Top IMSC Amsterdam Excursions: Explore The Best Of The City

Amsterdam, a city celebrated for its canals, culture, and vibrant atmosphere, offers a plethora of exciting excursions for visitors attending the IMSC. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Amsterdam has something to captivate everyone. This guide dives into some of the top excursions to make the most of your trip.

Canal Cruises: A Must-Do Amsterdam Experience

No trip to Amsterdam is complete without experiencing the city from its iconic canals. Canal cruises provide a unique perspective, allowing you to glide past historic houses, charming bridges, and lush greenery. It’s an ideal way to relax and soak in the city's beauty. Most canal tours offer audio guides in multiple languages, providing insightful commentary on the landmarks you're passing. These tours typically last from one to two hours, making them a convenient option even with a busy conference schedule. Different cruise options are available, including daytime cruises, evening cruises, and even dinner cruises. Evening cruises often showcase the city's twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere. Some cruises also offer unlimited drinks or snacks, adding an extra layer of enjoyment. For those seeking a more personalized experience, private canal tours can be arranged. These tours allow you to customize the itinerary and enjoy the undivided attention of a knowledgeable guide. You might want to book your canal cruise in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and avoid long queues. Several companies offer online booking, making it easy to plan your excursion. Canal cruises are not only a great way to see the city but also a fantastic opportunity to learn about its history and culture. The audio guides often share fascinating anecdotes and historical facts, enriching your experience. Whether you're traveling solo, with colleagues, or with family, a canal cruise is a memorable way to experience the heart of Amsterdam.

Museums: Immerse Yourself in Art and History

Amsterdam boasts a wealth of world-class museums catering to diverse interests. The Rijksmuseum is a national museum dedicated to arts and history in Amsterdam, Netherlands. It is located at the Museum Square in the borough Amsterdam South, close to the Van Gogh Museum, the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, and the Concertgebouw. The Rijksmuseum was founded in The Hague in 1800 and moved to Amsterdam in 1808, where it was first located in the Royal Palace and later in the Trippenhuis. Today it is the most visited museum in the Netherlands with almost 3 million visitors per year. The museum displays 8,000 objects of art and history, from the Middle Ages to the present day. Among the highlights are works by Dutch masters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Hals. The museum's collection includes paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and historical artifacts, providing a comprehensive overview of Dutch art and history. Allow at least three to four hours to fully appreciate the Rijksmuseum's vast collection.

The Van Gogh Museum is dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries. The museum houses the world's largest collection of Van Gogh's paintings and drawings, offering a unique insight into the artist's life and work. Highlights include famous works such as "Sunflowers," "The Potato Eaters," and several self-portraits. The museum also explores Van Gogh's artistic development and the influences that shaped his style. Expect to spend at least two to three hours at the Van Gogh Museum. Another must-visit is the Anne Frank House, a poignant reminder of World War II. This is a biographical museum dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. The house is located on a canal called the Prinsengracht, close to the Westerkerk, in central Amsterdam in the Netherlands. As a visitor, you experience a chilling trip into the life of the Frank family and the others that were hiding with them. Visiting the Anne Frank House requires booking tickets well in advance, often weeks or even months, due to high demand. The museum provides a deeply moving experience and is a must-see for anyone interested in history. For those interested in modern and contemporary art, the Stedelijk Museum is the place to go. The Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, colloquially known as the Stedelijk, is a museum for modern art, contemporary art, and design located in Amsterdam in the Netherlands. The Stedelijk is located at the Museum Square in the borough Amsterdam South, where it is close to the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, and the Concertgebouw. Its collection includes works by artists such as Picasso, Matisse, and Mondrian. With so many museums to choose from, planning your visits in advance is advisable to make the most of your time.

Exploring Jordaan: A Charming Neighborhood

Jordaan, once a working-class district, is now one of Amsterdam's most charming neighborhoods. Wander through its narrow streets, lined with independent boutiques, cozy cafes, and art galleries. The Jordaan is a perfect place to escape the crowds and experience the authentic Amsterdam. Many of the buildings in Jordaan have unique architectural details, reflecting the area's rich history. Keep an eye out for the hidden courtyards and charming canals that make this neighborhood so special. The Jordaan is also home to several historic churches, including the Noorderkerk, which hosts a lively market every Saturday. You can find everything from fresh produce to vintage clothing at the market. The Jordaan is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and pubs offering live music and a relaxed atmosphere. Several restaurants serve traditional Dutch cuisine, allowing you to sample local delicacies. The Houseboat Museum is located in Jordaan, which offers a glimpse into life on Amsterdam's canals. Exploring the Jordaan is best done on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate its unique character. Take your time to browse the shops, sample the local food, and soak in the atmosphere. The Jordaan is a neighborhood that rewards exploration, offering something new around every corner. It’s a great place to take a break from the conference and unwind in a relaxed and authentic setting.

Day Trips: Venturing Beyond Amsterdam

While Amsterdam has plenty to offer, consider taking a day trip to explore the surrounding areas. Zaanse Schans, with its iconic windmills and traditional Dutch houses, is a popular destination. Zaanse Schans is a neighborhood of Zaandam, near Zaandijk, Netherlands. It has a collection of well-preserved historic windmills and houses. From 1961 to 1974 the old buildings from all over the Zaanstreek were relocated using lowboy trailers to this area. The windmills are fully functional and you can see how they operate. Zaanse Schans offers a glimpse into the Netherlands' industrial past. You can also visit cheese factories and clog workshops to learn about traditional crafts.

Haarlem, a historic city with beautiful architecture and a vibrant cultural scene, is another excellent choice. Haarlem is a city and municipality in the Netherlands. It is the capital of the province of North Holland and is situated at the northern edge of the Randstad, one of the most populated metropolitan areas in Europe; it is also part of the Amsterdam metropolitan area. Haarlem's Grote Markt, the central market square, is surrounded by impressive buildings, including the St. Bavo Church and the Town Hall. Haarlem also boasts a variety of museums, shops, and restaurants. For those interested in flowers, a visit to the Keukenhof Gardens is a must. Keukenhof, also known as the Garden of Europe, is one of the world's largest flower gardens, situated in the municipality of Lisse, in the Netherlands. According to the Keukenhof website, approximately 7 million flower bulbs are planted annually in the park, which covers an area of 32 hectares. The gardens are open from mid-March to mid-May, showcasing millions of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths in bloom. Keukenhof is a breathtaking sight and a perfect day trip for nature lovers. To the south of Amsterdam, you will find cities such as The Hague, which is the seat of the Dutch parliament and home to several international organizations, including the International Court of Justice. Day trips provide an opportunity to experience the diversity of the Netherlands and escape the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam.

Food Tours: A Culinary Adventure

Amsterdam's culinary scene is as diverse as its culture. Taking a food tour is a great way to sample local specialties and discover hidden gems. Many food tours focus on traditional Dutch cuisine, such as stroopwafels, bitterballen, and herring. You can also find tours that explore international flavors, reflecting Amsterdam's multicultural population. Food tours often take you to local markets, where you can sample fresh produce and artisanal products. The Albert Cuyp Market is a popular destination, offering a wide range of foods and goods. Food tours are not only a culinary adventure but also a cultural experience, providing insights into Amsterdam's history and traditions. You'll have the opportunity to meet local vendors and learn about their products. Some tours also include visits to breweries and distilleries, where you can sample Dutch beer and jenever. Whether you're a foodie or simply curious about local cuisine, a food tour is a delicious way to experience Amsterdam.

Conclusion

Amsterdam offers a wide array of excursions to suit every interest. From canal cruises to museum visits, exploring the Jordaan to taking day trips, and indulging in food tours, there's something for everyone. By planning your excursions in advance, you can make the most of your time in Amsterdam and create unforgettable memories. Enjoy your IMSC conference and your exploration of this captivating city!