Amsterdam’s reputation precedes it, both as a European city break destination for those looking for fun and one for those craving culture. The famously liberal Dutch capital is one of Europe’s foremost cities for sightseeing and nightlife alike, containing over some of Holland’s most historic and precious buildings not far from some of the nation’s busiest nightspots. The range of evening entertainment and restaurant options, the stunning canal-laden surroundings, and abundance of cultural treasures including over 7,000 listed buildings in the historic centre are just a few factors that make booking flights to Amsterdam a popular and rewarding choice.
City breaks in Amsterdam can take a number of forms. It is an extremely popular destination for stag weekends, birthday trips and other short city breaks where larger groups typically visit due to the city’s reputation as a party town. Buzzing squares such as Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein offer a multitude of lively nightclubs, and the trendy Jordaan district allows visitors the chance to sample local beers in traditional cafes and pubs that have existed in some cases for centuries.
The Anne Frank House, located in the picturesque 17th century Canal Ring district, will be sure to please sightseers visiting on cultural city breaks. Such is the district’s historical value that it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Rembrandt House, Van Gough Museum, Rijksmuseum and the landmarks of the Jewish Quarter are among other must-see sites and cultural institutions in the city of Amsterdam.
If visiting Amsterdam on a shopping break, the boutiques of the Nine Streets and Utrechtsestraat offer unique items and those seeking the latest designer couture should not miss the high-end designer shops of Kalverstraat and Leidsetraat, as well as and P.C. Hooftstraat in the Old South district.
Events such as Queen’s Day, a Dutch national holiday occurring at the end of every April, and canal festival Grachtenfestival and theatre festival Uitmarkt, which take place in August, make excellent occasions to visit the city. During such festivities, the city comes alive with a carnival atmosphere that makes the visit a more memorably occasion for many.
For those booking Amsterdam flights during the festive season on a Christmas break in Amsterdam, charming Christmas Markets are held in Rembrandtplein, the Flower market, Westergasfabriek and Albert Cuyp Market, offering all manner of yuletide refreshments and local crafts as well as live music, games and other entertainment for all the family.
