5 Tips To Keep In Mind For An Amazing Backpacking Trip In Amsterdam

Everyone visits or backpacks Amsterdam as they come through Europe. Amsterdam is famous for its coffee shops, red lights, houseboats, historic architecture, and famous canals. Founded in 1275 (supposedly by two fishermen and their dog), the city grew in importance and wealth as Dutch colonies were set up around the world, and companies like the Dutch East India Company (VOC) controlled trade around the world.

There is more to Amsterdam travel than its infamous dark side. Here you’ll find dozens of art museums (from the eclectic to the traditions), beautiful parks, wonderful outdoor cafes, lots of history, and love of life here. This city is by far one of the most beautiful in the world.

For somebody willing to step away from the normal backpacker trail in search of adventure, Amsterdam has plenty to offer. Here are 5 things to do while backpacking in Amsterdam:

* Day tour

There is a lot to explore in the city. Some of the tourist attractions include Anne Frank’s house, the Electric Ladyland museum, the Tulip Museum, the Houseboat Museum, the Jewish History Museum, photography at FOAM, etc. It is also recommended to explore the city on rented bicycles to save money on transportation. Another one of the underrated things to do in Amsterdam is to have a drink at the House of Bols which is a Dutch gin museum run by the Bols distillery.

* Explore the canals

One of the best things to do in Amsterdam is to simply wander the canals. Every canal in Amsterdam is unique and has its own charm.You can visit the Grachtenhuis, a beautiful museum on Herengracht that revolves around the history of the canal ring. A visit to the Woonbootmuseum can give you the first-hand experience of a houseboat. You can rent a paddle boat and explore the canals at your own pace or take a canal cruise where a guide will tell you all about the history of Amsterdam.

* Experiment

Soft drugs which include weed, magic truffles, salvia and peyote cactus are legal in Amsterdam.You can buy joints, weed and hash brownies easily. Experimenting with these recreational drugs in moderation might be one of the experiences to look forward to. However, it is recommended that you try these in moderation since the marijuana in Amsterdam tends to be strong.

* Take walking tours

A great way to orient yourself to the city is with a walking tour. You’ll learn some history, find out where the major sites are, and explore all those winding canals. Walking tour includes a stop a seven eateries with 12 samples included. You can take time to discover the Dutch food traditions and history.

* Cook your own food

Food is pretty pricey in Amsterdam. If you want to spend your money on exploring the place rather than on eating decent meals around the city, it is recommended that you cook at least one meal a day yourself. The easiest way of doing this is to opt for a hostel which has with a kitchen so you can cook your own food. Packing a travel water bottle can also save money every day!