Amsterdam Netherlands

Ultimate Guide to Exploring Amsterdam, Netherlands

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Places to Visit
    • 2.1 Central Station Area
    • 2.2 Rijksmuseum & Museum District
    • 2.3 Vondelpark
    • 2.4 Jordaan District
    • 2.5 Anne Frank House
    • 2.6 Van Gogh Museum
    • 2.7 Red Light District
    • 2.8 Canals & Houseboats
  3. Activities
    • 3.1 Canal Cruises
    • 3.2 Bike Tours
    • 3.3 Heineken Experience
    • 3.4 A’DAM Lookout & Over the Edge
    • 3.5 Artis Zoo
    • 3.6 NEMO Science Museum
  4. Where to Eat
    • 4.1 Traditional Dutch Cuisine
    • 4.2 International Restaurants
    • 4.3 Street Food
    • 4.4 Coffee Shops
  5. Where to Stay
    • 5.1 Hotels & Hostels
    • 5.2 Short-Term Rentals (Airbnb)
  6. Things to Know
    • 6.1 Language & Useful Phrases
    • 6.2 Currency & Tipping
    • 6.3 Emergency Numbers
    • 6.4 Dutch Culture & Customs
  7. Transportation
    • 7.1 Public Transport (GVB)
    • 7.2 Bicycles
    • 7.3 Taxis
  8. Tips & Tricks
    • 8.1 Best Time to Visit Amsterdam
    • 8.2 Travel Insurance
    • 8.3 Stay Safe in Amsterdam

Introduction

Welcome to Amsterdam, the Venice of the North! This guide will help you navigate and make the most out of your trip to this vibrant city. From iconic landmarks, unique activities, delicious food spots, cozy accommodations, and essential travel tips - we’ve got you covered!

Places to Visit

Amsterdam is rich in history, culture, and scenic beauty. Here are some must-see locations:

Central Station Area

Start your journey at Amsterdam Centraal Station, a beautiful example of Dutch architecture. Nearby, explore the Royal Palace, National Monument, and Nieuwmarkt Square.

Rijksmuseum & Museum District

Visit the Rijksmuseum, home to masterpieces from artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh. Don’t miss out on the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art or the Rembrandt House Museum!

Vondelpark

Escape the city buzz at Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s largest city park. Take a leisurely stroll, rent a bike, or have a picnic here!

Jordaan District

Wander through the picturesque streets of Jordaan, filled with art galleries, independent boutiques, and cozy cafes.

Anne Frank House

Step into history at the Anne Frank House, where she wrote her famous diary during World War II.

Van Gogh Museum

Immerse yourself in the works of Vincent van Gogh at this dedicated museum.

Red Light District

Observe Amsterdam’s controversial Red Light District with respect and curiosity.

Canals & Houseboats

Take a canal cruise to appreciate the cityscape from a unique perspective, or explore on your own by renting a bike or walking along the canals.

Activities

Amsterdam offers a variety of exciting activities:

  • Canal Cruises
  • Bike Tours
  • Heineken Experience
  • A’DAM Lookout & Over the Edge
  • Artis Zoo
  • NEMO Science Museum

Where to Eat

Satisfy your hunger at these popular eateries:

Traditional Dutch Cuisine

  • Winkel 43 (croissants)
  • De Kas (restaurant made from a former greenhouse)
  • Cafe de Jaren (overlooking the Nieuwmarkt)

International Restaurants

  • Foodhallen (food market with various cuisines)
  • Burger Bar (gourmet burgers)
  • YamYam (Japanese street food)

Street Food

  • Manneken Pis (fries with mayo)
  • Vleminckx Friteshuis (belgian frites)

Coffee Shops

Amsterdam is famous for its coffee shops. Some popular ones include:

  • Bulldog Edition
  • Greenhouse Coffee Shop
  • Barney’s Coffeeshop

Where to Stay

Find your perfect accommodation:

Hotels & Hostels

  • Pulitzer Amsterdam (luxury)
  • Flying Pig Downtown (budget hostel)

Short-Term Rentals (Airbnb)

Consider renting an apartment for a more authentic experience. Just be aware of the city’s regulations on short-term rentals.

Things to Know

Here are some essential tips:

  • Dutch is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
  • The currency used in Amsterdam is the Euro (€).
  • Tipping is not expected but appreciated, usually around 3-5% for good service.
  • Emergency numbers: Police (112), Fire Department (112), Ambulance (112)
  • Be mindful of local customs and respect cannabis regulations.

Transportation

Navigate Amsterdam using these options:

Public Transport (GVB)

Buy a GVB travel card for unlimited trips on trams, buses, and metros.

Bicycles

Cycling is a popular mode of transportation in Amsterdam. Rent a bike to explore the city like a local!

Taxis

Taxis can be expensive but are available if needed. Use authorized taxi services such as Centraal Taxi or Yellow Taxi.

Tips & Tricks

  • The best time to visit Amsterdam is from April to October when the weather is mild and sunny.
  • Purchase a I amsterdam City Card for free admission to many attractions, public transport, and discounts on other services.
  • Stay safe by being aware of your surroundings, especially at night in less crowded areas.