Things To Do
in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a canal-ringed city renowned for its picturesque gabled houses and historic waterways. Its compact center invites easy exploration on foot or by bike through lively neighborhoods and quiet canal belts. The city offers world-class museums, intimate cafes, and a thriving creative scene.
Outside the center, green parks, markets, and nearby nature provide a well-rounded balance of culture and outdoors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Dam Square, taking in the stunning architecture of the Royal Palace and the National Monument. Enjoy a fresh pastry and coffee at a nearby café while people-watching in this bustling heart of Amsterdam. The morning is perfect for visiting the Anne Frank House, where you can learn about the poignant history of the Holocaust and the importance of tolerance.
After lunch at a local eatery, head to the nearby Jordaan district, known for its narrow streets and charming canals. Explore the independent art galleries and boutiques that make this area so unique, stopping to admire the picturesque canals lined with traditional Dutch houses. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Houseboat Museum to get a glimpse of life on the water in Amsterdam.
As the sun sets, take a canal cruise to experience the city from a different perspective, with the illuminated bridges and buildings reflecting beautifully in the water. After the cruise, dine at a traditional Dutch restaurant where you can try local specialties such as stamppot or herring. Conclude your evening with a visit to a cozy pub in the Jordaan, enjoying a local beer or a glass of Dutch gin.
Begin your day at Museumplein, home to the renowned Rijksmuseum, where you can immerse yourself in Dutch masterpieces, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. Spend a few hours exploring the museum's extensive collection, including the stunning gardens outside. Afterward, relax in the grass and enjoy a picnic with treats from a nearby bakery.
In the afternoon, visit the Van Gogh Museum to see the largest collection of Van Gogh's works, gaining insight into his life and artistic journey. The museum's interactive exhibits make for an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Afterward, stroll through the nearby Vondelpark, where you can unwind amidst the greenery and vibrant atmosphere.
As evening falls, head to the nearby Leidseplein, a lively square filled with street performers and bustling cafes. Choose a restaurant for dinner, perhaps trying some international cuisine or traditional Dutch dishes with a modern twist. End your night at one of the many theaters or live music venues in the area, immersing yourself in Amsterdam's vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚌1-day public transit pass | $8-12 |
| 🍺Beer in bar (0.5L) | $5-7 |
| 🧀Groceries for a week (basic) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact center easy to explore on foot or by bike
- Rich museum and café culture
- Beautiful canals and architecture
- Excellent public transport and walkability
- Crowded in peak season
- Can be pricey for accommodation
- Bike and pedestrian spaces can clash in busy areas
- Weather can be changeable
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Goedenavond" - Good evening
- "Waar is het treinstation?" - Where is the train station?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Amsterdam
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic wooden bridge over the Amstel with photogenic reflections at dawn.
Picturesque canal houses and charming boutique streets.
Classic canal views with elegant gabled houses and houseboats.
Elevated city views across the IJ with panoramic photo opportunities.
Lush greens and reflections near the city’s museums.
Food in Amsterdam
Amsterdam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thin waffle cookie filled with caramel syrup, best enjoyed fresh at markets or street stalls.
Must-Try!
Deep-fried beef ragout croquettes served with mustard.
Raw herring served with onions and pickles; eat by holding the tail and biting into the fish.
Small fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar and butter.
Mashed potatoes with kale or sauerkraut, usually served with sausage or smoked bacon.
Battered and fried cod bites with tartar sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant street market in De Pijp offering produce, snacks, and Dutch treats.
Weekly market in Jordaan with antiques, food stalls, and farmers' produce.
Indoor food hall with a variety of stalls offering global bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
The Dutch value directness; say what you mean politely and avoid small talk in business contexts.
Keep to the right on bike lanes, ring your bell when passing, and yield to pedestrians.
Be punctual for gatherings; respect personal space and privacy.
Safety
Tipping in Amsterdam
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is optional but appreciated for good service; rounding up or 5-10% in restaurants if service charge is not included.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, warm but comfortable temperatures, and outdoor events; expect crowds around the canals and major sights.
Milder days and colorful foliage; more drizzle and wind, great for museum visiting and cozy cafés.
Cold temperatures and short days; holiday lights and ice skating in public rinks.
Blooming tulips nearby; pleasant weather for walking and biking; rain showers possible.
Amsterdam at Night
Hiking in Amsterdam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and park trails just south of the city center; lakes, woodlands, and easy routes.
Dune and coastal paths near Zandvoort offering scenic hikes.
Rural routes through villages like Monnickendam and Marken with flat, scenic terrain.
Airports
How to reach Amsterdam by plane.
Major international hub; trains run directly to Amsterdam Centraal in about 15-20 minutes.
Smaller international airport with good connections to Amsterdam via train and car.
Mid-sized airport serving many European destinations; reachable by rail or road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Core population with high educational attainment and diverse backgrounds.
Significant communities from across Europe, Asia, and Africa contribute to a cosmopolitan vibe.
Several universities and design schools attract a steady stream of local and international students.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Netherlands has a strong football culture; Ajax Amsterdam is a major club in the city.
A popular sport with excellent local clubs and facilities.
One of the city’s favorite activities, with long-distance routes and bike-friendly infrastructure.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Amsterdam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Dutch kitchens offer vegetarian options; look for veggie burgers, cheese plates, and vegetable-based dishes. Try Indonesian rijsttafel with plenty of vegetables.
Ask for vegan options or plant-based dishes; many cafes label vegan choices.
Most places can accommodate gluten-free requests; signal dietary needs and opt for seafood or vegetable dishes.