Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, has much more to offer to its visitors than adult shows and 'coffee' shops. This unique city is built around charming water canals, picturesque architecture, and advanced technology. Around 20 million tourists flock to Amsterdam every year to witness its poetic culture, world-class museums and learn about the long history of this city of art and freedom. When traveling to Europe, many people choose to visit several countries during their trip.

For instance, Amsterdam is close to Brussels; commuters can reach the Belgian capital from Amsterdam by car or train in around 2 hours. When they don't have the luxury of time on their hands, tourists may feel forced to commit to a schedule that won't allow them to go through all the attractions of the place they're visiting. For example, having only 48 hours to spend in Amsterdam might seem a short time in a city full of unrivaled attractions and a uniquely vibrant lifestyle.

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Dive Into The World Of Amsterdam's Art And History Museums

There are endless activities to undertake in 48 hours in Amsterdam, from enjoying the mesmerizing views of the city, visiting its landmarks, socializing with locals, savoring the tasty Dutch food, or just shopping in Dam's beautiful boutiques. All of those plans and more will make a tourist fall in love with Amsterdam and keep them craving to visit the city again and again. One more unique activity that a visitor must not forget to do in Amsterdam is to experience the city's world-class museums. The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is frequented by art and culture lovers, with more than 2 million visitors yearly. This museum has more than a million pieces of artwork for the world's greatest artists, such as Van Gogh, Johannes Vermeer, and Rembrandt.

Amsterdam's other museums worth visiting include the Rembrandt House Museum, Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, and the Street Art Museum.

Visiting The Monumental Rijksmuseum

The rare chance to witness Amsterdam's Golden Age artworks and artifacts is only possible by visiting Amsterdam's grandest museum, the Rijksmuseum. The historical place is affordable and within walking distance from Vondelpark and 22 walking minutes away from Dam Square. The Rijksmuseum was built in 1798 in The Hague and moved later to Amsterdam in 1808. Pierre Cuypers designed the museum's newest building in 1885, only for Queen Beatrix to complete its renovation in 2013.

  • Ticket Cost: € 20 per person
  • Location: Musuemstraat 1, Amsterdam
  • Opening hours: Daily from 9 to 5 PM
  • Recommended: Check the artworks of the greatest artists, such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh.

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Enjoy Amsterdam's Splendid Parks And Charming Canals

Amsterdam is known for its charming water canals and uniquely awesome parks. A lot of visitors navigate the city by bike since it's known to be a cycling-friendly location. Vondelpark is Amsterdam's largest and most popular park, attracting more than 10 million visitors per year. It's home to several restaurants and cafés and has a rose garden with around 70 types of roses. Also, Vondelpark boasts an open-air theatre during summer where it brings to life dreamy musical vibes and dance performances for thousands of spectators. The park is home to various types of birds and wild ducks with nature, greenery, and different splendid trees spread over a large area.

Moreover, it is a must to go on a magical canal boat cruise in Amsterdam, a city connected by water. The cruise takes the visitors on tour around the city where they get the chance to witness the historical landmarks and most famous places in Amsterdam. The city has 165 canals that split it into several small islands connected with more than 1200 bridges. Amsterdam's unprecedented and never-before-seen ring of canals holds the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Lovers Canal cruise offers tourists an affordable option to tour the city in 60 minutes aboard a boat.

  • Ticket Cost: €16 for adults and €8 for children aged less than 12
  • Operating hours: departure every 20 to 30 minutes from 9 AM to 10 PM
  • Location: Departure from three places; the west side of the Central Station, Leidseplein, and the Prins Hendrikkade

Amsterdam is a historic and unique city to visit. Activities to experience and enjoy are endless and fascinating. Apart from the museums, parks, and boat cruises, tourists ensure that they enjoy the city's spellbinding nightlife, beguiling Red Light District, and the incomparable Heineken experience. Those who have more time on their hands get out of the city center to witness Volendam's windmills, Keukenhof's massive tulip gardens, and the countryside of Zaanse Schans.

Even spending a week in Amsterdam won't feel enough, and there will always be new experiences to try and savor.

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