Eurostar to Amsterdam
Big, bold and brash, Amsterdam is one of Europe’s great cities and works for newcomers and old timers alike. You can get a direct Eurostar to Amsterdam from St Pancras International in London right to the heart of the city, with a journey time of only 3 hours, 52 minutes, making this fascinating city even more accessible. Visitors will love the city’s tree-lined 17th century canals, fantastic café and cycle culture and modern museums and galleries.
As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers visitors the chance to visit world class museums including the new Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum and the Hermitage Amsterdam. Other attractions include the Anne Frank House, the Royal Palace of Amsterdam, the tulip fields, the red-light district and the city’s many cannabis coffee shops. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder six million visitors head to Amsterdam every year.
Eurostar to Amsterdam
Eurostar operates three daily trains from London St Pancras to Amsterdam’s Central Station, with a journey time of 3hrs 52 mins. There are no charges for luggage or liquids, but make sure to arrive at the station 45-60 minutes before departure.
Eurostar to Amsterdam must see
During World War II teenager Anne Frank hid from Nazi persecution with her family and four other people in hidden rooms at the rear of a house on the Prinsengracht canal in Amsterdam in the Netherlands. These rooms were known as the Secret Annex. Anne and her family didn’t survive the war, but her diary did, and its contents were published to world-wide acclaim in 1947. Visitors now can see the rooms where Anne and her family hid at the Anne Frank House. This is one of Amsterdam’s biggest tourist attractions so be sure to book your trip online before you visit the city.
Where to eat in Amsterdam
Oost is one of Amsterdam’s trendiest neighbourhoods and if you’re looking to eat like a local, head to Wilde Zwijnen (‘Wild Boar’) that serves some of finest fare in Amsterdam. In a cool shabby-chic space, diners can choose from a three or four course locally sourced menu that of course, features wild boar. Next door their sister restaurant Eetbar offers lighter fare in the shape of small sharing plates from €7.
What to buy in Amsterdam
All over Amsterdam in shops and bars, you’ll find Jenever. This juniper-flavoured traditional liquor is also known as Dutch gin and it’s a great buy either for yourself or a gift. You’ll find it in specialist liquor stores and also at supermarkets. For tips on buying the right brand, ask a friendly bar man.
Where to stay
This gorgeous five-star canalside hotel is the perfect place to stay if you want to treat yourself to a luxury break in Amsterdam. Situated a short walk away from the Anne Frank House and Royal Palace, this large hotel runs through 25 different buildings, offering guests the chance to admire hidden passageways and beautifully restored spaces. Bedrooms come in many different sizes with many boasting direct canal views. http://www.booking.com
Hotel Estherea is situated in the Negen Straatjes (the ‘Nine Little Streets’), one of Amsterdam’s most popular areas. The hotel consists of three canalside houses with beautifully desned bedrooms and common rooms, reflecting the city’s eclectic style.
St Christopher’s at the Winston €
St Christopher’s is a buzzy hostel in Amsterdam that’s perfect for those visitors looking for a lively trip. It’s situated close to the Red Light district and Amsterdam’s famous coffee shops. As well as dorms and private rooms, the hostel boasts a beer garden and continental breakfast for €5.