Springtime in Amsterdam
During springtime, Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, is teeming with rosy tulips and dark academia charm. Like Porto, I felt like I was strolling down Diagon Alley or another fairytale setting. However, Amsterdam is full of eccentric quirks that make exploring the European city a unique experience for any traveler. I fell in love with the city for its fierce singularity. From strolling through the iconic tulip gardens, bar-crawling in the Red Light District, and discovering that coffeeshops don’t actually sell coffee, springtime in Amsterdam is full of exciting things to try and admire.
Wandering and Shopping Downtown
Getting lost in the winding alleys and intricate canal system that carves through downtown Amsterdam is a must-do. Western and European stores and restaurants line the streets, so you’re sure to find anything you could desire. Maybe you’ll stop at a local bakery like Van Wondern and grab a famous Dutch “stroopwafel” (two thin waffle cookies filled with caramel). You could also book a canal tour and explore the city via boat (with booze provided, of course). Even just walking or biking around, admiring the architecture, and people-watching is very enjoyable.
The Tulip Festival
If you visit Amsterdam in spring, you can’t miss seeing the beautiful tulip gardens. Holland, an hour-long bus ride from Amsterdam, is known worldwide for its abundant tulip gardens, which are only in full bloom during the peak of spring. Purchase a ticket online to gain access to the rolling Keukenhof tulip gardens. You’ll stroll down cobblestone paths, over bridges, and under gazebos while admiring colorful tulips at every corner. You’ll also find unique art pieces, fountains, and streams cutting through the gardens. The Tulip Festival had been on my bucket list for years, and despite the rainy weather it still exceeded my high expectations.
Checking out local Museums
The Moco Museum showcases modern digital art about activism and social justice. With new pieces displayed seasonally, I highly recommend stopping by and checking out the spring galleries. Not only are the art pieces beautiful, but they’re also incredibly interactive, and maybe you’ll learn something like I did. Regardless of how you spend time at the museum, supporting local art is a great way to give back to your host community.
Moco isn’t the only museum you can explore, as Amsterdam is filled with them. Next door, you’ll find both the Diamond Museum and the Van Gogh Museum. You can also find the well-known Anne Frank House, but note that you’ll need to look at tickets months ahead to visit. Check out this handy Conde Nast Traveler article after mine to read more about museums in Amsterdam.
The Heineken Experience
Another activity you may want to check out is the authentic Heineken Experience. The famous Dutch beer company planted its roots in Amsterdam and has since turned the brewery into an attraction. Visitors can book a full guided walking tour through the brewery. The tour includes free beer, an immersive virtual reality experience, and a chance to get a custom Heineken beer bottle.
Coffeeshops and the Red Light District
Last but certainly not least, one can’t visit Amsterdam without checking out the infamous “coffeeshops” and the Red Light District.
Coffeeshops are sprinkled throughout downtown and marked differently from normal cafes by the lack of space between “coffee” and “shop.” When you enter, they won’t have coffee or tea. Instead, you’ll be offered a wide selection of pre-rolled joints, rolling paper, flower, and baked edibles such as “space muffins.” It’s true! Getting marijuana is as easy as buying a coffee in Amsterdam. Even if you don’t partake, it’s still cool to see.
The Smokey Coffeeshop was my favorite coffeeshop in all of Amsterdam. I loved the colorful lighting, the bar feature (not pictured) and the dance floor (not pictured).
The Red Light District is named after the glowing red (and some blue) lights shining outside the street windows, painting the streets and canals in a red-purple hue. The district is even more well-known because it is lined with strip clubs and bars instead of shops. You get a full view of strip dancers and performers in the glowing red lights behind the windows. Of course, experiencing the Red Light District isn’t for everyone, so I advise viewer discretion if you decide to visit.
The Red Light District “shops” cast red and blue light on the canal.
Spending a couple of spring days in Amsterdam was everything I hoped it would be and more. It’s safe to say that the unique city rises among my favorites, and I will be planning a trip back in the future. I hope this guide helps you experience all Amsterdam has to offer, just as I did.
