Things Not To Do In Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a city full of culture and history, and it is known for its vibrant nightlife, its many canals, and its liberal attitude. It is a great destination for tourists, but there are some things that you should avoid doing while visiting. This blog post is designed to help you have the best time possible in Amsterdam, by helping you figure out what not to do when visiting.

Don’t Smoke in Public Places

Smoking in public places is forbidden in Amsterdam, and so are other activities like drinking alcohol in public, graffiti, and even cycling without a light. If you are caught smoking in public you can get a fine of €50. Therefore, it is best to avoid smoking in public and to find a designated smoking area.

Don’t Buy Drugs from Street Dealers

Amsterdam is known for its liberal attitude when it comes to drugs, and while it is legal to buy and use soft drugs like marijuana in many “coffeeshops,” it is illegal to buy drugs from street dealers. Buying drugs from street dealers is dangerous and could lead to fines and even jail time. Therefore, it is best to avoid buying drugs from street dealers and to stick to the designated coffeeshops.

Don’t Take Too Many Photos

The people of Amsterdam are very proud of their city, and they don’t like it when tourists take too many photos of their city. If you want to take some pictures, it is best to do it in moderation and to ask permission before taking a picture of a person. It is also important to be respectful of the people and of their privacy.

Don’t Cycle Carelessly

Cycling is a popular way to get around Amsterdam, and it is relatively safe as long as you are careful and follow the rules. It is important to stay on the designated lanes and to follow the traffic rules. It is also important to have a light on your bike if you are cycling at night and to always wear a helmet to protect yourself.

Don’t Visit Red Light District Alone

The Red Light District is an area of Amsterdam that is known for its adult entertainment, and it is best to avoid it if you are travelling with children. It is also not recommended to visit it alone, as it can be dangerous, so it is best to do it in a group. Also, it is important to be respectful of the people and to avoid taking pictures.

Don’t Feed the Animals

The canals of Amsterdam are full of wildlife, and it might be tempting to feed the animals. However, it is important to remember that the animals in the canals are wild and that it is not safe to approach them. Therefore, it is best to avoid feeding them and to admire them from a distance.

Don’t Go to Tourist Traps

Amsterdam is full of tourist traps, like overpriced restaurants, souvenir shops, and other tourist attractions. It is important to do your research and to avoid these places, as they often offer poor quality products and services. Instead, it is best to find local restaurants and shops that offer authentic experiences.

Don’t Forget to Bring a Good Map

Amsterdam is a big city, and it can be easy to get lost. Therefore, it is important to bring a good map with you, so you can easily find your way around the city. There are many maps available online, and you can also get maps from tourist information centers.

Don’t Stay Out Too Late

Amsterdam has a vibrant nightlife, and it is easy to stay out late. However, it is important to remember that the city can be dangerous at night, and so it is best to stay in well-lit areas and to avoid walking alone at night.

Conclusion

Amsterdam is a great city to visit, but there are some things that you should avoid doing while you are there. It is important to remember to not smoke in public places, to not buy drugs from street dealers, to not take too many pictures, to not cycle carelessly, to not visit the Red Light District alone, to not feed the animals, to not go to tourist traps, to not forget to bring a good map, and to not stay out too late. By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Amsterdam.

An Insider’s Guide to Amsterdam

As a local, I have put together a list of hidden gems that you should check out during your visit to Amsterdam. Skip the obvious tourist attractions and see the city from a different perspective.

Local Attractions

Most tourists visit the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, but Amsterdam has many more art galleries that are just as stunning. The Stedelijk Museum holds modern and contemporary art, while the Foam Museum features captivating photography exhibitions. Also, visit the Begijnhof, a peaceful oasis in the middle of the bustling city that dates back to the 14th century. It is a hidden inner court that consists of only a few historic houses, a garden, and the English Reformed Church.

Dining Spots

We understand that you may want to try out Dutch specialties such as stroopwafels, poffertjes, and raw herring. But don’t miss trying out the Indonesian cuisine that evolved over generations due to the Dutch colonization. The best place to start would be at Sate Bar or Blauw, two Indonesian restaurants that come highly recommended. Also, visit Foodhallen, a sprawling indoor food market that has stalls from various restaurants.

Cultural Experiences

Amsterdam is spread out over 165 canals connected by 1281 bridges making it easy to enjoy the city on a boat tour. You will see breathtaking views of the beautiful architecture along the canals, including the 17th-century buildings in the Jordaan district. If you are looking for a more intimate setting, grab a drink and head to one of the brown cafes (bruin cafes) where locals congregate. The name comes from the smoke-stained walls that have darkened over time and give this type of place a distinctive and cozy atmosphere.

Local History

The Anne Frank House is the most well-known historical site in Amsterdam, but The Resistance Museum is a lesser-known must-visit. It showcases Dutch resistance during World War II and documents the occupation by the Nazis in the Netherlands. If you are interested in Nazi occupation history, you might also visit Betondorp where Anne Frank played and grew up. In this neighborhood, you will see stories of Dutch resistance, and see several memorials and plaques installed to remember the courageous work of those who defied the Nazis.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Visit the local bakery Holtkamp, where the Dutch royal family gets their treats. They are famous for their croquettes, but also make some irresistible pastries. Take a stroll through Westerpark, an expansive park in the up-and-coming West neighborhood. It boasts several festivals and events, impressive modern architecture, pick up games under the sun, and a community garden. Finally, rent a bike and cycle to the nearby city of Haarlem, only 20 kilometers away from Amsterdam. Haarlem offers idyllic cityscape and a taste of small-town Dutch culture, charming quiet streets festooned with cozy little cafes, and locals milling around enjoying life.

In conclusion, it’s time to go beyond the typical tourist experience and delve into Amsterdam’s hidden places and experiences. I hope you found our insider’s guide that is packed with fresh and unique perspectives helpful. Amsterdam is brimming with exciting locations and offers endless opportunities for exploration.