|
|
Amsterdam
History seeps from every street corner of Amsterdam. The town's financial and cultural Golden Age was the middle of the 17th century, when the town expanded apace and Rembrandt was only one of many notable artists able to make a living from the patronage of wealthy local businessmen. Amsterdam is a city that still cares about the arts: with its myriad museums, concert halls, galleries and theatres, Amsterdam still packs the cultural punch of a city many times its size - a mere 750,000 people call it their home (and as of last count there are roughly 550,000 bikes, 160 canals, more than 1,200 bridges, and some 6,800 landmark buildings to see)
Amsterdam unique experience is enhanced as artists from all over the world move to the city, attracted by its beauty and liberal character. You can experience this in many ways at the many theatres, festivals, galleries and even pavement artists on the streets.
When to visit? On Queen's Day (April 30), the streets are packed with revelers and the canals hum with activity. The summer months are wonderful as the whole city seems to take to the outdoors. From mid-October to mid-March temperatures declines, as winter falls in, but there are fewer tourists, things are cheaper and cultural life is at its most authentic. Any time can be the best time to visit.