24 Hours in Amsterdam: Canals, Trains, and an Unexpected Adventure
Aaron keeping a positive attitude while waiting in Amsterdam for us to pick him up.
An Unexpected Start on the Train
Our adventure to Amsterdam started with a little unexpected excitement right off the bat. Traveling by train from Cologne, we were looking forward to a smooth ride to our Dutch destination—Europe’s train systems are fabulous for that.
Well, mostly fabulous, except for a minor hiccup when we reached our stop. Aaron, having stashed our luggage in a different train car, got a bit turned around as we prepared to disembark.
By the time he found the right car and grabbed our bags, the train doors were sliding shut. He ended up having to ride to the next station, 45 minutes away, and since it was the last train of the day, our friends had to drive out to pick him up to save him from a pricey Uber ride back.
Definitely an eventful start to our 24 hours in Amsterdam!
First Impressions and Canal Explorations
We love how easy and cost-effective it is to use the train systems here, setting the tone for an adventurous day ahead. We started our day early, wandering around the iconic canals and the Red Light District. Contrary to its night-time reputation, the area was quite tame during the daylight hours, bustling with tourists and locals.
For lunch, we grabbed some quick sandwiches to fuel up for a full day ahead. Eager to see the city from a different vantage point, we decided on a boat tour of the canals. It was a fantastic way to learn about Amsterdam’s rich history and architecture. We were fascinated to learn that the charming, slanted houses along the canals weren't just sinking; they were originally built that way on purpose.
The forward tilt was designed to prevent goods hoisted to the upper floors from hitting the building's facade, a clever solution from the days when these canal houses were the homes and businesses of wealthy merchants.
Boat Tour Tales and Canal-Side Chilling
The canal tour also offered an amusing twist. Our boat had an option for an unlimited drinks package, which about half the passengers opted for. It didn't take long before the festive spirit took over, and those with the drink package started passing out their unlimited drinks to everyone, assuming everyone had the same deal.
The crew quickly cleared up the confusion, but not before a few extra toasts were made!
Post-tour, we continued to take in the city by foot. Amsterdam's compact layout makes it ideal for walking, and we strolled through various neighborhoods, popping into shops, a mall, and even a Lego store.
To rest a bit, we stopped for happy hour drinks at a restaurant with outdoor seating right on a canal bridge. It was the perfect spot to play some cards and recharge before continuing our trek.
Evening Delights and Culinary Conundrums
As dinner time approached, our quest for a good eating spot proved a bit challenging with picky eaters in the crew. We ended up at Firma Stroop for a quick appetizer—a must-visit for their delectable stroopwafels, which helped quell the hangriness and gave us a bit more time to decide on dinner. Eventually, we settled on Café Kuyl, located in the bustling Rembrandtplein, known for its vibrant atmosphere and surrounded by mature trees and classic statues. This place is a local favorite for a reason—it blends history with modernity in its decor and offers a fantastic selection of local and international craft beers.
Dining at Café Kuyl, we enjoyed the sunset, played more card games, and people-watched in the lively square. The ambiance of the place made it easy to understand why it's often said, "Where are you?" "At Kuyl!" among Amsterdammers.
A Quick Stop in Rotterdam
Our Netherlands adventure didn’t end in Amsterdam. The next day, we took a quick train ride to Rotterdam, where we explored the Markthal, an impressive dome packed with a variety of food stalls and shops. Right next to the iconic Cube Houses, which are as fascinating as they are architectural marvels, we toured one for just three euros. Their unique design makes them a standout feature of Rotterdam’s skyline, offering a glimpse into innovative Dutch urban living solutions.
Conclusion and Looking Ahead
Packed with canals, culture, and a bit of chaos, our 24 hours in Amsterdam was nothing short of memorable. We're now off to Ireland, excited for the next leg of our European tour. Stay tuned for more stories as we explore the Emerald Isle with our best friends!
This whirlwind day in Amsterdam encapsulated the beauty of travel—unexpected adventures, historical insights, and the joy of exploring new cities on foot and by water. Whether it’s the architectural intrigue of the Cube Houses in Rotterdam or the cozy corners of Amsterdam’s cafes, the Netherlands offered us a treasure trove of experiences to cherish.