HOT DAMN AMSTERDAM. Truly a breathtaking city. "That is where they filmed the fault in our stars. Right there." I convinced my friends when we saw the first canal that the movie was filmed there. This specific scene where the couple was sitting by the canals. Little did I know, every block we went to would be another. This unique setup of a city is insane and overall gorgeous. Although the weather was very cold and rainy, we had an incredible time because there were a lot of activities to do and also beautiful sights to see. Here goes our 48 hours in Amsterdam.
Our flight was at 6 a.m. Friday morning which meant we arrived at around 8-9 a.m. in Amsterdam. Our first stop was the IAMsterdam sign right outside the train station and airport. From there we bought a train ticket to the city center for about six dollars. Because we didn't eat breakfast our stop right after we got to the city center station was The Pancake Bakery. Although on the higher side of cost, the pancakes here were delicious. I ordered the Dutch (right picture) which had stroopwafel chunks with cinnamon ice cream, chocolate and whip cream. I prefer sweet pancakes so this was order was a home run for me. My friends got the savory ones and they enjoyed them as well. There is no wrong answer here.
After our delicious meal, we went to check in at the Hotel Marnix-Amsterdam City Center. I would say the location is ideal as it is walking distance to everywhere. Cleanliness and cost were average. The receptionist was very kind. When I asked for a map, he gave me a map and proceeded to circle all the tourist locations and offered his own opinions which we found useful. From his recommendations, we went to the flower market, a 10 minute walk from the hotel. Netherlands is very famous for its tulips but unfortunately the winter is not blooming season so we didn't get to see the beautiful flowers. The flower market was still very fun to explore through. You can also purchase souvenirs here along with bulbs to take home to plant yourself if that is what you're interested in.
In the afternoon, we had tickets for the Van Gough Museum. If you want to go to the museums in Amsterdam like Anne Frank or Van Gough, you MUST book tickets in advance (I would say two weeks to be safe). Vincent Van Gough is one of the most interesting artist that I have learned about. He lived a very difficult life and his artwork didn't get famous until after his death. The most interesting exhibit in the Van Gough museum was the section with all his self-portraits. The reason why he created so many self-portraits was because his self-esteem was very low. The Van Gough museum is located minutes away from all the other art museums such as the Rijksmuseum and the MOCO museum. I've heard great things about them all. If you really love art, try to visit them all!
After adventuring around the art area and the Van Gough museum we were super hungry and in need of some iconic fries from Amsterdam. This popular stand located 10 minutes away from the central station is called Mannekenpis. There is always a line but it goes by very fast so don't worry. We went two times when we were in Amsterdam and I got the medium both times with the truffle mayo. You have 22 sauces to choose from so if you don't like mayo, don't worry! These fries are actually the best ones I have ever eaten. For dessert, we stopped by Rene's Churros for some delicious churros. These warm, chocolate covered treats were a great way to end the night.
Day 2: My friend who got tickets for the Anne Frank museum woke up bright and early to visit the museum. Although 20% of the tickets are reserved for day of sales, it is very difficult to purchase them so make sure to book them before your preferred day of visit. When she came back we proceeded with our day. We had booked the Rock the City package from A'DAM Lookout which included the A'DAM Lookout, a canal ride and the Heineken experience. To get to A'DAM Lookout, you have to take a ferry to cross the river. It's free and runs every four minutes or so, rain or shine. It is very easy to need to worry. I'd recommend taking the Rock the City package if you enjoy doing activities just because it has all the details in one ticket and is very convenient. When we went to the A'DAM lookout, it was VERY windy and rainy so it wasn't ideal but the view was still gorgeous. We also did the highest swing in Europe at A'DAM and IT WAS INSANE. Although the weather was not the greatest of conditions, the swing was still so much fun. You get the whole view of the city from a bird's eye view.
From the A'DAM lookout, we took a 40 minute canal ride to the Heineken Experience. From the Jackson Distillery to Guinness' tour, I have to say Heineken does its job of being EXTRA, but in such a good way. On top of the self-guided tours, they have all these interactive activities and photo booths. My favorite part of the tour was actually the beginning quote or wall art to open the tour. This picture of the right here states "Dear Guest, When you enter this iconic building. It doesn't matter where you're from, what color you are, which religion you have, if you are straight or gay, poor or rich. We like you just the way you are. We hope to give you a great time in our experience and turn each and every one of you into a Heineken ambassador for life. Everyone is welcome here in the home of heineken. Cheers Friend! Lieke Westendorp, Managing Director Heineken Experience." In this day and age, this is so important and I am glad that the tour started out with this statement.
After our time at the Heineken Experience, we were once again hungry so we walked a 25 minute walk to Foodhallen, a food hall with various stands. Everyone got something different. I had the Bitterballen at De BallenBar stand. It was delicious.
We also stopped by the red light district and I have got to say it is the most unique experience I have ever had. No pictures are allowed there. I have a lot of thoughts about the Red Light District which you can read here. These are just my thoughts of course.
Amsterdam overall was such a wonderful time and I wished we had more time just to wander around the city. The little cafes and stroopwafel stores are some places I missed out on. But there will be a next time for sure.
What are your favorite things to do in Amsterdam? What should I do next time I am there? Are there any other areas in the Netherlands that you like to visit?