Flight tickets from Pietermaritzburg to Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of Europe's most iconic cities, with a rich and vibrant history that can be seen in its architecture, museums, galleries, and cultural attractions. From the canals and narrow alleyways of the historic Red Light District, to the bustling streets of the central Jordaan district, or the tulip fields and windmills of the Dutch countryside, Amsterdam has something for everyone. Whether it's exploring the centuries-old history of the city or enjoying some of the city's vibrant nightlife, Amsterdam provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable vacation. This guide will take you through all the important sights and experiences Amsterdam has to offer.

Getting to Know Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands, located in the western part of the country. This city has a population of about 863,000 people and the estimated metropolitan area has a population of 2,375,000 people.Amsterdam is located in the Central European Time Zone, which is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1). Dutch is the official language of Amsterdam. However, English, German, Turkish and Arabic are also frequently spoken in the city.The official currency used in Amsterdam is the Euro (EUR). Additionally, credit cards, travelers cheques and foreign currency are widely accepted in the city.

Climate and Weather

Amsterdam is located in the west of the Netherlands, on the North Sea coast, and has a temperate maritime climate. Summers in Amsterdam are generally mild, and can reach temperatures of up to 25°c. In general, the weather in Amsterdam is mild and wet, but with temperature extremes on either side of the spectrum. Winters are cold, with temperatures dropping to -3°c, and occasionally going beyond this. Snow is quite common during the winter months. The city receives an average of mm of rain per year, with October, November and December the wettest months and June, July, August and September the driest. Spring and autumn are usually mild, with temperatures ranging between 9 to 17°c. All in all, Amsterdam has a mild climate, with plenty of precipitation throughout the year.

Touring Amsterdam: Airport and Transportation

There are two airports in Amsterdam, the Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) and the Amsterdam Airport-Middenmeer (EHM).You can get from the main airport Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to downtown Amsterdam by train, bus, or taxi. A one-way ticket by train is €4.90. Taxi prices vary based on the time of day.Yes, you can change money at Amsterdam airport. There are several ATMs, bureau de change, Dutch banks and currency exchange kiosks located throughout the airport.

Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Amsterdam

1. Amsterdam is well-known for its colourful and rich history that dates back to the 13th century. The city was an important trading port and it flourished in the Golden Age until the early 18th century
2. The Dutch culture is one of the most visible parts of Amsterdam and it permeates the city and its surroundings. Visiting traditional Dutch restaurants, museums and attractions will give you a taste for this colorful culture and history
3. Amsterdam's art and cultural scene is vibrant and ranges from classical to modern. From some of the world's best-known museums such as the Rijksmuseum and Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art to the charming galleries, there is plenty to explore