Amsterdam, Netherlands - Zurich, Switzerland 10 day trip

About Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, boasts a captivating history that dates back to its 12th century beginnings as a modest fishing village. Over time, the city flourished into a bustling commercial center, and, by the 17th century, played a pivotal role in global trade. The establishment of the Dutch East India Company during the colonial era further fueled periods of prosperity, cultural blossoming, and architectural advancement. The city's charm has remained as vibrant as ever, offering modern-day tourists a dynamic and multicultural hub in a wonderful atmosphere, surrounded by a unique, impressive architectural maze.

Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, boasts a captivating history that dates back to its 12th century beginnings as a modest fishing village. Over time, the city flourished into a bustling commercial center, and, by the 17th century, played a pivotal role in global trade. The establishment of the Dutch East India Company during the colonial era further fueled periods of prosperity, cultural blossoming, and architectural advancement. The city's charm has remained as vibrant as ever, offering modern-day tourists a dynamic and multicultural hub in a wonderful atmosphere, surrounded by a unique, impressive architectural maze.

The old city of Amsterdam, often referred to as the "Venice of the North," is a testament to its immense cultural heritage. Built along the banks of its iconic canals, the old city is home to rich cultural heritage full of artistic masterpieces. Renowned museums in the museum district, situated on the Singelgracht canal, showcase the best works of Dutch painters like Johannes Vermeer, Rembrandt van Rijn, Vincent van Gogh, Hieronymus Bosch, Peter Paul Rubens, and other luminaries of the art world. Amsterdam is known as one of the friendliest cities for cyclists, with cycling deeply ingrained in the local culture. Embrace the city's spirit by renting a bike and joining the vibrant atmosphere as you pedal along the bike paths, gaining a unique perspective on the picturesque canals, charming atria, and stunning buildings. When it comes to culinary delights, Amsterdam offers a diverse array of experiences. Savor the local delicacies and don't miss out on stroopwafels (caramel-filled waffles), bitterballen (meatballs), pannenkoeken (pancakes), and the delectable Gouda or Edam cheeses. The bustling food markets like Albert Cuyp and Foodhallen are a treat, serving up an enticing array of local and international dishes. Pair your meal with a refreshing local beer or indulge in the distinctive flavor of Jenever, the local gin, for a truly immersive culinary experience. Amsterdam is home to a wealth of attractions- here are just a few to get you started: The Floating Flower Market, famously known as Bloemenmarkt, is a local gem. Throughout the city's history, flower merchants used to ply their trade from boats navigating the canals. As the 19th century progressed, trade flourished on floating rafts anchored in the Singelgracht canal. Today, it stands as the only floating flower market in the world, offering a stunning array of the finest blooms and flower seeds from the Netherlands. During the spring season, the market comes alive with a kaleidoscope of colorful tulips, making it a must-visit destination for flower enthusiasts. The Anne Frank House is where Anne and her family hid during the horrors of World War II. The house has been converted into a museum that offers a deeply moving experience, showing where the family lived in a concealed space in her father’s office for over two years, evading the Nazi persecution that targeted the Jewish community in Amsterdam. Tragically, in 1944, they were discovered and sent to the Bergen-Belsen extermination camp, where Anne met her untimely and cruel end. Yet, her diary survived, and is a chilling testament that touches the hearts of millions of readers worldwide, serving as a poignant reminder of the vital significance of empathy and compassion. Begijnhof, a historical complex dating back to the early 14th century, was created as a religious community for women embracing a monastic way of life, dedicated to prayer and acts of kindness. Originally located outside the city walls, it was eventually relocated to its present position in the heart of the city center. Encircled by captivating historic buildings, the enclave boasts several remarkably well preserved wooden houses—a rare sight in Amsterdam, given the city's tumultuous history of fires. Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein are two squares that are famous for their vibrant nightlife, attracting visitors with an array of bars, clubs, live music venues, and entertainment options. In Rembrandt Square there is a monument to the painter’s memory with statues depicting characters from his well-known painting, "The Night Watch." Leidseplein is also home to the casino and the National Theatre. The Eye Film Museum is the Dutch national museum dedicated to photography. Situated along the city's waterfront, the building alone is an attraction with its distinctive and striking architecture! The museum contains a rich collection of films, photographs, posters, as well as other memorabilia related to cinema, and it features various exhibitions that celebrate the history, development, and meaning of filmmaking in the Netherlands and abroad. On the top floor of the museum, there is a panoramic balcony with an amazing view of the city and the waterfront. Amsterdam's rich history, captivating cultural heritage, picturesque canals, and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular and unforgettable tourist destination!

About Munich

Munich is the capital and largest city of the German state of Bavaria. It is located on the River Isar north of the Bavarian Alps. Munich is home to many national and international authorities, major universities, major museums and theaters. Its numerous architectural attractions, international sports events, exhibitions, conferences and Oktoberfest attract considerable tourism. Since 2006, the city's motto has been "Munich loves you".

Munich is the capital and largest city of the German state of Bavaria. It is located on the River Isar north of the Bavarian Alps. Munich is home to many national and international authorities, major universities, major museums and theaters. Its numerous architectural attractions, international sports events, exhibitions, conferences and Oktoberfest attract considerable tourism. Since 2006, the city's motto has been "Munich loves you".

About Salzburg

Salzburg is the fourth largest city in Austria and is considered a “must visit” city. The fact that it is not “the biggest” city is not important in this case - size doesn’t count! It is no wonder that UNESCO recognized the Alstadt (Old Town) as a World Heritage Site. Salzburg is situated on the banks of the Salzach river which is almost 300 km long. This precious town offers a wide range of tours with exciting experiences for the visitor.

Salzburg is the fourth largest city in Austria and is considered a “must visit” city. The fact that it is not “the biggest” city is not important in this case - size doesn’t count! It is no wonder that UNESCO recognized the Alstadt (Old Town) as a World Heritage Site. Salzburg is situated on the banks of the Salzach river which is almost 300 km long. This precious town offers a wide range of tours with exciting experiences for the visitor.

Secret: (Saltzburg, literally means Salt Castle) Saltz or salz, meaning salt, is in the name because the mining of salt was a major industry since the early 1500’s and is probably what helped to put Salzburg on the map!  Note: During the Holy Roman Empire, for more than ten centuries, Salzburg was a church city-state. The days are long gone since the leader of the church and the state was the prince-archbishop. With the mountains providing a theatrical backdrop, the city's skyline is alive with turrets and domes and a clear view of the HohenSalsburg fortress. The baroque style is evident in many buildings, both ecclesiastical and secular as they were all influenced by the style of Italian architects. In January 1756, the renowned composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in this charming town He was born and raised on 9 Getreidegasse in the Old Town and his house is now a museum. This charming little street is one of many meandering between alley houses that are decorated with unique metal signs, advertising stores, jewelry, antiques and many other kinds of shops. The Salzburg Cathedral (Salzburger Dom), built in 774, is a Roman Catholic seventeenth-century Baroque cathedral that was dedicated to two, Saints Rupert and Saint Vergilius. It was ruined in a fire and then was rebuilt in various stages, yet once completed it was then bombed in WWII and had to be reconstructed once again. Although it was overly decorated and very elaborate the Cathedral nevertheless has a serene and peaceful atmosphere which welcomes people from all over the world, from all religions. Secret: Mozart was baptized in the Salzburg Cathedral, which still has the same  baptismal basin used for Mozart. The DomQuartier museum adjacent to the cathedral is a must-see, especially for those who fawn over the baroque style. A hodgepodge of decorative items in each and every corner and items that stretch from ceiling to floor, including furniture and magnificent candelabras, art and sculpture. One can become quite an affected when viewing the decorative arts of Salzburg of the 17th and 18th centuries In Europe, the Hohensalzburg Fortress is known as one of the biggest and most impressive castles from the 11th century. The imposing Salzburg Hohensalzburg Castle, has stood for 1000 years on a hill dominating the city. As the decades passed, the castle grew and its walls were thickened and fortified, allowing for full protection for the occupants within.  Today it serves as the archbishops' museum and has a spectacular vantage viewing point for the city and the Alps. Ascent is possible on foot or in a funicular carriage (festungsbahn). In the early 1600’s the Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich gifted the Mirabell Palace to his mistress Salome Alt. The gardens, which were redesigned many times over the next decades were added about 80 years later. The fountain and statues which were also added later were forever “immortalized” in the movie Sound of Music (in the scene where Julie Andrews teaches the Van Trapp Children the “Doh Reh Mi” song).Today the palace belongs to the municipality of Salzburg. Note: Do not leave this country without stopping by a traditional Viennese café and enjoying a delicious cup of coffee with the typical, yet iconic, Austrian dessert “the apfelstrudel”, with its flaky (no yeast) crust and raisins and spicey apples and sprinkled with sugar (yes originally Austrian and not German). P.S. If it is the majestic Alps you want to visit then a good place to begin is in the southern part of the mountain and hike up to the Grossglockner Peak which is the highest in this mountain range, rising to an altitude of about 4000 meters. Salzburg is about 500 km from the Alps. You can go by car, train or bus. Hellbrunn Palace (Schloss Hellbrunn) is a 17th century villa the size of a palace, just 7.5 km south towards Salzburg. Beautiful elegant landscaped gardens and expansive parks surround the palace. But the drawing card is the water games from the various trick fountains that are unique and unmatched anywhere in the world. Built by Prince-Archbishop Markus Sittikus the palace was meant for joy and entertainment. He wanted to surprise his guests and so wherever they wandered about on the grounds, they would have a “water surprises!  Today you will pass by the various audio stations which will explain each one of the attractions.Note: Open only from April until the end of October..

About Zurich

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland. It is located at the northwestern tip of Lake Zurich. Zurich is home to many churches and houses of the old town, the most expensive shops along the famous Bahnhofstrasse, as well as world-class museums, operas, and theater. The Lindenhof in the old town is the historical site of the Roman castle, and the later Carolingian Imperial Palace. Zurich offers a great deal of variety when it comes to night-time leisure. It is the host city of the world-famous Street Parade, which takes place in August every year. Zurich is known for its nightlife, offering a huge variety of restaurants, bars, and night clubs.

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland. It is located at the northwestern tip of Lake Zurich. Zurich is home to many churches and houses of the old town, the most expensive shops along the famous Bahnhofstrasse, as well as world-class museums, operas, and theater. The Lindenhof in the old town is the historical site of the Roman castle, and the later Carolingian Imperial Palace. Zurich offers a great deal of variety when it comes to night-time leisure. It is the host city of the world-famous Street Parade, which takes place in August every year. Zurich is known for its nightlife, offering a huge variety of restaurants, bars, and night clubs.