Ten Reasons Why Now Is A Great Time To Visit Amsterdam!

With 2020 turning out a little different to what we expected, we’ve had plenty of time to plan our next adventures. After months at home, many of us have itchy feet to travel again but are perhaps wondering how travel has changed.  

We’ve implemented several safety measures onboard our ships to ensure sailings are as smooth as possible, and with our popular mini cruises back in business, it’s a great time for a mini break to Amsterdam.  

Read on to find out why now is an ideal time to visit the Dutch capital:  

1. No queues 

Whether you’re waiting in line for breakfast at a famous pancake house, or queuing for a canal cruise, it’s something to be expected when you visit Amsterdam in the height of summer. This year, the city is quieter so you can spend more of your time discovering its sights, sounds and tastes, without the queues!

 2. Al fresco dining 

Dining outside is a delight that stretches across the summer. With pre-booking essential in most Amsterdam restaurants and cafes, you’re almost guaranteed a lovely spot on the street to enjoy a bite to eat and take in the atmosphere of the city. 

3. See world-famous art without the crowds  

Ever wanted to see Rembrandt’s world-famous The Night Watch or Van Gogh’s Sunflowers? Now you can – without the crowds. Pre-booking time slots for the city’s museums means they are very quiet and only a certain number of people are allowed in at the same time. 

4. Picnics in the park  

Amsterdam boasts several parks, filled with sprawling gardens and greenery, an ideal place for a picnic. Drop into a deli in the city centre on the way and indulge in a gourmet al fresco lunch in Vondelpark or Westerpark. If the temperature really rises, you could always dip your toes in the lake to cool down.  

 5. Fresh sea air 

When going on a short break, the journey is often just as important as the destination and travelling by ferry means you have the fresh sea air to reinvigorate and refresh. Step out on deck on your way to Amsterdam and see if you can spot any sea-life. In the past porpoises, seals and even dolphins have been spotted! As night falls, the clear skies above the North Sea provide a perfect opportunity for star gazing. 

6. Cycling the city  

Hiring bikes and cycling through Amsterdam has always been a great way to explore the city. Now, with fewer tourists, it’s even easier as you only have the locals to contend with on the normally busy cycle lanes. 

 7. All creatures great and small  

The animals at Artis Zoo spent several months without visitors and are delighted to welcome people back once again. Pre-booking your visiting time ensures you can visit the park safely and see a range of beautiful and majestic creatures while social distancing. See the multicoloured feathers of the peacocks, the bright pink colour of the flamingos and crane your neck to say hello to the towering giraffes!

8. An oasis of peace 

The Begijnhof is an enclosed courtyard where a community of lay religious women lived since the 14th century. Climb a stairway from Spuplein to this hidden green square surrounded by traditional gabled houses and breathe in a sense of peace. See the oldest house in Amsterdam, Het Houten Huis, built in 1420 to the southwest of the square and visit a hidden church behind the facades of a row of houses. The church was secretly located here after public Catholicism was banned in the 16th century. 

 9. A bird’s eye view of Amsterdam 

You’ve seen it from the ground, you’ve seen it from the water, why not see Amsterdam from above at A’DAM Tower? You can even hop on Europe’s highest swing to see the city move over 100 metres below you! Once your heart rate gets back to normal you can sip a cooling drink on the rooftop terrace, taking in the sights below. 

 10. Discover one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world 

Hortus Botanicus was founded in 1638 and was originally used to grow herbs for pharmacists and doctors. Stroll these vast gardens to see plants from all corners of the earth. Over 6,000 plant species adorn the gardens, include coffee plants, rhododendrons and cycads which resemble tropical palm trees. Don’t miss the 17th century hexagonal pavilion and the desert greenhouse which show how plants have adapted to desert life – all in the heart of Amsterdam! 

Click here to book your summer mini cruise to Amsterdam today.