Trains to Amsterdam
Image: FaceMePLS reproduced with thanks with a CC Attribution 2.0 Generic Licence
Temptress, heathen, corrupter of youth... Amsterdam is a city oft-overlooked by holidaymakers on account of its seedier side. But don’t believe the hype. An exemplary student of culture, Amsterdam is packed with more museums than a mere mortal can handle, fine architecture and hidden gems just waiting to be uncovered. This is a city for grown-ups as well as excitable 18 year-olds. Let them worry about the impending hangover, and give this liberal uncle a chance. You can leave London in the morning and be in Amsterdam less than 5 hours later... More
Getting to Amsterdam by train is easy-peasy. London to the Brussels Eurostar terminal takes just a couple of hours, with an interchange possible in less than a ten minute walk between platforms. There are ample direct high-speed trains to Amsterdam's main station, Amsterdam Centraal. Fast modern trains in the form of the Dutch Thayls offer competitive fares. City centre to city centre in five hours. Done!
Trams, bicycles and boats help you navigate the alleys and canals of the vibrant capital so why not opt for a good old belly laugh at a comedy club or amble sans itinerary and soak up Amsterdam's general air of cool...
Loco2 recommends
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Boom Chicago
On the corner of Leidseplein in the centre of Amsterdam’s downtown sits the Boom Chicago comedy club. Unassuming compared to its neon neighbour, the infamous Bulldog café, Boom Chicago entices punters with the promise of live entertainment at your table.
Opened in 1993 by a troupe of expat Americans, this part-improvisation, part-sketch show is very funny, making for a happy and entirely narcotic-free experience, while giving your abs a bonus workout. Although somewhat of a one trick pony (there are only two different shows running from now to August) this is good choice for a relaxed and entirely non-psychedelic night out in the Dutch capital.
As well as the usual cohort of tourists, there are a healthy handful of Amsterdamers in the audience too, which proves that Boom Chicago has still got it going on. Expect comedy that is self-deprecating; ridiculous games and a healthy dose of audience participation. Book ahead to secure a front-row seat (or a table if you plan to eat), or rock up at the door for a place on the terrace and a birds-eye view of the performers.
Image: Wonderferret reproduced with thanks under a CC Attribution 2.0 Generic Licence
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On The Beaten Track
Though we love to wax lyrical about getting off the beaten track, sometimes it pays to get back on it.
With that in mind, take a stroll alongside the floating flower market that runs alongside Singel canal, and indulge your senses with vibrant bouquets of tulips, the Netherlands’ national flower. Or rent a bike and get lost on two wheels. With twisted cycle routes swirling around the city’s heart you’re almost certain to wind up in a trendy district amid funky houseboats and cool cafés.
If you prefer your tourism on foot then head to Museumplatz for, you guessed it, museums, including the excellent collection of works at the Van Gogh museum.
A top tip to get ahead of the crowds is get an early start. Remember, most tourists come to sample Amsterdam’s less cultural experiences. Come morning, they’re feeling a little worse for wear so make like an early bird and go and catch some worms!
Image: Tulips by BrentOzar reproduced with thanks under a CC Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic Licence
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Lesser-known Dam
The trick with Amsterdam is to give tourist hotspots a wide berth. Of course the city centre has its perks - and if you haven’t done a free walking tour you haven’t lived (it is seriously good). But sometimes putting distance between you and your nearest “coffeeshop” means discovering Amsterdam as the locals experience it.
A short (free!) ferry ride from Amsterdam Centraal ferry port (on boat 906) will take you to NDSM Wharf in Amsterdam’s northern district. This is one of Amsterdam’s most truly Bohemian quarters, where old shipyards have been converted into trendy art galleries and students drink espresso on the water's edge. If you’re there on the first Sunday of the month then head over to experience the Netherlands’ biggest flea market which takes place in a huge warehouse and is a nationally renowned snooper’s paradise.
Cap your afternoon with a meal at the painfully cool Noorderlicht restaurant, also on the NDSM wharf. It’s no Northern Lights, but you can’t fail to appreciate views of Amsterdam in the evening sun, sipping on beer at this so-called “industrial picnic”. Live music tempts visitors to stay the whole night long but keep an eye on your watch as the last ferry back to mainland departs with Cinderella at midnight.
Image: bwd8010 reproduced with thanks under a CC Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic Licence