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Attractions in Amsterdam
Amsterdam's fantastic architecture is best seen from a sightseeing boat on the canals. A couple of art museums and one of the modern galleries are a must in this elegant, cultured city which also, on the other hand, offers high class football. There is plenty to do and see in Amsterdam.
Canal Boats Sightseeing boats depart continually during the day from the Central station, Damrak and the Rijksmuseum. The guided tours take 45 minutes. Other alternatives are the canal bus - with eleven stops close to museums and shopping streets - or the museum boat which circulates between all the museums. Address: From the Central station, Damrak and the Rijksmuseum
Walking Around Amsterdam The narrow 17th century houses have large windows at eye height, so you can see a lot more than just the beautiful facades. Some exciting areas to walk around in are: The Dam square with the Koninklijk Paleis (Royal Palace) built in 1665, Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) built in the 15th century. The Old Church (the city's oldest building) dates from 1302 and is sited on Warmoesstraat. Western Canal Belt (Herengracht, Keizergracht, Prinsengracht) consists of charming small streets containing shops, galleries and cafes.
Van Gogh Museum In addition to the world's largest collection of art by Vincent van Gogh, there are a lot of other impressionists, such as Monet and Gauguin. Address: Paulus Potterstraat 7, Museumplein Phone: +31 (0)20 570 5200
Rijksmuseum (National Museum) One of the world's most exclusive art collections. Among the 5000 works, Rembrandt's "Last Supper" is definitely the finest. Address: Stadhouderskade 42 Phone: +31 (0)20 674 7047
Stedelijk Museum The Modern Museum's permanent premises on Museumplein will be under renovation until October 2008. Temporary exhibitions are found in the former post office by the Central Station, on floors two and three. The collection of Stedelijk is expected to be shown in the renovated museum in December 2009. If you are here anyway, go up to Bar 11 on the eleventh floor and enjoy some coffee with a fine view. Address: Oosterdokskade 5 Phone: + 31 (0)20 573 2911
Anne Frank Huis (Anne Frank's House) This is where a Jewish family, the Franks, hid from the Nazis during World War II. They were betrayed and their daughter Anne died in a concentration camp. After her death, the diary was found and it became world famous. Frequently a long queue but least crowded a few hours before closing. Address: Prinsengracht 267 Phone: +31 (0)20 556 7100
Galleri De Kunstfabriek The Art Factory has recently moved to new premises in a hip location, Westergasfabriek. There are always exciting exhibitions to be surprised about. Address: 20 Polonceaukade, Westergasfabriekterrein Phone: + 31 (0)20 488 94 30
Galleri De Appel At De Apple, the latest avant-garde art is always on display. Address: Nieuwe Spiegelstraat 10 Phone: + 31 (0)20 625 5651
Ajax Football Museum Watching a league match in Amsterdam with Ajax, the home team, is great fun, even if you are not interested in football. The mood in the arena is animated, but friendly. Tickets are sold via www.ajax.nl. There is also an Ajax museum in the stadium which is open daily 10.00-17.00. Address: Amsterdam Arena, Arena Boulevard 29 Phone: + 31 (0)20 311 1444
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