In a few week's time, the first signs of autumn will start to show in Amsterdam. As the leaves on the trees in the city turn red, orange and yellow, and umbrellas become a standard when leaving the house or hotel, the number of visitors to the city dwindle down. It's the perfect time for you to enjoy the sights and sounds of Amsterdam’s beautiful canals without being crowded by other people.
Enjoy a canal cruise in autumn
Amsterdam is home to over 400,000 trees, many line the city’s famous canals, their brilliant autumn foliage transforms Amsterdam’s parks and canals into a magical place. You could take a stroll along the canals to see this gorgeous sight but you’ll get the best views from the water. A traditional canal cruise is the way to go, with their glass roofs and heating the canal boats offer you the ability to enjoy the views in comfort even on the colder autumn days.
If you want to enjoy the extended autumnal golden hour on the canals, you can also opt for a pizza cruise. With a delicious New York Pizza, hot from the oven and a drink in front of you on the table, and the gorgeous, UNESCO World Heritage listed Amsterdam canals outside the window it is a truly memorable experience.
If you prefer to take a cruise after the sun has gone down and the city is lit up by sparkling lights, there are three fun cruises to choose between. The Evening cruise, with its audio guide; the four course Culinary Cruise; or the Wine & Cheese Cruise for an evening tasting session.
Apple pie and hot chocolate
When the Dutch heavens open for an autumn storm, head for a traditional brown café for a slice of apple pie (preferably topped with whipped cream) and a mug of hot chocolate. The crumbly crust, the filling of chunks of cinnamon flavoured apple and the irresistible aroma make it one of the most sought-after treats in the country.
Some of the best apple pie can be found at Winkel 43, a cosy neighbourhood café on the square in front of the Noorderkerk where you can discover how Rembrandt inspired Van Gogh. Or try the mouth-watering pie at Café ‘t Papeneiland, one of the oldest cafes in the canal belt dating back to 1642. And if you are looking for something a little more modern, then head to Café de Jaren, with its two spacious floors there is always room to take a seat and enjoy some pie.
Learn more about the canals
Head to the Museum of the Canals to adventure into Amsterdam’s past and present, by exploring the history of the city’s canals. You’ll start your journey of discovery by traveling 400 years into the past. The museum’s multimedia exhibition illustrates the evolution of Amsterdam through the lens of its canals, which have been and continue to be central to the movement of the city and its inhabitants.
Of course, Amsterdam’s other world renowned museums are also well worth a visit. The beautiful Rijksmuseum is the country’s national museum and houses treasures such as Rembrandt van Rijn’s Night Watch and Johannes Vermeer’s Milkmaid. The Van Gogh Museum has the world’s largest collection of paintings, drawings and letters by Vincent van Gogh. And there are many more amazing museums in Amsterdam.
Catch a fright
At the end of October, after the Amsterdam Dance Event has let people dance their hearts out, the city gets ready to face its ghosts. Halloween is gaining popularity in the entire country but the Dutch capital has been celebrating the creepy, kooky, mysterious and spooky event for some time now. You’ll find corners along the canals in the city decorated with pumpkins throughout the city as well as parties, ghost tours and fun for every age and fright level.
Will you come and enjoy Amsterdam in autumn?
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