Amsterdam Breaks 2012

Although the Red Light District and the Canal Belt are the two things that come to mind when mentioning Amsterdam, the city certainly has a lot more to offer than just sex, drugs and waterways. Amsterdam is not only the capital, but it is the largest city of the Netherlands – serving as its financial centre. It is also an ideal destination for a city break in that it offers many options for tourists. From museums and scenery to a hopping night life and ample shopping, Amsterdam is certainly an escape from the everyday. If you are considering Amsterdam breaks in 2012, then here is a quick list of highlights you will not want to miss.

Van Gogh Museum

Much of Vincent van Gogh’s artwork, consisting of 200 paintings and 500 drawings are a permanent exhibition in this Amsterdam museum. There is nowhere else in the world you can go to experience this multitude of van Gogh works of art. The museum also features temporary exhibitions that focus on his influence on other artists.

Anne Frank Huis

The Holocaust, one of the most tragic genocides in history, occurred during World War II. A memorial to the suffering of the Jewish people can be found at Prinsengracht 263 in Amsterdam. This 17th-century house, located in the famous Amsterdam canal district, was home to Anne Frank and her family while in hiding from the Nazis. It was in this house that Anne wrote in a diary which was published after her death in a concentration camp in Germany. The book has been printed in more than 50 languages around the world. The house stands as a memorial to her family and is visited by nearly a million people each year.

Heineken Brewery

Until1988, Amsterdam was home to the Heineken Brewery. The building is now a national monument comprised of special exhibition space which touts the history, tradition and craft of brewing beer. It has approximately 18 special attractions and interactive exhibits – offering visitors a glimpse into the life and times of Heineken and its people. Admission into the “museum” also includes two drinks and access to the Shire horse stables. These iconic horses still deliver beer all through the city!

Getting Around Amsterdam

Navigating through the city is a breeze. Amsterdam has a transit system which allows visitors to get from one end of the city to the other fairly easily. The city offers trams, a 4-line metro system, busses, ferries and trains. In addition, taxis are readily available at a reasonable rate. One unique option in Amsterdam’s transit system is the Bicycle Taxi – offering visitors (and locals) an environmentally friendly solution.

Amsterdam’s Nightlife

The Red Light District is not the only nightlife scene in Amsterdam. Casinos, arthouses, open-air theatres, and cinemas all offer great settings for evening activities. Amsterdam also boasts its very own jazz music concert hall, the Bimhuis, which has been deemed as one of the best jazz venues in the world. In fact, the city is popular for its embracement of live music and is home to numerous orchestras, theatres and dance troupes.