It's a picturesque bridge that will get you across a wide canal, and it sometimes opens up. People love to watch the action and take a lot of photos and movies. Couples Of the many bridges that cross the canals in Amsterdam, the Magere Brug is probably its most famous, even featuring in the 1971 James Bond film, Diamonds Are Forever. Literally translated as "Skinny Bridge", this wooden drawbridge was once so narrow that it was challenging for 2 pedestrians coming from opposite directions to pass each other (which probably explains its name), but it was replaced by a wider bridge in 1871 to cope with the increasing traffic across the River Amstel. Though claimed by some as the most beautiful bridge in Amsterdam, I frankly do not find much attractiveness nor elegance in this pedestrian-and-cyclist-only bridge, notwithstanding that the locals regard it as the most romantic bridge in Amsterdam, where a kiss while on the bridge (or underneath the bridge on a boat) will seal their love forever. If it's not for the hype over this bridge, visitors like me would probably not accord a second glance on this bridge, especially in a city where the sight of bridges are fairly common. So, have a quick photo taken on the bridge while kissing your partner to cement your love, then move on to the...
Read moreThe "Skinny Bridge," or the "Magere Brug" as it is known in Dutch, is one of the most photographed attractions in Amsterdam. A picturesque drawbridge spanning the Amstel River in the heart of the city, it's one of Amsterdam's most iconic and recognizable landmarks. The bridge is characterized by its elegant and delicate design, with a series of white wooden beams and a classic Dutch double-swipe mechanism.
The name "Skinny Bridge" is derived from the original bridge at this location, which was quite narrow. The current bridge, built in 1934, is wider but still retains its historic charm.
According to legend, the bridge was built by two wealthy skinny sisters, the "magere sussen", who lived on opposte sides of the water and who wanted to keep their commute time to a minimum.
A symbol of the city's rich history and enduring charm, it is particularly enchanting when illuminated at night with 1,200 light bulbs, creating a stunning reflection in the water.
The Skinny Bridge is a popular spot for tourists and photographers, offering beautiful views of the Amstel River and the surrounding area.
Another local legend states that couples who kiss on the bridge will stay...
Read moreThis restaurant is old skool in the right way: no nonsense “concept menus”, or slick Instagram accounts with sourdough bread and expensive cocktails. Or in other words, not aiming to please the painfully generic aesthetic sensibilities of Amsterdam’s rapidly expanding upperclass and expat communities.
Instead, this cafe consistently provides decent pub fare and if you expect more than that you’re just in the wrong place. The food is good, hot, and served by people who like working in a pub that breathes Amsterdam.
I have come here for over 20 years, and can tell you that the cigarette dispenser has been around since the 80ies and still functions—and that holds for most of the interior. So, if you need a hot meal or a place where you can go for a beer alone or with friends knowing you’ll have a great night this cafe will deliver.
The pleasure of not being surrounded by people who work for tech companies riding Van Moof bikes, is an...
Read more