| Home | My Account | Directories |
Summer in the city
Published on 2012-05-22 05:26:39
When the temperature rises in Amsterdam, everyone and their brother heads to the local green spaces. With travel bbq's, cooler boxes, picnic spreads and the occasional bikini clad lady, the city's parks are an ideal way to soak up the … Continue reading → > read more
London Calling: Amsterdam edition
Published on 2012-05-17 06:55:02
Since 1992 London Calling has been the main artery for indie London music flowing to Amsterdam two times a year. This year is no exception and, with a spring line-up already shaping out to impress this 18 and 19 May, we can confidently say … Continue reading → > read more
Amsterdam canals by gondola
Published on 2012-05-15 05:56:45
With over 100 kilometers of canals, Amsterdam is known as the Venice of the north. Now, that reputation is getting another push with the efforts of one woman, Tirza Mol. She is the only gondola driver in the city, offering … Continue reading → > read more
Keukenhof: Your tulip gardens
Published on 2012-05-04 08:23:21
There are seven million different bulbs planted here each year. In a rainbow of colours, blossoming hyacinths, orchids, daffodils, lilies and crocuses unfold before your eyes. And they all stand flowering next to the world's favourite of the show, the Dutch … Continue reading → > read more
Remember WWII with Sofia’s Drawings
Published on 2012-05-01 08:26:34
Everyone knows the story of the Amsterdam girl in hiding during World War II. The Diary of Ann Frank is one of the most beloved tales of the struggle Holland's Jewish population faced during the Nazi occupation. But few know … Continue reading → > read more
Spui square a book lover’s paradise
Published on 2012-04-26 07:49:06
In a city famous for unsavoury entertainment, it is a lovely surprise to stumble into Spui square. The area, known as the intellectual heart of Amsterdam, is home to a surprising history as well as the literary accomplishments of the … Continue reading → > read more
Get ready to go orange!
Published on 2012-04-24 11:04:18
Of all the European countries with a Queen, arguably none loves their monarch as much as the Dutch do. Celebrating the Queen's birthday is a nationwide holiday in the Netherlands called Queen's Day. And in true Dutch spirit, the locals go … Continue reading → > read more
Enter the Heart of Darkness
Published on 2012-04-20 09:15:55
Buying a bit of marijuana in Amsterdam is no dramatic affair. Stroll into one of the city's 300 plus coffeeshops and make a choice from their ample and mind-blowing selection. But, what is lost in this exchange of goods is … Continue reading → > read more
Feel Amsterdam with new YouTube channel
Published on 2012-04-17 14:23:12
There is nowhere in the world like it. Art, architecture, bicycles and a culture both welcoming and exotic. Amsterdam has a little bit of everything, wrapped around a 16th century canal belt and exploding with the magic of the past … Continue reading → > read more
Go Dutch for lunch
Published on 2012-04-13 08:19:20
The average working person spends upwards of 35 hours a week at the office. So, it is no surprise that the most cherished hour comes smack in the middle of the day - lunch. And there is no reason why … Continue reading → > read more
Holland hosts world’s greatest flower fair
Published on 2012-04-10 11:47:11
It's been billed one of the to 10 sights in the world. It boasts upwards of 1.8 billion bulbs, 5,000 rose bushes, 19,000 perennials and 3,000 trees. It happens only once every 10 years and this fantastic flower event is … Continue reading → > read more
EYE film museum opens
Published on 2012-04-04 05:27:53
With the opening of the new EYE film museum, a decades long wish of Dutch film fans is fulfilled. "Finally, film has a museum it deserves," director Sandra den Hamer told Amsterdam newspaper Het Parool. "Finally we can see the … Continue reading → > read more
Easter in Amsterdam
Published on 2012-04-02 11:44:09
Amsterdam has a reputation for being less than holy, but come Easter-time, the city gets just as wrapped up in festivities as anywhere else. In fact, Easter celebrations in the Netherlands are very similar to the traditions in other parts … Continue reading → > read more
Follow the path: Cycling in Amsterdam
Published on 2012-03-29 12:25:45
Amsterdam is of the most bicycle friendly cities in the world. The Dutch two-wheeled love affair began in earnest in the 1940s and has since blossomed into one of the most popular forms of transportation. There are rumoured to be … Continue reading → > read more
Tropenmuseum Junior named best in world
Published on 2012-03-23 06:35:49
Tropenmuseum Junior has won the 2012 World Children's Museum Award. The prestigious prize was issued by the European Academy Museum and Hands On! International from a list of 28 candidates from Norway to the Philippines, Spain and Singapore. The jury … Continue reading → > read more
Cirque du Soleil brings Corto to Amsterdam
Published on 2012-03-21 07:44:22
The theatrical world of entertainment, comedy, and spontaneous acts that is Cirque du Soleil's Grand Chapiteau is coming to the Netherlands this weekend. From 23 March to 13 May, the Amsterdam ArenA will host the travelling acrobatic extravaganza's latest show … Continue reading → > read more
Downtown American diner opens in Amsterdam
Published on 2012-03-20 07:53:38
Glittering chrome detailing, signature red booths and pin-up posters define the design at Amsterdam's American Diner. A throw-back to the 50s and 60s dining culture so famous in the States, the new addition to the Dutch restaurant scene is a … Continue reading → > read more
Keukenhof flower fields
Published on 2012-03-12 13:20:03
Spring means flowers in the Netherlands and nowhere in the country is that more visible than the Keukenhof gardens. The world's largest flower field opens on 22 March, kicking off the season of rebirth with over seven million blossoming buds. … Continue reading → > read more
Starbucks experiment launches in Amsterdam
Published on 2012-03-09 06:11:44
The Starbucks Bank is now open in Amsterdam. The coffee concept store is housed in a former Amsterdamsche Bank in Rembrandtplein, and will specialise in "slow-brew" and gauge the Dutch market for the trends the mega-successful chain will implement in … Continue reading → > read more
Go 2theloo in Amsterdam
Published on 2012-03-05 07:39:57
Amsterdam is infamously home to some very public places for people to pee. Besides the canal side, most often frequented by those who've had one too many. Dotted throughout the city are "pissors" or public urinals for men. The large, mesh-designed metal … Continue reading → > read more
Adventures in backpacking
Published on 2012-03-02 09:32:49
Nearly every travel-minded person's dream is to shun the "real life," throw a few items in a backpack, and tour the world. Following in the footsteps of college students and thrifty travellers, this is an unforgettable adventure that - if … Continue reading → > read more
Dutch say yes on Leap Day
Published on 2012-02-29 09:32:49
Only once every four years does February get an extra day. Leap Year brings with it the 29th day and some very special luck. According to legend, this auspicious day is the only one where women are allowed to propose … Continue reading → > read more
Up close and personal at Terry O’Neil exhibition
Published on 2012-02-22 14:38:21
British photographer Terry O'Neil is famous for catching his subjects in candid, intimate settings. His legendary work, featuring famous famous including the Beatles, Brigid Bardot, the Stones, David Bowie and Amy Winehouse. Bringing his artful eye to Amsterdam, the Eduard … Continue reading → > read more
Amsterdam, New York City: Sister cities across the pond
Published on 2012-02-21 04:45:31
Many draw comparisons between the people and culture of Amsterdam and New York City. Both homes of bustling ports and a colourful history of immigration and acceptance, the comparisons are not surprising. But taking a closer look at the history … Continue reading → > read more
For Technorati
Published on 2012-02-17 16:31:27
ABJ22NXCSHD6 We have to fill in this code in a blogpost somehow to claim our blog at : http://technorati.com.... © 2012, Amsterdam City Tours Blog. All rights reserved. On republishing any part of this post, you must provide a link … Continue reading → > read more
Beauty in abundance
Published on 2012-02-16 05:24:39
The Van Gogh Museum is a mainstay in Amsterdam and a must-see for everyone from locals, visitors to art aficionados. The museum's permanent and exhaustive collection of Vincent Van Gogh's work is not matched elsewhere in the city - except by … Continue reading → > read more
Red light love
Published on 2012-02-14 04:40:46
Valentine's Day is a holiday for lovers. And in Amsterdam, city of the famous Red Light District, there's a lot of love to be found - for singles and couples alike. But amid this tolerant city's changing climate, red light … Continue reading → > read more
2011 World Press Photo winner announced
Published on 2012-02-10 07:48:25
A photograph of a woman holding a wounded family member in a mosque being used as a field hospital during the protests in Yemen has won the World Press Photo 2011 photo of the year. The international jury, deliberating in … Continue reading → > read more
Tantalising take-out from the Tijger
Published on 2012-02-08 06:47:13
Low budget travel doesn't mean you have to sacrifice great eating. In Amsterdam, the folks at Kantjil & de Tijger know that well, and that's why their awesome eatery hosts a take-out hot-spot next door to their popular home base … Continue reading → > read more
A Day Trip from Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans
Published on 2012-02-04 15:58:29
There are a handful of wonderful outdoor museums in the Netherlands focusing on typical Dutch lifestyle during the 17th and 18th centuries. The Netherlands also boasts a large number of old, scenic windmills. At Zaanse Schans you can find the … Continue reading → > read more
American beer bar taps football fans
Published on 2012-02-03 07:42:17
Every year there is one major event that brings American football fans together the world over - the Super Bowl. This year marks the 46th edition of the Stateside sporting event, pitting the New England Patriots against the New York … Continue reading → > read more
Big birthday for Queen Beatrix
Published on 2012-01-31 11:55:32
On 31 January, Queen Beatrix turned 74-years-old celebrating another year of her life and a monumental one at that. The Dutch queen is officially the oldest reigning monarch in the country's history, beating the previous record holder Willem II who … Continue reading → > read more
Where beer lovers go
Published on 2012-01-27 11:23:03
As a city that sees hundreds of travellers each season, there is hardly a stone left unturned in Amsterdam's beer scene. But with the opening of the new Prael proeflokaal, there may just be a surprise in store for visitors … Continue reading → > read more
The art of tape
Published on 2012-01-24 09:58:32
At dusk, the streets of Amsterdam glow in the sepia light of streetlamps. Lining the cycle strewn streets and pedestrian paths, these beacons cast an entrancing light on the city. But, look a little closer and you will see that … Continue reading → > read more
Harry Potter unveiled in Amsterdam square
Published on 2011-07-05 04:27:36
Everyone the world over has been eagerly awaiting the final chapter of the Harry Potter film series. Set to premier in the Netherlands on 13 June, the Potter fans in Amsterdam can hardly wait. To take the edge off the anticipation, … Continue > read more
Blossoming Buddhism in Amsterdam
Published on 2011-06-27 08:37:02
Amsterdam, famous for its red lights and liberal drug culture, doesn’t immediately come across as a spiritual city. But in fact, it is home to the largest Buddhist temple in Europe – Fo Guang Shan He Hua Temple. Situated in … Contin > read more
NYCs King of Graffiti comes to Amsterdam
Published on 2011-06-23 05:44:43
Home to an assortment of cutting edge street artists, Amsterdam welcomes the King of Graffiti for a triple event in his honour on show from 26 June to 14 July in collaboration with ArTicks Gallery. Blade, otherwise known as Steven … Continue re > read more
Experience the roots of Amsterdam’s internationalism
Published on 2011-06-20 08:23:25
Five days of music, events and exotic food take Amsterdam by storm starting 22 June with the start of the annual Roots Festival. Celebrating its 14th year going, the festival features the intriguing crossover of cultures in the Dutch capital … > read more
Amsterdam Artis zoo to welcome new arrival
Published on 2011-06-15 08:23:06
Baby animals are always a special sight at the zoo. But in Amsterdam, a very special baby will be born this month that is to be met with extra excitement. Elephant mother Thong Thai is expecting to give birth to … Continue reading → > read more
Holland’s herring season begins
Published on 2011-06-13 09:54:29
Despite the icky look of the freshly caught herring, known in the Netherlands as Hollandse Nieuwe, the fish enjoys a yearly festival in its honour that has been celebrated for over 60 years. It is the country’s most looked forward … Conti > read more
Amsterdam gets inked
Published on 2011-06-02 05:59:09
While they were once a status symbol of the counter-culture class, tattoos have grown to become a highly popular – and acceptable way of expressing yourself. In Amsterdam, you see this best as the lovely lady with a butterfly insignia … C > read more
Everyone likes Dutch apple pie
Published on 2011-06-01 07:06:38
Everyone thinks apple pie is an thing from the States – you don’t get more American than apple pie, the saying goes. But the Netherlands is also famous for the fruit based treat. In Amsterdam, it’s called appeltaart and people ̷ > read more
Film festival puts Earth on show
Published on 2011-05-31 05:14:00
There are all sorts of film festivals out there that draw huge crowds to incredible documentaries. But Amsterdam’s Strawberry Earth Film Festival features something that already brings us all together – our planet. The two day event kicks > read more
Celebrate Amsterdam’s sunniest spring
Published on 2011-05-25 09:21:02
News from the Dutch weather offices this week hailed the spring of 2011 a close to breaking records for sunshine. With over 600 hours of sun shinning on Amsterdam since 1 March, this year’s season is already the fourth sunniest ever. … C > read more
Explore Amsterdam’s secret garden
Published on 2011-05-19 05:24:29
Tucked away in the busy city centre of Amsterdam lies a serene and peaceful courtyard. Invisible to anyone unknowing of this secret garden, the Begijnhof is a garden paradise packed with history. While many trek to Spui square for its … Continu > read more
Satisfy your sweet tooth in the city
Published on 2011-05-16 06:53:49
Any visitor to Amsterdam knows there is no shortage of sights to see and things to do in the Dutch capital. As the busy traveller bustles from one landmark to the other, they can forget the most important thing about … Continue reading → > read more
Amsterdam makes music Live in Your Living Room
Published on 2011-05-12 03:09:37
What’s a better way to spend a lazy Sunday than chillin’ on a rooftop terrace, sipping cocktails and listening to live music? Live in Your Living Room and MokumGroupie.com are making that perfect day a possibility on 15 May by … Continu > read more
Underground jazz in Amsterdam
Published on 2011-05-05 05:18:42
Imagine going deep into one of Amsterdam’s most historic prisons, buried underneath the cold canal waters. The atmosphere is tingling with excitement, but it is not the long history of justice achieved here that creates this special mood. That is & > read more
Celebrating liberation in Amsterdam
Published on 2011-05-04 07:28:22
Like most countries in Europe, the Netherlands struggled during World War II. Every year, the country celebrates the efforts of the countless soldiers, resistance fighters and individuals who fought together for freedom from Nazi occupation. No city > read more
Oranje fever for Queen’s Day in Amsterdam
Published on 2011-04-29 06:43:54
Of all the European countries with a Queen, arguably none loves their monarch as much as the Dutch do. Celebrating the Queen’s birthday is a nationwide holiday in the Netherlands called Queen’s Day. And in true Dutch spirit, the locals &# > read more
Art at Amsterdam airport
Published on 2011-04-28 09:25:05
Getting a view of seventeenth century floral splendour doesn’t necessarily mean you have to go to a museum. Just arrive at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport and you are immersed in a colourful display of floral art, courtesy the famous Rijksmu > read more
East meets West at Silk Road restaurant
Published on 2011-04-21 05:42:10
I was told by a wise, elder Amsterdammer that should I crave real Dutch cuisine, to find the closest Asian restaurant. The advise, given half in jest, isn’t a far stretch from truth. A city built on a history of … Continue reading → > read more
New show brings sexy back to Amsterdam
Published on 2011-04-20 02:20:38
Women bring a new level of sexy to Amsterdam in a spectacular erotica show this month at the Comedy Theater on the Nes. While Amsterdam’s famous Red Light District already boasts a handful of the city’s most infamous women, Pillow Talk: > read more
Street life: Amsterdam markets
Published on 2011-04-14 05:47:10
No visit to Amsterdam would be complete without a wander through some of the city’s most famous outdoor attractions: markets. Nearly every neighbourhood has its own unique outdoor shopping experience, where the local food, wares and other niche > read more
World Press Photo in Amsterdam
Published on 2011-04-11 03:22:10
Every year, the World Press Photo organises the largest photo competition in the world. Honouring the best in photographic imagery, the contest awards top prizes and celebrates the achievements in a travelling photo show. The 2011 World Press Photo E > read more
Amsterdam supports Japan
Published on 2011-04-06 05:03:13
Across the globe, countries are reaching out to Japan, offering aid to the country following the devastating earthquake and subsequent tsunami that ravaged the region. Amsterdam too is doing its part in fundraising with a spectacular benefit schedule > read more
Gay marriage celebrates 10 years in Amsterdam
Published on 2011-04-04 07:29:46
April marks the 10 year anniversary of gay marriage in the Netherlands. The country is the first to legalise same sex weddings, with the first ceremony performed on 1 April 2001. Former Amsterdam mayor Job Cohen officiated that first ground-breaking > read more
Get to know golf in Amsterdam
Published on 2011-04-01 09:01:40
One hundred years ago, golf in the Netherlands was limited to only the rich and well-to-do. And having just four courses meant the country’s competition was stiff and memberships and fees a staggering sum. Since then, the Nederlandse Golf Federatie > read more
Pillow fighting in Amsterdam
Published on 2011-03-31 04:21:48
If you find feathers flying in the centre of Amsterdam, it’s not a supernatural fluke – it’s all part of the international event World Pillow Fight Day. Smack in the heart of Amsterdam, the Dam Square will be filled with … Con > read more
Art meets entertainment at Amsterdam’s Van Gogh Museum
Published on 2011-03-25 03:59:33
Friday night in Amsterdam, and you’re looking to blend art, music, lectures, and poetry – then look no further than the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam! Every Friday night, the Dutch landmark extends its visiting hours to 22.00, adding a variety &# > read more
Keukenhof tulips welcome spring
Published on 2011-03-24 07:59:40
All over the world, one flower is known as a symbol of Holland. Blooming here for centuries, the Dutch tulip has opened its blossom once again. From late March until mid-May, the country is graced with the rainbow of colours … Continue reading > read more
Experience real Italian dining in Amsterdam
Published on 2011-03-16 05:52:07
Every city boasts its own Little Italy, and Amsterdam is no different. Take a stroll through the Jordaan district and you’ll be inundated with green, white and red flags and the smell of freshly baked pizza. But most culinary curators … C > read more
A taste of Amsterdam
Published on 2011-03-14 14:47:08
Not many people come to Amsterdam for the food. The Golden Age city is far more well-known for a specialty of a different kind altogether – even if it does sometimes come as a cake! But if you dig a … Continue reading → > read more
Laugh it up at international Amsterdam Comedy Festival
Published on 2011-03-10 07:18:23
The 4th edition of the Amsterdam Comedy Festival starts on 27 May, bringing the best in international comedians to the Melkweg theatre. British, Irish, Australian and American talents will test their punch lines on three stages. With one easy ticket, > read more
Ballet rocks Amsterdam Carré
Published on 2011-03-07 09:33:09
What do you get when you mix the daring dance moves of ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop and gymnastics with the sounds of today’s hottest hit makers? For Rasta Thomas, the answer is nothing short than a show that Rocks … Continue reading → > read more
Amsterdam’s art deco cinema celebrates 90 years
Published on 2011-02-28 12:00:04
With two towering pillars and an elegantly detailed fascade, the Tuschinski building is an unmissable landmark in Amsterdam. For locals and passersby, it is hard to believe that such a gorgeous building is the city’s most prized cinema. But th > read more
Dining in style with Restaurant Week Amsterdam
Published on 2011-02-24 13:06:17
Foodies prepare – Amsterdam’s Restaurant Week is about to launch! The spring edition of the twice yearly event is celebrating the Benelux Speciale. From 14 to 20 March, over 1,700 restaurants in the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg wil > read more
Bieber fever hits Madame Tussauds
Published on 2011-02-22 15:12:45
Amsterdam’s edition of the famous wax museum, Madame Tussaud will open with a new member this March – teen idol, Justin Bieber. The 16-year-old singing sensation, who has been twice nominated for a Grammy Award, is already a multi-winner > read more
Door 74: Amsterdam’s secret speakeasy
Published on 2011-02-18 09:32:15
There is no shortage of hot clubs and bars in Amsterdam’s bustling Rembrandtplein. But a few steps away from the action is a secret, stylish, speakeasy bar that serves the city’s best drinks. Styled after America’s prohibition era b > read more
Starbucks set to open first cafe in Amsterdam
Published on 2011-02-16 12:51:05
Amsterdam famous coffee scene will soon have a new addition with the launch of the first Starbucks cafe in the city centre. Beethovenstraat welcome the green mermaid this spring with a cosy cafe serving up the chain’s famous tall, grande … > read more
Light and dark side of Valentine’s Day
Published on 2011-02-11 06:20:38
Valentine’s Day celebrations may not have caught on in Europe quiet yet, but in Amsterdam you don’t have to look far for a heartfelt way to show your love – with a twist of course. Chocolate, flowers, stuffed animals, candlelit R > read more
Rembrandt House looks to youngsters
Published on 2011-02-10 12:12:16
The Rembrandt House Museum in Amsterdam today launched an interactive exhibition aimed at giving children a playful and inspiring way to learn about the famous painter and his former home. With the presentation of the book Rembrandt Without Words, ch > read more
Celebrate Super Bowl Sunday
Published on 2011-02-04 05:50:41
Being across the Atlantic doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the most important sporting event in American culture. Sunday 6 February is none other than Super Bowl Sunday. In the 45th edition of the annual game, Pennsylvania’s Pittsburg > read more
Honouring the 70th anniversary of the February Strike
Published on 2011-02-03 05:23:36
In an act of solidarity, Dutchmen in World War II ravaged Amsterdam took to the streets in protest of the Nazi deportation of the city’s Jews. The symbolic strike, known as the Strike of February 1941, brought the a citywide … Continue re > read more
Celebrating the Year of the Rabbit in Amsterdam
Published on 2011-02-02 05:45:52
Amsterdam’s famous Chinatown will be alight with fireworks, food and festivities this weekend to mark the New Year celebrations for 2011. According to the Chinese calendar, 3 February is the start of the Lunar New Year, the most important event > read more
Wine and dine on the canals of Amsterdam
Published on 2011-01-25 07:02:46
Have you made dinner plans for your evening in Amsterdam? Why not step aboard a canal cruise and enjoy a delicious meal amid the city’s most beautiful views? During an exclusive four course Wine and Dinner Cruise, you can enjoy … Continue > read more
Amsterdam fashion forward
Published on 2011-01-20 09:37:04
Amsterdam’s International Fashion Week kicks off this weekend with a spectacular line-up of catwalk shows, trade fairs, presentations and parties. Setting the Amsterdam edition apart from similar events across the globe is Fashion Week DOWNTOWN > read more
International Equestrian event comes to Amsterdam
Published on 2011-01-18 11:27:48
The annual equestrian competition Jumping Amsterdam will be open to dressage fans and competitors starting Thursday 20 January. The event is a four day long battle of horsemanship at the RAI convention centre featuring the world’s best riders O > read more
Street art takes a room at the Aalborg Hotel
Published on 2011-01-14 05:13:37
Amsterdam is synonymous with gorgeous canals, historic brick homes and, more recently, an internationally recognised urban art landscape. Artists like Laser 3.14, London Police and even Banksy have sprayed their paints on Amsterdam’s streets. B > read more
The tango takes Amsterdam
Published on 2011-01-11 12:44:11
Desire, pain, sensuality – the tango embodies it all. Now the infamous dance has taken the stage, sweeping everyone up in its all encompassing passion. Only at Amsterdam’s Carre Theatre can you join in the biggest dance sensation to come > read more
Father of photojournalism comes to FOAM
Published on 2011-01-07 04:50:35
This winter, Amsterdam’s FOAM museum pays homage to to W. Eugene Smith the first photographer to use images to tell a story. In the retrospective exhibition More Real than Reality, the museum unveils six of Smith’s most powerful portrai > read more
Enjoy a winter wonderland of tulips
Published on 2011-01-05 07:33:01
Tulips are the most famous flowers of Holland. Renowned for their rainbow of colours and bountiful blooms, no trip to the Netherlands is complete without a view of their spectacular beauty. Now, winter visitors to Amsterdam don’t have to miss & > read more
Amsterdam celebrates Christmas on the canals
Published on 2010-12-21 06:50:22
On 23 December, Amsterdam’s famous canals will be illuminated in the spirit of Christmas for the 2010 Christmas Canal Parade. Fourty colourfully lit boats will sail the most beautiful areas of the canal belt, from the Brouwersgracht to the Prin > read more