A Guide to Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the most visited cities in Europe. With its idyllic canals, numerous cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife, it’s easy to see why. This guide will help you make the most out of a trip to Amsterdam, by providing answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the city.

What things should I do in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is full of great things to do regardless of your tastes or interests. First and foremost, be sure to take a canal cruise through the city’s iconic system of waterways. This is one of the most popular activities and can provide a unique and peaceful perspective of Amsterdam’s charming architecture.

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, consider visiting one of Amsterdam’s famous markets. Located in the heart of the city, the Albert Cuyp market boasts more than 250 stalls from which you can purchase delicious food and unique bargains.

No trip to Amsterdam is complete without visiting at least one of the city’s many museums. From the world-renowned Rijksmuseum, home to Rembrandt’s iconic masterpiece The Night Watch, to the bizarre works found in the Dutch Marijuana Museum, there’s something to suit everyone.

Amsterdam also boasts a vibrant nightlife with a great range of bars, clubs, and other venues. For a fun and unique experience, try a spot of molecular mixology at Ingeniobar in east Amsterdam or try your hand at microbrewing at Oedipus Brewery in the west.

Finally, many visitors like to take a trip to one of Amsterdam’s iconic Red Light Districts. This area is full of interesting sights and one-of-a-kind experiences, such as guided tours, coffee shop crawls and much more. For an insiders look into the Red Light District’s unique culture, consider booking a Private Amsterdam Red Light District & Coffee Shop Tour. This family-friendly tour will take you through the streets of the Red Light District while introducing you to its coffee shops, galleries, and hidden courtyards.

What are the best things to eat in Amsterdam?

When it comes to food, Amsterdam has plenty to offer. Common Dutch dishes such as pancakes, mashed potatoes, hearty stews and delicious pastries can all be found in many of the city’s eateries.

When eating out, be sure to sample some traditional Dutch “bitterballen’—deep-fried balls of beef ragout encased in a crunchy crust. If you’re feeling more adventurous, try “stroopwafels’—waffle-like snacks stuffed with a sweet syrup filling.

Many tourists like to sample some of the local beer while visiting Amsterdam. The classic Dutch option is Heineken, but there are plenty of other beers available too, including lighter lagers or complex ales produced by Amsterdam’s smaller craft breweries.

Finally, food carts on the streets serve plenty of tasty snacks like bitterballen, fries with mayonnaise and croquettes. Be sure to ask around and find out which carts are the best before indulging.

What are some other things to consider when travelling to Amsterdam?

When planning a trip to Amsterdam, it is important to consider some practical matters. Amsterdam is a relatively safe city with low crime rates, but visitors should take sensible precautions when travelling around. Bike theft is common in the city center so it is best to avoid leaving bicycles unattended for long periods of time.

Amsterdam is also well-known for its laid back attitude towards certain activities such as marijuana consumption and prostitution. Despite having been decriminalized, these activities are still illegal so visitors should exercise caution when partaking.

Finally, Amsterdam can get quite expensive so budget accordingly when travelling around. It may be wise to purchase an Amsterdam Pass – this will give you free admission to many attractions in Amsterdam and discounted prices on other activities such as canal cruises and museums.

Conclusion

A trip to Amsterdam is filled with plenty of exciting opportunities for exploration and discovery. Whether you’re looking for beautiful architecture and historical sites or partying in one of Europe’s greatest nightlife scenes, Amsterdam has something for everyone.

For those looking for something even more unique, consider booking a Private Amsterdam Red Light District & Coffee Shop Tour with GetYourGuide. This family-friendly tour will give you an insiders look into one of the most iconic parts of Amsterdam while introducing you to its coffee shops, galleries and hidden courtyards — an unforgettable experience you won’t find anywhere else!

A Local’s Guide to Hidden Gems in Amsterdam

Welcome to Amsterdam, the vibrant capital of the Netherlands! As a local, I’m excited to share some of my favorite hidden gems in the city that you won’t find in guidebooks.

Local Attractions: Exploring Amsterdam’s Lesser-Known Gems

While famous attractions like the Rijksmuseum and Anne Frank House are well worth a visit, there are plenty of lesser-known spots that are just as delightful. For example, head to the Plantage neighborhood to enjoy a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Here, you’ll find the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world.

Another hidden gem is the Electric Ladyland museum, which is entirely dedicated to fluorescent art. It’s a surreal experience that’s sure to captivate all your senses.

Dining Spots: Indulging in Amsterdam’s Rich Food Culture

Amsterdam’s food culture is incredibly diverse, reflecting the city’s cosmopolitan population. For a taste of the local cuisine, try some Poffertjes, tiny fluffy pancakes, often served with butter and powdered sugar. You’ll find street vendors selling this Dutch delicacy all over the city.

If you’re looking for something more formal, head to Cafe Sonneveld, a charming restaurant that serves Dutch classics like Bitterballen, deep-fried ragout balls that are the perfect snack with a beer.

Cultural Experiences: Soaking Up Amsterdam’s Creative Energy

Amsterdam is home to a thriving arts scene, and there’s plenty of cultural experiences to enjoy. Each year, the city hosts the Amsterdam Light Festival, where the canals are lit up with spectacular light installations.

Besides, for a night of great music, head to the Bimhuis, a world-famous jazz venue that attracts talented musicians from all over the world.

Local History: Discovering Amsterdam’s Fascinating Past

Amsterdam has a rich history, and there are plenty of intriguing stories to discover. For example, did you know that the city was once the most important diamond polishing center in the world? You can learn more about the city’s diamond industry by visiting the Museum of Diamonds.

Another fascinating historical spot is the Rembrandt House Museum, which is the former home of the world-famous Dutch artist. You can explore the studio where he painted some of his most famous works, like The Night Watch.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Exploring Amsterdam’s Quirky Side

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, try visiting the Vondelpark Open-Air Theatre during a summer weekend. It’s an excellent opportunity to enjoy live performances by local artists in a beautiful natural setting.

You can also visit the Catboat, a floating animal sanctuary that provides shelter and care for stray cats. It’s a unique and heartwarming experience that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories.

Amsterdam is a city that’s full of surprises, and as a local, I know there’s always something new to discover. I hope you enjoy exploring these hidden gems and fall in love with Amsterdam’s vibrant energy and rich culture.