Take a stroll or a ride through this Venice of the North
A mental image of Amsterdam conjures up picturesque waterways with charming canal houses and colorful boats knocking together, moored to the sides. The city also features world-class museums, as well as a cycling culture like nowhere elsee. This famously liberal and culturally diverse city has a growing dining scene, and a vibrant nightlife both in and around the Red Light District. Nab your crew a quintessential canal house for your Amsterdam vacation rental, and fall in love while the boats drift past and the tulips bloom.
Where every canal and lane is camera-ready
Much of Amsterdam is best enjoyed by strolling along the canals, photographing the famously tall and narrow houses that line the streets, or by hopping in a canal boat and viewing the city from a new perspective. Rent bikes, shop along the adorable Nine Streets neighborhood, or take a walking tour to learn about the diverse history of the city. Music lovers can catch a concert at the Heineken Music Hall, while a peek around the door of a "coffee shop" will give you a firsthand look at the city's famous tolerance of cannabis.
If the weather is cold enough, you can skate down the canals
Don't worry what the forecast says (this is northerly city after all), because this place is fun no matter what the weather. While summers might be warmer and sunnier than the rest of the year, they may also be crowded and expensive, so consider the shoulder seasons. Spring is still warm, with the tulips blooming from March through May. Fall brings warm and wet days, while the winter just might give you the chance to ice skate across the canals before cozying up at home in your Amsterdam vacation rental.
Consider your wooden clogs to be for decoration only
Situated in the northwestern Netherlands, Amsterdam is located in the province of Holland. The river Amstel leads into the center of the city, and is responsible for the city's famed, picturesque canals—a perfect option for booking your Amsterdam vacation rental. If visiting in the springtime, leave plenty of space on your smartphone for the rows and rows of tulips that spring up around the city (there's even a festival for them). The city itself discourages cars, which makes walking, trams, and biking the preferred way of exploring the city.
How to get to and around Amsterdam North
The nearest airport is in Amsterdam (AMS-Schiphol), located 9.9 mi (15.9 km) from the city center.