Amsterdam Travel Expert. Culture, Events and Apartments

If travelling to the city of Amsterdam then the Amsterdam ArenA is a must see. In fact with the number of different events held at the multifunctional venue your trip may be based around a visit there.

When it opened in 1996 the design of the stadium was unprecedented, being the first stadium on the planet that had a passageway that ran underneath the entire stadium complex and also the first stadium that had a sliding roof in Europe.

Amsterdam Arena

Since its opening just over 15 years ago the stadium has acted as the headquarters and home stadium of AFC Ajax football club, as the venue for domestic cup final matches, the main venue for the Dutch national squads international matches. As well as football the stadium has also been host to a large number of music concerts featuring some of the world’s leading performers and bands as well as some of the world’s largest indoor dance parties, known as Sensation and Black.

If you wanted to pay a visit to the stadium to see how spectacular it is first hand then you can turn up and go on a ‘World of Ajax Walk-in Tour’ which run daily between the hours of 11am and 4.30pm. These walks will give you a behind the scenes look around the stadium as well as the history and stories of the stadium.

I recently did the tour myself and you get to go into areas such as the TV and press conference area and get the chance to walk onto the edge of the pitch (where a professional photographer takes pictures you can buy later on if you wish). The stadium is easy to get to and I highly recommend this tour if you are heading to Amsterdam.

Christmas time is one of the best times to visit Amsterdam as you can explore the many different seasonal attractions and savour in the festive atmosphere. Below are just some of the things you can do in Amsterdam during this period.

Watch Christmas Concert

The Concertgebouw truly is one of the best concert buildings in the world, with superb architecture and acoustics which cannot be matched in the city. Each year there are Christmas concerts held here which really put the visitor in the festive spirit. The Christmas Eve showing is free of charge whilst the performance on Christmas day has an associated cost.

Christmas in Amsterdam

Enjoy the World Christmas Circus

Each year this superb circus comes to Amsterdam at Christmas time and it has become something of a festive tradition. The show is held in the 120 year old Theatre Carre and includes all of the usual circus acts and more. This is truly one for all the family.

Take in English Religious Service

English is widely spoken in Amsterdam and a number of the churches in the city hold English speaking services around Christmas time. It is extremely interesting to experience how the Dutch interpret Christmas.

Go to the Christmas market at the Westergasfabriek

There are two Christmas markets in the Westergasfabriek, one in early December and one closer to Christmas. Both of these events have a specific Christmas theme and represent the opportunity to wrap yourself up in the seasonal spirit and to purchase some traditional Dutch items.

The centre of Amsterdam has a rich and colourful history, and although the area has now evolved into a modern region, there are still signs of the activity that used to take place here and the atmosphere which was so inbred into the area is still present today. One such area is Rembrandt square right in the centre of the city.

Rembrandt square

Historically, Rembrandt square was established during the 17th century out of the old port and was a busy and important dairy market as well as an occasional entertainment venue, although as the 20th century progressed the area evolved into more of a hospitality focussed area as hotels, bars and cafes arose in the area. The square is named after the artists Rembrandt who is the official painter of Amsterdam, and a statues of Rembrandt can be seen in the centre of the square, casting a watchful eye over the activity of the locals and visitors who flood into the area on a daily basis.

The modern Rembrandt square is a great place to take some time out from either day to day life or visitor activities as there are a selection of different eateries and entertainment venues, and the area is also frequented by street entertainers who are fascinating to watch. There are also a number of shops to explore and opportunities to seek out clues of the square’s intriguing history.

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There are a number of music festivals in Amsterdam each year, and below is a brief guide to some of them.

Amsterdam Dance Event ADE

This is (regarded as) the biggest electronic dance festival in the world. In total around 700 djs from around the world gather in the city to play at various venues in front of approximately 100,000 people. Over the week of the festival there can be up to 200 different events.

Jordaan Festival

This festival is somewhat unique to the city of Amsterdam and sees singers belting out cheesy Dutch ballads. It is certainly a festival for those of a certain taste, but even for those who expect not to like this event, it is certainly worth a visit just for the atmosphere and the chance to dance you socks off.

 Muziek 4-daagse

This event is held in a restored church and provides the platform for musical performers and singers to share their talent with the vast numbers who visit here. Whilst the overall mix of music is eclectic there is a significant emphasis on piano and classical music, with performances from amateurs as well as from established professionals.

Amsterdam Roots Festival

For those who enjoy music from around the world this is a really super festival to visit. Over many events, including some held outdoors in the Ooseterpark in the east of the city, there are performances from artists and groups originating from countries such as Africa and South America which highlights the diverse culture in the city as well as desire to explore and celebrate all different types of music. 

Amsterdam carnival in Holland

Amsterdam has a wide range of unique attractions for tourists, but have you ever wondered what the free attractions in Amsterdam are? Below are just some of the things that you can do for free around the beautiful city of Amsterdam.

Begijnhof

This is a picturesque village hidden within the city, and certainly a free attraction in Amsterdam. You can explore the 14^th century cottages, a medieval church and the gloriously well kept gardens. A visit here is sure to brighten your mood, and is a great way to experience the contrast between the city and village life.

Concerts

Music is a significant part of the culture in Amsterdam and there are a number of free concerts at different venues and locations around the city. If you keep your eyes open and your ears peeled, you’re sure to stumble upon a performance of some kind.

Dutch horse riding school

There is a large selection of horses and ponies which can be enjoyed at this riding school. You can pet them, observe them or even ride them. During certain times on Wednesdays and Saturdays, you can get to ride them for free.

Vondelpark

This is a large park in the city centre which is great for exploring. There are lakes, gardens, museums, famous houses and extensive greenery which are perfect for a picnic or for relaxing the day away. If you’re looking for a free attraction in Amsterdam, one that can double as great family time, then this has got to be it!

Civic Guards’ Gallery

This free display is an absolute treat for those who appreciate art. As you enter the history museum, there is a walkway which contains a series of high standard portraits which can be enjoyed before you reach the pay point.

You don’t have to worry about spending too much money on visiting the above mentioned sites of interest because they’re among the best free attractions in Amsterdam.

With spring just around the corner, our minds turn to sunnier and happier things, like eating al fresco, walking in the park and flowers. Amsterdam of course, and all of The Netherlands, is famous for its spectacular displays of tulips, and there is no better place to see them than the spectacular Keukenhof Gardens, located about an hour’s drive from Amsterdam.

This year, the Keukenhof Gardens will hold its annual spring flower show from March 18th to May 16^th.  Sixteen pavilions will be set up, with countless displays of spring flowers, arranged in compositions from the classical to the avant-

Flower shows

garde. The Netherland’s national flower will of course prominently feature in all its blooming glory and vivid colours.

Keukenhof Gardens has lots of other things to offer too, and makes a perfect family day out. There are playgrounds and restaurants and you can also take a charming boat ride past the bulb fields. One thing I love about the Keukenhof is that for two months a year, the whole

country seems to come here, confirming the fact that these beautiful floral arrangements really are a source of national pride. After a visit here, you’ll never doubt Holland’s claim to being ‘ a country of flowers’ again.

The initiative for the organization of Sail Amsterdam, for the first time in 1975, arose during the preparations for the celebration of the Amsterdam’s 700-year

Boating in Holland.

anniversary. During these preparations there was a proposal to organize an event in the port of Amsterdam. The focus would be on the port and the city of Amsterdam. For the “Sail Amsterdam” sailing ships from around the world were invited. The event was a great success.

After the great success of Sail Amsterdam 1975 there was decided to organize a second Sail in 1980. For this second SAIL Amsterdam a permanent organization “Stichting Sail Amsterdam” was established in 1977. Since then, Stichting Sail Amsterdam found a successful way to organize a Sail in 1980, 1985, 1990, 1995, 2000 and 2005. With more than 600 ships and 2.5 million visitors in 2005, SAIL Amsterdam was a great success.

The many Tall Ships were welcomed in IJmuiden by a huge fleet of ships, of all types and models, from all over the world. Under guidance, the ‘Parade of Sail’ takes place. This is the traditional start of Sail Amsterdam.

After arrival at the IJ-haven of Amsterdam, the festivities start, which are closed every night with spectacular fireworks. In and around the IJ-haven, there are many activities and a pleasant activity with the coming and going of many ships. SAIL Amsterdam is visit by people from all over the world. The five-yearly event is visit by a wide audience. Next to the many boat lovers, many people visit the event because of the atmosphere and charm. Also the youth program at the Sea of Friend Ships is well attended.

The highlights in the program of SAIL Amsterdam are the “Parade of Sail ‘, the tours of the ‘Varend Erfgoed’, the ‘Pieremachocheltocht’ and the ‘Tall Ships’ in the IJhaven.

Unfortunately for the Dutch, it’s not cold enough all year round to go ice skating on the canals. When the barometer drops below zero, the Dutch go crazy and can’t stop staring at the weather and conversations rest solely on  that ultimate skate feeling.  In short, Dutch people like ice skating and some of them go wild just thinking about it. What better way to enjoy the sights of Amsterdam with your family or loved one than skating around on the frozen canals, drinking hot chocolate and enjoying the ice.

Ice skating in Amsterdam.

Obviously, the ice needs to be really strong to hold all those determined skaters and this only happens when it’s below zero. It’s been a couple of years since people skated in Amsterdam but last winter the canals outside of Amsterdam froze up, strong enough to skate on.

Every Friday during the cold weather periods, there is a skating trip from 15km to 25KM. It starts between 20.15 and 20.30 near to the Cafe Vertigo Film museum in the Vondelpark. It’s free and if you don’t have skates, you can rent them out at Vondeltuin.

However, you don’t have to miss out on the ice-fever if the temperature gets too warm. There are several locations to skate in the center of Amsterdam. There is one at the Museumplein and another one is located at the Damsquare. Both are pretty small but they are free and very romantic.

For those speed merchants, you can check out a larger rink at the JAAP EDEN COMPLEX which can be easily reached by tra (9) and walking a few blocks. You can call or check the website http://www.jaapeden.nl/ (in dutch) for hours/times.

Bring your own or rent there!
Address: Radioweg 64 1098 NJ Amsterdam
Phone: 0206949652
Directions: can be reached by tram 9 and buses 15, 59, 67, 120, 126, 136 and 157. Exit at Kruislaan / Middenweg or Linnaeusparkweg / Kruislaan. (might need to call or ask someone to be sure!)

Madame Tussaud’s – Everyone knows Madame Tussaud’s and the queues outside show the gallery’s popularity. Local favourites are van Gogh, Rembrandt, Queen Beatrix, Mata Hari and more.

Madame Tussards in Amsterdam

(Madame Tussaud’s, Dam Square; tel: 552 1010; open Jul-Aug daily 9.30am-8.30pm; Sept-June daily 10am-6.30pm; entrance charge is adults 21 euros, children between 5-15 is 6 euros and children under 5 are free).

Children’s Farm – Get right up close to nature in the middle of the city. This miniature waterfront farm on Bickers Island (Bickerseiland) is a wonderful place where children can get to stroke lambs, hold puppies and stare at pigs.

Canal ride – A great way to ease those aching feet, taking one of the many canal boats around the city is a great way to see and experience Amsterdam.

Do not forget that if you are travelling with children, a self-catering apartment in the centre of Amsterdam can be perfect for families and companies such as Holiday Velvet cater for families in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam is normally viewed as being less family friendly that other city break destinations. The trip you take there is generally not the holiday kind but you and the family can have a fantastic weekend break or longer holiday there with the kids at any time of year. There’s plenty of cheap flights to get there and there’s loads for both kids and parents to do.

The essential things to do when window shopping down the red light district just doesn’t do it for the kids. Must do’s include my following suggestions below:

NEMO Science and Technology Centre – This is a section of the revitalised harbour. The NEMO Centre is a must for kids of all ages. There are loads of intereactive exhibits, from refilling radio-controlled model oil tankers to conducting light and sound experiments and carrying out your own investigations in a laboratory. (NEMO, Prins Henrikkade, tel: 0900 919 1100; www.e-nemo.nl/; open Jul-Aug daily 10am-5pm; Sept-June Tues-Sun 10am-5pm; entrance charge is 11.50 euros per person and children up to 3 years are free).

Artis Zoo – An interesting animal habitat in the heart of Amsterdam. You’ll see peacocks to polar bears and there’s also a great quarium and planetarium for those stargazers. They even have an African savannah:

Artis amsterdam

a microplain housing zebras, wildebeests, ostriches and other native birds. (Artis Zoo, 38-40 Plantage Kerklaan, tel: 523 3400; open daily 9am-5pm; entrance charge is adults is € 17,70, for senior (65+) € 16,50 and for children from 3 to 9 years € 14,50).

Tropenmuseum TM Junior – There’s an excellent section on life in tropics that will entertain all kids. The Tropical MUseum is shows the lifestyles and problems in many of the world’s developing countries. The Junior section is aimed at children aged 6-12 and comes with lively hands-on features and activities.(Tropenmuseum, 2 Linnaeusstraat; tel: 568 8215: www.kit.nl. Open daily 10am-5pm; entrance charge over 6 yrs old is 4 euros and 7.50 euros for 18+ years).

Electrische Museumtramlijn (Electric Museum Tram Line) – Far from being borning, this is a “moving” museum onboard antique trams. The trams run during the summer, on Sundays and public holidays, from the old Harlemmermeerstation, just north of the 1928 Olympisch Stadion (Olympic Stadium) at Stadionplein. (Looking for Museum Quarter rentals in Amsterdam?