Amsterdam – Two wheeling and Heart stealing

A mere look at the map of Amsterdam will get you interested! It looks nothing short of a work of art; the way canals are webbed into the land. Add a layer of picturesque bridges on the top of it, and that precisely makes Amsterdam a treat to the eyes! Add another layer of Amsterdam’s bold and pragmatic culture and you won’t want to leave this place!

The city is encircled by 135 km long ring of fortifications, collectively known as the Defence Line of Amsterdam. Unfortunately, this line was rendered obsolete as soon as the construction finished in 1920, with the invention of aeroplane.

The concentric belts of canals around the city have a total length of more than a hundred kilometres. Dug in the 17th Century, these are probably the most valuable inheritance from the Dutch Golden Age.

We have compiled a list of things that we did in Amsterdam bypassing museums and historic sites this time (deferring that experience till the next time). This gave us a lot of time to just wander aimlessly and observe the local way of life. We are glad we did that and can’t wait to share with the world!

1. Oosterpark

Staying in Generator hostel, Amsterdam which is built right in front of this park means we had the opportunity to take long strolls round the park whenever we wished! This park is really pretty with places to sit by water and watch the ducks, herons and moorhens doing the frolics.

2. Magere Brug (Skinny bridge)

With an unusual architecture, it’s a fun bridge over the Amstel River, though not as narrow as the name suggests. But it offers incredible views of the river, the pretty canal houses and the boats passing through.

3. Sexmuseum

As soon as I entered the museum, I was all giggles and remained that way till the very end! There’s a lot of stuff packed in the museum and lots of information on evolution of sexual persuasions! It could turn out to be the most hilarious place of your Amsterdam visit if you are in a group of friends!

4. De Wallen

You haven’t really visited Amsterdam if you haven’t been to this place. De Wallen is to Amsterdam, what Eiffel is to Paris. Popularly known as the Red Light District, it’s a unique part of the world. But ogling at the seedy aspects won’t enrich your experience. We suggest going with an open mind and be respectful to the Red Light ladies and their choice for making their living. By the evening, the streets are lit neon red and the canal that runs right through the main street is a thrilling sight!

5. Zaanse Schans

Rent a bike from Amsterdam and paddle your way through the incredible countryside or take a short train ride till Zaandam station and rent a bike there for a 5 min ride to Zaanse, either way is great, but make it a point to visit this place.

Windy weather, real windmills, the aroma of cheese and chocolates in the air, farm animals lazing around – historic Netherlands is right in front of you! Surely a sight to behold.

6. Openbare Bibliotheek (Central Library)

We went there not to read but as tourists. The entry is free and it’s a very modern, tastefully designed and furnished library that has a rooftop café with reasonable prices. The outdoor seating offers amazing views of the cityscape, all that for free! We found it lovely and pretty impressive.

7. Squares and markets

Amsterdam is full of vibrant squares and cobbled alleys, the Dam Square being a popular spot to encounter street performers capturing full attention of crowds who incessantly cheer them! The narrow lanes are replete with shops selling food, souvenirs, grass, cheese, macaroons, sex toys and all things risqué!

Have you been to Amsterdam? Please let us know about your experience and suggest some other fun places to visit.