We're taking out grandson to Europe for 19 days, starting with 4 nights in Amsterdam, arriving May 29. Here's our itinerary with some questions and we welcome your suggestions.
Day 1 - Train from Schiphol to Central Station in early afternoon, stop and buy our 4 day transport card; tram to our hotel.
Layback afternoon & eve: Tram 2 ride, canal boat, walk about, etc.
Day 2 - Van Gogh Museum, Dutch Resistance Museum with Anne Frank in evening
Day 3 - Day trip with Waterland Ticket ... haven't decided towns yet but considering Edam, Marken, Volendam
Day 4 - Day trip by ferry to Muilderslot Castle, Adam Tower & Swing
Day 5 - Depart for Bruges
We will definitely visit the Red Light District, a coffee house, possibly take canal boat at night too
Questions: we visited charming Edam, Marken & Volendam about 20 years ago and I read they are now very touristy and crowded but i want Grandson to see countryside. Any better recommendations? Will he see windmills from bus through the Waterlands day?
Posted by
Windsor, Ontario, Canada
4044 posts
Are any of those entries from your new adult companion? Because that's what he is in the Netherlands, both legally and physically. Handy to have around to carry the luggage, but he might (and should) have some ideas of his own. And he might want to go out on his own too. Good for him! He might prefer the naval museum or the new science and technology palace while you go to another art museum (or the reverse.) Go your separate ways; compare your experiences over supper.
He is old enough to drink on his own too (with i.d.) and maybe to smoke in the "coffee" houses but I couldn't confirm that.
Anyhow these are topics that are better discussed before you leave. On that, at least, I speak from experience. Amsterdam is a great city.
PS: Your Day 2 looks rushed. I spent at least two hours in the Resistance museum, although I have particular interests in the subject. Van Gogh should be taken slowly. Maybe the Frank house could fit another day.
Posted by
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, USA
13937 posts
I agree with Southam about the Dutch Resistance Museum and the Anne Frank house. I would not do those back to back as to me it's kind of emotionally overwhelming. I would do the Dutch Resistance Museum first, then fit Anne Frank museum in on another day. I, too, have a particular interest in WWII and the Resistance and thought this was a very well-done museum especially for giving a historical basis plus showing how any invaded people make decisions - Adapt, Collaborate, Resist. I am glad you are taking him to see this. To me remembering WWII and understanding how people were personally affected during war is vital.
You really only have 1 full day in Amsterdam and part of your arrival day. I'd cut one of your day trips to see other things in Amsterdam. Maybe a walking tour even though you are considering doing a canal boat ride?
Fun trip for all 3 of you!
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Thank you, Pam and Southam. I think we will move Anne Frank to another day. And yes, grandson is involved in the planning and is definitely interested in red light district, coffee shops and beer....typical 18 yr old!