Take a ferry to Amsterdam and experience a vibrant metropolis known as 'Venice of the North' due to its canals, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city of Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands at the mouth of the Amstel River, which was historically dammed to prevent flooding.
Amsterdam is famous for its numerous canals, which have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and for this reason it is called the "Venice of the North". The city has many cultural attractions, including many museums, a lively nightlife and festivals, which makes it very popular with young people looking for a stronger rhythm and fields of the famous colorful Dutch tulips. Amsterdam has a multicultural color as it is home to many different nationalities which contributes to the rich cultural tapestry of this charming little city!
In addition, the port of Amsterdam ranks as one of the largest ports in Europe in terms of both trade and tourism.
We would say that Amsterdam is a very lively, beautiful metropolis with many points of interest, great cafes, vintage shops and an interesting culinary scene that will attract every visitor.
Ferry connection to Amsterdam
The ferry connection to Amsterdam is made by ferry from the United Kingdom, specifically from Newcastle in England.
The arrival of the ship from Newcastle is in Ijmuiden, a port located approximately 20 kilometers west of Amsterdam city center and the route is active all year round.
- Newcastle - Amsterdam ferries: up to 7 weekly crossings with mostly evening departures and journey times of around 17 hours
Port of Amsterdam
The Port of Amsterdam is a major port which ranks as the 14th busiest port in Europe and the second largest port in the Netherlands after the Port of Rotterdam. It is one of the most important cruise ports in Europe.
It is important to clarify that cruise ships dock at the main port near the city center while conventional ships arriving from the UK dock at the Felison terminal in Ijmuiden. From the terminal in Ijmuiden you can reach Amsterdam by car, bus, taxi or shuttle ferry.
The central passenger terminal in the center of Amsterdam is an impressive building with many amenities which, thanks to its glass facade, offers a wonderful view of the harbor and the city center. The traveler can reach Amsterdam Central Station either on foot in 15 minutes or by tram or taxi.
Transportation in Amsterdam
The transport in Amsterdam is incredibly easy as it has an incredible network of bicycle paths which is the main way for locals to get around as well as an amazing public transport system that includes buses, trains, trams, subways and ferries making it easy for both residents and visitors to navigate the city.
There is one main public transport operator in Amsterdam, "Gemeentelijk Vervoerbedrijf (GVB)" which operates the metro, tram and bus routes throughout the city and visitors are advised to get the GVB single card for unlimited access to all means of transport.
- Metro: Consists of 5 lines and in addition to the main areas of Amsterdam they extend to nearby suburbs such as Amstelveen and Diemen. The trains run from 6 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., with approximately 10-minute intervals between trains
- Bus services: There are many bus routes connecting various neighborhoods and attractions that operate during the day and night routes from 12:30 a.m. to 7:00 a.m., with special prices for night trips
- Tram network: Is an iconic part of Amsterdam's public transport system, serving many tourist attractions
- Railway: A very comfortable way of getting around, with around 400 stations
- Cycling in Amsterdam: Considered one of the most popular modes of transportation in Amsterdam due to the extensive network of bike lanes separated from vehicle traffic and certainly due to its flat terrain. There are countless bike rental companies all over the city
- Shuttle ferries: The public transport operator GVB offers connections with the blue and white Amsterdam ferries across the river IJ which connect the center of Amsterdam with the northern district (Amsterdam-Noord). The service operates 24 hours a day and runs every few minutes. These ferries are located behind Amsterdam Central Station
At this point it is important to mention that it is recommended to travel by car in the city center because it is very crowded and the parking is quite expensive. Also in the city of Amsterdam there is a low emission zone (LEZ) for diesel vehicles only.
What to do in Amsterdam
Undoubtedly Amsterdam is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, distinctive architecture , and a wealth of activities to enjoy.
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands has a long history of over 800 years with attractions of great interest such as world famous museums, ancient castles, great art galleries and antique shops. For the younger people who choose this destination because of the intense nightlife, there are beachside Dutch pubs known as bruin cafés, beautiful bars and larger nightclubs, as well as many concert events especially during the summer months.
Here are the main attractions of Amsterdam:
- Explore the canals: When we hear Amsterdam we think of the canals that embrace the city, rightly one of the most iconic features of the city, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's worth taking a leisurely stroll or a bike ride along the canals to see the city's distinctive architecture and historic buildings. A great idea is a cruise on the canals for a unique introduction to the city
- Visit world-class museums: The city of Amsterdam is home to many world-famous museums such as:
- Rijksmuseum: The national museum where Dutch art and history unfolds, including masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer
- Van Gogh Museum: Dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh, where the largest collection of his paintings and letters is located
- Anne Frank House: A museum uniquely dedicated to Anne Frank, located in the house where she wrote her diary during World War II
- Enjoy local cuisine: Amsterdam's gastronomy is well known , so it's worth trying local products and special dishes such as:
- Haring: Raw herring served with onions and pickles
- Stroopwafels: Thin waffles filled with caramel syrup
- Bitterballen: A very popular Dutch snack consisting of fried balls filled with beef ragout
- Experience Amsterdam’s nightlife: Amsterdam is widely known for its vibrant nightlife with options ranging from nice little bars to energetic nightclubs
- Discover unique neighborhoods: There are many neighborhoods in Amsterdam, each with its own character:
- Jordaan: with narrow streets and independent art galleries, antique shops and atmospheric bars
- De Pijp: home to the famous Albert Cuyp market and a multicultural atmosphere with many restaurants and cafés
- Amsterdam-Noord: accessιble is only possible via free ferries from Centraal station. The area has trendy spots such as the NDSM Wharf and cultural institutions such as the EYE Film Institute
- Engage in outdoor activities: In Amsterdam, you will have the opportunity to find several beautiful parks, ideal for relaxing or having a picnic:
- Vondelpark: Amsterdam's largest park ideal for walking and cycling with lakes and open-air theaters that host concerts during the summer
- Amsterdamse Bos: Located on the outskirts of the city, quite large with lakes and beautiful walking paths
- Westerpark: This park combines green spaces with cultural venues, such as restaurants and cinemas, in reused industrial buildings
- Attend festivals & events: Amsterdam is famous for the numerous festivals that take place in the city throughout the year celebrating music, art, culture and more:
- King's Day (Koningsdag): Celebrated every year on 27 April with festivities around the city, street markets and parties
- Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE): A big electronic music festival that takes place every year in October and attracts many artists from all over the world. Visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying the entertainment
- Discover the most beautiful tulip fields: Near Amsterdam, from mid-April to early May
Must see attractions in Amsterdam
The city of Amsterdam is rich in history, with numerous historical monuments and must-see attractions that reflect its cultural heritage and architecture.
Here are some of the most important historical sites to explore:
- Dam Square: A lively square with many important buildings including the Royal Palace in the historic heart of Amsterdam. The neoclassical architecture of the palace is complemented by the Gothic Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), which hosts royal ceremonies and art exhibitions
- Oude Kerk: Amsterdam's oldest building, an Old Church, dating back to around 1250. The church has an impressive wooden roof and regularly hosts exhibitions and concerts
- Beurs van Berlage: A distinctive building with an austere aesthetic that influenced future Dutch architecture. It serves as an exhibition and concert hall and offers visitors a panoramic view from its tower
- Portuguese Synagogue: This synagogue was built in the late 17th century by Portuguese Jewish immigrants and remains an active place of worship today. It features beautiful architecture and serves as an important cultural center for Amsterdam's Jewish community
- Fort Pampus: An artificial island and a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Go shopping at IJ-hallen, one of the biggest and best flea markets in Europe
