7 Go west - life is peaceful there
Amsterdam is a city that delights in hours spent outdoors, and come spring you can feel frozen-fingered cyclists and chilled houseboat dwellers breathe a collective sigh of relief as crocuses and hyacinths start to appear on the canals’ grassy banks. To fully appreciate the change of season, join locals for the first al fresco drinks of the season at waterside cafés in Jordaan, or rent a bicycle for a gentle ride around Vondelpark. There are, of course, no end of diversions in Amsterdam’s central districts, but the city is inviting visitors to venture further afield with its series of 24H programmes: a collection of pop-up events and activities taking place over single, action-packed weekends through the year. March’s 24H throws west Amsterdam into the spotlight. The neighbourhood’s museums, shops, theatres and clubs fling open their doors to offer urban explorers a host of new and unexpected experiences. Perhaps start with a walking tour of Nieuw-West’s murals and street art, pausing for a coffee-roasting workshop with a champion barista, or a lunch of under-appreciated Dutch vegetables. There’s even a ‘pimp your bike’ session, where you can buy accessories to take back home.
free drink and discount