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Amsterdam, the capital and largest city of the Netherlands, has a population of approximately 1.1 million. Located in North Holland, a western province of the country, it is a world-renowned cosmopolitan city. Originally a small fishing village in the late 12th century, Amsterdam rapidly became a major port during the Dutch Golden Age, thanks to the growth of trade. During that era, the city was a center of finance and diamonds. It is now Europe's fourth-largest airport (after London, Paris, and Frankfurt).
Amsterdam boasts numerous tourist attractions, including its historic canal network, the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House, the Red Light District, and numerous cannabis-infused cafes. Approximately 4.2 million visitors visit the city annually. As the Netherlands' largest city, Amsterdam has experienced growth from a fishing village to a metropolis, experiencing both glory and destruction, and the trials of world war. To some extent, its history is a microcosm of Dutch history.
April to October is the perfect time to visit Amsterdam, with its comfortable temperatures. The tulip season, from late March to early May, is particularly romantic and captivating in the Netherlands. Keukenhof Gardens is awash in tulips, attracting tourists from around the world.
Van Gogh Museum
Founded in 1973, the Van Gogh Museum houses 200 of the most precious paintings from Van Gogh's golden period, representing approximately a quarter of his entire oeuvre. The most famous of these is "Fifteen Sunflowers," but other important works include "Self-Portrait," "Wheat Field with Crows," and "The Potato Eaters."
In addition to over 200 paintings and drawings, the exhibition also includes 750 letters from Van Gogh (other works include "Starry Night" at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, "The Rhone Under the Stars" at the Musee d'Orsay in Paris, and "Café du Nocturne" at the Kröller-Müller Museum in the Netherlands). If you are visiting with a specific purpose, be sure to check the official website before going to the museum to confirm whether the works are in the museum to avoid disappointment.
Royal Palace Amsterdam
One of the four royal palaces of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, it is used by Queen Beatrix by Act of Parliament. Built during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century as Amsterdam's City Hall, it was inaugurated on July 20, 1655, and later became the Royal Palace of the Netherlands under Louis Bonaparte. It is located on the west side of Dam Square in the heart of Amsterdam, opposite the War Memorial and adjacent to the Nieuwe Kerk.
The stone foundation of the palace is supported by 13,659 wooden piles buried 14-16 meters underground. Stone blocks are used to build a foundation on the piles, and then buildings are built on the foundation. Therefore, it is called the eighth architectural wonder of the world, the "Palace on Pile".
Dam Square (Dam Square )
Known as the heart of Amsterdam, it's the birthplace of Amsterdam's history and the most famous square in the Netherlands. Amsterdam's first canal was built here in 1270, and the first dam on the river was constructed here, hence the square's name. The white monument in the center commemorates the victims of World War II. Across the square stands the magnificent Royal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis).
The square is filled with pigeons, street artists, and tourists taking photos or simply relaxing. From the rooftop of the nearby Madame Tussauds wax museum, a large circular glass window offers a panoramic view of Dam Square. Every May 5th, the Queen attends the Armistice Commemoration Ceremony. At 8:00 PM on May 4th, a two-minute silence for the fallen is held here and broadcast nationwide. Throughout the 1960s, Dam Square was a gathering place for hippies from all over Europe. During the day, the square is often filled with young people and people from all over the world, kneeling on the steps of the National Monument to rediscover the meaning of the past.
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, dates back to the 12th century and is renowned for its canals, historic architecture, and cultural heritage. It played a central role in trade, art, and the Dutch Golden Age.
3–4 days to cover museums, canals, neighborhoods, parks, and nearby attractions.
Yes, guided tours and audio guides are offered in English, Dutch, German, French, and Spanish.
Day 1: Anne Frank House, Jordaan, Dam Square; Day 2: Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum; Day 3: Canal cruise, Vondelpark, Nine Streets; optional Day 4: A’DAM Tower and local markets.
City is busiest in summer and during holidays; early mornings and weekdays are less crowded.
Most museums and tourist areas offer restrooms, cafes, water fountains, seating, and souvenir shops.
Amsterdam is mostly accessible; major museums have elevators and ramps, but some historic buildings have limited access.
Credit/debit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted; small cafes and markets may prefer cash.
Yes, Amsterdam has numerous vegetarian, vegan, and halal-friendly restaurants throughout the city.