Amsterdam is the Netherlands’ capital, known for its artistic heritage, elaborate canal system and narrow houses with gabled facades, legacies of the city’s 17th-century Golden Age. Its Museum District houses the Van Gogh Museum, works by Rembrandt and Vermeer at the Rijksmuseum, and modern art at the Stedelijk. Cycling is key to the city’s character, and there are numerous bike paths.
Amsterdam is known for its beautiful canals, quirky architecture, and lively nightlife. It is a popular designation for young backpackers looking to let loose. Although over 2.5 million tourists visit Amsterdam’s Right Light District, Amsterdam is also a great place to find Dutch art and culture, and the city has a rich history that dates to the 13th century. The best time to visit Amsterdam is between April and May or September and November– right before or directly after the summertime high tourist season.