Springtime in Amsterdam: Canals, History, and a Whole Lot of Tulips

Amsterdam in the spring is a postcard brought to life—vibrant blooms, glittering waterways, and
a timeless charm that seeps into every cobblestone and canal bridge. On a recent trip, I enjoyed
the city’s rich cultural heritage, floated through its picturesque canals, and wandered through
fields of tulips that seemed too beautiful to be real. If you’re considering a trip to the Dutch
capital, here’s a glimpse of what you might experience.

No trip to Amsterdam is complete without a canal cruise. I opted for a classic open-boat tour
with snacks and wine, on one of the most beautiful, sun-filled days, and it was pure magic. As
the boat drifted along the canals, I learned about the history (and the quirkiness) of the city, like
the reason why so many of the houses lean forward (hint: it has to do with old tax laws and
furniture hoisting). The perspective from the water offers an entirely new appreciation of the
city’s charm and is a must-do.

Just a short drive from Amsterdam, Keukenhof Gardens is a floral fantasy that defies description.
This amazing botanical park bursts into life each spring with over 7 million blooming tulips,
hyacinths, daffodils, and more. The colors—reds, purples, yellows, and pinks—form vast
mosaics that stretch as far as the eye can see. I spent a few short hours wandering through
themed gardens, but you could easily spend an entire day here snapping photos of whimsical
displays and perfectly manicured flowerbeds. There’s even a windmill you can climb for a
panoramic view of the tulip fields.

After Keukenhof, I visited the nearby Tulip Experience Amsterdam, and it turned out to be one
of the highlights of my trip. Unlike the formal gardens, this is a more personal, educational, and
interactive take on the world of tulips. A family-run tulip farm has turned their knowledge and
passion into a visitor-friendly journey that walks you through the flower’s history. There are
plenty of cute photo-ops in the fields to make your visit fun and memorable!

The most important stop on this Amsterdam adventure was at the Anne Frank House. This was
both humbling and fascinating to see where Anne Frank and her family hid for nearly two years.
Tickets for this experience are hard to come by and must be purchased approximately 60 days
before you want to visit. This is not to be missed!

Some other stops during my week abroad included the iconic Rijksmuseum, a treasure trove of
Dutch art and history; the infamous Red Light District, and many of the cities restaurants and
shops.

Amsterdam offers an experience that is both deeply historical and wonderfully alive. This trip
was a perfect blend of culture, beauty, and relaxation. If you’re planning your own journey, try to
visit in April and always remember to watch out for bikes!