Most of Amsterdam's attractions defy description – canals and parks, historic houses and palaces, squares and bridges – all come together to create a unique atmosphere that must be experienced! We've put together our own list with photos of lesser-known attractions in Amsterdam that might not immediately catch the eye of tourists:
Bloemenmarkt: This is the most famous flower market in the world. Even if you don't plan to buy a bouquet of tulips, it's a must-visit – it's the most colorful and fragrant attraction on the Amsterdam map! It's also unique because it's a floating market, with flowers being sold directly from barges moored along the Singel canal.
At Bloemenmarkt, you can even purchase tulip bulbs – the quintessential souvenir from the Netherlands (remember to ask the seller for a certificate to bring the plant abroad). To reach Bloemenmarkt from Central Station, you can take tram 1, 2, or 5 and alight at the Koningsplein stop.
Dancing Houses: The name of this Amsterdam landmark might remind you of Pisa, but while Pisa has only one "leaning" tower, Amsterdam boasts numerous "dancing" houses!
The secret behind this tilted architecture lies in the piles upon which the houses were constructed and the unique clay and peat soil of Amsterdam (the city was practically built on swamps!). These buildings date back to the 18th century, and today, many of them are gradually sinking, with neighboring houses helping to prevent their complete collapse. In essence, make haste to witness these crooked houses, as they may not be around for much longer.
The Anne Frank Museum: One of the most poignant attractions in Amsterdam, this museum is dedicated to Anne Frank, a Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II in the concealed rooms of an Amsterdam house and kept a diary that later became a global bestseller. You can find the museum at Prinsengracht, 267 Prinsengracht, with tickets priced at around 9 EUR.
Coffeeshops: This Amsterdam landmark might sound innocent, but let's be clear: Amsterdam coffeeshops do not sell coffee. Instead, they are the only places where you can legally try hashish and marijuana! There are numerous establishments to choose from, including Smokie Coffeeshop, Abraxax Coffeeshop, Amnesia, 420 Café, and BABA Coffeeshop, each with its own unique menu.
The average cost of one gram of marijuana in coffee shops is around 6-8 EUR. It's advisable for newcomers to consult with the staff and establish their preferred dosage (they can provide iced water and sweet tea if you feel unwell).
However, it's essential to note that attempting to take a "fragrant" souvenir from the Netherlands back home can lead to legal issues both in Dutch law and in your home country.
