Overview Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands, and is its largest city as well. This city is particularly famous for its red-light district, its liberal reputation and its many canals. In fact, Amsterdam has such an extensive canal system that it is often known as the "Venice of the North."
Amsterdam is the 5th busiest tourist destination in Europe, with over 4 million international visitors. There are around 350 hotels in Amsterdam, with 17 of them being five-star. Not surprisingly, Amsterdam is a very popular pre- and/or post-cruise land package destination.
The temperature in Amsterdam is generally moderate. The winters are mild, while the summers are warm (but not too hot).
Destinations The following destinations can be visited on a cruise leaving from Amsterdam, The Netherlands:
Northern Europe
Western Europe
Currency The official currency is the Euro. ATM machines are available throughout the city.
Language The official language is Dutch, but most locals speak English very well.
Tourist Attractions Amsterdam attracts many tourists because of its quite liberal and relaxed reputation. The de Wallen area is where Amsterdam's red-light district is located. This area is located in the heart of the oldest part of Amsterdam. This is the area where you can find coffee shops (legally) selling marijuana, as well as a number of sex shops (as prostitution is legal and policed). Picture taking is not allowed in this area, and please be careful for pickpockets!
Amsterdam is also well known as an important cultural center. As such, within Amsterdam you can find numerous museums of importance.
The Rijksmuseum Amsterdam (in Amsterdam since 1808) is a Dutch national museum, located on the Museumplein (a square known as "Museum Square," because of the four museums located around it). This museum focuses on arts, crafts and history. Many of Rembrandts works are displayed in the Rijksmuseum. Other popular museums in Amsterdam are the Rembrandt House Museum, the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum.
The Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra is a world-class orchestra based out of Amsterdam. They perform quite often at the Concertgebouw (a concert hall in Amsterdam). The Concertgebouw is considered to be one of the finest concert halls in the world.
Amsterdam has become one of the European fashion capitals. As such, many fashion designers and modeling agencies are now based out of Amsterdam.
Amsterdam is one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the world. Throughout the city you'll notice many bike paths and bike racks and, of course, an extremely large number of people riding their bicycles around.
Port Location Amsterdam-Schiphol Airport (AMS) is less than a 30 minute ride to the cruise port. All driving times are estimates, subject to road and traffic conditions.
Taxis are available at the airport to take you to the pier. Another option is to purchase ground transfers through the cruise line.
The cruise port is about a 10 to 15 minute walk to the (usually busy) Central Station, where you can board a bus or train.
