Weekend in Amsterdam, visits and activities

Built below sea level, the city of Amsterdam is home to more than 100 kilometres of canals, spanned by nearly 1,500 bridges and footbridges. Their banks, often planted with trees and lined with barges, are ideal for a pleasant walk or bike ride. Along the Singel, Keizersgracht or Prinsengracht, you can admire picturesque merchants' houses with colourful facades. The Singelgracht canal once surrounded the city. Today, it is a pleasant walk to several of Amsterdam's most important tourist attractions, such as the Rijksmuseum, the Vondelpark and the Royal Artis Zoo.

Why stroll along the canals? The soul of Amsterdam lies in its canals. They have contributed to the city's prosperity for many centuries, and they remain essential places to live and meet. As you stroll along the water's edge, you will discover the deep and endearing personality of the Dutch capital.

The Netherlands was the cradle of an abundant artistic production in the 16th century, which gave rise to a period known as the Flemish Renaissance. The prosperous United Provinces, which had been independent since 1579, prospered thanks to trade, and the rich merchants also became generous patrons of the arts. This love of the arts continues into the 21st century, and many Dutch museums house the masterpieces produced over the centuries. During your weekend in Amsterdam, you can visit the Rijksmuseum, dedicated to fine art and history, the Van Gogh Museum or the Stedelijk Museum, dedicated to modern and contemporary art.

Why visit the museums of Amsterdam? The collections of Amsterdam's museums contain priceless works of art that cannot be seen anywhere else. Vermeer's The Milkmaid, Rembrandt's Night Watch and Van Gogh's Sunflowers can all be admired in Amsterdam!

A lot of water has passed under the bridge since the ports described by Jacques Brel in his famous song. The disreputable docks of the 20th century have given way to a trendy district in full revival. The old docks and warehouses have been replaced by bold buildings in a remarkable architectural style. This trendy district is full of creative and alternative art venues, as well as trendy cafés and restaurants that contribute to its new liveliness.

Why explore the harbour district? New Amsterdam can be discovered on the waterfront. This is where the contemporary soul of the city is alive and kicking, with a unique vibrancy and dynamism. You will get off the tourist trail and immerse yourself in a city that is (re)inventing its future here.

The 'brown cafés', some of which date back to the 17th century, owe their name to their ceilings and walls that have been burnished by centuries of tobacco consumption. These places of life, meeting points for many inhabitants, immerse you in the daily life of the people of Amsterdam. You can enjoy a local beer or juniper berry brandy in moderation. 

The 'white cafés' are spacious and bright and have a modern atmosphere. Mostly taken over by Amsterdam's trendy youth, they welcome you for a drink or a quick bite to eat. Don't miss De Jaren, with an interior by local designer Onno de Vries and a terrace on the banks of the Amstel.

Why stop at a brown or white café? These cafés are part of the soul of Amsterdam, deeply rooted in a centuries-old tradition or resolutely forward-looking.