The Netherland’s largest and capital city, Amsterdam makes up part of the vast, urban Randstad, which is also home to Utrecht, Rotterdam and The Hague. Amsterdam has been branded the Venice of the North because it sits on more than 60 miles of waterways and canals, punctuated by 1,500 bridges. The city boasts some of The Netherlands’ most famous landmarks, family attractions, cultural hotspots and architecture, along with Ajax, the country’s most successful football team. If you are paying a visiting, hiring a car in Amsterdam gives you the ability to see all the local sights and take in more of the Randstad.
Stroll around the city’s Museumplein and visit the Rijksmuseum, which showcases national exhibitions, take in the Van Gogh Museum, home to some of the iconic painters finest pieces, and enjoy the contemporary art at the Stedelijk Museum. Alongside this glorious array of museums is the elegant Concertgebouw, home to hundreds of concerts a year. Meanwhile, Amsterdam is home to some of the Netherlands’ finest shopping. Take in the Negen Straatjes, which host independent stores, cafés and boutiques, while P.C. Hoofstraat has the city’s high profile fashion stores. If you want a more rugged venue, you can visit the flea markets of Waterlooplein, or hire a car from Amsterdam and go to Edam, 25 minutes’ drive away.
