: Celebrating 750 years of Amsterdam
Happy Birthday to Amsterdam from Schiphol! Starting from 27 October 2024, Amsterdam is going to be celebrating its 750th anniversary with a year-long series of events and festivities. To mark this special occasion, we have put together a list of Amsterdam highlights that should be on everyone’s itinerary. From historical buildings and artistic masterpieces to vibrant festivals and relaxing parks – the Dutch capital has it all.
Museumplein
Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam lies the vibrant Museumplein, a place teeming with world-renowned art and history. This picturesque square is home to an array of iconic museums, making it a must-visit. The Rijksmuseum offers an awe-inspiring collection of Dutch masterpieces, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. Meanwhile, the Van Gogh Museum celebrates the life and art of Vincent van Gogh with the largest collection of his paintings. The Stedelijk Museum showcases contemporary art and design. Whether you're an art lover or a curious traveller, Museumplein promises a captivating journey through the ages.
Vondelpark
Want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city? This lush green paradise is perfect for relaxation, whether you're picnicking on the grass, cycling along tree-lined paths, or simply lounging by the ponds. Since its opening in 1865, Vondelpark has been a beloved retreat for both locals and tourists. What makes it truly special is its vibrant atmosphere, with charming cafes, an open-air theatre, and intriguing sculptures, including a Picasso! The park offers a slice of tranquillity in the urban landscape, as well as a wide range of activities like yoga, roller skating and dancing.
Canals
Often dubbed the ‘Venice of the North,’ the Amsterdam canals have been charming locals and travellers for centuries. The history of these waterways dates back to the 17th century, during the Dutch Golden Age. Designed for water management and defence, they are an impressive feat of urban planning. Today, these canals are a magnet for tourism, offering scenic boat tours that provide glimpses of Amsterdam’s historic façades, quaint houseboats, and vibrant neighbourhoods. Did you know that the design of Salon in Lounge 1 at Schiphol was inspired by the Amsterdam canals? Check it out while you’re at the airport!
Festivals
If you're planning a trip to lively Amsterdam, you're in for a treat with its epic festival scene. Kicking off the party is the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) in October, a techno lover's dream with beats dropping across the city. Feel the love in July with Amsterdam Pride, where colourful parades and events light up the canals, celebrating diversity and inclusivity. But the fun doesn’t stop there! From King's Day in April, with the whole city draped in orange, to the magical lights of Amsterdam Light Festival in winter, this city knows how to party all year round.
Markets
When in Amsterdam make sure not to miss the diverse array of markets it offers. At the heart of the action is the Albert Cuyp Market, a lively spot where you can discover everything from fresh stroopwafels to quintessential Dutch cheeses. Then there’s the floating wonder of the Flower Market, a riot of colours and smells showcasing Holland’s blooms. For a taste of the unconventional, head over to the IJ-Hallen, Europe’s largest flea market, where vintage lovers can indulge in second-hand treasures. And don’t worry if you don’t have time for shopping in Amsterdam – Schiphol has you covered with a variety of shops selling Dutch delicacies and souvenirs all over the airport.
Food
Exploring the vibrant streets of Amsterdam is like taking a culinary trip around the world! While the city offers countless global cuisines, why not try some local food? Start your tasting adventure with bitterballen, delicious deep-fried ragout-filled balls that are perfect for snacking. Then enjoy a bowl of traditional pea soup, or perhaps herring from one of the street vendors dotted around the city. For international flavours, Amsterdam's diverse neighbourhoods boast everything from Indonesian rijsttafel to delicious Italian trattorias. And for a true treat, stop by ‘Het Koekenmannetje’ for scrumptious cookies that the locals rave about. There’s a shop at Schiphol too!
Read the previous blogs
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Quickly going from Schiphol to Amsterdam by train
Published on:Travellers flying from Schiphol often take the chance to visit Amsterdam. Whether you got off the plane or the train, you can be in Amsterdam in 17 minutes.
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Superstition in the air
Published on:Throwing coins at the aircraft, always eating the same meal before a flight. Aviation is no stranger to superstitions.
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Flying eye-catchers attracting a lot of attention
Published on:We see a large number of aircraft at Schiphol, so we’re not that easily impressed. But sometimes special planes come along that do attract a lot of attention.
