Watching the world go by is part of the Amsterdam experience. But when you hire a car and travel outside the city you can truly immerse yourself in the rich variety things to do and see in this astonishing country.
A historical adventure
Don’t miss the classic Amsterdam attractions. The Rijksmuseum, the Amsterdam equivalent of the Louvre, is just as opulent as its French counterpart, containing more than 7,000 masterpieces from the likes of Rembrandt and Vermeer.
Here you can experience a journey through Dutch history from the Middle Ages to the modern day through the works of baroque masters, as well as Oriental and decorative arts.
You can see the 17th century house where Rembrandt lived and worked for 20 years or, for something more modern, the streets of Jordaan are dotted with art galleries in between trendy cafes.
Feeling a bit hungry after soaking in all that culture? The luxurious Rijks brasserie in the Museum Quarter has a Michelin star to its name and a menu boasting well-crafted dishes made using the finest local ingredients.
An architectural delight
Amsterdam’s 17th century canals have been bestowed with UNESCO protected status, but they aren’t the only stars of the show. Amsterdam is home to classic monuments including the Royal Palace at Dam Square and the Oude Kerk, a 13th century church featuring a rainbow of stained glass windows.
Any lover of architecture couldn’t visit Amsterdam without driving the short distance to Rotterdam, a city that was destroyed in the Second World War and rebuilt with a focus on the future.
Incredible architecture can be found on every corner in this vibrant and lively city, including De Markthal, a reimagining of a traditional market hall with an arch of modern apartments draped over it that has to be seen to be believed.
Fields of colour
When you leave the city you’ll travel through breathtaking landscapes that epitomise the beauty of Holland. Bursts of colour spring from every corner and nowhere can this be seen better than at Keukenhof Gardens, thought to be the world’s largest flower garden, just one hour from Amsterdam via the A4.
Another must-see sight are the Windmills of Kinderdijk, which can be found just over 100km away via the A2. This world heritage site has become synonymous with Holland and comprises a series of 19 monumental windmills, each with a character of its own.
The foodie side of the Netherlands
From the cheese markets and syrup waffles of Gouda to the Dutch pancakes of Zaanse Shans, the Netherlands has so much to offer in the culinary stakes.
Street food is a big deal in Amsterdam, with ‘snackbars’ dotted all around the city serving piping hot chips covered in creamy mayonnaise. Try the patatje oorlog, a mix of mayo, nutty satay sauce and onions for a twist on the Dutch classic.
Fishmongers specialise in broodje haring, a Dutch specialty. This raw herring delicacy is nestled between a white roll with onions and pickle for a salty treat.
Just two hours away from Amsterdam, you can visit Yerseke, a fishing village famed for its annual mussel harvest – try cosy Nolet’s Vistro for the perfect pot of shellfish.
Car hire in Amsterdam will allow you to get a true taste of this extraordinary European capital, as well as the freedom to venture out and explore more of the Netherlands outside the city limits.
