Day Five

Spend day five in the heart of the Old City. Start at the 17^th century neoclassical Royal Palace, which served as the city’s town hall for many years. It was first used as a palace during Napoleon’s rule, and today it is technically the reigning monarch’s residence, though few of them have ever actually lived there. Several of the rooms are available for tour, most notably the Citizens’ Hall, Burgomasters’ Chambers, and the Council Room.

 

Just next-door is one of Amsterdam’s historical churches. Nieuwe Kerk sounds like it would be new, but construction on it actually began in 1400. It is late Gothic in style and since 1815 all the Dutch monarchs have been crowned there.

 

If you are interested in seeing the Red Light District by day, it is just a couple of blocks over. While you are there, stop by Oude Kerk, Amsterdam’s oldest church. It dates back to the 13^th century and contains the tomb of Rembrandt’s wife, Saskia van Uylenburg. It is also notable for its stained glass windows and its organ, which was built in 1724.

 

Take the afternoon to do some retail therapy. De Bijenkorf is Amsterdam’s best department store. Focke and Meltzer is the place to go for authentic Delft Blue and Makkumware porcelain, Hummel figurines, and fine china and glassware. Amsterdam is famous for their diamond industry, and several of the showrooms offer free tours. Try the Amsterdam Diamond Center or Van Moppes Diamonds.

 

For a signature Amsterdam experience and a glorious display of color, head to Bloemenmarkt (Flower Market), located on a group of barges anchored along Singel canal. Buy some tulips, just because.