Prologue
The Old Continent has to offer many destinations and dazzling places. Prepare yourself to discover many attractive locations with amazing histories, natural wonders, and breathtaking sights. If you can’t decide which country to visit first, let us give you an insight into the most charming and popular locations all over Europe. It’s not an easy choice to make but let us present to you our list of the most amazing cities and regions to visit. Consider this proposition if you plan to spend your vacation in Europe.
This city is the greatest planned city in Northern Europe and it plays a crucial role in the Netherlands history. Amsterdam was founded as a small fishing village near the banks of the Amstel River at the end of the twelve century.
During the fourteen and fifteen centuries Amsterdam experienced rapid development. In the seventeen century, this city became economically prosperous and advanced, during that time Amsterdam was the center of the world’s trade and economy.
The golden age of Amsterdam lasted between 1585-1672, and a vast number of important historical and iconic buildings and churches were built back then. A period of stagnation was recorded between 1795 and 1813 when Napoeon’s France occupied the Netherlands. Amsterdam suffered due to the economic recession and demographic decline.
The city managed to recover after the fall of Napoleon and because of the positive outcomes of the industrial revolution. Amsterdam survived another great economic crisis and recession between 1920-1940, which was a rough time for the whole of Europe. Today this magnificent city is well-recognized for its tolerant and welcoming character.
The best way to get familiar with Amsterdam’s greatest attractions and destinations is during one hour boat tour, the great news is that you can have a free drink and try famous Dutch cheese. If you are interested in arts, Amsterdam won’t let you down. Visiting Van Gogh’s museum is a must, then next the top should be the greatest museum in the city; Rijksmuseum.
With over 5000 paintings illustrating Dutch history, this may be the most popular touristic attraction. Here you can admire the various artistic and cultural treasures. Witness the world-famous paintings like Rembrandt’s “Nights Watch” and Vermeer’s “The Milkmaid“. Also, a popular destination is the House of Anne Frank, explore the room behind a movable bookcase where a popular Jewish girl hid during Nazi German occupation.
If you enjoy the wast open space, you should consider visiting the Vondelpark, the largest public park in Amsterdam. This characteristic place features fountains, statues, and a rose garden. One of the main attractions of this place is a tea house and open-air theatre.
The tour of Amsterdam won’t be complete without exploring Central Square and the Royal Place of Amsterdam. This place is a town’s beating heart. All shopping districts are connected to Central Square and if you are a fashion lover you’ll be certainly pleased with a wide selection of designer shops and boutiques. Don’t forget to visit the famous Madame Tussaud wax museum.
Nightlife in Amsterdam is lively and vibrant, it’s not a secret that this city is a hot spot for sex tourism. The well-known Red Lights District is a prostitution area of Amsterdam with over 300 spots where you can find all kinds of pleasure for your senses. Red Lights District features all kinds of sexy shops, erotic shows, coffee shops, and a cannabis museum.
If you enjoy a cold bottle of Heineken Beer, Amsterdam is the right place for you. Prepare for a unique interactive experience during the 90-minute tour. Find out everything about the Netherlands’ oldest beer brand. Other recommended destinations are Concertgebouw(a world-famous concert hall) and the Artis(Amsterdam’s city zoo, the oldest in the Netherlands)
