Amsterdam Netherlands

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip to this beautiful city. Fear not, dear traveller! This guide has got you covered.

Places to Go

Canals and Bridges

  • Prinsengracht: One of the most scenic canals in Amsterdam, lined with picturesque houses and cafes.
  • Magere Brug: A charming wooden bridge that offers stunning views of the city.
  • Amsterdam Canal Ring: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring four interconnected canals.

Museums and Galleries

  • Rijksmuseum: Home to an impressive collection of Dutch art and history, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
  • Van Gogh Museum: Dedicated to the life and works of Vincent van Gogh.
  • Stedelijk Museum: A modern art museum featuring an extensive collection of contemporary art.

Landmarks and Monuments

  • Anne Frank House: The former hiding place of Anne Frank and her family during WWII, now a museum.
  • Dam Square: The heart of Amsterdam’s historic centre, featuring the Royal Palace and the National Monument.
  • Vondelpark: A beautiful park perfect for picnics, jogging, or simply relaxing.

Markets and Shopping

  • Albert Cuyp Market: A bustling outdoor market selling everything from fresh produce to souvenirs.
  • Waterlooplein Flea Market: A treasure trove of vintage goods, antiques, and second-hand items.
  • Nine Streets: A charming shopping district filled with unique boutiques and cafes.

Churches and Synagogues

  • Oude Kerk: The oldest church in Amsterdam, dating back to the 13th century.
  • Nieuwe Kerk: A beautiful Gothic-style church that hosts concerts and exhibitions.
  • Portuguese Synagogue: A stunning example of 17th-century architecture.

Activities

Boat Tours

  • Amsterdam Canal Tours: Explore the city’s canals with a guided boat tour.
  • Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour: Combine a canal tour with stops at Amsterdam’s top attractions.

Cycling

  • Rent a Bike: Amsterdam is bike-friendly, and renting a bike is a great way to explore the city.
  • Guided Bike Tours: Join a guided bike tour to discover hidden gems and local secrets.

Food and Drink

  • Heineken Experience: Learn about the history of Heineken beer at this interactive brewery tour.
  • Cheese Tasting: Sample some of the Netherlands’ famous cheeses at a local market or shop.
  • Food Tours: Join a guided food tour to discover Amsterdam’s culinary delights.

Nightlife

  • Jordaan Neighbourhood: A charming area filled with bars, cafes, and restaurants.
  • Leidseplein: A popular nightlife district featuring bars, clubs, and live music venues.
  • Red Light District: A infamous area known for its legal prostitution and adult entertainment.

Where to Eat

Traditional Dutch Cuisine

  • De Kas: Serves traditional Dutch dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
  • Haesje Claes: Offers classic Dutch cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Guts & Glory: A food truck turned restaurant serving delicious stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables and sausage).

International Cuisine

  • Bauta: Serves tasty Italian food in a trendy setting.
  • Surya: Offers authentic Indian cuisine with a wide variety of options.
  • Yerba: A Latin American-inspired restaurant with a lively atmosphere.

Cafes and Bakeries

  • CafĂ© Papeneiland: A charming cafe serving delicious coffee and pastries.
  • Bakkerij Paul: A popular bakery offering fresh bread, sandwiches, and sweet treats.
  • Lot Sixty One: A trendy cafe serving specialty coffee and brunch items.

Where to Stay

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Flying Pig Downtown Hostel: A social hostel with dorms and private rooms in the heart of Amsterdam.
  • Generator Amsterdam: A stylish hostel offering dorms, private rooms, and a lively atmosphere.
  • Hotel Europa 92: A budget-friendly hotel with simple but comfortable rooms.

Mid-Range Options

  • Hotel Asterisk: A charming hotel featuring cozy rooms and a relaxing garden.
  • NH Amsterdam City Centre: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and a great location.
  • Hotel V Nesplein: A stylish hotel offering spacious rooms and a trendy bar.

Luxury Options

  • The Grand Amsterdam: A 5-star hotel featuring luxurious rooms, a spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
  • Conservatorium Hotel: A stunning hotel set in a former music conservatory, offering elegant rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
  • Hotel Okura Amsterdam: A luxurious hotel with spacious rooms, a fitness centre, and a Japanese-inspired garden.

Things to Know

Weather

  • Amsterdam’s climate is mild, but be prepared for rain and wind.
  • Pack layers for colder months (December to February).
  • Enjoy the sunny days during spring and summer (March to August).

Language

  • Dutch is the official language, but most Amsterdammers speak English fluently.
  • Learn a few basic phrases like “Hallo” (hello), “Dank je” (thank you), and “Excuseer me” (excuse me).

Safety

  • Amsterdam is generally a safe city, but be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas.
  • Avoid walking alone in dimly lit alleys or parks at night.

Transportation

Schiphol Airport

  • Located 15 km from the city centre, with frequent trains and buses to Amsterdam.
  • Book your tickets in advance for cheaper fares.

Public Transportation

  • OV-chipkaart: A rechargeable card for trams, buses, and metro lines.
  • Tram 5: Connects Schiphol Airport to the city centre.
  • Metro Line 52: Runs from the airport to the city centre with fewer stops.

Cycling

  • Rent a bike at one of the many bike shops or stations throughout the city.
  • Follow traffic rules and signs, and always wear a helmet.

Tips

Buy an I Amsterdam City Card

  • Grants access to public transportation, museums, and attractions.
  • Available in 24, 48, or 72-hour versions.

Explore Beyond the Centre

  • Visit the charming neighbourhoods of Oud-Zuid, De Pijp, and Oost.
  • Discover hidden gems like the EYE Film Museum or the NEMO Science Center.

Respect Local Customs

  • Be mindful of noise levels in residential areas.
  • Avoid taking photos of the Red Light District’s windows.

Pack Wisely

  • Bring comfortable shoes for walking and cycling.
  • Don’t forget a waterproof jacket and umbrella.

Other Things of Interest

Day Trips

  • Haarlem: A charming city just 20 minutes from Amsterdam, featuring beautiful architecture and a lively atmosphere.
  • Zaanse Schans: A picturesque village famous for its windmills, wooden shoes, and traditional Dutch crafts.
  • Keukenhof Gardens: One of the world’s largest flower gardens, open from March to May.

Events and Festivals

  • King’s Day (April 27th): A nationwide celebration with street parties, live music, and flea markets.
  • Grachtenfestival (August): A classical music festival featuring performances along the canals.
  • Amsterdam Pride (August): A vibrant LGBTQ+ parade and festival.

Useful Apps

  • Google Maps: Helps navigate Amsterdam’s streets and canals.
  • 9292: Provides public transportation information and planning tools.
  • I Amsterdam: Offers a city guide, event calendar, and exclusive discounts.

With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Amsterdam!