Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands, known for its beautiful canals, historic buildings and open-minded culture. It’s a lively, diverse city that blends old-world charm with a modern, creative spirit.
The city is built around a network of canals, giving it the nickname “The Venice of the North.” Along these canals, you’ll find rows of narrow, tall houses with gabled facades—many of them dating back to the 17th century, which was Amsterdam’s Golden Age.
Amsterdam is also famous for its bicycles—there are more bikes than people! Locals and visitors alike use bikes to get around the city easily.
The city offers a rich mix of museums (like the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House), cozy cafés, lively markets and a vibrant nightlife scene. It’s also known for its progressive attitudes, seen in areas like the Red Light District and its early acceptance of LGBTQ+ rights and legal cannabis use.
Photography: Walter E. L. Somers
