The architecture in Amsterdam is incredibly unique. The buildings are crowded together, packed like sardines in hues of burgundy, eggplant, and midnight blue. They lean forwards and backwards like a drunken sailor, swaying with sturdy tolerance and grace.

The Dutch golden era of the 1600’s had a lasting effect on the modern world. During this era, Dutch exploration and colonialism was at it’s peak. Sailors explored vast seas and discovered precious spices and other goods. This exploration was so successful that they invented capitalism as we know it. The first stocks and bonds were created to offset the need for hard cash and goods. Over 50% of all books were published in the city during this time. It is not a surprise that Amsterdam was, and still is, considered a cultural hub.

Amsterdam is known for it’s acceptance of vices. Unfortunately this seems to overshadow the many other things the city has to offer. The city has 1,227 bridges and over 62 miles of fresh water canals. It houses some of the best museums in the world including the Riiksmuseum, the Ann Frank House, and the Van Gough museum. The shopping is phenomenal and the cheese stores include samples such as wasabi goat cheese and paprika gruyere. However, these facts are usually overshadowed by the coffee shops and the red light district.

The coffee shops are definitely worth a visit, but only 5% of Dutch people habitually smoke marijuana. The Dutch know how to make a good deal, which is why they call Amsterdam the city of tolerance. They know that with a tolerance towards weed and prostitution comes revenue through tourism.

This entices some travelers to indulge in their hostels instead of exploring the many layers of the Dutch city. I met multiple people who just smoked a bunch of weed and sat around in their hostel the whole time. To each their own, but if you’re going to indulge in the vices of Amsterdam, at least visit one of the museums or take a stroll through Vondelpark.

Waking through Vondelpark is a highlight of Amsterdam not to be missed. The expansive 120 acres includes an open-air theater, a playground built into the trees, several lakes, and hundreds of areas to sit and reflect on the nature surrounding you. The sunset from the park is absolutely breathtaking, with whisks of pink clouds dissolving and condensing through different wind streams.

As a metropolis, Amsterdam is one of the most biker-friendly cities in Europe. There are over 249 miles of bike paths and bikes outnumber citizens. Since the city is so packed bikes are the easiest way to get around; I feel like I’m getting the true Amsterdam experience when I get side-swiped by a biker on my first day.

While many are attracted to Amsterdam by it’s well-known vices, hopefully some can explore the many layers of the city instead of just scratching the surface.