There are two notable concert halls in Amsterdam; the Muziektheater and the Concertgebouw. If tickets for the evening performances seem to be beyond your budget, listening to the performers rehearse during lunchtime is free. Rehearsals for the Muziektheater are every Tuesday; for the Concertgebouw, rehearsals are every Wednesday. Take note that this happens only from June to October. The style of music featured is mostly chamber and symphonic classical music.
The Begijnhof is one of the oldest inner courts in the city, and some of the oldest houses dating back to medieval times can be found here. This place was originally established by the Beguines, a Roman Catholic lay sisterhood founded in the 13th century. The atmosphere of the whole court is peaceful and quiet, much like a convent. For a more modern visual fare, one can go to the IJ River. This is accessible through a free ferry ride that goes back and forth between Central Station and Amsterdam North.
Vondelpark is often recommended for picnics and other slow and leisurely ways to spend an afternoon of good weather. It was built in the 19th century and named in honor of Dutch writer Joost van den Vondel. Meanwhile in the Jordaan area of the city are "hofjes," which are collections of small houses grouped together in a U-shape surrounding a common garden.
Besides being famous for museums, churches and canals, Amsterdam is also known for its various flea markets. Amsterdam's major market venues are Waterlooplein and the Albert Cuypmarkt. There are also specialized markets, such as the Bloemenmarkt (or Flower Market), Boekenmarkt (or Book Market) and the Spui Art Market. Take note that these markets are situated in various locations in the city and have different schedules.
The city has a Dutch horse riding school called the Hollandsche Manege. It is located at Vondelstraat 140. The school has around 40 horses and 15 ponies, and visitors can ride them for free on Wednesday afternoons or Saturday mornings. At other times, visitors will be charged on a per-hour basis. Children 8 and up are allowed to ride.
