Amsterdam

[chokkie]

Mr. Chox and I are thinking about a city-break trip to Amsterdam in November. Sort of arrive lunch time on a Weds and department lunchtime (or whenever) on the Sunday. How long would it take us to see everything ... or at least get a feel for the place? Just a rough idea would be nice. We'll be on foot ...

And does anyone know if you can hire trikes in Amsterdam ... half thinking about hiring bikes one of the days, but I (shamefully) can't ride a bike, but OK on a trike.

Thanks, Chox.

[Philtaz]

Some info here, you could always email and ask.

http://www.amsterdam....ansport/bike-rentals/

[Philtaz]

More here if no luck:

http://goamsterdam.ab...a/where_rent_bike.htm

[gingejbee]

The city is very compact which makes it very walkable. There is also a very good and inexpensive public transport system which means that you don't really need to hire bikes (although they are available). We have been in November and it can be just like the UK weatherwise so take a mac. Four or five days is a good duration of stay to see the sights.

[Count-A-Strong]

I wouldn't recommend trying to get about by bike. It's a very busy city with trams and things! A canal boat trip is a great way to see the city. There's one which is a circular tour and you can get onand off at various places for one price.

[Maydup]

We went in the winter and had a great time. I agree with others - don't bother to hire a bike/trike as the roads are busy. There are cars, bikes and trams all on the same streets. Its too busy for a first time visitor.

We walked most of the time. Its easy and compact. There is an excellet tram system to get you a bit further afield and the hop on and off canal bus.

We had a day on the canal/Anne Frank House/City Centre/Flower Market
Another day - Art Galleries (Van Gogh and Rijks)
Another day - Walking the canal sides, shopping and red Light district in the evening.

With half a day each side to travel you'll be just right. On our second visit we also went on an excursion to the countryside to see windmills and to buy cheese! If you do have spare time and want a day out the excursions go from opposite the water just south of the main station.

Its a lovely city, I do hope you decide to go.

[mrs_overall]

I agree with the others. It is a very flat city and walking is a joy - you can peer into peoples houses to your hearts content.
Our favourite places to visit are
Rembrandts House, the Heineken Experience, the Torture Museum, Amsterdam Dungeons, the red light area, Anne Franks house (you must pre-book or you'll queue for hours), a canal cruise and certain, ahem, cafes

[bednobs]

the "ahem" cafe's aren't available to tourists anymore i believe!

[chokkie]

Oooh, many thanks for all the useful information folks. Not least the bit about booking in advance for the Anne Frank museum. Really fancy bringing back some cheese.

Really appreciate your help.

Chox.

[chokkie]

Many thanks again folks, for all your help. I think we're going to sort out the tickets at the weekend. Thanks for all the travel tips, will definitely book our Anne Frank house tickets in advance. Thanks again. Chox.