Spotlight on Amsterdam: Art, history, and culture in the land of canals
A city renowned for its artistic heritage and vibrant cultural scene, Amsterdam stands out as a top destination for school trips. With its world-famous galleries and museums, including the Van Gogh Museum, Rembrandt Museum, and the expansive Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam offers a wealth of opportunities for art and design students. Beyond art, the city’s intricate network of canals, historic buildings, and dynamic neighbourhoods make it an ideal setting for students of travel and tourism to explore Dutch culture up close.
Organising a school trip to Amsterdam might seem daunting given the range of activities and educational opportunities on offer, but it can be an inspiring and manageable experience given the right guidance.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the educational objectives your students can achieve in Amsterdam, highlight cost-effective activities to enhance your itinerary, and provide an overview of everyday expenses. Get ready to discover how Amsterdam can provide an enriching and memorable experience for your students.
Learning objectives covered by an Amsterdam school trip
Art & design
Inspire enthusiasm for Dutch art in the creative atmosphere of Amsterdam, capital of The Netherlands and home to several of the greatest artists in history. An art and design trip to the Netherlands wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Van Gogh or Rembrandt museums, which celebrate the artistic careers of their respective namesakes, while the Rijksmuseum offers the best representation of the country’s masters of art. Pedestrian-friendly, the city is easy to manage for school groups, and the beautiful network of canals makes way for some excellent sightseeing.
Travel & tourism
Travel and tourism students can explore the very best of Dutch culture with a trip to the country’s capital, where vast networks of alleyways wind between the city’s tilted gabled buildings and Golden Age canals. Inside them, you’ll find a treasure trove of museums, galleries dedicated to the country’s artistic greats, and plenty of imaginative drinking and dining spots. Oodles of outdoor spaces coupled with a pedestrian-friendly attitude also offer additional safety and reassurance to your school trip, as well as room to breathe amidst the bustling inner city.
Enrichment
Enjoy the very best of Dutch culture with an enrichment trip to the country’s capital, where vast networks of alleyways wind between the city’s tilted gabled buildings and Golden Age canals. Inside them, you’ll find a safe and pedestrian-friendly city filled with museums, galleries and outdoor spaces, making it an exceptional spot for some summer sightseeing.
Free things to do in Amsterdam for schools
With its rich history and vibrant culture, Amsterdam offers several free attractions and activities that are perfect for school groups travelling on a budget. Here are some suggestions:
Vondelpark
A wonderful combination of nature and culture, Vondelpark provides a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, where student groups can enjoy a leisurely walk or cycle, or – in the warmer months – catch a concert or theatre performance at its Open Air Theatre.
Dam Square
The historic Dam Square is surrounded by notable landmarks, such as the Royal Palace and the National Monument, and often hosts events and street performers.
Begijnhof
Step into the tranquillity of Begijnhof, one of the oldest medieval courtyards in the city, surrounded by historic houses. It’s a great place for examining Amsterdam’s unique architecture.
Albert Cuyp Market
A favourite among locals, tourists, students and day-trippers, the 120-year-old Albert Cuyp Market is an excellent place to experience Amsterdam's lively atmosphere and diverse street food.
NDSM Wharf
Take the free ferry from Amsterdam Centraal to explore NDSM Wharf, an artistic and cultural hotspot with colourful street art, sculptures, and industrial remnants that provides a unique perspective of Amsterdam's creative scene.
Oosterpark
Another beautiful park in Amsterdam, Oosterpark offers open green spaces, ponds, and sculptures – ideal for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Street Art in Jordaan
Explore the Jordaan neighbourhood in the west of the city to discover vibrant street art and murals. This dynamic and ever-changing outdoor art gallery is all but guaranteed to inspire your students.
Remember to check the opening hours and any specific guidelines for these attractions, as policies may change.
How much do every day items cost in Amsterdam (2025)?
- Single metro ticket: €3.20
- Coffee: €3.50
- Burger and fries in a fast food restaurant: €10
- Dutch fries: €3.90 for a medium portion with two sauces
- Stroopwafel (fresh): €1.50-€10 depending on the bakery
Ready to book your school trip to Amsterdam?
Amsterdam school trips offer a unique blend of educational experiences, from immersing students in the masterpieces of Dutch art to exploring the city’s vibrant cultural scene. The city’s pedestrian-friendly environment and wide range of free attractions make it an accessible and budget-friendly choice for schools, ensuring that your group can make the most of their time in this historic and artistic hub. Whether delving into art, history, or travel and tourism, Amsterdam promises to leave a lasting impact on your students’ education.
To find out more about our school trips to Amsterdam, or enquire about booking a school trip, please call us on 01273 648248. You can also fill out our webform, and our school trip experts will get back to you as soon as we can.
