AMSTERDAM 2022
This was the trip I chose this year.
Finally, a journey under pleasant conditions.
I opted for the train , a great alternative to flying for nearby destinations, and an economically interesting option.
A round-trip IC train from Brussels-Midi to Amsterdam in second class costs around one hundred euros, with a travel time of 2 hours and 50 minutes.
Be aware, though: if you choose a high-speed train, the price is higher.
A one-way ticket starts at 86 euros.
A small tip: dutch trains operate this route. They leave exactly on time and won’t wait for latecomers.
It’s best to be on the platform a little early.
For longer trips, I wouldn’t particularly recommend the train. The current options departing from Belgium aren’t competitive with air travel, especially in terms of journey duration.
The official language is Dutch, but if you don’t speak it, English is a good alternative.
French, however, is not widely used.
During museum visits, you won’t find any written translations in French.
Audio guides will be your best friends.
Arrival at Amsterdam Central Station in the afternoon. Take a few moments to admire its stunning façade, a true architectural gem.
Right across from the station, you’ll find the building of the company that manages public transports.
There, you can purchase a travel pass valid for one or several days, allowing you to use the entire urban network, subway, tram, and bus.
One of the most popular activities for visitors is, of course, a boat ride through the canals. As you can see in this photo, it’s not quite a highway yet, but it’s getting close.
There are all kinds of offers for this experience, with prices that vary depending on what’s included on board and how long the ride lasts.
Still, if you want to see more of the city, take your time and explore on foot. It’s the best way to soak in the atmosphere and uncover unexpected corners.
"Madame" TUSSAUD MUSEUM
Everyone knows the concept behind this museum.
There are several across Europe : in London, Berlin, Vienna, and more.
It’s a very popular attraction among tourists, and definitely entertaining.
And with popularity comes queues.
It’s best to book your ticket in advance.
You’ll find it on Dam Square (tram lines 2, 4, 12, 14).
Some wax figures are impressively lifelike, others a bit less so, but that’s up to each visitor’s taste.
Selfies with your favorite characters are allowed.
Along the way, you’ll be invited to pose in front of themed backdrops.
You can purchase your favorite photos at the end of the visit.
You can also combine this experience with another attraction, The Amsterdam Dungeon, , perfect for thrill-seekers.
It’s located not far from Rokin metro station.
Le RIJKS MUSEUM
This is a major visit.
You’ll find it on Museumplein (tram lines 2 and 5 from Central Station).
Plan for at least three hours.
The various collections are spread across four levels, each dedicated to a different period.
A site map is handed out at the entrance.
If you want to discover or get better acquainted with Dutch painters, this is the place to be.
The collections are vast and varied.
Beyond paintings, you’ll find sculptures, bronzes, ceramics, porcelain, ship models, antique weapons, religious art, jewelry collections, and more contemporary works on the top floor.
Don’t miss the Cuypers Library, a treasure trove of art history.
The visit begins with a bang in the grand hall, flooded with light from its glass roof.
The Gallery of Honour is a true gem, beautifully curated.
You can end your visit with a stroll through the museum gardens.
In short, it’s a must-do in Amsterdam.
THE VAN GOGH MUSEUM
If you haven’t had your fill of paintings at the Rijksmuseum, you can continue with Van Gogh.
Arguably the most famous Dutch painter, he has a museum entirely dedicated to his work, and visitors come from all over the world to admire his creations, more than 1,000 pieces in total.
It’s a very popular spot, so booking your ticket in advance is strongly recommended.
Sometimes it takes several days to secure an entry slot.
It’s best to avoid buying tickets at the museum’s box office, which is noticeably more expensive than online platforms.
The museum is located at Museumplein No. 6
REMBRANDT'S HOUSE
Rembrandt’s house has been transformed into a museum and is open to visitors.
I would only recommend this visit if you’re interested in seeing how he lived and learning more about his personal story.
It’s not ideal for visitors with limited mobility, as access to the upper floors involves narrow, dimly lit spiral staircases that can be quite challenging.
straat museum
It’s the temple of street art in Amsterdam.
In 2021, this museum received an award for being the best museum in the Netherlands.
At the entrance, you’ll find a striking mural by a Brazilian artist dedicated to Anne Frank, an iconic figure of the city.
The Straat Museum is located in the northern part of Amsterdam, on a former industrial site. To get there easily, take the ferry (F4 or F5) from behind Amsterdam Central Station.
The ride takes about 15 minutes.
Once you arrive, the museum is 500 meters to the right.
If you’re planning to take photos, a morning visit is best.
Upstairs, there’s a small café, and outside you’ll find a brewery-restaurant.
This unique museum showcases large-scale street art most pieces are wall-sized, with over 150 works according to the museum’s own data.
These murals may delight, provoke, or challenge us, but the visit is absolutely worth it.
Feel free to take a walk outside , you’ll find several murals scattered around, including the one shown below.
These outdoor pieces extend the museum’s spirit into the surrounding area, blending street art with the industrial charm of the neighborhood.
It’s worth slowing down and taking a closer look.
OTHER PLACES
 Anne FrankAlso featured at Madame Tussauds, the Anne Frank House has been transformed into a museum located along the Prinsengracht canal, near the Westerkerk. This historic site offers a deeply moving experience, allowing visitors to step into the very rooms where Anne Frank and her family lived in hiding. |  The Amsterdam Maritime Museumt is located outside the city center, in the old harbor, right next to the Science Museum. A full-scale replica of the three-masted ship Amsterdam, once part of the Dutch East India Company, is moored beside the museum and included in the visit. This impressive vessel offers a glimpse into the maritime history of the Netherlands and is a highlight for many visitors. |  Tuschinski theaterThis former theater, now converted into a cinema, is a must-see for Art Deco enthusiasts. It’s not open for visits at just any time, so be sure to check the schedule or inquire in advance before heading there. |
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Amsterdam is a very dynamic city with plenty to see and do, but it all depends on each person’s interests.
If you’ve never been, maybe one day you’ll feel like going. And for those who know it a little, perhaps returning.