The Traveller's Magazine
Amsterdam is never a bad idea but if you are a culture addict and haven’t visit the Dutch capital in a while, make it a priority to go in 2013. After ten years of renovations two major museums are opening again: the Stedelijk (opened already in September) and the Rijksmuseum (due to open in April).
How to get there for a nifty-fifty
Take-off on flights from London Stansted Airport to Amsterdam Schiphol for £55 (return, tax included) with EasyJet for mid-week travel April 3 to 5th. The flight takes just over an hour but delivers you right to culture’s door. For the cheapest fares to Amsterdam, try flying on weekdays, weekend fares are twice the price, in March through May, low season which means fewer queues at museums, smaller crowds and more Amsterdam for you.
Why you have to go
Amsterdam serves up a pretty impressive platter when it comes to art, design and culture. Two major museums were closed for almost a decade. The Stedelijk, which re-opened a few months ago is welcoming visitors to its sleek new extension while the Rejksmuseum is due to re-open its doors in April after a total redo by two Spanish architects, Antonio Ortiz and Antonio Cruz. Even the Van Gogh Museum has been closed for renovations and is due to open to the public again in May.
Amsterdam is celebrating a lot this year so you can bet there’ll be a celebration or two while you’re in town. The city’s iconic canal ring turns 400 this year while the city’s famous concert hall, the Concertgebouw turns 125 and is celebrating with an impressive line-up of performances.
Like a local: AmsterdamHave you been to Amsterdam before? What are your favourite culture spots to visit?
