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Exploring Amsterdam: Tulips, Canals, and History

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European tourist giants like Paris and Rome often overshadow Amsterdam. However, it is yet another paradise for tourists across the globe. Due to its uniqueness, you will want to revisit it once you come.

Emphasising and embracing the historical traditions in the new age is one of the highlights of Dutch specialities, making it all the more attractive.

Apart from these man-made marvels of tourist attractions, the whole of the Netherlands features extraordinary natural richness. The signature windmills, picturesque canals, and the wide expanse of colourful tulip fields make it a haven for nature-loving tourists.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands. It almost casts a spell by maintaining a unique juxtaposition of contemporary vibrancy and historical attractiveness. The beauty of this city enhances manifolds because of the UNESCO-listed canals that effortlessly weave through the heart of the city.

Amsterdam holds a special place in history for being the home of Anne Frank’s house, Van Gogh Museum to name a few.

You can witness the liberality of the city if you visit the Red-Light District and innumerable cannabis cafes.

Important tourist places in Amsterdam

Amsterdam houses some of the best tourist attractions which can be best experienced if you undertake a guided walking tour. However, covering all the destinations on foot is barely impossible. But you can take the chance and cover as much as possible. Some of the most highlighted tourist destinations in the city include the following:

1. Artis Royal Zoo:

Founded long back in 1938, it marks the heart of the city. This is one of the oldest European zoos. Apart from the zoo, it also holds a planetarium and a vast aquarium.

2. Vondelpark:

Spanning across a massive 120 acres, this is one of the best and most popular urban parks in the city, named after the famous poet Joost van den Vondel.

3. Rijksmuseum:

If you wish to witness the historical fervour of the place, then this museum tour is a must. Established back in 1798, it is situated in the Museum Square and is a significant centre holding the historical and artistic marvels of the country.

4. Van Gogh Museum:

This holds the biggest artwork collection of the world-famous painter Vincent Van Gogh. Founded back in 1973, this offers a satisfactory view of contemporary Dutch life.

5. Bloemenmarkt:

This is the vast flower market, noted for floating on the Singel River, marking the southern tip of the city’s canal system.

6. Anne Frank Huis:

A destination of immense historical importance, this house is located in Prinsengracht. It is where she hid with her family and Van Pels from the ferocious Nazis during World War II. The house is divided into 2 parts: the front museum and the annexe at the back.

7. Royal Palace:

Located in Dam Square, this regal residence has been serving now for over 2 centuries. It hosts significant state visits of various foreign envoys hosted and invited by the king.

8. Upside Down Museum:

This is a unique museum of illusions that effectively stimulates imagination and creativity.

9. Jordaan:

This cute and picturesque neighbourhood is a paradise for shopaholics. It holds a special blend of smooth canals, and soothing cafes, along with essentially charming boutiques. You can spend your leisure time here, admiring the magnificent street art, historical architecture, and cool and cosy alleyways.

10. Red Light District:

Ideally not suitable for family trips, but you must hop here once while undertaking a solo or couple trip. It is packed with innumerable adult stores, and this centrally situated location houses brothels and various red-lit windows. Photography and videography of the workers are strictly prohibited here.

Apart from these, there is the Stedelijk Museum, Dam Square, Westerkerk, Begijnhof, etc., effortlessly blending natural beauties with historical marvels, maintaining the unique charm and fervour.

Documents needed for Netherlands tourist visa

If you are willing to undertake a trip to Amsterdam, some of the essential documents that you need to acquire the Netherlands tourist visa include the following:

1. Passport:

You must hold a valid passport, with at least 6 months of validity remaining.

2. Application:

A duly filled and signed Netherlands tourist visa application form.

3. Letter:

Your application must be accompanied by a cover letter clearly stating the purpose of your visit.

4. Travel insurance:

You must mandatorily hold a comprehensive travel insurance plan, preferably a foreign travel insurance plan with medical insurance protection coverage. Amsterdam offers special scopes for students too. So, if you are pursuing any educational program in the country, you must possess a reliable student travel insurance plan. You can easily buy travel insurance online, but only after careful research and critical comparison.

5. Photographs:

You must submit recent passport-size photographs.

6. Payment:

You have to confirm the payment of the relevant visa fee with supporting documents.

7. Address proof:

You have to submit authentic residence proof with supporting documents.

8. Accommodation arrangements:

You have to submit valid proof of your accommodation arrangements during the trip.

9. Fund proof:

You have to establish your fund capability by providing bank statements which must be enough to support your entire trip stay.

10. Travel plans:

You must validate your entire travel plan by providing round-trip tickets.

11. Itinerary:

You even need to provide a tentative itinerary to give an insight into your trip plan.

Best time for Amsterdam trip

From April to September, you can plan your trip to the Netherlands, including Amsterdam. The weather remains delightful during this point, maintaining ideal weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. This marks the peak tourist season.

You can also witness celebrations like St. Patrick’s Day in the city during spring. You also get the chance to enjoy certain occasional rainfall busts, contributing more to the pleasantness of the weather.

However, if you need to feel the vibe of the city at a quieter pace, then winter is your time, ranging between December to February. However, the ascending chill in the weather restricts certain tourist spots.

Safety measures to be taken during the Amsterdam trip

While touring through the city of Amsterdam, you need to be cautious about certain aspects to enjoy a smooth journey:

1. Speed limits:

Ensure to maintain all the traffic regulations very closely including speed limits.

2. Cycling:

Cycling is very popular in the Netherlands. If you are cycling, you must adhere to the designated cycling lanes and follow the regulations.

3. Boarding:

While boarding trams, buses, or trains, you must always mind the necessary gap.

4. Signals:

While crossing signals on foot, you must never fail the pedestrian signals and stick to designated crosswalks.

5. Secure:

Always remain alert regarding your belongings to minimise the chances of loss and theft.

6. Water safety:

While moving through the canals, you must follow the water safety guidelines, especially while travelling with kids, to prevent accidents.

7. Queue:

Always respect the queue system while travelling and never cut in the line.

8. Trash disposals:

The Netherlands government takes the cleanliness issue very seriously. You must ensure to keep all the public spaces clean.

Conclusion

Amsterdam is one of the most pleasant tourist destinations in the world. Although pricey, you can expand your funds through efficient budgeting techniques. Explore reasonable accommodation options like Airbnbs rather than opting for luxurious hotels. Moreover, peak tourist seasons are comparatively more expensive. Keep your drink costs limited by utilising the happy hours. Undertaking free walking trips can save you a fortune. Amsterdam is a paradise for every history enthusiast and nature lover.

So, embark on this wonderful journey after following all the legal aspects.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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