Amsterdam is a city of contrasts—historic yet vibrant, cozy yet full of adventure. From indulging in golden fries to exploring world-famous museums and cruising along moonlit canals, every moment here tells a story. Here’s a glimpse into my whirlwind trip through this enchanting city.

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Day 1: Fries, Pubs, and a House That Tells a Story

Welcome to Amsterdam! After checking into my hotel and dropping my bags, I was ready to hit the town. First stop? The legendary Manneken Pis fries. These golden, crispy beauties are an Amsterdam institution, and when smothered in sweet mayo, they became an indulgence I wouldn’t soon forget. Calories don’t count on vacation, right?

With my hands slightly greasy (but my heart happy), I strolled over to Dam Square—the bustling heart of the city. Here, grand architecture met a symphony of street performers, tourists, and pigeons that seemed just a little too confident. I snapped a picture in front of the Royal Palace, admired the Nieuwe Kerk, and soaked in the energy.

Next up: a classic Dutch pastime—pub hopping. With centuries-old bars and craft beer spots around every corner, this was the perfect way to experience Amsterdam’s relaxed, gezellig vibe (a word that roughly translates to cozy, but in a very Dutch way). I tried a locally brewed Gluten free lager (Celiac problems) and it was phenomenal, better than anything I’ve tried here in North America.

Now, it was time for the true Amsterdam experience: wandering along the canals. With their charming bridges, narrow houses, and fairy-tale reflections on the water, these canals were an explorer’s dream. Getting lost here was half the fun (and highly encouraged).

My final stop of the day was a saddening, yet essential visit: the Anne Frank House. Nestled along the Prinsengracht canal, this museum is where Anne Frank and her family hid for two years during World War II. As I walked through the hidden annex, her words—scribbled in a red-checked diary—brought history to life in a deeply moving way. The creaky wooden floors, the blacked-out windows, and the walls covered with magazine cutouts reminded me of the everyday life they tried to preserve. This wasn’t just a museum; it was a powerful testament to resilience and a must-visit in Amsterdam.

After a day of eating, drinking, and reflecting, it was time to rest up for another adventure-packed day.

Day 2: Masterpieces, Markets, and Moonlit Canals

Rise and shine! Today started with some culture at the Rijksmuseum. This world-renowned museum houses an impressive collection of Dutch masterpieces, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals. The museum itself was a stunning piece of architecture, blending classic grandeur with modern design. If you’re into history, art, or just really like looking at fancy old things, this place is for you.

Nearby was the Van Gogh Museum, but we decided to skip it this time. (No worries, it’s only a short walk away for next time!)

Next stop: the charming Pijp Neighbourhood Markets. This local gem was a feast for the senses—colorful flower stalls, vintage finds, and mouth-watering street food at every turn. The highlight? Freshly made stroopwafels—two thin, crisp waffles sandwiched together with warm, gooey caramel. Watching them being made was almost as satisfying as eating them (almost).

As night fell, we took a daring detour through the infamous Red Light District. With neon lights reflecting on the canals, red-lit windows, and a crowd that was full of curious tourists, this part of Amsterdam was as fascinating as it was controversial. 

To wrap up my whirlwind visit, there was no better way to say goodbye to the city than with a canal boat tour. Gliding through the illuminated waterways at night, I saw Amsterdam from an entirely new perspective—one that was both peaceful and magical. 

Until next time, Amsterdam. Tot ziens!