Amsterdam is a popular stop-over for Eurail pass holders.
The city has a reputation that precedes itself which draws visitors from all around the world.
If you plan to explore more of the Netherlands by rail you will also be passing through here as it is a big rail hub.
History of Amsterdam During the 12th century, Amsterdam was a fishing village near the Amstel River.
The name was originally Amstellerdam which literally means "dam in the river of Amstel.
" Amsterdam became the center of the world's economy during the 17th century.
After the fall of oligarchy and the French occupation, the city suffered from economic and demographic stagnation from 1795 to 1813.
But this soon changed and in 1870, Amsterdam drastically grew in population.
Today, the city is one of the most popular and visited European capitals.
It is famous for its liberal outlook, with an economy that thrives from taxing just about any industry; marijuana, certain drugs and prostitution are not exempted.
Amsterdam's move to decriminalize these businesses not only allowed its economy to benefit from them but has also attracted tourists from around the world who want to have fun without worrying about legalities.
Things To Do In Amsterdam Amsterdam is filled with world class sights and museums.
During the day, you can visit the Dam Square which is the center and heart of the city.
The square witnessed significant historical events like Napoleon's invasion of the city in 1808.
The Royal Palace that stands at the square also served as the city's town hall with a facade and intricate decorative sculptures that celebrate the beauty of the city.
For art lovers and for the sheer curious, Amsterdam is also the location of the Van Gogh Museum and the Hash Marihuana Museum.
The City's Red Light District is an eye opening place to spend the night, with its product offerings that are usually banned in other countries.
Even if you don't partake in vice, it is quite a novelty (especially if you are from the US) to see people smoking marijuana openly and working girls in the window shop fronts.
Then there is the famous canals, which are very pedestrian friendly.
You could also do as the locals do and ride a bike around the bike friendly streets.
How To Get To Amsterdam Amsterdam is a major travel hub of Western Europe, so it a popular city to start a Eurail trip.
The cheapest and quickest way is to get a budget flight to Amsterdam Schipol Airport.
If you are arriving fro the UK you can take the ferry to the Hook of Holland, Rotterdam or Ijmuiden and get the train from there.
Amsterdam's Central Station is well connected to cities all over Europe.
Amsterdam has direct connections from Vienna, Prague, Copenhagen, Switzerland (Zurich), Germany (Berlin and Cologne), France and Belgium (Brussels).