A trip to Amsterdam is like a European dream come true, with its picturesque canals, vibrant neighborhoods, and rich cultural heritage. This past summer, my husband and I embarked on an unforgettable journey to this charming city, and it turned out to be a trip filled with luxury, art, history, and romance. In my opinion, a trip to Amsterdam shouldn’t be rushed or packed too tightly with activities. The best way to soak up the beauty of this city is be exploring on foot or by boat with a canal cruise. Keep reading to discover the highlights of our trip to Amsterdam, here are five must-do experiences that made our trip memorable…
#1 A Luxurious Boat Cruise with Pulitzer Amsterdam
Our journey began in style at the Pulitzer Amsterdam Hotel, a historic gem nestled within the heart of the city where we called a beautiful Canal Suite home for the week (read more here). They offer canal cruises on luxury vessels which can easily be the highlight of anyone’s trip to Amsterdam as this city is best seen from the water. Their saloon boat the “Tourist”, built in 1909 has all the classic characteristics one would expect including polished teak and brass, luxurious carpeting, marble, leather and original bevelled glass. Or, Pulitzer’s “Belle”, is a classic teak open tender, and a charming option for cruising the canals while the sun is shining.
Drifting along Amsterdam’s enchanting canals, you are treated to breathtaking views of picturesque bridges, historic houses, and charming houseboats. It is a serene and intimate experience, as the boat only holds a maximum of 10 people, complete with attentive staff who shared fascinating insights into the city’s history for 90 minutes. You also have the option to sip on fine champagne while sailing through the iconic Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht canals, making travel memories that will last a lifetime. Both public and private tours are available daily!
#2 Rainy Day Bliss at the Van Gogh Museum
Amsterdam’s weather can be unpredictable, even in the summer, but we didn’t let a little rain dampen our spirits. On one particularly rainy day, we decided to immerse ourselves in the world of art at the Van Gogh Museum. The museum houses the world’s largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings, making it a haven for art enthusiasts. Walking through the galleries, we marveled at the vibrant colors and emotional depth of van Gogh’s masterpieces. The museum’s thoughtful curation and informative exhibits allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of the artist’s life and work. I was shocked to learn that he didn’t start painting until the age of 27. However, in just a decade, he produced over 2,000 paintings! This was the perfect way to spend a rainy afternoon in Amsterdam.
#3 Lunch at the Grand Cafe Restaurant 1e Klas
For a taste of Amsterdam’s rich history, we dined at the Grand Cafe Restaurant 1e Klas, located within the stunning Amsterdam Centraal railway station. In fact, this used to be the old waiting room for train travelers back in the 19th century. This restaurant exudes old-world charm with its ornate decor and high ceilings. We indulged in a sumptuous lunch, savoring traditional Dutch dishes and a selection of fine wines. The combination of delectable cuisine and the restaurant’s unique ambiance made it a lunch to remember. We also loved meeting the restaurant’s famous parrot Elvis how is usually sitting by the bar! Dining here felt like stepping back in time to a bygone era of luxury travel.
#4 Exploring the Pretty Jordaan Neighborhood
Amsterdam’s Jordaan neighborhood is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. We spent a leisurely afternoon wandering through its narrow streets, lined with charming houses, quirky boutiques, and cozy cafes. The Jordaan’s relaxed atmosphere provided a stark contrast to the bustling city center, and we relished the opportunity to explore its picturesque canals and quaint courtyards. As we strolled, we couldn’t help but feel like we had stumbled upon a secret corner of Amsterdam, filled with local charm and authenticity. I do recommend taking a stroll in the morning to avoid busier crowds. And if you’re a history buff, why not book a private walking tour of this neighborhood through Get Your Guide – I always love taking their local tours around the world.
#5 Capturing Precious Memories with Flytographer
One of the highlights of our trip was the Flytographer photoshoot we arranged to document our Amsterdam adventure. A talented local photographer met my husband and I in the Jordaan neighborhood, where we had a fun and relaxed morning photoshoot when the city was just waking up. The photographer, Tania, knew all the best spots for capturing the essence of Amsterdam, from the charming canals to the historic streets. It was fun not only to shoot the photos but to also see the city through a local’s eyes. We received a collection of beautifully edited photos that perfectly captured our love for each other and our love for this incredible city. It was a wonderful way to create lasting memories of our journey. We’ve used Flytographer in many cities around the world, you can read more about our recent experiences with them here! You can use promo code CARMEN50 to get $50 off your next Flytographer shoot.
Amsterdam, with its timeless beauty and endless charm, left an lasting mark on our hearts, and we can’t wait to return to this enchanting city. If you’re looking for a luxurious and culturally rich summer getaway, I highly recommend considering Amsterdam for your next adventure.
