There are a few things that you probably associate with Amsterdam - tulips, clogs, bicycles and canals. These all find their place in the identity of the capital of The Netherlands, creating a particularly charming and inviting feel to the city.
You’ll have no end of narrow lanes to explore throughout Amsterdam where you can get lost in the atmosphere and magic of the city. With roughly 165 canals weaving their way through the capital, there is something rather unique and distinct about Amsterdam.
The city is filled with history, with its origins dating back to the 12th century, so when you visit Amsterdam, you can expect to see traces of the nearly 1000 years of history. From Dam Square to De Oude Kerk, there are plenty of sites which date back hundreds of years. You can also see sites of historical significance from more recent years, such as the Anne Frank House and the Homomonument, both commemorating the innocent lives lost during the Holocaust.
Of course, Amsterdam is also known for its wilder side, making the city an incredibly popular destination where you can let your hair down and enjoy the Amsterdam way of life.
5 Things You Need to Know About Amsterdam
There are a few basic things to know which will help you to prepare before you visit Amsterdam, including:
Time Difference: UTC +1 hours
Currency: Euro (€)
Native Language: Dutch
Weather: Amsterdam has a consistent and temperate climate with cool winters and pleasantly warm summers. You can expect temperatures to sit between 2ºC-20ºC for most of the year.
Sales Tax: 21%
Flying to Amsterdam From Canada
You’ll need to know about how to get to Amsterdam from Canada, so here are some of the most important things, such as flight times and entry requirements:
Flight Times
Depending on where you’re flying from in Canada, you can reach Amsterdam in roughly 7-10 hours, with direct flights available from cities such as Montreal, Vancouver and Calgary.
Flights from some other cities may need to take indirect routes which can take a little longer.
Entry Requirements
If you are visiting for three months or less, you can travel to Amsterdam without a visa. You will only need a valid passport, but make sure it is valid for the full duration of your visit.
Airlines That Fly to Amsterdam
If you are looking for direct flights to Amsterdam, make sure to keep an eye out for these airlines:
- KLM
- Jet Airways
The Airport
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)
Amsterdam’s airport is not far from the centre, so you’ll easily be able to make your way into the city via train or bus. The train takes only 15-20 minutes and costs €3.30 ($4.91), while the bus takes roughly 30 minutes and costs €4 ($5.95).
10 Amsterdam Must-Dos
There is plenty to see and do in Amsterdam, so make sure to check out some of the best attractions. Here are our top ten:
- Anne Frank House
- Van Gogh Museum
- Rijksmuseum
- Vondelpark
- Heineken Experience
- Jordaan
- Royal Palace of Amsterdam
- De Oude Kerk
- Rembrandt House Museum
- Science Center NEMO
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