Why Millions of Visitors Return to Amsterdam

Well 3.66 million international visitors to Amsterdam annually can’t be wrong. The beautiful capital of the Netherlands keeps tourists rolling in for many reasons, and while its hedonistic tendencies are certainly one of them, its magnificent architecture, museums, shopping and dining are four more.

Flights from the UK to Schiphol Airport are fabulously cheap and quick, making Amsterdam ideal even for just a weekend adventure. With 400km of bike paths in the city itself, it’s imperative that you see the city on two wheels.

Breeze along the canal side to visit sights such as the Oude Kerk, the oldest building in Amsterdam, the Anne Frank Huis, where she hid from the Nazis, the Van Gogh museum and, on a Saturday, browse the Albert Cuypmarkt – arguably Europe’s most popular outdoor market.

Release Your Inner Child

By night, swap your bike for a boat and take an enchanting, illuminated trip down one of the canals, or for the ultimate cultured night in Amsterdam, time your visit to include Museumnacht, on the 5th November. Then, 45 museums will be opening until 2am and visitors can travel between each one, enjoying temporary and permanent exhibits, live music, performances and not forgetting plenty of wine!

However, if you’re planning a wintry Amsterdam visit with children – or even just your inner child – don’t miss the Arrival of Sinterklaas on the 13th November. The yearly spectacle of Saint Nicholas arriving on the deck of a ship attracts hundreds of thousands of children, and over five tons of candy is given away!

Amsterdam