Uitmarkt

Let’s all go to the Uitmarkt for free music, dance and films. This popular cultural attraction, in which theatres open their doors to the public to herald the arrival of the cultural season, takes place in late August. Artistic and musical performances range from classical ballet to hip hop; literary performances and film screenings are held in different parts of the city, including Leidseplein, Museumplein and Nieuwmarkt.

Grachtenfestival

Amsterdam’s famous canals are celebrated once a year at the Grachtenfestival (Canal Festival). This classical musical event is held during ten days in August, with musical events in venues near the canals, on canal boats, along the IJ Lake and in Amsterdam Noord. For a breathtaking sightseeing experience head to the festival to enjoy the canals at their finest. As one of the most visited events throughout the year, hotels fill up fast so book your hotel in Amsterdam well in advance.

Grachtenfestival, Amsterdam, The Netherlands by loufrances

Open Garden Days

In June some of the most beautiful privately owned homes open their doors to the public for garden viewing. Behind many canal houses in Amsterdam, are secret gardens large enough to contain a garden bungalow for residents. Most gardens adjoin their neighbors’ creating a block long park. This is a “can’t miss” for garden lovers and a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle on the city streets.

Queen’s Day Festival

Koninginnedag, a Dutch national holiday, is held annually on or around April 30th and celebrates the Queen’s Birthday. This party festival is known throughout Holland as the “second New Year”. Dress up in orange and walk in any direction in Amsterdam to find food, drink, music and fun.

Queen’s Day Festival, Amsterdam, The Netherlands by Sean Rowe

Amsterdam Roots Festival

For seven days in June the grounds of Oosterpark are transformed into a giant open air concert with over 50,000 visitors grooving to global and non-western music.

Holland Festival

As the oldest and largest performing arts festival in Netherlands, the Holland Festival attracts theatre, orchestra, opera and modern dance acts from around the world. Every June events including multimedia, visual arts, film, architecture and musical performances and exhibitions are held in most of the city’s famous theatres and public spaces.

ITs Festival Amsterdam

Every June for the past 22 years the students of The International Theatre School showcase their talents in front of live audiences, which includes artistic directors, casting agencies and the media for a chance to launch their careers. Performances are held in different theatres and public squares across the city.

Gay Pride Amsterdam

Gay pride attracts thousands of participants with its colourful boat celebrations along the Prinsengracht canal and the Amstel River. The party is not limited to the streets, clubs overflow and boats turn floating discos.

Gay Pride Amsterdam, The Netherlands by Alessio Milan

Sensation Innerspace

Quite possibly the world’s largest electro dance party comes to the Amsterdam ArenA in July. This high spirited, high voltage experience is part Cirque de Soleil, part Ibiza.

Imagine

Amsterdam Fantastic Film Festival: Every April for 12 days film lovers are treated to a line-up of science fiction, fantasy, and horror movies courtesy of Kriterion. In total over 70 films are screened, including a children’s programme, with discussions, retrospectives and a “Night of Terror” for horror fans.

Link in text:
https://www.hotel.info/en/amsterdam/hotels-125711/

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Alquiler de Coches

Sand and Sea

Albufeira features over 25 of the most beautiful beaches in all of Europe.  The gorgeous sands and sea are set against a backdrop of beautiful, dramatic cliffs.  In addition to sunbathing and swimming, there is parasailing, kayaking, plenty of jet ski and boat rentals, boat tours to go out and enjoy the scenery and maybe even watch dolphins play, and several wonderful diving schools.  If you fancy, you can even book a trip on the “pirate ship” Leaozhino and enjoy a sailing experience like no other.

Cycling and Hiking

With challenging courses and trails, Albufeira is a great place for cyclists and hikers alike.  Nowhere else on Earth will you find trails like these combine with such beautiful scenery as your backdrop.  Enjoy mountain biking through the rocky terrain of the cliffs surrounding Albufeira, or take one of the guided bike tours throughout the old town for a unique sightseeing experience.

Golfing

Albufeira features six world class golf courses to choose from, making it an excellent destination for a golf getaway.  Perfect your shot with the blue sea and old town villages as your backdrop.  If you are a less experienced golfer, lessons are offered by skilled and friendly pros.

Nightlife and Dining

Whether you are a young adult or just young at heart, Albufeira has an active and vibrant night life.  The strip is the main party street in Albufeira.  Lined with a multitude of bars, dance clubs, and restaurants, it is where you should seek out if you are looking for a lively and entertaining night out on the town.  It can actually be quite economical if you are looking to have drinks on a budget, as the proximity of one bar to the other allows you to bounce from happy hour to happy hour.

Whether on the strip or in Old Town, the dining in Albufeira is both delicious and affordable.  Don’t make the mistake of shying away from the street grills.  You will them to have delicious chicken and absolutely fabulous fresh fish.  If that just isn’t your cup of tea, there are a multitude of restaurants featuring everything from Chinese to Indian food, as well as some higher scale steak houses and some “posh” dining experiences as well.

Historic Sightseeing

Visit the winding cobblestone streets of Old Town and admire the Arabic style buildings and friendly people of the original town center, which still retains the essence of the village it has always been.  Visit museums, galleries, and castles as well.    One of Albufeira’s landmarks is the castle wall, the remains of one of the towers of the castle that crumbled to dust in the 1755 earthquake.  Another beautiful landmark to behold is the famous Clock Tower of Albufeira.  Adorned with an iron crown, the tower was built in the 19th century and rings out the hours dutifully.  It’s a must see for sightseers.

As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in Albufeira regardless of your age and interests.  I strongly encourage you to give it a visit the next time you go on holiday.

Albufeira is an amazing holiday destination and what better place to stay than in Albufeira apartments?  Visit the Owner’s Direct website and take a look at some of the best the region has to offer.

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