of tips together to make sure you have fun and safe celebrations this year.
-Things to remember and tips, to enjoy New Years in Amsterdam-
1. The City is FULL on NYE, meaning that all Hotels, Restaurants/Bars, Clubs and most events will be fully booked. To avoid disappointment make sure you book all your events/attractions well in advance. I would even suggest sorting it all out before you arrive in Amsterdam. Remember as well that Hotel prices usually DOUBLE around the festive period. Don't delay your booking!
2. There are lots of street celebrations held every year on NYE, remember if you are travelling with small children be careful and keep them safe and in sight at all times! It is not uncommon for people in the crowds (mainly the Dutch youths) to let off fireworks and crackers. This is usually just a way of them celebrating and 9/10 no one gets harmed but just remember this if you are travelling with children. If you feel troubled make sure you report to the Police or Crowd Control team. They usually have both services scattered around the City for your safety. Be sure to read these handy tips on safety in Amsterdam from the Trip Advisor website.
3. If you are wanting to see in the New Year in a club or a bar keep in mind there will be entry fees or ticket prices which are usually set at higher rates this time of the year. (Expect rates to be from 45-80 Euros pp) it is definitely worth planning ahead and buying tickets online they are usually cheaper this way.
4. If you are planning to take a walk through the Red Light District remember to be careful at night. Never take photographs of the workers (unless you don't mind losing your Camera/Phone and getting chased by some very angry security) be respectful to the workers at all times, they are trying to make a living after all and shouting abuse or leering at them is definitely something they don't tolerate. Also be aware you do get the odd drug pusher who will usually pester you to buy drugs off of them! Remember buying drugs from the streets are still illegal in Amsterdam as they are everywhere else in Europe. Do not speak to these people just walk on by they usually leave you alone and move on to the next person that comes along!
5. Keep in mind that roads are usually closed off on the evening of NYE and public transport usually winds down from about 8pm. The roads close due to the crowds and street celebrations, so plan your routes accordingly and remember you may not be able to get a taxi so don't stray too far out of the City.
And lastly, be sensible when drinking on the streets or when drunk on the streets. Say no to street drug dealers offering drugs (usually only found in the RLD) and report anything you think is suspicious to a member of authority. Most of all remember to have fun, meet lots of new friends and don't miss the countdown at midnight!!
So there we have a few ideas and recommendations of how you could spend your New Years in Amsterdam. If like me you will be celebrating this year in the City be sure to let me know... I would love to know what your plans are.
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| Photo Credit: Best travel tips |
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