History Comes Alive in Amsterdam
History unfolds along the canals in Amsterdam during National Heritage Days.Visitors to Amsterdam in September have a unique opportunity to view and tour the city’s historical canal-side homes and warehouses. Each 17th or 18th century home offers a unique glimpse into the history of the city centre and its merchant residents. Architecturally, each home reflects this booming period in the history and culture of the city, with elaborately decorative gables resting atop the tall and narrow mansions.
The web of five concentric canals that girdles the city centre, called the Grachtengordel, determined the city’s layout four centuries ago and characterises its classic terrain. A tour along the Grachtengordel, on foot or on one of the ever-present bicycles, is an excellent way to discover the elegant and graceful urban environment of Amsterdam while on holiday.
Annually, approximately thirty-five Amsterdam monuments offer guided tours and free viewings during the country’s National Heritage Days. Many of the mansions are privately owned and are well worth viewing if only to see the beautiful interior design and furniture.
Whether a history buff, an antiques aficionado, or just generally curious about a slice of European culture and history, a visit to the city during its National Heritage Days is a fun and exciting way of spending your holiday.
Direct flights are available to Amsterdam from Manchester via easyJet, while connecting flights come courtesy of British Airways and Lufthansa.
