Amsterdam Canals: Everything to Know for Your Family Vacation

The oldest canals in the city are within the Red-Light District. That district is one of the many things that makes Amsterdam unique. The reason for this is most old cities have a medieval center that includes a museum. However, in Amsterdam, their medieval center is one that sometimes holds a little bit of controversy.

There are three main canals within Amsterdam. The one in the middle of them all is Keizersgracht, or Emperor’s Canal. The digging of this canal began in 1612. Although originally, a wide street was planned for this area instead of a canal. But the locals wanted water in front of their homes. Therefore, a canal was created instead.

The most important canal in Amsterdam is Herengracht, which is also known as Gentlemen’s Canal. It is one of the main canals as well. During the 17th century, all the influential people within Amsterdam lived along this canal. That really hasn’t changed much in recent years. All the wealthy people still all crave a home on this beautiful canal’s shoreline.

The last of the three main canals is Prinsengracht or Prince’s Canal. It took fifty years to create this canal.

Check out the best things to do in Amsterdam for your family vacation. 

Three Ways to Explore Amsterdam’s Canals

Canal Boat Tours

There are three ways to explore these canals by water. The first is to take one of the Canal Boat Tours. You can choose from a glass-topped boat. Or you can ride on one of the smaller boats that are open on top.

It is best to ride these boats twice during your visit because the ambiance around the water changes as the day goes to the night.

Rent a Boat

Another option for riding along the canals in Amsterdam is to rent your own boat. However, maneuvering a boat through the canals takes some skill. So, consider this option carefully during your visit.

You may want to take a regular tour first to get your bearings and then rent a boat afterward.

Don’t forget your tickets to the Anne Frank House during your family vacation in Amsterdam! 

Take a Gondola Ride

The third option is to take one of the gondola rides. There are plenty of gondolas to choose from and you may see some of the smaller canals with this option. You may want to consider taking a ride during the day, and at night, just like the other boat rides, so you can experience the change in the ambiance.

These are the three best ways to explore the canals in Amsterdam, besides simply walking, or bicycling, alongside them. You can easily choose the one that meets your requirements the most, but you might also want to consider mixing and matching for the best results.

More amazing things to do with family during a vacation in Amsterdam. 

I would love to help you plan the perfect trip to Amsterdam, so think about what you might love to do there, other than exploring the canals. Once you have a partial list, we can connect, and I can share all the little details you need to have the perfect vacation in this family-friendly destination.

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for your next trip to see the Amsterdam canals?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click on this link, you will be taken to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel information I share.

The post Amsterdam Canals: Everything to Know for Your Family Vacation appeared first on integritylawfirmcmr.com.

Amazing Things to Do in Amsterdam for Your Family Vacation

Take a Historical Canal Ride – The Most Popular Thing to Do in Amsterdam

The water tours of Amsterdam are some of the most desired. Since there are hundreds of canals throughout the city that were created just for travel, there is no reason not to give this popular activity a try.

During your gentle water ride you’ll get to view some of the country’s most detailed architecture and most beautiful landscapes.

This is one of the most popular things to do in Amsterdam, so be prepared for lines when you arrive.

Take a Walk Through the Wildflowers – Favorite Thing to Do in Amsterdam in the Spring

Amsterdam takes great pride in its bulb flowers. Especially their tulips.

Visit the amazingly vibrant bulb flower park in Lisse if you wish to see the tulips in all their glory. If you happen to miss the tulip season, don’t worry. There are plenty of bulbed flowers that grow year-round at the park.

Some people will ship tulip bulbs back home when on a family vacation in Amsterdam, so they can enjoy the memories from their trip long in the future.

Visit One of the Many Spectacular Museums

Check out paintings by Rembrandt, Van Gogh or other world-renowned artists. Or go revisit history by walking into the Anne Frank House where you can see the secret annex where her family hid during World War II.

Visiting museums is one of the amazing things to do in Amsterdam if you are interested in the history and culture of the city.

Walk Through De Wallen – The Nation’s Red-Light District

Although it’s famous for some risky behavior, there is much more to this district. Try out one of the district’s fine restaurants and small boutiques. Or find more responsible entertainment at any of the places not lit up with red lights.

For a faster way to venture through, rent a bicycle. You’ll find that you can rent a bike nearly anywhere in the country.

This is one of the things to do in Amsterdam that we will discuss while I am planning your trip, so we can see if it is something your family truly wants to do.

Visit an Authentic Dutch Coffee Shop

People travel all over the world to Amsterdam to encounter these coffee shops in person. In Amsterdam, marijuana is simply a way to unwind. These coffeehouses are some of the most reputable and reliable sources to enjoy a delicious bite to eat and a puff of smoke as you dine.

Obviously, this is not an activity you would do with younger children. However, if your children are all adults, and this is an activity you wish to do together, I will make sure you visit one of the best coffee shops in Amsterdam.

There are so many amazing things to do in Amsterdam and I don’t want you to miss anything during your family vacation there! Thankfully, I can personalize your family trip, so you see and do everything on your list.

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for your next trip to Amsterdam or another destination?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click on this link, you will be taken to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel information I share.

The post Amazing Things to Do in Amsterdam for Your Family Vacation appeared first on integritylawfirmcmr.com.

The Anne Frank House: The Best Attraction in Amsterdam

The Secret Annex

Anne Frank lived within the Secret Annex. This secret room was the upstairs of her father’s old business building at Prinsengracht 263. She spent months in this small, cramped space with her mother, father, sister, and four other people.

They all had to stay very quiet, especially during the day when the workers were in the business below. Anne spent many of her days writing in her diary. Which her father had published after he was once a free man again.

Today, you can visit the Secret Annex. There are many original pieces within this museum. Along with documents, photos, and Anne’s original diary and personal notebooks.

To get an idea of what you can see inside the Anne Frank House, you can easily visit their website to take an online tour.

What you need to know about Amsterdam’s canals. 

Tickets to the Anne Frank House

Tickets to the Anne Frank House must be purchased in advance. The tickets can be purchased online two months in advance at noon Amsterdam time.

They do only release eighty percent of the tickets for each specific day two months in advance. So, you do have a slim chance of purchasing tickets from the remaining twenty percent on the same day of your visit. Those tickets go on sale at nine in the morning Amsterdam time. And you still must purchase these last-minute tickets to the Anne Frank House online.

Now that you are all excited about the possibility of seeing where Anne Frank spent her time writing her now-infamous diary, it is time to plan your trip to Amsterdam. I can help you with all the details, so you can be worry-free from the time you book until the moment you arrive home with memories to last a lifetime.

Check out these incredible things to do in Amsterdam during your next family vacation. 

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for your next trip to Amsterdam?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click on this link, you will be taken to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel information I share.

The post The Anne Frank House: The Best Attraction in Amsterdam appeared first on integritylawfirmcmr.com.

Best Things to Do in Amsterdam with Family 

Take a Stroll Alongside the Canals 

One of the first things your family should do when you arrive in Amsterdam is take a stroll alongside the canals. There are plenty of canals to choose from in Amsterdam. However, the four main canals create a horseshoe shape. Those canals are called Grachtengordel when speaking about all of them together. The actual names of the four individual canals are Singel, Prinsengracht, Herengracht, and Keizersgracht.  

At some point during your stay, focus on the western side of the canals. That is where de 9 Straatjes, or The Nine Streets, can be found. It is a shopper and diner’s paradise. All nine of the little streets are filled with restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries.  

Visit the Anne Frank House 

Almost everyone chooses to visit the Anne Frank House when they are on vacation in Amsterdam. The Frank family, as well as four other people, spent two years and one month hidden in the annex of this home. During your visit, you can see the small hidden rooms where everyone spent their days and nights. The movable bookcase that hid the entrance to this space is also part of the tour.  

I recommend securing tickets for this museum prior to arriving in Amsterdam. This is a popular attraction in the city and tickets sell out every day. I can arrange for your tickets, as I am planning your personalized family vacation in Amsterdam.  

Relax at Vondelpark 

Not too far from the center of the city is Vondelpark. This open green space is a favorite of the locals and tourists. Walk along the winding paths to the ponds to enjoy a picnic lunch.  

Get a Little Culture in at the Van Gogh Museum 

Van Gogh has long been a popular artist. He created numerous masterpieces, despite his tortured feelings about his life. This is one of the most popular museums in Amsterdam. Tickets to visit should definitely be purchased in advance if you want to see the largest collection of Van Gogh’s artwork.  

Visit the Rijksmuseum 

More art can be seen at the Rijksmuseum. This museum is considered the greatest of all the museums in the city. Part of the eight thousand works of art and one million objects includes a massive collection of Dutch art.  

I recommend taking a guided tour of this museum. This will ensure you don’t miss any of the important exhibits.  

Grab Some Food at the Albert Cuyp Markt 

You will find the Albert Cuyp Markt in De Pijp. This street market is where the locals go to barter for the best prices for their food and clothing. You can do the same but check out the souvenirs during your visit too.  

This is an excellent place to mingle with the locals, while getting a great price on everything you want to purchase for the day.  

Head Out on a Canal Tour 

Yes, you can walk alongside the canals as often as you want while on a family vacation in Amsterdam. However, heading out on a canal tour will allow you to see the city from a different perspective. Find a tour guide near Centraal, then sit back and relax, as you float along the water.  

Looking for a different way to explore the canals? Consider a dinner and cocktail cruise!  

Grab a Pint to Drink 

Brouwerij ‘t IJ is Amsterdam’s original microbrewery. You will find this brewery inside a working windmill. All the beers are served in smaller glasses. Therefore, it is simple to try a few of them before deciding on your favorite.  

A word to the wise… Many of these brews have a higher alcohol content than what you are used to. Enjoy a few snacks from the bar to keep things from getting a little crazy.  

Beer lovers may also want to visit Heineken. This beer has been a part of Amsterdam for more than one hundred and fifty years. Take the Heineken Experience to learn about the history of this beer and how it is brewed. At the end, you will have your very own beer tasting.  

Play Games at Blast Galaxy 

The kids will be in heaven if you manage to find the time to take them to Blast Galaxy. This arcade is located within a warehouse in Amsterdam Noord. There are more than one hundred arcade games here to play. So, you may even find one of your favorite games from your childhood to play while the kids play the newer games that are available.  

Visit the KattenKabinet 

Does your family love cats? Do you have a budding veterinarian in your family? Well, if you answered yes to either of those questions, you should stop at the KattenKabinet. This museum is full of works of art that focus on cats. You will see cat paintings, cat sculptures, and many other feline art pieces.  

Basically, if someone can dream something creative about cats, you will find it here!  

Have a Little Fun at Flevopark 

Flevopark is where the only outdoor swimming pool can be found in the city. If the weather is warm, you may want to head there for a day of fun in the water. Although, you can throw caution to the wind and make memories while swimming in the Nieuwe Diep too.  

Not interested in the water? Walk the trails, play a round of tennis, or simply relax and enjoy the solitude at this park.  

Visit the Oldest Building in Amsterdam 

The oldest building in Amsterdam is Oude Kerk. This was the original church of medieval Amsterdam. Lots of its historical items were lost over the years. However, you can still see an organ, stained glass, and plenty of gravestones inside amongst the art on display.  

That’s right. This is no longer a church. It is an art venue now. The exhibits rotate regularly. You may also catch a performance or workshop during your visit.  

You will find this building in the Red Light District. Since that neighborhood can be a little off-putting at night, I recommend visiting during the day.  

Check Out the Views from the A’DAM Tower 

Some of the best views of Amsterdam can be found from the top of the A’DAM Tower. You can choose to simply use one of the observation points to see the views. However, one of the best things to do in Amsterdam is soaring on the Over the Edge Swing at the A’DAM Tower. This swing is three hundred and twenty-five feet over the ground.  

This is one of the best ways to make thrilling memories with your family that you will never forget!  

Visit the Windmills in Zaanse Schans 

If your family wants to escape the city for the day, you can always head out to Zaanse Schans. This little town is more like a museum. During your visit, you can taste different cheeses and learn about the history of the area.  

The most fascinating thing you will do there though is climb the windmills.  

See the Flowers at Hortus Botanicus 

One of the oldest botanical gardens in the world is Hortus Botanicus. These gardens were founded in 1638. They served as a place to grow herbs for pharmacists and doctors.  

You won’t find herbs in the gardens during your visit now. But you will get to see more than six thousand trees and plants. There is a butterfly greenhouse as well, so you can spend time with butterflies if you want.  

Eat Cookies from Van Stapele Koekmakerij 

Van Stapele Koekmakerij is the best place to get cookies while in Amsterdam. This bakery only makes one type of cookie. That cookie is a Valrhona chocolate cookie dough with a white chocolate filling. You may think it is strange to only sell one type of cookie, but they sell out quickly each day. So, they must definitely be loved by everyone!  

I recommend either arriving early to ensure you miss the really long line or don’t miss out on available cookies. Or you can call to order cookies in advance and guarantee they will be there when you go to pick them up.  

See the Tulips in the Keukenhof Gardens 

The Keukenhof Gardens are approximately an hour away from Amsterdam. The best time to visit these gardens is during the spring when the tulips are in bloom. Just be prepared for crowds, because everyone seems to visit at that time since the Netherlands are famous for their tulips.  

If you happen to miss the tulips, don’t stress out! They have more than one hundred varieties of flowers within the gardens. Walk around to see those, as well as the sculptures and displays.  

These are some of the best things to do in Amsterdam during a family vacation. I can add other things to your list as I am personalizing your family itinerary. All you need to do is let me know what your family is interested in, and I will share a few more ideas with you during our planning session.  

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for your trip to Amsterdam or another destination?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click on the link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter to continue to receive all the travel information I share.  

The post Best Things to Do in Amsterdam with Family appeared first on integritylawfirmcmr.com.