The Lonely Planet list is not based on where travellers are already going but rather where they believe travellers should consider visiting in 2013. Amsterdam's high ranking is likely based on the upcoming 'Amsterdam 2013' theme year. In celebration of several incredible milestones such as the opening of the renovated Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum and 400 years of the Canal Ring, the year will be chock-full of events.
Amsterdam: Golden Age charmer prepares to party
Best for: Culture, events, food
Amsterdam always cast a spell on travellers, but the party ramps up big-time in 2013, when more anniversaries than you can shake a herring at coincide. The famed canal ring turns 400 years old. It’s Vincent van Gogh’s 160th birthday and the 40th for his colour-swirled museum. The Rijksmuseum re-opens after a 10-year renovation. The Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra – often considered the world’s best – blows out 125 candles. Plus the Artis Royal Zoo and Felix Meritis cultural centre mark 175 years and 225 years, respectively. It all adds up to a slew of celebratory concerts, exhibits and street fests grooving throughout 2013. Read more
Visitors rate Amsterdam 8.1 out of 10
An extensive survey conducted by the Amsterdam Tourism & Convention Board in 2012 revealed that visitors are extremely satisfied with the city. Based on feedback from over 10,000 visitors, Amsterdam was rated 8.1 out of 10. Visitors to the city were primarily pleased with aspects including the atmosphere, the compact layout of the city and the architecture.
Lonely Planet's top 10 cities to visit in 2013
San Francisco, US
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Hyderabad, India
Derry/Londonderry, Northern Ireland
Beijing, China
Christchurch, New Zealand
Hobart, Australia
Montreal, Canada
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Puerto Iguazu, Argentina
