Amsterdam, the 17th century capital of Holland, is often called the "Venice of the North" due to its numerous, boat-navigable canals. Truly rich in history, the oldest part of this populous, multicultural city is Sloten, which dates all the way back to the 9th century.
Apart from the canals, attractions in Amsterdam include the Van Gogh Museum, Hermitage Amsterdam, the Heineken Experience, the Anne Frank House, and the Royal Palace of Amsterdam. Nightlife abounds as well, with many visitors drawn to its vibrant network of nightclubs, theaters and festivals.
Starting in 2014, the city has undergone an urban renewal effort, focused on expanding the city center and involving the construction of artificial islands. This is a one-of-a-kind city that begs to be explored by bicycle or boat tour!
Learn More About Amsterdam
Public Transportation
For the most convenient and fastest way to Amsterdam’s city center, a direct railway line connects Schiphol International Airport with Amsterdam Central Station. Visitor can reach the downtown area in about 20 minutes.
For public transport in Amsterdam and the general area, the public transport chip card (OV-chipkaart), which can be used to travel on trams, buses and trains. The best option if you visit is a one-hour card or day card (valid for one to seven days). Buy one-hour tickets from the driver or conductor on the bus or tram.
Day tickets may be purchased in advance or purchased on the tram. Day cards are not available from bus drivers. Your ticket is valid across the whole network from the first use, allowing you to take as many journeys as you choose within a certain timeframe.
Amsterdam is on its way to making public transport completely cashless. Now, tickets can only be purchased using debit or credit cards.
Photo Credit: Alf van Beem
Amsterdam Light Festival
Light artwork/installations event held early December until late January.
Christmas Markets
Late November until early January.
Chinese New Year
Major celebration near Nieuwmarkt on February 12, 2021.
Open Garden Days
Across Amsterdam on the third weekend of June, visitors are given access to beautiful, private gardens behind houses along the city's canals.
Heritage Day
On the second weekend of September, the doors of approximately 4,000 of Amsterdam's monumental buildings are opened to the public.
The Callous Daoboys
On 2/4/2026
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Previously known as Avalanche, Amaranthe is a heavy metal band from Sweden formed in 2008. Known for having three lead vocalists, the band has gained over a million monthly listeners on Spotify with popular tracks like "Drop Dead Cynical," "Digital World" and "The Nexus."
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Sheng Wang is a stand-up comedian known for his laid-back delivery, clever observational humor, and relatable storytelling. His comedy touches on everything from adult life to cultural quirks, offering laughs with a refreshingly calm confidence.
Shawn James is a musician from Chicago who has been releasing his own music since 2012. Along with creating popular singles like "Through the Valley," "Ain't No Sunshine" and "Flow" as a solo artist, he also works with his band named The Shapeshifters.
Florence + The Machine, or Florence and the Machine, is an indie rock band from England formed in 2007. It rose to prominence after BBC promoted them on BBC Introducing and when it won at the Brit Awards in 2009. Known for their dramatic production and powerful vocals, they have gained popularity with singles like "Dog Days Are Over," "You've Got The Love" and "Shake It Out."
