Baroque Dutch architecture stands tall along the cobblestone streets while the iconic canals gracefully weave throughout the city; an air of mystery and adventure shines like a beacon, alluring new travelers to come explore Amsterdam. This vibrant capital city, with the people and places who make it special, continually captivates the hearts of its visitors. Offering much more than what meets the eye, discover some of the ways travelers can give back to the city by celebrating its past, and learn how Amsterdam honors those who visit.
Celebrating Amsterdam’s Roots
Amsterdam has a fascinating history worth exploring, and one of its distinctive features is its intricate canal system. Having played a crucial role in the area’s development during the Middle Ages, particularly the Singel Canal, visitors can pay homage to this stroke of ingenuity with a canal cruise. Here, they’ll learn all about Amsterdam and the “dancing houses” that line the waterways. A relaxing tour down the water may be educational, but it’s also a breathtaking sight as the surrounding bridges come alive at night, the fairy lights and reflective water setting the scenery aglow.
The city is also fondly recognized for its artistic heritage, especially where Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn and Vincent van Gogh’s legacies are concerned. Rembrandt, a beloved painter from the Golden Age, is likely a notable name to art-loving locals, best known for his experimental brushwork and depictions of lively and dramatic scenes. Expansive collections of his work can be found in the Rijksmuseum and his former home, The Rembrandt House. Another Dutch artist cherished by travelers all around the world, van Gogh and his work are instantly recognizable. Visitors can view one of his largest collections at the Van Gogh Museum, featuring over 200 paintings and 500 drawings. Even those who may not have an appreciation for the arts will find a visit to any of the city’s famous art galleries a perfect opportunity to connect with a significant piece of Amsterdam’s history.
Indulging in the past is one way to celebrate the city’s roots, but basking in its current success is another. Jordaan, once a working-class area, is now a quaint neighborhood with loads of charm. Visitors here can find antique stores, art galleries and unique restaurants throughout the area, and it’s a perfect place to support local businesses. Similarly, a shopping trip along De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets), which features over 200 retailers ranging from boutiques and vintage stores to chic cafés, celebrates the entrepreneurship and innovation of the area’s current residents.
Must-See Annual Festivals
While diving into an exploration of the city is an important part of visiting, Amsterdam is also a place that gives back to its visitors, rewarding them with one-of-a-kind festivals throughout the year. One of the most important comes in late July with Pride Amsterdam. The city has been nicknamed the “Gay Capital of Europe,” as it has a large LGBTQ+ presence and a reputation for progressive policies. Pride Amsterdam takes over the city, drawing in visitors from all over the world to celebrate. Rainbow colors consume the skyline, and the week is filled with activities, cultural exhibits, sporting events, public speakers and live entertainment, all in honor of the LGBTQ+ community.
The Amsterdam Light Festival is another must-see event, as jaw-dropping art forms light up the night skies. Originally created to break through the darkness of winter, the exhibit is open November through January, featuring world-class international artists and architects. Travelers can feast their eyes on abstract art and distinct designs as the artificial color bathes the city in a comforting light.
Wintertime travel is not every globetrotter’s scene, and luckily, Amsterdam reveals its best-kept secrets the third week of June with its Open Garden Days. Every year, around 30 private gardens open for public viewing, granting locals and travelers alike the opportunity to experience some of the city’s hidden gems. Stunning floral arrangements, perfectly manicured shrubbery and opulent stone structures will leave visitors feeling like they’re in a fantasy land — a little slice of heaven on Earth.
Originally appeared in the Winter 2024 issue of The Compass magazine
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