AMSTERDAM

The layout of the city of Amsterdam reflects its history: that of a fishing village that has since turned into a major place from medieval times to the gracious and modern city. The different phases of the city's evolution can be seen through the concentric canals that surround the oldest part of the city. Amsterdam was at its peak during the 17th century, one can guess that when noticing the large parks, the wonderful historical mansions located along the canals but also by its artistic and cultural heritage. The city of Amsterdam has long held its modern and permissive reputation and many tourists also come for the festive atmosphere and the culture of cannabis.

The old center
The old center of Amsterdam is almost a thousand years old. From simple fishermen, until a dam is built on the river Amstel (which gives its name to the city, literally the dam on the Amstel) and the city begins to develop. From the train station, the bustling shopping street Nieuwendijk takes you to Dam Square, the real center of Amsterdam housing the grand royal palace and the Gothic Nieuwekerk church. The Wallen district, unmistakably known as the Red Light District is right next door. On the Nieuwmarkt square, you will notice the imposing medieval building De Waag and enjoy the cafés, the typical Amsterdam coffee shops and the restaurants of the local Chinatown.

The Grachtengordel
The Grachtengordel which means the canal belt, is the name used to describe the set of canals forming a circle around the historic center of Amsterdam. Developed during the 17th century, Grachtengordel embodies the wealth and ambition of 17th century Amsterdamers. The magnificent mansions crammed along the canals have not aged and give a unique trademark to the city of Amsterdam. A stay in this waterside district on the Grachtengordel is one of the unique experiences that Amsterdam can provide.

The Jordaan
The Jordaan is a crescent-shaped district that owes its unique layout to its popular origins. It was developed during the 17th century as housing for workers. In the 19th century, this rather small district of Amsterdam is absolutely crowded, comprising more than 80,000 inhabitants. Popular with students and artists at the time, the Jordaan has recently gentrified and its houses with terrace so characteristic are now occupied by more upscale establishments. The streets Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht are among the most beautiful and there is no need to look long to find a good spot for a coffee or a drink.

Oud-Zuid (the old south)
Oud-Zuid, formerly a district south of the city center, is today one of the coolest places to live in Amsterdam. The district has Amsterdam's most fashionable park - the Vondelpark, 50 acres of ponds, gardens, tea rooms, outdoor theaters and street art. The nearby museum district includes the famous Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum. Further south are Amsterdam's business district and the shopping malls of Beethovenstraat and P.C. Hooftstraat.

Oud West
Oud-West is a very charming place whose streets are rather quiet and pleasant to walk by bike or on foot, there are cafes and bars, including the traditional "brown cafes" of Amsterdam. Oud-West is a neighborhood where you can attend concerts or exhibitions. It is a lively and trendy area without falling into the mainstream of the city center.

The hotels have been chosen to suit all possible budgets. They are all ideally close to the sea and nightlife of Amsterdam. The movements in the city are very easy by transport, by walk in the center or why not by bike.

You can directly add to your reservation the airport transfer to take you from Amsterdam airport to your hotel (the duration is about 20 minutes). The return is included. Airport transfer is only possible if you book your flight with your package.

Dam Square
The hub of Amsterdam is the focal point of the city and a good starting point for nightlife. The square is home to a carnival or many thrilling rides are there to make you vibrate. A place both kitsch and a must see. This is also where the pedestrian street Kalverstraat begins, a famous artery for shopping.

Musée Van Gogh
A little culture never hurts, the Van Gogh Museum is one of the most visited museum in the world and only devoted to the Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh. The museum is very well organized, modern and will even please the uninitiated works of the famous painter, a must see in Amsterdam.

Leidseplein
This place with the unpronounceable name is located in the south of Amsterdam and is the nerve center in terms of festivity, bars, clubs and outing of all kinds! Very good starting point for a festive night in Amsterdam.

Cruise on the canals
Completely cliché but so nice to do and rich in discovery. The canal cruise in Amsterdam will leave you with an unforgettable memory of the city. It is possible to rent small boats to privatize for 2, 4 or 6 people to see a little more or take the larger boats more impersonal.

Heineken Experience
Heineken Experience is the historic brewery of the world-famous Dutch beer brand, Heineken. The museum allows you to discover all the stages of the design of the famous beer. Nice to discover!

Vondelpark
The best known and coolest park to visit in Amsterdam. After a few hectic evenings, it is always nice to rest and chill in this large green space in the heart of Amsterdam. Perfect for Sunday afternoons after brunch.

Escape
Amsterdam's most famous club located on busy Rembrandtplein. The Escape hosts mainstream nights and is a good spot to discover the night in Amsterdam. Headliners are often scheduled on weekends. The Escape complex also has the DeLux Bar, The Caffe, the Studio and the Lounge, and other more intimate, high quality facilities.

Jimmy Woo
Jimmy Woo is an iconic Amsterdam club with an old school atmosphere that is worth a visit. The club can hold about 500 people. The walls sweat of music and a rather dark and groovy atmosphere reigns in this club.

Sugar Factory

Sugar Factory is a dynamic club, open minded and ideal for clubbing. The club regularly invites headliners. With its capacity of 600 people, there is also an intimate atmosphere.

Air Amsterdam
Raised from the ashes of the legendary iT clubhouse in Amsterdam city center, AIR is an institution in Amsterdam with impressive VOID systems, state-of-the-art lighting and an impressive LED wall. Note that the club’s floor is angled so past a certain time, it is recommended to be careful when moving around in the club.

Melkweg
Located in the center of Amsterdam, the Melkweg has two large halls. Every weekend, there is a very good atmosphere thanks to the big names of the Dutch night who take turns to make you spend an unforgettable evening.

The climate
The best months to visit Amsterdam are the summer months, from May to August, but you can of course go to the Dutch capital all year long. The city is also very famous for its New Year's Eve. There is an average of fifteen days of rain per month (that's one day out of two) so do not necessarily expect to have 4 days of good weather. The average temperature varies between 0 ° / 7 ° in winter and 14 ° / 21 ° in summer. You now understand that if you need to warm up, better push the door of the innumerable bars of Amsterdam rather than wait for the sun!

Language
In the Netherlands, people speak Dutch. Amsterdam is a very tourist town, so they also know very well English. So do not hesitate to play the « tourist card » and ask them to give you a hand if you are lost with your map of the city.

Currency
The currency in Amsterdam is the Euro. This is obviously the only currency with which you can pay for your purchases in Amsterdam. You will be able to easily change before your departure at your bank or in a bureau de change, or do it directly on the spot according to the agreements that you have with your bank, either by taking some cash with you, then by going to an exchange office, either by withdrawing money with your credit card directly from an ATM.

To make a call
From The Netherlands to France: 00 33 + Phone Number
From France to The Netherlands: 00 + 31 + telephone number

Check with the consulate of the country of destination whether a residence visa is required, but also with any countries crossed if a transit visa is required.