Escape Plan 11｜🇳🇱 Free-spirited Amsterdam 🌷

Just 3.5 hours by bus from Brussels, we spent 2.5 magical days in this vibrant, canal-laced city. Amsterdam’s concentric waterways and walkable streets make it effortlessly livable yet full of energy. 🚇 Getting Around • Amsterdam Region Travel Ticket: Covers trains/buses/trams to Zaanse Schans (windmills), Zaandam (LEGO town), and Keukenhof. Choose 1/2/3-day passes (counted by calendar day, from midnight to 4 AM). ⚠️ Tap in/out on all transport! 🎨 Day 1: Culture & Windmills Van Gogh Museum: Book morning slots (student tickets Mon-Fri) → head straight to 3rd floor for crowd-free views! Don’t miss the Miffy merch in the gift shop 🐰 Zaanse Schans (Windmill Village): Train to Zaandijk Zaanse Schans (15-min walk). Spend 2 hours wandering postcard-perfect paths. Zaandam LEGO Town: Stop on the return trip (right by the station). The colorful houses take just 30 mins to explore! 🌷 Day 2: Keukenhof Gardens Book early tickets! Bus #858 from Schiphol/RAI gets you there in 30 mins. 2024’s rose exhibition was a floral dream—every corner blooms with artistry! 🍽️ Foodie Hits (and Misses) 🍜 Hunan Beef Noodles (Red Light District): Rich broth, tender meat 🍳 Omelegg: Worth the wait for fluffy omelets! ❌ The Real Peruvian Kitchen: Overhyped, slow service 🛒 Albert Cuyp Market: Try herring + pickles and Greg’s legendary sandwiches 🧇 Hans Egstorf: Caramel-stuffed pancakes = heaven 🍟 Fabel Friet: Dutch fries with proper sauces 🍰 Winkel 43: Best apple pie in town! Amsterdam stole my heart—already planning my return! 💙 #Amsterdam #Netherlands #EuropeTravel #TulipSeason #FoodieAdventure