amsterdam tourist services

20 things to know before visiting Amsterdam in 2024

Mar 16, 2024 • 7 min read

Take advantage of Amsterdam's incredible parks but be respectful to the locals © Lucy Lambriex / Getty Images

From cannabis-clouded coffee shops  to lovely parks and cycling lanes aplenty, Amsterdam is a European city with a delightful, vibrant vibe that’s entirely its own. While it certainly makes for amazing travel escapades, there are some useful things to understand about this city and the local culture. 

So, what do you need to know before visiting Amsterdam for the first time? Here are our top tips for newcomers.

1. Amsterdam is not a 24/7 city

Amsterdam establishments keep very regular hours. Opening hours in shops are generally from about 10am to 6pm, and 8pm for supermarkets. Many shops and grocers do not open on Sundays (with the exception of busy tourist areas like Nieuwendijk and Kalverstraat ). Coffeeshops tend to open in the morning and close around midnight, while bars and clubs go much later until 3 or 4am.

2. Pre-purchase tickets where possible

At museums and galleries , it’s best to plan for long queues – especially during the high season from June to August . Ticketed time slots (most can be downloaded to your phone) are available at popular sights like the Anne Frank Huis and Van Gogh Museum and should be booked at least six weeks in advance.

3. Book accommodation and restaurants in advance

Similarly, lodging should be secured at least four months before your trip, especially if you’re visiting during the summer or on the weekend. Seats at your must-visit restaurants are best squared away at least two weeks in advance.

4. Budget for a (higher) tourist tax 

In 2024, Amsterdam's tourist tax – which is added to the cost of accommodation per night – has risen from 7% to 12.5%, making it now the most expensive in Europe. The tax is charged at a percentage of your accommodation cost, and is payable on arrival. For example, a four-person room booking for three nights by Vondelpark is costing a group of friends €818.88 between them, with an additional €91.88 to be paid on arrival. Plan ahead and factor the tax into your budget, as it's easy to forget about it once you've booked transport and accommodation ahead of it. 

5. Lock your bike… twice

Cycling is one of the most popular ways to get around Amsterdam . Most rental bikes come with two locks – it’s best to use them both! Bike thieves in Amsterdam can be very capable. Use one lock for the front wheel (attached to the bike frame) and the other for the back, preferably attached to a post, bike rack or some other structure mounted to the ground.

Also, pay attention to signage regarding bike parking. Bicycle racks near tram and train stations and in certain public squares are usually best, or you may risk it being removed by the police.

6. Pack layers of clothing

Practical clothing will get you far in Amsterdam. It’s a city where people dress hip but casual (jeans and nice sneakers or boots, for example) and mix-and-match layers since the year-round weather is unpredictable. A light trench coat or windbreaker jacket is essential for all seasons besides winter, when a proper coat and warm gear are needed.

7. Buy an OV-chipkaart for travel around the city

The OV-chipkaart is highly recommended for public transport since it’s more convenient than single tickets and is easily reloadable at machines or online. It's available for purchase from ticketing machines and supermarkets. Note: you need to touch on and touch off, including when you're getting off trams. Otherwise, you'll pay a hefty fee. 

8. Carry a mix of cash and cards

In Amsterdam, there is a growing movement of cafes and restaurants going cashless – while some of the more traditional, older haunts like bruin cafés (brown cafes) may not take cards at all. It's best to carry a mix of cash and cards.

9. Be respectful on the streets

Dutch locals are tired of Amsterdam’s reputation as a destination for bachelor parties and bad behavior, therefore authorities have taken steps to curtail the effects of rowdy visitors. To avoid disapproving looks and humiliating conversations, acting sensibly on downtown streets is a must.

Smoking marijuana and drinking in public is illegal and considered poor etiquette by Amsterdam natives. Similarly, taking photos of sex workers in the Red Light District is strictly prohibited.

10. Haggling at flea markets is okay

When shopping at Amsterdam’s famous rommelmarkt (flea markets) like IJ Hallen , the first price given by the seller is usually not a firm price but a starting point. This rule applies to secondhand items not artisan-made goods. Use your judgment and always be respectful.

11. Mind the Dutch mentality

The Dutch are known for being extremely direct. If a local shares a blunt, unvarnished opinion with you, it comes from a place of honesty rather than rudeness. In Dutch culture, it’s gracious to speak your mind and keep it short – don’t be surprised to find "no" is a complete sentence!

Despite the brutally honest Dutch mentality, there are certain talking points that are considered too close to comfort and should be avoided – for example, asking very personal questions about income.

12. Do I need to tip?

Tipping is not expected in Amsterdam where hospitality workers receive a fair wage for their professions, and are not dependent on the tip jar contributions as might be the case elsewhere. Of course a tip (around 10% is normal) for excellent service is not going to be considered odd. Feel free to tip in bars, cafes, restaurants and accommodation if the service warrants it. If you take a free walking tour, presenting your guide with a decent tip at the end is normal.

13. Make friends by wearing orange

At sporting events in recent years, the Dutch are known for the oranjekoorts (orange fever) or oranjegekte (orange craze).

If you want the Dutch to know you’re cheering for them, wear the royal family’s traditional color. The more outlandish and over-the-top – we’re talking wigs, feather boas and face paint – the better.

14. Can I transport tulip bulbs home?

Tulip bulbs purchased at Amsterdam’s Bloemenmarkt can be shipped back to countries such as the United States, but an official certificate is needed for customs. Look for the sticker that says, “To the Plant Protection Service of the United States and Canada.” The additional certificate must be dated within six weeks of travel (otherwise, it’s best to have the seller ship them).

15. Can I bring cheese back home from the Netherlands?

Most varieties of Dutch cheeses will make it through customs, although typically unpasteurized and raw cheeses may not. Cheese should also be vacuum-bagged (for the sake of your fellow travelers as well as for healthy and safety). 

16. Mind the cyclists – and the cycling lanes

Cyclists in Amsterdam mean serious business. Never walk in a cycling lane, or you'll risk the wrath of an angry local on wheels. Always take a good look both ways before crossing – bicycles are silent, but an accident can be very serious for cyclists and pedestrians. 

17. Don’t rent a car – rent a bike instead

Driving in Amsterdam is notoriously difficult, especially in the city center. Narrow cobblestone alleys and canals make maneuvering tough, plus parking is scarce and pricey (and it's usually not available, even at hotels).

Helmets are not legally mandated but strongly recommended. Most bike shops rent them for as little as €2.50 a day.

18. Be careful around canals

Almost none have barriers, and yes, tourist drownings have happened.

19. Watch out for pickpockets

Amsterdam’s compact downtown (chock-full of foot traffic and often folks who are under the influence) is the perfect recipe for thieves – especially in busy squares and typical visitor areas. Stay aware, and don't keep all your documents and valuables on you. 

20. What to do if you need medical care in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has an abundance of English-speaking doctors and medical care services targeted towards travelers, such as Hoteldoc and Amsterdam Tourist Doctors . For urgent medical care, dial 112 for emergencies or +31 20 570 9500 directly for an ambulance.

This article was first published Dec 1, 2021 and updated Mar 16, 2024.

Explore related stories

Budget Travel

May 14, 2024 • 7 min read

These money-saving tips can help you find ways to experience the Netherlands on a budget.

Apr 17, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 13, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 12, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 8 min read

Dec 19, 2023 • 6 min read

Dec 15, 2023 • 4 min read

Oct 13, 2023 • 5 min read

Sep 19, 2023 • 4 min read

24 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Amsterdam

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Mar 18, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. With its universities, academies, and research institutes, along with more than 40 museums, numerous theaters, and entertainment venues, Amsterdam is also the country's leading cultural center.

In addition, the city is famous for its many well-preserved historic homes. Laid out in a pattern of concentric segments in the shape of a fan, these well-preserved heritage buildings are built on piles driven through an upper layer of mud into the firm, sandy bottom up to 18 meters below.

All told, some 6,750 buildings dating from the 16th to 18th centuries are crowded into an area of 2,000 acres that's dissected by 160 canals (grachten), themselves home to numerous houseboats. Little wonder then that Amsterdam is an awesome city to explore on foot, with many picturesque bridges linking the city's 90 islands. Eight of these are in fact old wooden bascule bridges, including the Magere Brug (Mager Bridge), one of the city's most frequently photographed.

Discover the best places to visit in this dynamic city with our list of the top attractions and fun things to do in Amsterdam.

1. See the Art Collections at the Rijksmuseum

2. visit anne frank house, 3. experience great art at the van gogh museum, 4. explore the jordaan neighborhood, 5. family fun and flowers at vondelpark, 6. people watch at dam square, 7. tour the royal palace of amsterdam, 8. west church (westerkerk), 9. rembrandt house museum, 10. visit one of the world's oldest botanical gardens, 11. go wild at artis: amsterdam royal zoo, 12. see the views from oude kerk's tower, 13. learn about dutch art at stedelijk museum amsterdam, 14. take a tranquil stroll through the begijnhof, 15. jewish historical museum, 16. nieuwe kerk (new church), 17. pay your respects at the national monument, 18. go shopping in kalverstraat and vlooienmarkt, 19. explore the city's history at the amsterdam museum, 20. get smart at nemo science museum, 21. eye film institute netherlands, 22. see the tall ships at the national maritime museum, 23. museum of the tropics, 24. hermitage amsterdam, where to stay in amsterdam for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to amsterdam, map of attractions & things to do in amsterdam, best time to visit amsterdam.

One of Amsterdam's most popular attractions — and certainly its most important art repository — the Rijksmuseum (National Museum) was founded in 1798 to house the country's huge collection of rare art and antiquities. The museum's impressive collection includes a million cultural artifacts dating from the 13th century to the modern day, among them more than 8,000 important paintings spread across 250 rooms of this sprawling building.

In addition to its paintings, the Rijksmuseum boasts a well-stocked library of more than 35,000 books and manuscripts, as well as numerous fascinating displays dealing with the development of art and culture in the Netherlands. Of special note are its collections of traditional handicrafts, medieval sculpture, and modern art styles.

A variety of themed English language guided tours are available. For a special experience, try the fun art history canal cruise taking in many of the sites represented in the Rijksmuseum's collections, or book a table at the museum's Michelin-starred restaurant .

English language guided tours are available. To avoid line-ups (nearly 2.5 million people visit each year), book tour tickets in advance online.

Address: Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam

Official site: www.rijksmuseum.nl/en

On the Prinsengracht stands Anne Frank House (Anne Frank Huis). Dedicated to the all-too-short life of one of the world's best-known Holocaust victims, this is the actual home in which Anne's family hid for much of WWII.

The Frank's were Jewish refugees from the German city of Frankfurt, and it was here that Anne wrote the diary that became an international bestseller after the war. It was published just a few years after her death at age 15, just two months before the war ended.

Much of the home has been kept as it was during Anne's time, and it serves as a poignant monument to a tragic period of history. A word of caution: tickets do sell out up to two or more months in advance, so be sure to plan ahead and purchase your tickets ahead of time online.

Address: Prinsengracht 263-267, 1016 GV Amsterdam

Official site: www.annefrank.org/en/

A must-visit for art fans and historians, the spectacular Van Gogh Museum has been one of Amsterdam's top attractions since it opened in 1972. Dedicated to the often troubled life and extraordinary artistry of one of the country's most-revered painters, this modern Gerrit Rietveld-designed structure is home to the world's largest collection of Van Gogh paintings and artifacts, much of it donated by his brother, Theo, and other family members.

Boasting an impressive 200 paintings, 500 etchings and drawings, as well as 700 letters written to (and by) friends and family, the collection is split into key periods of the artist's life: his realistic works (1880 to 1887), including the famous The Potato Eaters , and his Impressionist period from 1887 to 1890, which saw the creation of perhaps his best-known work, V ase with Sunflowers .

A highlight of a visit is the amazing "Meet Vincent Van Gogh Experience," a fascinating multimedia presentation of the painter's life and times through vivid digital reproductions of his work.

Also of interest are works by Van Gogh's contemporaries, including such leading artists as Paul Gauguin and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. If time allows, be sure to check the availability of the museum's educational workshops in such disciplines as painting and photography. A café, shop, and library are also located on-site.

Address: Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ, Amsterdam

Official site: www.vangoghmuseum.nl/en

Jordaan is the most popular of Amsterdam's neighborhoods and is well-known for its mix of residential areas with garden courtyards, lively markets, and upscale boutiques and eateries. The area is also home to plenty of fun things to do, from taking a pleasant stroll along the many picturesque streets to spending time visiting the many top-rated tourist attractions located here.

Although best known as the location of Anne Frank House , the area is also home to lesser-known treasures like the Woonboots Museum , a floating museum dedicated to houseboats, and the interesting (honestly!) Amsterdam Cheese Museum .

On Saturday mornings, Lindengracht turns into a huge open-air market, where you can find local crafts, produce, flowers, and goodies perfect for filling a picnic basket. Monday mornings, it is Westerstraat that fills with 200 vendors' stalls, this time selling a wide range of goods in a flea-market-style bazaar. Jordaan's restaurants and cafés have become the trendy place to sit and people-watch while enjoying traditional Dutch folk music.

The largest and most visited park in Amsterdam, Vondelpark occupies 120 acres and contains no end of fun things to do. In addition to expanses of green space dotted by peaceful ponds and traversed by ample paths, the park is home to a lovely rose garden featuring more than 70 different types of the flower.

It also has a variety of sculptures and statues, playgrounds, and other recreational facilities, including rollerblade rental and the Vondelpark Open Air Theater , which serves as a venue for musical and stage productions from May through September.

If you haven't packed a picnic, don't worry: the park is also full of cafés where you can enjoy a snack or a full meal.

Dam Square is one of the most tourist-packed areas of Amsterdam, and for good reason. Its most prominent feature is the 17th-century Royal Palace (Koninklijk Palace) , former home of the Dutch royal family and present-day venue for royal functions.

Dam Square is also home to top tourist attractions such as the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk) ; Madame Tussauds wax museum; and the National Memorial Statue , which is dedicated to Dutch soldiers who lost their lives in World War II.

This huge public square is, naturally, lined with numerous cafés, restaurants, and shops, and is usually full of vendors selling food and souvenirs. Tourists will also find a Ferris wheel, perfect for getting a different perspective, as well as plenty of entertainment, ranging from street performers and buskers to first-rate music festivals.

Formerly the Town Hall, the Royal Palace of Amsterdam ( Koninklijk Paleis van Amsterdam ) serves as the King's residence when he's in the city. Its construction was a monumental task when started in 1648 and required the sinking of 13,659 piles to support the mammoth structure.

Based upon the architecture of ancient Rome, the exterior is strictly classical, while the interior is magnificently furnished, its apartments decorated with a wealth of reliefs, ornamentation, marble sculptures, and friezes. Check out the spectacular ceiling paintings by Ferdinand Bol and Govert Flinck, pupils of Rembrandt.

Other highlights include one of the finest furniture collections in the world, and the City Treasurer's room with its marble fireplace and ceiling paintings by Cornelis Holsteyn. You'll also see the Hall of the Aldermen, also containing paintings by Bol and Flinck.

The largest and most important room is the Council Hall, sumptuously decorated and one of the most beautiful staterooms in Europe. English language guided tours are available, and useful audioguides are included with admission.

Location: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 147, 1012 RJ Amsterdam

Official site: www.paleisamsterdam.nl/en

Located next door to the Anne Frank Museum, Amsterdam's West Church (Westerkerk) is one of the most popular churches to visit in the city. It's certainly one of the most picturesque.

Completed in 1630, this attractive Renaissance church is unusual due to its many internal and external Gothic features. Its 85-meter tower, popularly known as "Langer Jan" (tall John), is the highest in the city. On the tip of its spire is a large replica of the emperor's crown, placed there in memory of Emperor Maximilian of Austria. Inside the tower, a carillon proclaims the hours.

Other highlights include a fine organ dating from 1622, along with an interesting marble column placed here in 1906 in memory of Rembrandt. The great artist was originally buried outside the church, but was later reinterred inside. A gift shop is located on-site.

Address: Prinsengracht 279, 1016 GW Amsterdam

Official site: www.westerkerk.nl/

Rembrandt, along with his wife Saskia, spent the happiest (and most successful) years of his life in the house on the Jodenbreestraat, now home to the Rembrandt House Museum (Museum Het Rembrandthuis). It was here, in the Jewish Quarter, that he found models for his Biblical themes, and where he painted the sights from his many outings along the canals.

Rembrandt lived here for 20 years, and the house has been furnished in 17th-century style with numerous etchings and personal objects. English language guided tours are available.

Just a two-minute walk away is Zuiderkerk (South Church), where three of Rembrandt's children are buried, as well as one of his pupils. Constructed between 1603 and 1611, it was the first Protestant church to be built in Amsterdam after the Reformation and was designed by architect Hendrick de Keyser, who is also buried here.

After extensive restoration, it is now a center for local cultural activities and events. Another Rembrandt-related destination in the city is Rembrandt Square , home to numerous cafés and restaurants, along with a statue of the famous painter.

Address: Jodenbreestraat 4, 1011 NK Amsterdam

Official site: www.rembrandthuis.nl/en/

Amsterdam offers a surprising dose of nature in the very heart of the city. Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam, the city's botanical garden , is one of the world's oldest and should definitely be included in your sightseeing itinerary.

Founded in 1638, this much-visited attraction began life as a humble herb garden for doctors and apothecaries. Today, it features rare plants and trees, exotic flowers, and a large hothouse encompassing different tropical zones.

Highlights of a visit include exploring the lovely old pavilion, a hexagonal structure that dates back to the late 17th century, plus the 1870s Orangery. The Palm House is also notable, in particular for its architectural style (it was designed in the Amsterdam School style).

Plant enthusiasts are also in for a treat, as the gardens are home to a wide variety of rare plant and tree species. Worth mentioning are examples of the Persian Ironwood tree, plus numerous tropical species in the historic hothouse. For those wanting to linger longer, there's an on-site café.

Address: Plantage Middenlaan 2a, 1018 DD Amsterdam

Official site: www.dehortus.nl/en/

Less than a five-minute stroll away from the botanical gardens is Artis , Amsterdam's excellent "royal zoo." This world-class attraction was established in 1838 and is one of the oldest zoos in Europe .

It spotlights a variety of creatures from around the globe in a shady garden setting dotted with numerous historical buildings. The aquarium, for example, was constructed in 1882 and features exhibits including a coral reef system and a fascinating peek under an Amsterdam canal.

Other highlights include the nocturnal animal house, zoological museum, Insectarium, Butterfly Pavilion, and Planetarium. There's also a library that features an extensive collection of historic books, prints, and artworks.

Also of interest near this fun nature-based attractions is a replica of the Normaal Amsterdams Peil, the NAP, which shows the average water level of the North Sea.

Address: Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, 1018 CZ Amsterdam

Official site: www.artis.nl/en/

The Oude Kerk (Old Church) — built in 1306 and the city's oldest structure — remains unchanged since Rembrandt's time. The first hall church in North Holland, this splendid piece of architecture became the model for many other churches in the region.

Numerous additions were added over the centuries, such as the large side chapels from the early 1500s. Also dating from this period is a portal leading to the Iron Chapel, where documents showing the city's privileges, including the freedom from tolls granted in 1275, were kept locked behind an iron door. The tower was added in the 16th century and has a carillon from 1658 that's considered one of the finest in the country. It also offers great views over the city.

The interior of the church has features dating from before the Reformation, including three magnificent windows from 1555 from the Dutch High Renaissance, and finely-carved wooden choir stalls. These days, the building is well-known as a venue for contemporary art exhibits.

After exploring this beautiful historical building, take a two-minute stroll across the bridge to Zeedijk , one of Amsterdam's oldest streets. Many houses along here lean at an angle from the vertical, and the 15th-century house at No. 1 is thought to be the oldest surviving building in the city .

Address: Oudekerksplein 23, 1012 GX Amsterdam

Official site: www.oudekerk.nl/en/

Founded in 1895, the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam — in English, the Municipal Museum Amsterdam — houses one of Europe's most impressive modern art collections. With a focus on 19th- and 20th-century Dutch and French painting, the museum features works by a number of renowned art movements, including De Stijl.

Other important works include examples from Van Doesburg, Mondrian, and Rietveld; Pop Art, with works by Rosenquist and Warhol; and painters such as Chagall, Dubuffet, De Kooning, and Matisse. The sculpture garden also contains examples by Rodin, Moore, Renoir, and Visser.

English language guided tours are available, as are fun family workshops. A shop and restaurant are also located on-site.

Address: Museumplein 10, 1071 DJ Amsterdam

Official site: www.stedelijk.nl/en

The Begijnhof is one of those rare tranquil inner-city spots that many tourists simply don't notice as they hustle from attraction to attraction. And that's a shame, as this stunning old corner of Amsterdam simply begs to be explored.

Although most of the old homes are occupied, the tiny lanes and pathways around them provide public access, so don't be shy to wander freely. You'll be rewarded with views of well-kept green lawns — the courtyards — surrounded by some of the oldest houses in Amsterdam, including its only remaining wooden house from the 14th century.

Originally occupied by a commune of pious Catholic women (begijnen), the area's small chapel is still open for services and saw the last of these women buried here in 1971.

Address: 1012 AB Amsterdam

Official site: http://begijnhofkapelamsterdam.nl/english-information/

The Jewish Historical Museum (Joods Historisch Museum) is housed in four redundant synagogues, one of which, the Grote Synagogue, dates back to 1670. Highlights include a large collection of religious artifacts, such as silver Torah containers, Torah robes, and decorated Torah headdresses, as well as hangings and ceremonial canopies (of particular interest is the white marble Holy Shrine).

The museum also has a large library, while in the Upper Synagogue, the Obbene Sjoel, there's a kosher restaurant. Be sure to check the museum's website for details of its concert program, which includes candlelight performances by renowned local and international artists .

Of note outside the museum is the Docker Monument , erected to commemorate a strike in 1941, when workers refused to co-operate with the deportation of their Jewish fellow citizens.

Also of interest is the Portuguese Synagogue , a late-17th-century temple that houses the Ets Haim Library , the oldest of its kind. For a more in-depth look at this fascinating history, join one of the special English language tours of the Jewish Historical Museum that includes the historic Jewish Quarter.

Address: Nieuwe Amstelstraat 1, 1011 PL Amsterdam

Official site: https://jck.nl/en

Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), used as the coronation church of Dutch monarchs since 1814, lies in the heart of Amsterdam next to the Royal Palace in Dam Square ("The Dam"). This historic square was built around 1270 to separate the Amstel from the IJ and gave the city its name.

Today, the square and the church are used for public functions such as antique fairs and art exhibitions. Regular organ concerts also take place in this 15th-century church. A striking feature is its magnificent pulpit from 1649, a marvel of Baroque wood carving decorated with the four evangelists and figures symbolizing Faith, Hope, Charity, Justice, and Prudence. The church also has an organ from 1670, an exceptionally beautiful choir screen cast in bronze, and fine choir stalls.

Also of interest are the tombs of famous Dutchmen including PC Hooft and Nicolaes Tulp, and the Baroque tomb of Admiral Michiel de Ruyter who died in 1679. The stained-glass windows are beautiful; one of them dates from 1650 and depicts the granting of the city's coat of arms by William IV, while the Queen's Window from 1898 commemorates the coronation of Queen Wilhelmina.

Address: Dam, 1012 NP Amsterdam

Official site: www.nieuwekerk.nl/en/

On the opposite side of The Dam, the National Monument (Nationaal Monument op de Dam), a spectacular 22-meter-high obelisk, was erected here after the Second World War as a memorial for its victims and a symbol of Liberation.

It was designed by J. J. P. Oud and decorated with sculptures by J. W. Rädeler symbolizing, among other things, War (four male figures), Peace (a woman and child), and Resistance (two men with howling dogs). Embedded in the obelisk are urns containing earth from the 11 provinces, and a 12th urn contains earth from the cemetery of honor in Indonesia.

The monument was dedicated by Queen Juliana on 4 May, 1956, the national day of remembrance. Every year on this date, wreaths are laid here and a two-minute silence is observed throughout the Netherlands.

During other times, the monument is a place where young people from all over the world meet. If you'd like to learn a little more about the history of the Netherlands during WWII, then a visit to The Resistance Museum (Verzetsmuseum) is a must. In addition to portraying the role of the resistance during the German occupation, the museum provides a great deal of information related to civilian life during this harrowing period of history.

Address: Dam, 1012 JL Amsterdam

There comes a point in every vacation when a little shopping therapy is needed. Amsterdam boasts many great places to shop, whether for high-end luxury goods, local crafts, or fun souvenirs. The best known — and usually the busiest — is the Kalverstraat with its many smart boutiques, galleries, perfumeries, cafés, and restaurants. While the crush of humanity can be a little intimidating (especially on a Saturday), it's an outing you won't soon forget.

For a completely different shopping experience, head over to the Vlooienmarkt, Amsterdam's famous flea market, held here since 1886. It's a veritable smorgasbord of wares, with everything from antiques and food to clothes, both new and used.

Most of the best shopping streets in Amsterdam fan out from the Muntplein , a city square that was once home to a sheep market in the 15th century. Rising above the square is the Munttoren (Mint Tower), which dates from 1672 when Amsterdam was the site of the mint for two years while the French occupied Utrecht.

Another unique shopping experience awaits at the Flower Market (Bloemenmarkt), a historic floating market that once sold every type of plant imaginable (while a few flower stalls remain, many of the remaining businesses are souvenir shops).

Housed in the former municipal orphanage built in 1414, the Amsterdam Museum consists of a number of spacious courtyards where visitors can learn about the constantly changing role of Amsterdam in the country and in the world. Highlights range from prehistoric finds and the town's original charter to items from the present day, as well as displays describing how the land was reclaimed from the sea.

The inner courtyards are also fun to explore and house other highlights such as the old shooting gallery. There's also an on-site café. The library possesses a rich collection of literature on the history of the city, and graphics and drawings can be viewed by prior arrangement.

English language guided tours are available, and a café is located onsite.

Address: Kalverstraat 92, 1012 PH Amsterdam

Official site: www.amsterdammuseum.nl/en

Rising high above the water like the hull of a mighty warship, this ultra-modern structure has housed the NEMO Science Museum since 1997, and more than 20 years later is no less impressive than the day it opened.

Located in the city's old eastern docks, this world-class science center is spread across five floors, each chock-a-block full of fun (and informative) interactive exhibits that appeal to families with kids of any age.

Highlights include areas dedicated to the human body and the mind, countless hands-on, high-tech gizmos and gadgets, plus a number of short movies. A playground, a museum shop, and a rooftop café are located on-site, the latter making a great spot for a break while you enjoy the views across the city.

Address: Oosterdok 2, 1011 VX Amsterdam

Official site: www.nemosciencemuseum.nl/en/

Another ultra-modern building worth taking a look at, even if it's just from the outside, is the EYE Film Institute Netherlands . With its sharp angles and ultra modern design, it almost resembles an alien spacecraft, and certainly grabs the attention.

Opened in 2012, the EYE houses the country's national film collection, along with copies of pretty much every foreign movie ever shown in the Netherlands, and it looks quite different from every angle. If you do get inside, in addition to catching one of the frequent movie screenings, you'll enjoy viewing the excellent film-related exhibits.

English language guided tours are available, as well as a variety of workshops and learning opportunities geared to specific age groups. A great restaurant is located on the premises, and there's also a gift shop on-site.

Address: IJpromenade 1, 1031 KT Amsterdam

Official site: www.eyefilm.nl/en

A must for those interested in ships and the long rich history of Dutch military and merchant fleets, the National Maritime Museum (Het Scheepvaartmuseum) is a must-visit. The museum provides a fascinating insight into the impact this small nation of seafarers had upon the world over the centuries, using its many displays to showcase its impressive collection of maritime-related artifacts.

In addition to exhibits focusing on sailing and shipping, the museum houses a vast area of model ships, historic weaponry, maps, and artwork, including many depicting some of the important sea battles involving the Netherlands.

The museum building itself boasts a long history. Built in 1656, it served for much of its life as a naval warehouse. A highlight of your visit will be exploring the impressive Amsterdam , an accurate replica of one of the country's most famous vessels. Guided tours of the ship and the museum are available, as are English-language audio guides. A restaurant and a shop are situated on-site, too.

Address: Kattenburgerplein 1, 1018 KK Amsterdam

Official site: www.hetscheepvaartmuseum.com

The Museum of the Tropics (Tropenmuseum), established in 1864, is a fascinating excursion for those with an interest in the history of the Netherlands' former colonies.

Set in a cavernous hall built especially for it, the museum contains numerous displays of art and everyday objects from tropical and subtropical areas.

It's fun to explore as you wander around the authentic bazaar and peek inside the houses of the Far East, as well as the fully stocked oriental shop. The museum also hosts regular concerts of Eastern and Asian music using traditional instruments. English language guided tours are available.

Address: Linnaeusstraat 2, 1092 CK Amsterdam

Official site: https://tropenmuseum.nl/en

Another great museum collection can be enjoyed at Hermitage Amsterdam , an outpost of the famous location in Saint Petersburg.

Opened in 2009 in a majestic old building dating from the 1680s known as the Amstelhof, the museum features permanent exhibits focusing on the long-standing relationship between Russia and the Netherlands, as well as one that portrays the history of the building itself. There's a lovely courtyard garden worth visiting, along with a good restaurant.

Address: Amstel 51, 1018 DR Amsterdam

Official site: https://hermitage.nl/en/

If you're traveling to Amsterdam for the first time, the best area to stay is in the World Heritage-listed city center, also known as the "Canal Ring." Amsterdam Central Railway Station borders this area to the north; the Leidseplein and the Museumplein (home to the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and Stedelijk Museum) lie to the south; and the Jordaan neighborhood, with its art galleries and trendy cafés, occupies its western edge. Most of the city's top tourist attractions lie within this compact and easily walkable area. Here are some highly rated hotels in these charming neighborhoods:

Luxury Hotels:

• In a collection of 17th-century palaces on the prestigious Herengracht, in the heart of the city, Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam pampers guests with its personal concierges, Michelin-starred restaurant, spa, and elegant decor.
• Also on the Herengracht, Ambassade Hotel occupies an ensemble of 17th-century canal houses, and its plush rooms and suites feature Louis XVI-style furnishings and modern accents.
• Steps away from the Anne Frank House, The Toren is a family-run, boutique hotel in two historic canal houses, with individually decorated rooms and suites.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A 10-minute walk to Amsterdam Central Railway Station, the pet-friendly boutique Hotel Sebastian's has chic rooms that echo the dramatic style of its luxury sister property, The Toren.
• If you plan to focus on museums, the homey Hotel Fita is steps away from Museumplein.
• Right next to its namesake station and a short stroll from the city center, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Amsterdam Centraal Station features compact, light-filled rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and Apple iMacs.

Budget Hotels:

• Within walking distance of Museumplein and the Leidseplein, the eco-conscious Hotel La Boheme accommodates guests in clean rooms with comfy beds. Rates include breakfast.
• Adjacent to Museumplein, Hotel Museumzicht is full of character, with a steep staircase, discerning artwork, and homey guest rooms.
• Near Dam Square and the Jordaan neighborhood, Clemens Hotel also has steep stairs, which lead to cozy, compact, and comfortable guest rooms.

Amsterdam Day Trips:

• If you have time to head outside the city, there are some great tours available. To see the beautiful Dutch countryside, including the famous windmills and small fishing villages, take a Zaanse Schans Windmill, Markem and Volendam Half-Day Trip from Amsterdam . This scenic tour includes transport by coach, a short boat ride between fishing villages, a visit to a cheese factory and clog maker, and free entrance to a windmill.
• If you want to visit another city, the Bruges Day Trip is a full-day excursion with coach transport to and from Bruges in Belgium and includes five hours of free time to enjoy some sightseeing. This is an easy tour that will save you the hassle of planning, driving, and parking.

When it comes to visiting Amsterdam, the high season isn't necessarily the best time to go - aside from higher prices, you'll also have to deal with huge crowds and humid weather. Shoulder season (spring and fall) is more pleasant , more affordable, and easier to maneuver. Or you can always visit in winter to get the best deals and some charming holiday lights.

Spring : If you're coming to the Netherlands for tulips, this is the right season. April is the month for tulips , although flowering season runs from mid-March to early May. Spring is also sunnier and typically dry, with temperatures around 10 to 12 degrees Celsius during the day. It's great weather to walk around and for day trips outside Amsterdam, including a visit to the Keukenhof Gardens, where over seven million flowers bloom in spring.

Spring nights can be chilly, so bring a scarf and layers if you're visiting in March or April. King's Day on April 27th (as well as the weekend immediately before or after) is a major street celebration in Amsterdam -expect large crowds, expensive accommodations, and lots of noise if you visit around that time.

Summer : Summer has nice weather but is a very busy season in Amsterdam. If you're heading to popular attractions such as Anna Frank's house, you'll find long lines and waiting times. With canal cruises in full swing, even enjoying the water will be harder, and parks will be full of locals picnicking and enjoying the sun.

The summer months are great for bicycle rides, if that's something you want to try - especially if you're heading to the countryside and dreaming of idyllic rides with windmills in the background. A busy city means higher prices, so book your hotel early if you're looking for deals.

Summer weather is hot and often humid in Amsterdam. It's hard to predict what each month will feel like, but you can expect temperatures around 20 degrees Celsius in June and as high as 30 degrees Celsius in July, the hottest month . August is also hot but can be rainy and grey.

Fall : If you're planning on spending lots of time sightseeing, Fall is the best time to visit . Crowds thin out, prices start to go down, and the cities become more manageable.

The later you arrive in the season, the better all these conditions will be - though by early November , the weather will be cold and wet. Temperatures in November are usually in the single digits, and you'll see lots of drizzle and the occasional snow flurries.

September and October are better weather-wise, though temperatures can be unpredictable: some years you'll experience sunnier days and temperatures in the mid-teens, while other years, the temperature stays around 10 degrees Celsius with lots of grey, rainy days.

The earlier you arrive in the season, the longer and warmer the days will be, but a light jacket is always a must - evenings can be windy and chilly even in September.

Winter: Amsterdam winters are windy and cold, but the temperatures rarely dip below freezing . With average winter temperatures around 3 to 4 degrees Celsius, the city will feel much warmer than other destinations in Northern Europe, and spending time outdoors will not be too bad as long as you have the proper jacket, waterproof boots, and perhaps a scarf to bundle up.

January is the coldest and windiest month, with short, grey days where the sun sets at around 4:30pm. Although snow is rare in the Netherlands, if it's going to happen, it's likely to happen in January. Don't let that scare you off, through — the canal boats are beautiful when covered in a thin blanket of snow.

Visiting in winter does have its benefits, especially if you arrive during the Christmas Markets season. Amsterdam is home to many seasonal markets, from trendy, chic locations selling design products to Victorian-style markets where you'll find traditional crafts and sweets, like the spiced pepernoten biscuits.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Great City Getaways : The massive port city of Rotterdam offers plenty of great things to do , from exploring the superb collection of historic vessels in the Maritime Museum and Harbor Museum, to wandering its streets and enjoying its mix of both old and new architecture. The country's capital of The Hague should also be included on your Netherlands travel itinerary and is home to no end of museums, galleries, and historic buildings. Utrecht is the fourth largest city in the country and is especially popular for the romanticism of its cathedral and cathedral square.

Small Town Attractions : The historic city of Breda is extremely popular for its well-preserved mix of historic architecture, ranging from medieval fortifications to the charming merchant's homes of its old town square. Another stop for the Allies, Eindhoven is well-known for its world-class museums and the nearby traditional villages, including one that remains largely unchanged since Van Gogh famously included it one of his paintings. Lovely Delft is another must-visit , as much for its charming public squares as it is for its famous Royal Dutch Delftware porcelain, a tradition that can still be enjoyed centuries later via factory tours.

Netherlands Vacation Ideas : The bustling city of Arnhem will forever be remembered for its roll in WWII, when it featured as the "bridge too far" for Allied troops, whose bravery is remembered in. numerous museums and monuments here. Medieval Maastricht is perfect for those wanting a smaller city experience, and is especially popular for its remarkably intact 6th-century church and treasury. Finally, the Netherlands is not without stunning scenery, some of the best of which can be enjoyed in Hoge Veluwe National Park , the country's largest nature preserve and home to everything from thick woodlands to sand dunes.

More on Netherlands

Discover Amsterdam with IAmAmsterdam.nl

Experience the best of Amsterdam with IAmAmsterdam.nl. Explore the iconic highlights, immerse yourself in the rich culture of over 70 museums, navigate the city with ease using public transport, enjoy a scenic canal cruise, and discover the city on two wheels with our bicycle rental service.

Discover the Vibrant City of Amsterdam

Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Amsterdam with IAmAmsterdam.nl. Explore the city's major highlights, visit over 70 museums, enjoy city-wide public transport, take a scenic canal cruise, and rent a bicycle to truly experience the charm of this beautiful city.

AMSTERDAM CITY

Canal Cruises: Discovering Amsterdam's Waterways

Embark on a canal cruise and immerse yourself in the beauty of Amsterdam's waterways. Learn about the city's history, admire the picturesque architecture, and enjoy a unique perspective of Amsterdam.

Exploring Amsterdam by Bike: A Cyclist's Paradise

Experience Amsterdam like a local by exploring the city on two wheels. Discover the bike-friendly infrastructure, scenic routes, and tips for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure.

Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots in Amsterdam

Escape the tourist crowds and discover the hidden gems of Amsterdam. From charming neighborhoods to secret gardens, explore the lesser-known side of the city.

Top 10 Must-Visit Museums in Amsterdam

Explore the rich cultural heritage of Amsterdam with our list of the top 10 must-visit museums. From the Van Gogh Museum to the Rijksmuseum, discover the best art and history in the city.

About IAmAmsterdam.nl

Discover the best of Amsterdam with IAmAmsterdam.nl. Get access to major highlights, museums, public transport, canal cruises, and bike rentals. Explore the city like a local!

Subscribe newsletter

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

20 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam, From Classic Art Museums to Hidden Speakeasies

Make the most of your Amsterdam visit with these itinerary suggestions from two experts.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

George Pachantouris/Getty Images

Amsterdam is an incredible European city; the charm of its iconic canals exceeds expectations, and beyond those, you have world-class museums and shopping and restaurant scenes to dig into. Given that it is incredibly accessible and well-connected to other parts of Europe, Amsterdam makes for the perfect stop at the beginning or end of a holiday across the pond — and it’s more than deserving of a standalone trip, too.

Whether you’re considering a quick weekend getaway or a longer stay, the Dutch capital promises to impress every type of traveler with myriad things to do. As someone who loves Amsterdam deeply, I have plenty of personal recommendations, and so does Pieter Feith, who's been a concierge at Pulitzer Amsterdam for more than a decade and is a member of the Les Clefs d'Or. Our list of the best things to do in Amsterdam is as multifaceted and magical as the city itself.

Van Gogh Museum

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

This is the most patronized museum in Amsterdam , welcoming upwards of 6,000 visitors each day. Guests arrive here eager to appreciate the works of the Netherlands’ homegrown artistic hero. If you really want to admire "Sunflowers" or “Bedroom in Arles” on a specific day, be sure to buy tickets in advance.

Anne Frank House

Sjoerd van der Wal/Getty Images

One of the most popular and important cultural attractions in Amsterdam, the Anne Frank House displays writings, photos, and personal items from Anne Frank, collected during her time hiding from the Nazis. The entry line often wraps around the building and time slots book up months out, so be sure to reserve tickets long before you arrive. 

Canal Cruise

If you go to Amsterdam and don’t tour the picturesque canals — and snap photos — were you even really there? I’ve booked an excursion on the classic salon boat “Tourist" through Pulitzer Amsterdam three times; it’s a beautiful, historic vessel that even hosted Winston Churchill back in the day. And since the tour is private, you can customize the route based on your interest.

Rinze Vegelien

Among my favorite restaurants in Amsterdam, De Kas takes farm-to-table dining quite literally, with a menu that highlights ingredients from an on-site garden, plus meats and cheeses from nearby farms. Creative spins on dishes and an always-evolving menu make it a place you’ll want to return to many times over.

Museum van Loon

Atilano Garcia/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

While the museums mentioned above are classic Amsterdam sights, Feith prefers smaller museums like Museum van Loon , which is set in a private residence built in 1672. “Painter Ferdinand Bol, a pupil of Rembrandt, was the first resident here," Feith shares. The interiors are ornate and well-preserved, and there’s a lovely garden area and a café in the carriage house.

Vondelpark opened in 1865, and within its 47 hectares (or 116 acres) travelers will find grassy lawns, ponds, and cycling/walking paths. There's also an open-air theatre that hosts summer concerts, plus a playground. “It’s much loved by locals for a morning run, a bike ride on the way to work, or to enjoy the greenery on warm days,” says Feit.  

De Kaaskamer

De Kaaskamer is a beloved shop that stocks an impressive selection of Dutch and imported cheeses, from aged Appenzeller and raw milk gouda to Blue de Wolvega from Friesland and chèvre. You can also shop for meats, nuts, tapenades, pestos, wine, and beer here, all of which pair perfectly with fromage.

Rijksmuseum

The perenially busy Rijksmuseum , the national museum of the Netherlands, draws crowds with impressive exhibits dedicated to Dutch art, culture, and history.  On display in its many rooms are period artifacts, as well as paintings from masters such as Rembrandt.

Akasha Holistic Wellbeing

Courtesy of Akasha Holistic Wellbeing

Some travelers know Amsterdam as a party city, but visitors hoping to unwind don’t need to search far. For example, Akasha Holistic Wellbeing is an underground wellness sanctuary at the Conservatorium Hotel , complete with a pool, jacuzzi, sauna, hammam, and treatment options that range from hot stone massages to a chakra balancing experience.

Grachtenmuseum

“ Grachtenmuseum highlights the history of Amsterdam — how the city has expanded over the past 400 years, and the construction of the canal houses,” explains Feith. Fittingly, it’s set inside a 17th-century canal house on the Herengracht.

Fabel Friet

Belgium may stake its claim to fries, but the Dutch potato situation is on point, too. Join the queue outside of Fabel Friet to savor crispy, golden spuds doused in homemade sauces like truffle mayo and curry ketchup.

Pulitzer's Bar

Courtesy of Pulitzer Bar

Pulitzer's Bar oozes glamour and sophistication, with bow-tie-clad bartenders mixing some of the best cocktails in the city. Guests of the hotel love this onsite option, as do locals and travelers staying elsewhere, so do yourself a favor and make a reservation in advance.

Many consider Dam Square to be the most important venue of its kind in Amsterdam. It’s still a great place to kick off a sightseeing tour, as it’s home to notable tourist attractions, including the neoclassical Royal Palace, the National Monument, and the 15th-century Nieuwe Kerk (New Church).

Distilleerderij 't Nieuwe Diep

Distilleerderij 't Nieuwe Diep is a small brewery with a tasting room inside the old pumping station of Oetewaler Polder. “Contructed in 1880 and hidden among the greenery of the park, it’s a nice place for visitors to sip spirits and soak in the ambiance,” says Feith. 

NEMO Science Museum

Buena Vista Images/Getty Images

If you're traveling to Amsterdam with kids, I highly recommend checking out the NEMO Science Museum. Our toddler had a ball teetering around the interactive exhibits. Besides the all-ages educational fun, there's a hands-on lab for older children, where they can partake in experiments.

Fans of prohibition-era, speakeasy-style bars will love Door 74 . It’s all very hush-hush, but once inside the hidden drinking den, patrons can choose a craft cocktail from an ever-changing menu of tipples with unique flavor combinations.

Antiekcentrum Amsterdam

Antiekcentrum Amsterdam is full of vendors selling vintage jewelry, ceramics, and home decor. Even if you don't intend to buy anything, it’s interesting to browse the stalls of this large emporium of preloved items.

Dappermarkt

Open Monday through Saturday, Dappermarkt is a diverse and popular market on the east side of the city with more than 250 stalls along one street. Feith says that the market attracts both locals and out-of-towners with its goods.

Equal parts gallery, workshop, and store, 360volt is home to an eye-popping assortment of new and vintage light fixtures. On any visit, you might spot a funky retro scissor lamp, a lovingly restored old-school floodlight, or a shimmering chandelier.

Van Brienenhofje

Sir Francis Canker Photography/Getty Images

In Jordaan, you will find many “hofjes,” which is best translated as inner courtyards. “These were built centuries ago to house single women, nuns, or staff who were too old to work,” explains Feith. Some of these beautiful houses and courtyards are open to visitors today, including the very peaceful Van Brienenhofje.

Related Articles

• 1 Districts
• 2.1 Orientation
• 2.2 History
• 2.3 Climate
• 2.4 Tourist information
• 3.1 By plane
• 3.2 By train
• 3.5 By boat
• 4.1.1 Alternative payment options
• 4.1.2 Season tickets
• 4.2 By metro
• 4.3 By tram
• 4.5 By boat
• 4.6.1 Cycle routes
• 4.7 By e-hailing
• 4.8 By taxi
• 5.1 Architecture
• 5.2 Museums
• 5.3 Churches and synagogues
• 5.4 Modern architecture
• 6.1 Canal cruises
• 6.2 Festivals
• 10.1 Asian cuisine
• 10.2 Surinamese cuisine
• 10.3 Local specialities
• 11.1 Coffeeshops
• 11.2 Red Light District
• 13.1 Canals
• 13.2 Neighbourhoods
• 13.3 Cannabis and other drugs
• 13.4 Pharmacies
• 14.1 Internet
• 14.2 Telephone
• 15.1 Publications
• 15.2 Religious services
• 16.1 North Holland
• 16.2 Further destinations

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands . It is known for the canals that cross the city, its impressive architecture, museums and art gallerie, its notorious red light district, and more than 1,500 bridges.

The city has earned the title of Venice of the North for a good reason: few other cities have intricate web of canals, exquisite architecture, and a staggering collection of over 1500 bridges weave an undeniable charm. Whether you're here for the rich cultural heritage, the vibrant nightlife, or the serene alleyways, Amsterdam's magnetic pull is universal.

Although once an innocuous and humble fishing village during the late 12th century, Amsterdam catapulted into global prominence during the 17th century as a bustling trading hub. The city's evolution birthed iconic districts like Jordaan and the Canal Belt, the latter earning UNESCO World Heritage status in 2010. The 19th and 20th centuries ushered in expansion, punctuated by modernist districts.

Districts [ edit ]

Understand [ edit ]

With a population surpassing 920,000 in 2022 – and soaring well past a million when you account for the immediate surroundings – Amsterdam unquestionably holds the crown as the Netherlands' largest city. Numbers aside, Amsterdam is the financial, cultural, and creative heart of the nation.

Orientation [ edit ]

The "Amsterdam" that most visitors experience is the city centre, the semi-circle with Centraal Station at its apex. It corresponds to the city as it was around 1850. Five major concentric canals ring the Binnenstad: Singel, Herengracht, Keizersgracht, Prinsengracht and Singelgracht, together forming the Canal District. Other districts inside the city centre are the Jordaan, a former working class area now popular with yuppies, and Plantage, a leafy and spacious area with botanical gardens and the zoo. The Nassaukade, Stadhouderskade and Mauritskade surround the city centre and mark the location of the former city moat and fortifications. Almost everything outside this line was built after 1870.

The semi-circle is on the south side of the IJ, which is often called a river but more exactly is an estuary. Going east from Centraal Station, the railway passes the artificial islands of the redeveloped Eastern Docklands. North of the IJ is mainly housing, although a major dockland redevelopment has started there too.

The river Amstel flows into the city from the south. Originally, it flowed along the line Rokin-Damrak. The dam in the Amstel, which gives the city its name, was located under the present Bijenkorf department store near Dam Square. The original settlement was on the right bank of the Amstel, on the present Warmoesstraat: it is therefore the oldest street in the city. The city has expanded in all directions, except to the northeast of the A10 ring motorway. That area is a protected rural landscape of open fields and small villages considered a part of the Waterland region.

The radius of the semi-circle is about 2 km. All major tourist destinations, and most hotels, are located inside it or just outside it. As a result, a large swathe of Amsterdam is not visited by the average tourist: at least 90% of the population lives outside this area. Most economic activity in Amsterdam—the offices of the financial sector, the port—is near or outside the ring motorway, which is 4–5 km from the centre.

The expansion of Amsterdam outside the ring motorway and the expansion of activity outside the city centre is redefining what locals consider the 'central area' of Amsterdam. Zuid, especially with the construction of the Noord/Zuidlijn and the Zuidas, is becoming more and more important in the daily lives of the locals. Its significance for tourists has increased by the now completed reconstruction work on the Museumplein and the adjoining museums.

History [ edit ]

Amsterdam was first referred to as Aemstelledamme ("dam on the Amstel") in 1204, and known as Aemsterdam by 1327. It was first part of Utrecht, and around 1300 Gwijde van Henegouwen, bishop of Utrecht, gave Amsterdam city rights. After his death, the city was inherited by Count William III and became a part of Holland. Two fires swept the city in 1421 and 1452, and few wooden buildings from this period remain. A notable exception is the Houten Huis (Wooden House) at the Begijnhof.

In 1558, the Dutch started to revolt against the Spanish as the local nobility demanded more political power and religious freedom. Amsterdam supported the Spanish, but as it became more and more isolated and trade suffered accordingly, it switched sides in 1578. A relative freedom of religion emerged in the newly established Dutch Republic, and many migrants sought refuge in Amsterdam, including Jews from the Iberian Peninsula, merchants from Antwerp and Huguenots (French Protestants). Catholicism could not be practiced openly.

Amsterdam prospered in the 17th century and became one of the world's great cities. A global trading network and overseas possessions made Amsterdam the centre of shipping in Europe and the world's leading financial centre. The arts flourished too, with great painters like Rembrandt producing works that are widely acclaimed as of this day. The city expanded outside of its original boundaries as the Canal Belt was constructed for wealthy merchants and the Jordaan for the working class. Immigrants formed the majority of the population and there was a strong immigration from Lutheran Protestant Germans.

The Dutch Republic was not a unitary state, but a confederation in which the independent provinces and the larger cities were politically autonomous. There was a strong animosity between the Orange faction with its power base in The Hague and the republican faction with Amsterdam as its most outspoken representative, up to the point that the city was beleaguered by the army. The Orange faction supported the idea of hereditary political leadership vested in the princes of Orange as Stadtholders, while the republican faction supported civic independence. This long-standing culture of republicanism and non-conformism against the political elites in The Hague exists to this day.

The 18th and 19th centuries were a turbulent period for Amsterdam. The economy suffered from decreased trade opportunities with the colonies and ongoing wars with the United Kingdom and France. Napoleon's brother Louis was crowned King of Holland in 1806 and took possession of the city hall on Dam Square, from then on referred to as the Royal Palace. The Netherlands was fully annexed by France in 1810, and Napoleon crowned Amsterdam "third city" of the French Empire. Prussian and Russian troops liberated the Netherlands, but it remained a unitary state and a monarchy, that now included Belgium.

While The Hague had functioned as de facto capital of the Republic, Amsterdam (together with Brussels) became the new capital of the Kingdom. The appointment of Amsterdam as the new capital was a conciliatory gesture of the Orange faction towards the city and a recognition of the strong civic and republican basis of the new Kingdom. The Hague remained the seat of government and the political centre of the country. When Belgium seceded in 1830, Amsterdam became the sole capital and got the rights to trade with the country's overseas possessions.

The North Sea Canal and Noordhollandsch Kanaal connected Amsterdam's harbour directly with the Rhine and the North Sea. The Industrial Revolution arrived around 1860, which led to strong economic growth, but also to overpopulation as the city could not cope with the sudden demographic surge. The Jordaan was a notorious working class slum in this period, and neighbourhoods like De Pijp were built to provide housing as cheaply and quickly as possible for the lower middle class. Social issues that arose in this period made Amsterdam the centre of social democracy in the country.

In World War II, German troops occupied the city and more than 100,000 Jews were deported to death camps, most famously Anne Frank. The diamond trade, before the war one of Amsterdam's top industries, almost completely disappeared as these businesses were mostly in the hands of Jews. The cultural revolution of the 1960s and 1970s changed Amsterdam radically. Soft drugs were tolerated, squatting became commonplace and riots with the police occurred on a daily basis. The coronation of Queen Beatrix in 1980 turned violent as protesters demanded a stop to the housing demolition that took place for the construction of Amsterdam's first metro line.

In subsequent decades, Amsterdam has lost some of its revolutionary appeal, becoming a centre for wealthy yuppies. Once poor districts like the Jordaan became upper class districts, and poorer inhabitants moved out of the centre to the outer boroughs and other cities. The city's once progressive ideals have faded as squatting is cracked down on, coffeeshops are increasingly closed and prostitution is outlawed outside of the Red Light District. However, it is still a progressive and tolerant city by international standards. Its culture of republicanism and non-conformism are going through tough times as well, but the ubiquitous "Republic of Amsterdam" street signs show that it remains a defining characteristic of the city.

Climate [ edit ]

Amsterdam is a large city and a major tourist destination, so you can visit it all year round. However, in winter the days are short (8 hours daylight around Christmas between 08:45 and 16:30), and the weather may be too cold to walk around the city comfortably, let alone cycle. January and February are the coldest months, with lows around 0°C (32°F) and highs around 5°C (41°F). Snow does occur a few times each winter, but it's often light and rarely stays on the ground more than a couple of days.

In summer, heat waves (3 days above 30°C/86°F) are common, as is a temperature of 18°C (64°F) with rainfall. July and August are the warmest months, with an average temperature of 22°C (72°F) at daytime. Sunsets are as late as 22:00 and sunrise is around 05:30 during the summer.

Neither summer nor winter constantly have the mentioned values. Always be prepared for rain. On average it's raining one in every two days, but it might well be raining the full week of your trip if you visit during winter. Gray clouds cover Amsterdam most of the time, but in spring and summer the sun shines six to eight hours a day on average.

King's Day ( Koningsdag ) is always celebrated on 27 April, unless this date occurs on a Sunday (then it's celebrated the Saturday before). The weather on King's Day is usually quite good with temperatures hovering around 17°C (63°F). If it's raining, there will be considerably fewer people on the streets.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• 52.37751 4.900364 1 I amsterdam Visitor Centre ( VVV Amsterdam ), Stationsplein 10 ( Koffiehuis Stationsplein, across from Central Station ), ☏ +31 20 702-6000 . Daily 09:00-18:00 . Amsterdam's tourist office is opposite Centraal Station in the same building as Smits Koffiehuis. Besides maps, brochures and bookings, you can also buy tram and metro tickets at the GVB office. There are some touch screens with general information about visiting Amsterdam. ( updated Jun 2016 )
• I amsterdam City Card . This card allows admittance to a selection of the city's museums and attractions at no extra cost , plus unlimited travel across the city's on public transport, plus a list of discounts at some other attractions. 24 hr – €60 , 48 hr – €85 , 72 hr – €100 , 96 hr – €115 , 120 hr - €125 . ( updated Mar 2023 )

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Flying to other airports than Schiphol could prove cheaper as some budget airlines have their base in Eindhoven or Rotterdam . Buses and trains can be used to get to Amsterdam, and renting a car is also an option. Taxis are not advisable, a ride from Rotterdam costs about €180 and from Eindhoven a whopping €300 .

From Eindhoven Airport ( EIN  IATA ), take a local bus (Hermes bus 401, duration about 25 minutes, frequency about four times per hour, €3.20 on board or €1.71 using an OV-chipkaart ) to Eindhoven train station. From there take a train to Amsterdam Centraal (duration 1 hr 20 min, frequency four times per hour, single €17.20 ). Alternatively, take the express bus from the airport to Amsterdam Centraal, which takes 2 hours and 15 minutes. This bus only leaves 3 to 4 times per day; see their website for the schedule. The ticket price is €25.50 for a single ticket and €42.50 for a return.

From Rotterdam The Hague Airport ( RTM  IATA ), take a city bus (RET airport shuttle bus 33, duration 25–30 minutes, frequency every 10–20 minutes, €2.50 on board or €1.39 using the OV-chipkaart ) to Rotterdam Centraal train station. From there, take a train to Amsterdam Centraal (duration about an hour, frequency every 10–20 minutes, single €13.40 ).

By train [ edit ]

Other important train stations in Amsterdam are Amstel, Bijlmer-ArenA, Sloterdijk and Zuid. All international trains run directly to Amsterdam Centraal.

• Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) is the main (domestic) train operator for travel to much of the country. Trains to more distant locales may require change of train in another city or town and may be less frequent. They also offer international service to neighbouring countries in cooperation with Belgian Rail (Belgium) and Deutsche Bahn (Germany). See below:
• The InterCity Berlin runs every two hours and connects Amsterdam with Osnabrück (3 hr 8 min), Hanover (4 hr 20 min), and Berlin (6 hr 22 min). A BordBistro coach is available on each train. Tickets can also be bought via Deutsche Bahn
• The Intercity Brussels runs up to 16 times a day from Brussels (3 hr 18 min) and Antwerp (2 hr 23 min) at lower speeds than the Thalys. Usually cheaper than Thalys and a good alternative for budget travellers coming from Belgium.
• ICE International connects Amsterdam up to seven times each day with Düsseldorf (2 hr 6 min), Cologne (2 hr 20 min), and Frankfurt (3 hr 46 min). One ICE-train runs from Basel (6 hr 43 min). There is a BordBistro coach available on each ICE train. Nightjet runs nightly from Zürich via Basel , Frankfurt and Cologne . Tickets for all are available through Deutsche Bahn (DB) .
• Eurostar runs a daily high-speed service from London St Pancras International to Amsterdam Centraal. The journey is approximately 3 hr 40 min, and prices start at £35 one way. You should arrive between 90 and 30 minutes prior to departure to clear border control. Passengers travelling from Brussels can also book Eurostar journeys to Amsterdam. Tickets are sold on the Eurostar website.
• Thalys is a high-speed train that connects Amsterdam with Paris Gare du Nord (3 hr 19 min), Brussels Zuid/Midi (1 hr 54 min), and Antwerp Centraal (1 hr 12 min). Thalys trains run up to ten times a day. The cheapest tickets are sold early, so book in advance if possible. There is a bar coach available; if you're travelling in first class, a snack and drinks are included in the price. Thalys also stops at Schiphol Airport and Rotterdam.

If you plan to take a train to Amsterdam, it's advisable to check the train times in the international journey planner . Most tickets are sold online, and often it is cheaper to book tickets in advance. Tickets are also sold at the international ticket offices at Amsterdam Centraal and at Schiphol Airport.

Coming from Germany with the Deutschland-Ticket , take the RE19 e.g. from Düsseldorf/Duisburg to Arnhem. And then an InterCity (every 30min) for €11-19 or Flixbus to Amsterdam . ( updated Feb 2024 )

By bus [ edit ]

Frequently served intercity bus stops are:

• 52.389918 4.838458 3 Sloterdijk intercity bus station. Reachable by Bus 22, trains and metro line 50. The Amsterdam Sloterdijk stop is at the bus platforms at the Piarcoplein, on the north side of Sloterdijk station. Please follow the signs "Piarcoplein" in the station.
• 52.310575 4.946718 4 Biljmer intercity bus stop
• 52.308761 4.761432 5 Schiphol Airport intercity bus stop

There are dozens of daily international bus services, many of which serve countries immigrants originate from. Nearby international destinations in Germany, Belgium and France (Paris and Lille) and London are served at high frequency. Their stops and stations are located at the Amsterdam Sloterdijk Station, the airport and/or another locations:

• Flixbus , (bus stops) Amsterdam Sloterdijk, Amsterdam Airport, Amsterdam Bijlmer & Amsterdam-Duivendrecht . German low-cost bus company offering connections to many German cities such as Berlin , Cologne and Munich . Also offering domestic service within the Netherlands.  
• BlaBlaCar Bus , (bus stops) Amsterdam Sloterdijk, Amsterdam Airport . It runs a coach service between Paris and Lille to Amsterdam. It stops at the Stadionplein. Tram 16 and 24 connect it with Amsterdam Centraal and metro station Amstelveenseweg. ( updated Sep 2016 )
• RegioJet , (bus stop) Amsterdam Sloterdijk , ☏ +420 841 101 101 . (formerly Student Agency) A Czech operator with a daily service from Prague, departing from the Amsterdam Sloterdijk Station. ( updated Jun 2017 )

There are only a few long-distance national bus services in the Netherlands, and apparently none to Amsterdam Centraal. Bus 300 connects Haarlem train station with Hoofddorp, Schiphol Airport, Amstelveen and Amsterdam Bijlmer-ArenA.

By car [ edit ]

In most cases, you'll want to avoid getting into the area enclosed by the ring road. Traffic is dense and parking spaces are expensive and difficult to find. Instead, when on the A10, follow the signs to one of the P+R -spots (P+R Zeeburg to the east, P+R ArenA to the southeast, P+R Olympisch Stadion to the south, P+R Noord to the north, and P+R Sloterdijk to the west). Here you can park your car and take public transport to the city centre for a single fare. There is a flat rate of €8 a day with public transport to the city centre for up to 5 persons included. You can park for free at a few places that have metro or tram stops nearby (e.g. IKEA near metro station Bullewijk).

The speed limit on Dutch motorways is 100 km/h during the day and 130 km/h during the night, except where indicated. On the A10 ring motorway around Amsterdam, the maximum speed is 100 km/h, and 80 km/h on the Western section. These limits are strictly enforced and there are many speed cameras.

By boat [ edit ]

The 52.377972 4.915287 6 Passenger Terminal Amsterdam is close to the city centre but is only used for cruise ships. The nearest ferry port is IJmuiden , where ferries from Newcastle upon Tyne dock. DFDS Seaways offers daily overnight ferry services from Newcastle upon Tyne (more specifically, North Shields) in the United Kingdom.

Other ferry services dock at Rotterdam Europoort (ferry from Hull) and Hook of Holland (ferry from Harwich). These are about 70 km away from Amsterdam. Intercity and Inter Regional trains run direct from Amsterdam Central Station to Rotterdam Central Station every 10 to 15 minutes taking approximately 1hr 15 minutes. See the National train operator NS website for booking and information.

For the Stena Line ferry to Harwich: from Rotterdam Central, change for Rotterdam Metro Line B direct to Hoek Van Holland Station where you will be able to walk onto the Ferry. See Rotterdam RET website for tickets and information. For P&O to Hull: there is no public transport however Taxis are readily available at Rotterdam Central. P&O offer some coach options via their website.

Get around [ edit ]

Amsterdam's city centre is quite compact, and pretty flat, so you can easily get to most tourist destinations on foot . From Amsterdam Centraal, most areas in the city centre can be reached within half an hour.

Public transport within the city is operated by the GVB . The tram is the main form of public transport and there is a metro and dozens of bus routes. Most routes operate from 06:00 (06:30 Saturdays and 07:45 Sundays) until around midnight. There are a few overnight bus routes as well. Regional buses, and some suburban buses, are operated by Connexxion and EBS .

Tickets [ edit ]

For many years, an OV-chipkaart provided the only way to pay transportation fees in the city. However, as of 2023, fees may be paid at the station or on the tram, bus, or NS train by using a contactless credit or debit card . Many travellers find their credit card easier than buying and keeping track of an OV-chipkaart , as they do not have to obtain, maintain, and monitor the balance on the contactless card. User procedures (tapping in and out) on both kinds of cards are the same. To travel with a contactless card or an OV-chipkaart , you have to check in at the start of your journey and check out at the end by holding the card in front of the card reader.

Alternative payment options [ edit ]

Besides using a debit or credit card, you have other options: Three types of OV-chipkaart are available:

• Personal card on which you can load weekly, monthly, or yearly subscriptions
• Anonymous card on which you can load money that can be spent on public transport
• Disposable card that can be used for a limited period of time (an hour or a few days)

The first two types of cards come with no credit included and cost €7.50 . To travel in the city you have to top up such a card for at least €4 before a journey begins. A disposable card, on the other hand, already has a product bundled with it, but it can not be re-used after this product expires.

Anonymous and disposable OV-chipkaarts can be obtained from GVB vending machines in all metro stations, from the desks at some larger stations (including Amsterdam Centraal) and some shops. Additionally 1-hour disposable cards can be bought on a tram or a bus but only PIN (debit and credit) cards are accepted to purchase them on board. After purchasing disposable cards from the driver or conductor, you must check in and check out with that card.

Tickets can also be purchased through the GVB mobile app - just scan the QR code on your mobile at the card reader.

Season tickets [ edit ]

For those who stay in Amsterdam longer, one of the day or multiple day passes [dead link] could be a useful option. You can get them for 24 hours up to 168 hours. This allows the holder to travel on an unlimited number of journeys on the tram, metro and bus throughout the validity period of the pass. Travel passes can be loaded on the anonymous cards but existing credit on such cards cannot be applied towards the purchase of a pass. These passes are not valid on buses operated by Connexxion and Arriva. These passes can be purchased at tourist offices (at Schiphol Airport and just outside Amsterdam Centraal), AKO bookstores, many hotels and GVB ticket offices. Additionally, a one-day pass can be purchased from the conductor on a tram (but not on a bus).

• GVB cards . Multi-day cards are valid for an exact number of hours available in the respective period of days. 1 hour €3.20 , 1 day (24 hr) €9.00 , child 1 day €4.00 , 2 days €15.00 , 3 days €21.00 , 4 days €26.50 , 5 days €33.00 , 6 days €37.50 , 7 days €41.00 . ( updated Aug 2023 )

If you stay longer in Amsterdam, you can buy discounted weekly or monthly tickets from most post offices or other ticket sale points which are cheaper. GVB tickets are not valid on trains or Connexxion bus 197 to Schiphol Airport. You can use them on GVB bus 69 to Schiphol but it's quicker to get there by train.

Alternatively, you can buy:

• Amsterdam Travel Ticket . It includes a return ticket to and from Schiphol for a train (to any of Amsterdam's stations) and bus 397, plus unlimited travel on all GVB trams, metro and (night)buses for 1, 2 or 3 days. These tickets are based on calendar days, and expire at 0400 in the morning after the last valid day. €17 (1 day), €22.50 (2 days) and €28 (3 days) . ( updated Oct 2020 )
• I amsterdam City Card is a good option that combines museum entries.
• Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket . A pass for 1, 2 or 3 days which allows unlimited travel in a whole greater Amsterdam area . These tickets are based on calendar days, and expire at 04:00 in the morning after the last valid day. You must check in and out whenever you enter or leave a public transit vehicle. Among the locations included on the card are Zandvoort , Edam , Aalsmeer , Keukenhof gardens , Volendam and Zaanse Schans . These tickets are available at I amsterdam Visitor Centre , at service centres of GVB, EBS, Connexxion and some other locations like hotels, campsites etc. They can also be purchased online ( https://www.tiqets.com/en/checkout/tickets-for-amsterdam-region-travel-ticket-p1007410/booking_details/ ). €21.00 (1 day), €31.50 (2 days), €40.50 (3 days) . ( updated Aug 2023 )

By metro [ edit ]

There are five metro lines in Amsterdam, including a short underground section in the city centre, that serves the suburbs. It takes 15–20 minutes from Centraal Station to Zuid or Bijlmer-ArenA in Zuidoost.

The 5th metro line, the Noord/Zuidlijn (North–south line), finally opened on July 21, 2018. It's an underground metro line that connects the north of Amsterdam directly with the south of the city through the city centre, hence the name.

By tram [ edit ]

The tram network has 14 lines and it is considered the major carrier in the central area of the city. Amsterdam Centraal is the largest hub of the tram system with 8 tram lines terminating there. 52.363494 4.881595 7 Leidseplein is the next largest hub with 6 tram lines passing through. Tram lines 5 and 25 serve the neighbouring municipality of Amstelveen , and tram line 19 serves the neighbouring municipality of Diemen . Many metro stations provide connections with nearby tram lines.

All tram stops have a detailed map of the system and the surrounding area. You can also get a free public transport map at the GVB ticket office (just outside Amsterdam Centraal).

Most trams these days have conductors, near the rear of the tram. Board by the driver or the conductor. If you have questions, the conductor will be sure to respond to your query. You can buy 1-hour, 24-hour, and 48-hour tickets from the conductors.

Just like the tram and metro, local buses are operated by the GVB. There are also suburban buses to nearby towns such as Haarlem and Uithoorn; these are operated by Connexxion or EBS (the company name and house style is prominent on the bus side) and can be used within Amsterdam if you travel with an OV-chipkaart . Enter buses only via the front door. Generally, almost all bus routes operate very frequently throughout the week.

There are several ferry services across the IJ river, between the city centre and Noord, the most frequent runs every 7 minutes. They all leave from a new jetty on the northern (rear) side of Amsterdam Centraal. All ferries are free of charge and provide nice views of the harbour and skyline.

The nicest one is the 15-min service to the NDSM-werf, a funky, up and coming, industrial neighbourhood with a nice cafe-bar (IJkantine), restaurant (Noorderlicht), indoor skateboard park, and the Pancake Boat ( Pannenkoekenboot ) which sails many times each week. Ferries leave every 30 minutes from Amsterdam Centraal and from the NDSM-werf. Double frequencies during rush hours.

You can also hop on the ferry to Buiksloterweg, and then make a short walk to the EYE Film Institute for its architecture and free exhibition in the basement.

By bicycle [ edit ]

A pleasant way to cover a lot of ground is to rent a bicycle . There are approximately 750,000 people living in Amsterdam and they own about 800,000 bicycles. The city is very, very bike-friendly, and there are separate bike lanes on most major streets. In the city centre, however, there is often not enough space for a bike lane, so cars and cyclists share narrow streets.

Cycling is the main mode of transport for most locals in the city and traffic is high paced. Be mindful of your surroundings and consider that if you don't have much experience cycling, you might be more comfortable using public transport or walking.

Cyclists do not have the right of way even though it might appear like that when observing the typical Amsterdammer's cycling behaviour. Be very careful and watch out for other cyclists. Always show other traffic where you're going (e.g. by holding out your hand) in order to avoid accidents and smoothen the traffic flow. If not indicated otherwise by signs, the right-before-left rule applies.

Avoid getting your tyre in the tram rails; it's a nasty fall. Always cross tram rails at an angle. When crossing tram lines, watch out for fast-approaching taxis, which have a rather ruthless driving style. Let none of the above deter you from doing it the Amsterdam way. Rent a bike! There are bike rental shops at railway stations and several others in and around the city centre. Bikes cost about €9 to €20 per day. Bring wet gear.

A good map for cycling routes, repairs, rentals and also public transport is Amsterdam op de fiets (a Cito-plan). Bicycles can be taken for free on all ferries across the IJ, on all metros, and on some carriages of tram 26 with a bike supplement fee on the OV-chipkaart ( €6.20 in 2018, not allowed in rush hours). Use the special bike racks, locations indicated by a bicycle sign on the outside of the carriage.

Make sure to get a good lock (or two), and to use it. Amsterdam has one of the highest bicycle theft rates in the world. If you are buying a bike, prices that seem too good to be true are stolen bikes. Any bike offered for sale to passers-by, on the street, is certainly stolen. There's an old Amsterdam joke: when calling out to a large group of cyclists passing by "Hey, that's my bike!" about five people will jump off "their" bikes and start running.

• A-Bike Rental & Tours , Tesselschadestraat 1-E ( right next to the Vondelpark ), ☏ +31202181292 , [email protected] . 24 hours daily . Well maintained bikes, no older than 2 years. No bright colors, so you will blend in with the locals. €6.50 (1 hr), €14.95 (24 hr), every day extra €12.95 .  
• Black Bikes ( Het Zwarte Fietsenplan ), Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 146 ( tram 1, 2, 5, 13 or 17 to Dam ), ☏ +31 20 670-8531 . M-F 08:00-20:00, Sa Su 09:00-19:00 . Rent traditional black bikes. There are no bright red, yellow, blue or orange bikes in their shops. There are three locations throughout the city centre and the shops have long opening hours, 7 days a week. Also rents out cargobikes for kids. €9 (3 hr), €13 (24 hr) .  
• Frederic , Brouwersgracht 78 , ☏ +31 20 624-5509 . Bike, insurance, bags, locks, and children seats all included in the asking price. Close to Centraal Station. Bikes are offered "incognito", for the discerning guest who does not want to appear "touristy". €8 (3 hr), €10 (day till 17:30), €15 (24 hr), €25 (2 days), €35 (3 days) .  
• MacBike , Stationsplein 33 ( tram or metro to Centraal Station ), ☏ +31 20 625-3845 . 24 hours daily . Perhaps the most ubiquitous bicycle rental agency in Amsterdam, their bicycles are painted red with a MacBike sign on the front, everyone will know you're visiting. The bicycles are reliable, and in a good condition. Several locations around the city centre for assistance or repairs. Online bicycle reservations at their website. €7.50 (3 hr), €9.75 (24 hr), every day extra €6 .  
• Orangebike , ☏ +31 20 354-1781 , [email protected] . 09:00-18:00 daily . Their bikes are not so obviously coloured, more discrete, reliable and sturdy. The typical Dutch granny bikes are available. Online reservations can be made. €5 (1 hr), €6.50 (3 hr), €9.50 (day till 18:00), €11 (24 hr), €17.50 (2 days) .  
• Rent a bike Damstraat , Damstraat 20-22 ( tram 4, 9, 16 or 24 to Dam ), ☏ +31 20 625-5029 . 09:00-18:00 daily . Daily to weekly rentals. They have promotions in place with several hotels for "discount tickets", ask at the front desk. Offers repairs for your bike and also has new and used bike sales. €12.50 for the first 24 hr, insurance included .  
• Star Bikes Rental , De Ruyterkade 127 ( tram or metro to Centraal Station ), ☏ +31 20 620-3215 . M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa Su 09:00-19:00 . Classic and solid Dutch bikes for those who want to fit in with the locals. They have the traditional black granny, pick-ups, tandems, bikes for kids and for disabled needs. You can also arrange exclusive picnic and barbecue sets within your rental. €5 (4 hr), €7 (a day) or €9 (24 hr), 2 lockers included .  
• OV-fiets , any Amsterdam train station (except Holendrecht and Science Park), plus other locations . This cycle hire service, run by Dutch Railways (NS), is mostly used by Dutch residents, as a Dutch bank account is required, as well as a personal OV-chipkaart. If you manage to obtain these, it's a very good option due to its ubiquity (these bikes can be hired on every large train station in the Netherlands) and low cost. €3.85 per 24 hr (usage), 72 hours max . ( updated Nov 2017 )

The bicycle is a good way to explore the surrounding countryside. Within half an hour you're out of town. Go north, take the ferry across the IJ and cycle to Waterland . Or go south, into the Amsterdamse Bos , a giant park, or follow the river Amstel where Rembrandt worked. You can also take your bike onto the metro to the end of line station Gaasperplas , and cycle along rivers and windmills to old fortified towns like Weesp , Muiden and Naarden .

Cycle routes [ edit ]

• Amsterdam Highlights by Bike [dead link] (13 km) - Discover the best of Amsterdam in one cycle tour
• Amsterdam Amstel Cycle Route (54 or 46 km) - Idyllic rivers, villages and forts.
• Marken Cycle Route (51 or 45 km) - Former island on the doorstep of Amsterdam.

By e-hailing [ edit ]

The ride-hailing services of Uber and Bolt are available in Amsterdam. With them you can avoid a lot of the problems associated with taking an Amsterdam taxi from busy areas (Centraal Station/Leidseplein) and at peak evening hours.

By taxi [ edit ]

Taxis in Amsterdam are plentiful but expensive. Hailing taxis on the street is generally not to be recommended unless you are going to a well-known destination (e.g. Centraal Station or Schiphol). The liberalization of the taxi market in Amsterdam led to an influx of taxi drivers who have little or no clue of where they are going and who drive erratically and dangerously (e.g., driving on bicycle lanes instead of the main road or ignoring red lights). Tourists are advised to stick to public transport if at all possible. Get into a taxi only if you know the route yourself and are able to give directions to the taxi driver and if you know roughly how much the journey ought to cost so you don't get cheated.

Some drivers, traditionally at Centraal Station or Leidseplein, will refuse short trips or will quote outrageously high fares, even though all taxis are metered. Even if you convince the driver to use the meter, he will often take a circuitous route that racks up €15 or more on the meter. For reference, no trip within the historic centre should cost more than €10 or so.

The Netherlands (and Amsterdam) is in the middle of a huge taxi liberalization scheme which has been jarring to all involved. After many missteps, the government has introduced an unusual pricing scheme. First you feel sticker shock as the initial fare is now €7.50 . Luckily, that includes the first 2 km of travel and there is no charge for waiting in traffic. If you need to run in somewhere, you need to negotiate a waiting fee with the driver. 50 cents per minute is customary.

Unlicensed, illegal cabbies operate mainly in Zuidoost. These aren't easily recognized as such, and most certainly don't drive Mercedes cars. They are known as snorders and most easily reached by mobile phone. Rides within Zuidoost (the Bijlmer) range from €2.50 to €5 , whereas Zuidoost-Centre can run up to €12.50 . Snorders have a shady reputation, so consider their services only if you are adventurous.

Cars are anything but miserable torture only outside the historic centre; within the historic centre, public transport is by far your best bet. In Amsterdam, a car is generally a liability and not an asset, as traffic is dense and parking spaces are quite expensive and very hard to find. Use a car only if you are going to an obscure location many kilometers out that is not served by public transport, or during the less busy times of the day or week, you may want to park near the Centraal Station and take the tram or walk. Driving here is a pain: many of the streets are narrow, the traffic (and parking) signs are baroque and obscure, and cyclists and pedestrians may get in your way. Plus, petrol is about €1.54 to €1.7 per liter.

Parking on the street at the city centre can reach as much as 7.5 € an hour! Luckily there is a cheaper way, specially if you are going to park for more than a couple of hours. Mobypark is a shared parking platform where you can find and book parking in the centre of Amsterdam as well as some great P+R location like RAI Amsterdam

You can also try parking at one of the secured parking garages, for example under Museumplein, or near Centraal Station, and then walk around the city centre, or get on a tram. Car parking is very expensive in Amsterdam and it's often hard to find a place to park. You can choose to pay by the hour or for the whole day. Parking is free outside the centre on Sunday—there is always a spot available on the Albert Cuypstraat (which is a market during the rest of the week). From there, it is a 5-minute tram ride or 15 minutes walk to the city centre.

You can park for free in some parts of Amsterdam outside the city centre though this is slowly changing. Parking is still free in some areas in Noord, and you can take the bus from the Mosplein stop to the city centre easily. Plenty of buses run through here. Another option is to park your car far outside the city centre at a Park and Ride facility. For €8 you get a full day (24 hr) of parking and a return ticket to the city centre. The ride takes about 15 minutes. Look for the P+R signs.

Popular car rental chains operate in a smaller capacity in Amsterdam, including Avis and Budget. Car 2 Go has all-electric smart cars available within and around the city.

See [ edit ]

Architecture [ edit ].

Amsterdam has one of the largest historic city centres in Europe, with about 7,000 registered historic buildings. The street pattern has been largely unchanged since the 19th century—there was no major bombing during World War II. The centre consists of 90 islands linked by 400 bridges, some of them beautifully lit at night.

The inner part of the city centre, the Binnenstad , dates from medieval times. The oldest streets are the Warmoesstraat and the Zeedijk in the Oudezijde of the Binnenstad. As buildings were made of wood in the Middle Ages, not many of this period's buildings have survived. Two medieval wooden houses did survive though, at Begijnhof 34 and Zeedijk 1. Other old houses are Warmoesstraat 83 (built around 1400), Warmoesstraat 5 (around 1500) and Begijnhof 2-3 (around 1425). The Begijnhof is a late-medieval enclosed courtyard with the houses of beguines, Roman Catholic women living in a semi-religious community. Beguines are found in Northern France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and north-western Germany. House number 34 at the Begijnhof is the oldest home in Amsterdam. Entry to the courtyard and surrounding gardens is free, but be careful not to disturb the local community still living here.

One of the most prominent features is the Canal District , a concentric ring of canals built in the 17th century. The merchant-based oligarchy that ruled the trading city of Amsterdam built canal houses and mansions in the most prestigious locations here, especially along the main canals. Typical for the country are its traditional white draw bridges. The best example has to be the Magere Brug , which is over 300 years old and nearly in its original capacity. It is a beautiful place to overlook the river and take in some traditional Dutch architecture.

The Jordaan was built around 1650 along with the Canal District, but not for the wealthy merchants. For a long time it was considered a typical working-class area, and included some notorious slums. The name probably derives from the nickname 'Jordan' for the Prinsengracht. Apart from a few wider canals, the streets are narrow, in an incomplete grid pattern (as the grid followed the lines of the former polders located here in medieval times). This district is the best example of "gentrification" in the Netherlands, becoming a hip boutique district.

There are several large warehouses for more specific uses. The biggest is the Admiralty Arsenal (1656-1657), now Het Scheepvaartmuseum at Kattenburgerplein. Others include the former turf warehouses (1550) along the Nes, now the municipal pawn office; a similar warehouse at Waterlooplein 69-75 (Arsenaal, 1610), now an architectural academy, and the warehouse of the West India Company (1642) at the corner of Prins Hendrikkade and 's-Gravenhekje. The city office for architectural heritage [dead link] has an excellent online introduction to the architectural history and the types of historical buildings available. The website includes a cycle route along important examples.

Windmills were not built in urban areas, since the buildings obstructed the wind. The windmills in Amsterdam were all originally outside its city walls. There are a total of eight windmills in the city, most of them in West . However, the best one to visit is De Gooyer , which is not far from the city centre, and is being used as a brewery. The only windmill fully open to the public is the Molen van Sloten in Sloten, a former village now part of West .

Museums [ edit ]

Amsterdam has an amazing collection of museums. The most popular ones can get very crowded in the summer peak season, so it's worth exploring advance tickets or getting there off-peak (e.g. very early in the morning). Avoid the museums in the Binnenstad as these are mostly tourist traps. The quality museums can be found in Zuid , the Canal District and Plantage . The museums in Zuid are located at the Museumplein , a square surrounded by quality museums. The country's national museum is the Rijksmuseum , a must-visit with a large collection of paintings from the Dutch Golden Age. Some artists that can't be overlooked are Rembrandt, Johannes Vermeer, Frans Hals and Jan Steen. The most widely regarded paintings are Rembrandt's Night Watch and Vermeer's Milkmaid . The museum also boasts a substantial collection of Asian art. Reopened after a reconstruction of about ten years, its renewed set-up is absolutely worthwhile, leading the visitor through the ages from the late Middle Ages to the early 20th century.

Even someone with little knowledge of art must have heard about Vincent van Gogh, the Dutch Post-Impressionist painter whose work had a far-reaching influence on 20th century art for its vivid colours and emotional impact. The Van Gogh Museum has the largest collection of Van Gogh's paintings and drawings in the world. The Stedelijk Museum is all about modern art, contemporary art and design. A newer addition to Amsterdam's already stellar set of art museums is the Hermitage in Plantage , the largest satellite branch of the famous museum from Saint Petersburg, Russia.

A major museum is the Anne Frank House , dedicated to Anne Frank, a Jewish girl who kept a diary while hiding from Nazi persecution in hidden rooms at the rear of a building in the Canal District (known as the Achterhuis ). It's an exhibition on the life of Anne Frank, but also highlights other forms of persecution and discrimination. Amsterdam has hundreds of museums about pretty much every topic one could think of. They are described in the city's district articles.

The Museumkaart costs €64.90 (or €32.45 for those under 18 years old). It covers the cost of admission to over 400 museums across the Netherlands and you can buy it at most major museums. Note that if you do not buy it in advance, you will be issued a temporary card that is only valid for 5 museum visits over a period of 30 days until you receive the permanent card, which can be mailed to a Dutch address after being registered. It is valid for an entire year, and you will need to write your name, birthday, and gender on it. If you are going to the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, those are €22.5 each, so this card can quickly pay for itself. The tickets to the major museums, including the audio guide, can be bought early from the tourist information desk at no extra cost. Alternatively, for short stays, you can consider buying the I amsterdam City Card [dead link] , starting at €42 per day, which includes "free" access to Amsterdam museums, public transport and discounts on many tourist attractions.

Churches and synagogues [ edit ]

Since the Middle Ages, the Netherlands has been a country with a relatively high degree of freedom and tolerance towards other religions and cultures, especially compared to other countries in Europe, with the major exception being the persecution of Catholics after winning the war with Spain and during and after the Eighty Years' War.  Between 1590 and 1800, the estimated foreign-born population was never less than 5 percent, many of them settling in Amsterdam. This led to a large migration of Jews, Huguenots (French Protestants), Flemings, Poles and other people to the city. Jews in particular had a large presence in Amsterdam, notably in the Jodenbuurt , though this quarter has changed significantly after World War II. The most prominent synagogue is The Esnoga (or The Portuguese Synagogue ), built in 1675 in an austere Classicist style.

As the Netherlands was a Protestant nation, most of the churches are from this branch of Christianity. The oldest church in Amsterdam, the Netherlands-gothic Oude Kerk on the Oudezijds Voorburgwal at Oudekerksplein, is now surrounded by window prostitution. It was built in 1306, and became a Calvinist church after the Reformation in 1578. The Nieuwe Kerk , at Dam Square, dates from the 15th century and is now used for royal coronations and exhibitions. From the 17th century onwards, four compass churches were built that would serve the areas outside the Binnenstad.

The late-medieval city also had smaller chapels such as the Sint Olofskapel (circa 1440) on Zeedijk, and convent chapels such as the Agnietenkapel on the Oudezijds Voorburgwal 231 (originally 1470), now the University of Amsterdam museum. Later churches included the Oosterkerk (1669) in the eastern islands, and the heavily restored Lutheran Church on the Singel (1671), now used by a hotel as a conference centre. Catholic churches were long forbidden, and built again only in the 19th-century. The most prominent is the Neo-Baroque Church of St. Nicholas (1887) opposite Centraal Station. Also, investigate some of the "hidden churches" found in Amsterdam, mainly Catholic churches that remained in activity following the Reformation. A prominent hidden church is Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder . Well worth the visit. Two hidden churches still in use are the Begijnhofchapel near the Spui, and the Papegaaikerk in the Kalverstraat (both Catholic).

Modern architecture [ edit ]

Since there was little large-scale demolition in the historic city centre, most modern architecture is outside of it. Immediately outside the Singelgracht (the former city moat) is a ring of 19th century housing. The most prominent buildings from this period are the Amsterdam Centraal railway station (1889) and the Rijksmuseum (1885), both by Pierre Cuypers. De Pijp is a textbook example of 19th century revolution-build, cheap construction housing. The most prominent in architectural history are the residential complexes by architects of the Amsterdam School , for instance at Zaanstraat and Oostzaanstraat in West . The Amsterdam School is a style of Expressionist architecture that arose from 1910 through about 1930. Examples can be found in De Baarsjes in West and the Rivierenbuurt in Zuid .

A completely different approach to architecture has been followed in the Bijlmer , a huge architectural project undertaken in the 1970s. A series of nearly identical high-rise buildings were laid out in a hexagonal grid with a strict separation of pedestrian and car traffic. It has been a revolutionary way of thinking in the architectural world, but within a decade the district started to make headlines with crime and robberies. As these high-rises are being torn down, the safety situation has improved, and now modern office buildings are taking their place.

The 1990s and 2000s also left its mark as a revolutionary time in architectural design. The Eastern Docklands is the largest concentration of modern residential buildings. The zone includes three artificial islands: Borneo, Sporenburg, and KNSM/Java-eiland. The latter has been designed as a modern re-imagining of the old Canal District. Across from it is the brand new Piet Heinkade and some adjoining projects. The largest concentration of box-like office buildings is in the Zuidas and in Zuidoost . Some spectacular buildings are Amsterdam ArenA stadium and the new Bijlmer-ArenA railway station.

Do [ edit ]

The locals spend their summer days in Amsterdam uncorking bottles of red wine in the Vondelpark . Every district in Amsterdam has at least one park, but the Vondelpark stands out for its size and convivial atmosphere. The neighbourhood best known for its trees and gardens is the Plantage . Besides leafy boulevards and grand mansions it also features the botanical gardens of the Hortus Botanicus and has Artis Zoo for the kids.

Another major patch of nature is Amsterdamse Bos , which, directly translated, means Amsterdam Forest, but is more like a giant park. Amsterdamse Bos also offers Fun Forest, a climbing trail between the trees, and the Bosmuseum about the forest, which is actually a lot of fun, especially if you're travelling with children . Both are near the main entrance in Amsterdam Zuid. Amsterdamse Bos is on the outskirts of the city, not far from Schiphol, partially in Amstelveen and Oudekerk, and near Aalsmeer Nieuw Oosteinde.

Amsterdam also has three so-called city beaches in West , Oost and Zuid . The one in Oost, Blijburg , is the best of these, and you get the fine architecture and atmosphere of the IJburg neighbourhood included for free.

You can also watch a film at one of the more than 55 cinemas . Rialto in Zuid and Kriterion in Plantage run a selection of art house and alternative films, and Lab111 in West often shows cult movies. The EYE Film Institute in Noord is dedicated to film conservation, but also has screenings and exhibitions.

Football: AFC Ajax play soccer in Eredivisie, the Dutch top tier, and often win it. Their home ground is Johan Cruijff ArenA (capacity 54,000) 5 km south of the centre, metro station Bijlmer ArenA, which also hosts internationals. Their second-string team Jong Ajax (or "Ajax 2") plays in Eerste Divisie, the second tier, at Sportpark De Toekomst near the ArenA.

Canal cruises [ edit ]

A canal cruise usually lasts from one to two hours. Commentary on the surroundings is given during the route. Departures from Prins Hendrikkade opposite Centraal Station, quayside Damrak, Rokin near Spui and Stadhouderskade 25 near Leidseplein. If it's a warm day, avoid the enclosed boats with glass ceilings—they get hot. You can also cruise the canals yourself with a pedal boat or rented boat.

• Eco Boats Amsterdam . Rent a private and eco friendly boat and cruise the canals yourself.
• Canal Motorboats. The oldest boat rental in Amsterdam. Rent a boat and drive it yourself.
• Amsterdam Boats B.V. . Personal rental of a wide variety of boats. You can rent a gondola , hand made by a girl from Amsterdam. She traveled to Venice to learn the craft, then built her own Gondola which she brought back to Amsterdam.  
• Amsterdam Jewel Cruises . An evening dinner cruise. It is the only classic boat offering a private table for a romantic candlelight dinner. A la carte dining, but not cheap! The cruise starts at 19:30 and lasts just under three hours. €99-113 .  
• Boaty Rent a Boat . Boaty Rent a Boat rents small boats (max. 6 people) to make your own private boat tour on the Amsterdam canals. These rental boats are electrically driven which means they are silent and free of exhaust fumes. ( updated Jan 2021 )
• Boats4rent Boat Rental , ☏ +31 6 26326420 , [email protected] . open every day from March to October . Boats4rent is a boat rental where you can rent a boat without a skipper. With a three or four hour rental you can make a private trip on the Amsterdam canals and the Amstel river. best rates in Amsterdam . ( updated Jan 2021 )
• Boatboys Private Boat Tours , ☏ +31 6 45 25 100 , [email protected] . Operates every day for private luxury boat tours on a historic classic boat. 1hr starting from €250 . ( updated Jul 2023 )
• Canal Company . The Canal Hopper runs three fixed routes, stopping near major attractions (Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank's House, etc.). You can get on or off as often as you like, but it is relatively expensive with €20 per 24 hours. The first boats start between 09:15 and 10:45, depending on which stop you get on. The last boats start dropping off at around 19:00. It also has four locations for renting your own boat; two-seater canal bikes cost €8 per person per hour.  
• Lovers Company . Starts opposite the Rijksmuseum, but you cannot get on or off. The cruise takes about 1 hr 30 min. €16 .  
• Sloepdelen . Self operated electric rental boats. A boating license is not required and the open boats can seat up to twelve passengers. €60 p/h (with a minimum of 2 hours) plus €150 deposit) . ( updated Nov 2016 )
• Amsterdam Boat Experience , Nieuwe Spiegelstraat 70-1 (Office) , ☏ +31 20 771 59 30 , [email protected] . 09.00-22.00 . Amsterdam Boat Experience was founded in 2015 and has been steadily expanding its fleet and now offers exclusive private charters while also operating a fixed route from the Anne Frank house. Tickets for the 1 hour cruise on the luxurious electric open boats with live narrating are €15 . while you relax the hostess serves drinks on the boat. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• Adam's Boats , ☏ +31 614 316 465 , [email protected] . Rent a boat without the need for a licence. The Amstel river can be reached within 2 minutes from the hire place. ( updated Jul 2023 )
• Starboard Boats . This eco friendly boat company organises luxurious private boat rentals. Starting locations on requests. From €195 per hour. ( updated Jul 2023 )

Festivals [ edit ]

Amsterdam is a cultural haven with year-round festivals for every pocket.

• Chinese New Year . Celebrated with festivities in Chinatown.  
• King's Day . Formerly Queen's Day, this national holiday, nominally in celebration of the King's birthday, is difficult to describe to anyone who's never been there. The city turns into one giant mass of orange-dressed people with flea markets, bands playing, and many on-street parties, ranging from small cafes placing a few kegs of beer outside to huge open-air stages hosting world-famous DJs. The Vondelpark is the place where children sell toys and perform. An experience you'll never forget. Normally held on April 27, but if that is a Sunday, it is celebrated one day earlier.  
• KunstRAI . A modern art fair in the RAI exhibition and conference centre. If you want to know what the latest developments are in Dutch galleries, this is where to find them all in one place.  
• Holland Festival . A performing arts festival that brings together events from all over the world in the fields of music, opera, theater and dance.  
• Taste of Amsterdam . A culinary festival where you can explore the food of famous Amsterdam restaurants and their chefs.  
• Open Garden Days ( Opentuinendagen ). Normally you can see only the front of the canal houses, but during the Open Garden Days you get to go past the entrance and see the green world behind them, often bigger than you would have expected. You can buy one ticket that gives you entry to all participating gardens, and there is a special canal boat to take you from one location to another.  
• Amsterdam Roots Festival . A free open-air festival with music from non-Western countries accompanied by paid film and theater performances in the surrounding theaters.  
• Julidans . International contemporary dance festival, always showing the latest developments in modern dance.  

July/August

• Vondelpark Openluchttheater . This free festival offers many different performances every day. Go to the open air theater just by the fountain and let the entertainment do the work. From cabaret to drama to concerts to dance, there is something for everyone here and for all ages.  
• Amsterdam International Fashion Week . Twice a year, this event presents young and upcoming fashion in Europe with a focus on Dutch design.  
• Robeco Summer Nights . Affordable classical music concerts taking place at the prestigious Concertgebouw.  
• De Parade , Martin Luther King Park . Circus turns vintage, on an old-fashioned fairground with many different tents, the performers are each trying to attract their public, featuring spectacles of dance, theater, magic, art, animation and music.  
• Amsterdam Pride . Amsterdam's gay pride on the first weekend in August. One of the biggest festivals in Amsterdam with parties, performances, workshops and a boat parade on the Prinsengracht on Saturday afternoon which is always well worth seeing by gays and straights alike.  
• Prinsengrachtconcert and Grachtenfestival . Third weekend of August each year. A free open-air classical music concert is held every year on a stage in the middle of the Prinsengracht. If you have a little boat, join the crowds and make sure to bring a bottle of rose wine or prosecco for full enjoyment. It takes place during the Grachtenfestival, a 10 days classical music festival with about 150 concerts throughout the city, but is organized independently from it.  
• Sail Amsterdam . Tall-ships from all over the world come to visit the Amsterdam harbor every five years, the next one is in 2025.  
• Uitmarkt . The opening of the cultural season in the last weekend of August, it offers a taste of the year to come with 30 min performances at different theaters, an extensive book market and many open-air concerts. All free.  
• Jordaan Festival . As of 2023, there hasn't been one for 5 years. A big inner city street festival celebrating the diversity of this former working class district. Features can include drum bands, a children's festival, opera and cabaret, a boules competition, a flea market and an auction. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• Robodock . A unique festival presenting contemporary art shows in the huge, old NDSM shipyard depot in Noord. The atmosphere is rough, industrial, experimental. A lot of loud music, fire, smoke, noise and heavy machinery are usually elements of these performances.  
• National Restaurant Week . Two times a year, participating restaurants offer a full 3 course dinner for a mere €29.95 (excluding drinks), allowing you to try a different restaurant for a change or a chance to have an affordable meal at one of the famous five-star restaurants.  
• Amsterdam Dance Event . Usually held during the second last weekend in October, this electronic music annual festival gathers cream of the crop faces from the house and techno scenes. Buy your tickets in advance to avoid paying more at the door and having to queue for hours. Besides partying for four nights in a row, the conference offers workshops, seminars, presentations etc. €79+ .  
• Museumnacht . Long before the film came out, this "night at the museum" attracts new crowds at the traditional Amsterdam museums with special performances at unusual locations. Do as the locals do and hire a bike to go from one place to the other.  
• PAN Amsterdam . Third week of November. The biggest national art and antiques fair in the Netherlands. €24+ .  
• Museumplein . Amsterdam celebrates the holy day of Sint Nicholaas on 5 December as Christmas in the Dam Square also known as "Christmas Square". However, on Christmas Day, i.e. 25 December, the people of Amsterdam are also getting used to celebrating Christmas alongside English speakers.  

Learn [ edit ]

Amsterdam has two universities, both offer summer courses and other short courses (with academic credits). It also has one venerable institute.

Work [ edit ]

Many people will find it difficult to get a suitable job if they do not speak Dutch. However, hostels and hotels in Amsterdam may need bar staff, night porters etc., who speak English and other languages. There are also specialist websites for English and non-Dutch speakers looking to work in Amsterdam and they are often a good place to start.

Immigration matters are dealt with by the immigration service IND . Registration is done by both police and municipalities. Immigration policy is restrictive and deliberately bureaucratic, this is especially true for non-EU citizens.

European Union citizens do not require a work permit. Australians, New Zealanders and Canadians are afforded a one-year working-holiday visa. In general the employer must apply for work permits. Immigration is easier for higher educated (Bachelor's or higher) earning a gross annual salary of over €45000 (over €33000 for those under 30).

Buy [ edit ]

The main central shopping streets run in a line from Centraal Station to the Leidseplein: Nieuwendijk, Kalverstraat, Heiligeweg, Leidsestraat. The emphasis is on clothing and fashion, but there are plenty of other shops. These are not upmarket shopping streets, and the north end of Nieuwendijk is a bit seedy. English-language books can be found in the shops around Spui , and a used book market is held there every Friday. There is a concentration of Chinese shops in Zeedijk and Nieuwmarkt, and flowers can be bought at the Bloemenmarkt . However, do not buy bulbs there. They are usually too old to have even a slight chance of growing. Other concentrations of shops in the centre are Utrechtsestraat, Spiegelstraat (art and antiques) and Staalstraat (specialty shops).

Interesting independent shops and boutiques are located in the side streets of the main canals (Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht, Herengracht) and especially in the Jordaan . The Haarlemmerstraat and Haarlemmerdijk are claimed as best shopping streets in the Netherlands. The area around Museumplein in Zuid has Amsterdam's upmarket shopping streets. The P.C. Hooftstraat and the Cornelis Schuytstraat have the finest designer shops in the city. You can find designer shoes, health and well-being specialists, massage parlors, fashion boutiques, designer interiors, designer florists and specialist shops. The partly gentrified neighbourhood of De Pijp—around Ferdinand Bolstraat and Sarphatipark—is slowly becoming the 'second Jordaan'.

Street markets originally sold mainly food, and most still sell food and clothing, but they have become more specialized. The Albert Cuyp Market is the largest in Amsterdam, and the best-known street market in the country. The Waterloopleinmarkt is partly a flea market, partly an alternative and second hand clothing and accessories market. It is more oriented towards tourists than to locals. If you're looking for authenticity, visit the Dappermarkt in Oost or the Ten Katemarkt in West . Both have food, households, flowers and clothing, and have a multicultural flavor.

In the areas surrounding the city centre, the main shopping streets are the Kinkerstraat, Ferdinand Bolstraat, Van Woustraat, and the Javastraat. The most ethnically diverse shopping street in Amsterdam is the Javastraat . There are some toy stores and clothing shops for kids in the centre, but most are in the shopping streets further out, because that's where families with children live. Particularly IJburg has a good set of shops for families.

Eat [ edit ]

Amsterdam's culinary scene boasts a vibrant tapestry of flavours, offering a rich variety of dining experiences. The city unfolds as a treasure trove for those craving Asian cuisine, albeit catered to the milder local palate. Adventurous taste buds, fear not – it's not impossible to find spicy food.

Most noticeably, a legacy of Dutch colonial history is woven into the dining fabric, evident through the profusion of Indonesian and Surinamese restaurants. Like other cities filled with tourists, Amsterdam's true culinary scene can be found along the quieter byways, where value and authenticity often intermingle away from the bustling tourist centres.

The Lange Leidsedwarsstraat (just off Leidseplein) has about five Italian restaurants that sell pasta or pizza for €5 among many tourist traps. Many restaurants of all kinds can be found in the Haarlemmerbuurt . Also worth trying is the Van Woustraat in De Pijp , or continue to the Rijnstraat in the Rivierenbuurt . Exquisite but expensive restaurants can be found in the Utrechtsestraat . While there are exceptions, in general avoid restaurants along Damrak and be cautious around Leidseplein—they are well known tourist traps.

Asian cuisine [ edit ]

Amsterdam's de facto Chinatown is at Zeedijk , near the bustling Nieuwmarkt square, where you can find a delightful array of Asian eateries, not limited to Chinese, Thai and Japanese restaurants. It contains many tokos , which are small East Asian grocery stores containing Eastern culinary treasures and aromatic spices. Chinatown also contains Indonesian and Indian restaurants, though the latter can get expensive, depending on your budget.

Budget-friendly feasts can be found along the charming lanes of Damstraat and Muntplein , where many Middle Eastern establishments can be found.

Surinamese cuisine [ edit ]

Amsterdam may not be your first thought when it comes to Surinamese cuisine, but nobody said you couldn't savour this relatively-unknown culinary delight. The best places to find Surinamese cuisine are Zuid and Zuidoost, especially along the eminent Albert Cuypstraat . Local favourites include roti met bonen , moksi meti , petjil , and the sweet finale of bojo as a dessert.

A popular drink that you can't not try is dawet – it's a unique beverage crafted from milk, coconut and rose syrup, featuring delightful sago balls (kids also ostensibly like it). Although popularised in Suriname, its origins trace back to Indonesia – as such, you can find it in several Indonesian restaurants.

Local specialities [ edit ]

Cheese can be bought at the Albert Cuyp Market, or at specialist cheese shops found around the city centre. Dutch cheese is traditionally firm, made in large wax-covered wheels, and falls into two main categories—young and old. There is a rich variety within these categories. Among the more unusual young cheeses is cumin cheese ( komijnenkaas ), which is particular to the Netherlands. Sheep cheese ( schapenkaas ) and goat cheese ( geitenkaas ) are also common. Old cheese can be made of any sort of milk, and is often reminiscent of Italian Parmesan in consistency and sharpness of flavour.

Check out bitterballen , fried breaded ragout balls, and kroketten (the same, but shaped like a cylinder), but take care not to burn your mouth. Also don't forget to try a traditional herring or a broodje haring (herring sandwich), available from fish stalls around the city. Herring in Amsterdam is usually served with onions and pickles. A good try is the fish stand on the Koningsplein near the Bloemenmarkt. Syrup waffles ( stroopwafels ) are made fresh at the Albert Cuyp. If you're visiting in late November or December, you can enjoy oliebollen , which are round blobs of sweet fried dough embedded with raisins (sultanas) and dusted with powdered sugar.

Drink [ edit ]

Amsterdam's famously wild nightlife caters to all tastes and budgets. The archetypical Amsterdam watering hole is the bruine café ("brown bar"), a neighbourhood bar of sorts with gorgeous dark wood panelling—hence the name—and booths. Grand cafés are more grand and spacious, and also serve small food portions. These usually have at least one long table with newspapers and magazines. Lounge and designer bars pop up across the city catering to the city's younger and more trend susceptible crowd. If you're a beer lover consider visiting a beer shop or tasting room in the Binnenstad or the brewery in Plantage . There are some excellent beers you can get from this part of the world such as wheat beer ( witbeer ).

The nightclubs in Amsterdam are not as rough as one might think. Many of them congregate around Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein in the Canal District . You can't go wrong at Melkweg , Sugar Factory and Paradiso , three live music venues that usually have large queues on weekends. Paradiso has the best interior, as it used to be a church, while Melkweg feels more like a nightclub. Sugar Factory is a little more intimate and is a multidisciplinary platform for young talent. Jimmy Woo is an impressive VIP-room, and a strict dress code applies. There are also some nightclubs in Oost , such as Panama , and near the Westerpark . Amsterdam's gay nightlife is not as vibrant it used to be, but there is still an active community in the Reguliersdwarsstraat in the Canal District . The annual gay pride in August is a fun event that can be attended by gays and straights alike.

Coffeeshops [ edit ]

Amsterdam is renowned for its liberal drug policy . Coffeeshops (in English, but written as one word; not to be confused with coffeehouses or cafés) are allowed to sell cannabis and hash for personal use, i.e. not more than 5 grams. While still illegal, mostly to comply with international treaties, personal use of soft drugs is regulated by the Ministry of Justice under an official policy of gedogen . Literally this means to accept or tolerate ; legally it is a doctrine of non-prosecution on the basis that action taken would be so highly irregular as to constitute selective prosecution. The city council of Amsterdam allows coffeeshops to operate only with the provision of set, non-transferable licenses as shown by an official green and white sticker on the window of a coffeeshop. Coffeeshops are to sell only soft drugs such as cannabis, selling of other drugs is not allowed. Also selling of dried hallucinogenic mushrooms is not allowed.

There are about 250 coffeeshops in Amsterdam, most of them in the Binnenstad . Marijuana is mostly sold in one-gram increments with a maximum limit of 5 grams per transaction. Prices hover around €7.50 for 1 gram, with the average joint holding around 0.33g. Most coffeeshops are happy to recommend varieties and prepare your joint for you. Some offer vaporizers/inhalers for people who don't want to smoke. Smoking paraphernalia is usually available upon request. It is common practice not to smoke at a coffeeshop without purchasing something from the establishment first, be it coffee, a Coke, or marijuana. All coffeeshops do, indeed, sell coffee as well. ID is requested upon entrance to each establishment, and more often than not the only acceptable ID is a passport.

Many coffeeshops offer a 'smoking lounge' where soft drugs may be used. Despite the confusion on the subject, the country-wide smoking ban applies only to tobacco. However, since the Dutch commonly smoke tobacco mixed with their marijuana or hash, many coffeeshops, especially those unaccustomed to tourists, may require all smoking to be done in a separated smoking section or outdoors. Most central coffeeshops with large tourist clientèles will allow marijuana or hash smoking in their entire space, requiring you to smoke in the separated section only if your joint contains tobacco. Many coffeeshops also provide a non-tobacco herbal filler for those who find pure joints too strong. You may usually smoke joints containing this herbal filler anywhere within the coffeeshop although individual house rules may vary. If in doubt, always ask the staff.

Amsterdam hosts the Cannabis Cup, the most important marijuana related event in the world every year during the week of Thanksgiving. The Cannabis Cup is organized by High Times magazine, and offers both tourists and natives the chance to enjoy 5 days of consuming and judging marijuana in different forms. Participants are eligible to pay $199 in advance or €250 at the door to obtain a "judges pass", which allows entry to the event for all five days, admission to numerous concerts and seminars held during the event, the ability to vote on numerous awards that are handed out, and free bus tours to and from the event. Day passes are available for €30 for each day, and certain concerts sell tickets at the door provided they are not already sold out.

Red Light District [ edit ]

The Red Light District consists of several canals, and the side streets between them, south of Centraal Station and east of Damrak. It is known as De Wallen (the quays) in Dutch, because the canals were once part of the city defences (walls and moats). Prostitution itself is limited to certain streets, mainly side streets and alleys, but the district is considered to include the canals, and some adjoining streets. The smell inside can be nauseating especially if you detest the smell of weed, cannabis or even tobacco - keep in mind especially if you're with a group, as it can be very difficult even with a mask on (pre-COVID, at least).

The area has many sex shops and peep show bars and is a common attraction for bachelors celebrating a stag night, both of which have become an eye-sore for most locals; if you ever get hassled, a firm and loud "leave me alone" will work most of the time. The whole area has a heavy police presence and many security cameras. Nevertheless, it is still a residential district and has many bars and restaurants, and also includes historic buildings and museums.

Sleep [ edit ]

Amsterdam has over 400 registered hotels of varying standards from budget facilities to some of the most expensive hotels in Europe. Advance booking is recommended, especially for weekends and holidays. Don't expect you'll find an affordable bed once you're here. Most hotels and hostels can be found in the Binnenstad , notably south of Centraal Station, and in Zuid around the Museum Quarter. Charming boutique accommodation can be found in the wealthy residential Canal District , home to the rich and famous and its squares are the prime nightlife spots of the city. The Jordaan is another area for hip boutique accommodations, slightly upmarket, but still for mid-range prices. Some cheaper hostels can also be found in the Red Light District .

A simple bed in a hostel starts around €18 on weekdays in the winter and up to €90 on a weekend in the summer. Hostels often expect you to book at least 2 nights in a weekend. A twin room in a budget hotel, 1-2 stars, might cost around €40 on weekdays in the winter and up to €100 on summer weekends. In a three and four-star hotel, the prices would range from €100 to €200 , depending on season, and five-star hotels can cost between €150 and €400 a night. As a rule of thumb, summer is high season and price can be double compared to winter times. September and October tend to be cheaper months to travel.

Do not expect a wide number of services from cheaper end hostels and hotels. Most of these do not have elevators and have the usual steep staircases; if you suffer from vertigo, do get an assurance that you will be getting a first or second floor room or book a hotel that has an elevator.

If you are looking for a reasonably priced hostel and cannot find any in whole Amsterdam (especially on summer weekends), check the hostels in Purmerend (Hostel 45, City Trip) and Zandaam (Room Mate, City Trip). They lie outside of the Amsterdam city borders and so aren't displayed if looking for accommodation in "Amsterdam" at online travel agencies. Still from all places you reach the centre of Amsterdam in 30min by public transport.

Stay safe [ edit ]

It might surprise some visitors, but Amsterdam is one of Europe's safest cities. It has an overall easy-going, laid-back feel and crime is not common. Amsterdam is female friendly, women can easily travel alone here and feel comfortable and safe. Gay and lesbian travellers also have little to worry about. However, you should take normal precautions against scams, pickpockets and baggage theft, especially in the main shopping streets, in trams and trains, at stations, and anywhere where tourists congregate.

What looks like a footpath, especially along a canal bank, may be a bike lane . Bike lanes are normally marked by red/purple tiles or asphalt, and a bike icon on the ground. However, the colour fades over time, so you might miss the difference. Don't expect cyclists to be kind to pedestrians: some consider the side-walk an extension of the road, to be used when it suits them. Never stay or walk on the bike path or street for extended periods of time, as you will be greeted only by angry bell ringing. Keep in mind that for many Amsterdammers, the bike is their main means of transportation.

Watch out for trams when crossing the street. Taxis are also allowed to use some tram lanes, and even if not allowed, they often use them anyway. If you're driving, always give way to trams unless you're driving on a priority road.

Canals [ edit ]

Amsterdam's canals are picturesque and full of fun - but are also (by far) the single biggest cause of death to tourists in Amsterdam. On average about 25 people drown every year in the canals, almost all of them tourists. Invariably the victims are male and fall in while attempting to urinate in the canal - often the bodies are found with open fly. Typically there is a lot of alcohol involved, sometimes mixed with other drugs. There is some speculation that fainting due to dropping blood pressure caused by the combination of relaxation from relieving oneself and sudden exposure to cold may be involved, but generally being blind drunk and completely unstable is a perfectly adequate explanation. So: peeing in a canal is not only unhygienic and antisocial, it's also potentially lethal if you're under the influence. Please pee in the place you are drinking or failing that at an outdoor urinal. If you really can't find one, do it against a tree (risking a fine) rather than in a canal (risking your life).

Neighbourhoods [ edit ]

The city centre is generally safe, but there are differences between the neighbourhoods. Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein are the tourist traps of Amsterdam, so prices are relatively high and there are lots of scams. Zeedijk and Warmoesstraat had a reputation for gang violence and riots in the 1970s and 1980s, but the security situation has improved strongly and now it is safe to visit.

Be cautious in the Red Light District . All kinds of people walk around there during the day, including families with children, but the area does attract seedier visitors and vagrants after sunset. As a tourist hotspot the area attracts a lot of pickpockets. Do not take photographs of the prostitutes , you will be yelled at or worse. Groups of women visiting the Red Light District at night might feel harassed in the aggressive environment, though this is said to be the safest area because of the police presence. Keep to main streets and groups. Although not really dangerous, women might want to avoid the narrow lane north of the Oude Kerk after dark as the atmosphere can be quite intimidating.

Other areas in the city centre are mostly safe, but can get pretty much deserted after midnight, so you might want to avoid walking alone there at night. This is also true for the Kalverstraat and Nieuwendijk, even though shops are lit all night.

The outer boroughs have profound differences in safety levels. Nieuw-West (especially Osdorp) and Zuidoost still have a bruised image regarding violence and harassment. Urban renewal projects have improved conditions, but you should still be aware of the situation. Noord also has some rougher neighbourhoods, but the rural parts are safe. Oost is largely safe, but there are some neighbourhoods east of Oosterpark where some travelers might not feel comfortable. Zuid is perfectly safe, even at night.

Neighbourhoods with a bad reputation might still be worth seeking out, but be cautious at day and avoid at night. As most tourists only visit the city centre and Zuid, they do not have much to worry about except for the usual precautions (e.g. scams and pickpockets).

Cannabis and other drugs [ edit ]

It cannot be denied that many tourists come to Amsterdam for the coffeeshops. If you're not a smoker, and you really want to try it, start with something light, make sure you don't have an empty stomach, and don't combine it with any other drugs or intoxicants, including alcohol. Be forthright with the counter person about your inexperience, they see it all the time. Go with an experienced person if you can. Regardless of the strength, your first experience can be quite a sensation at first, but will quickly decrease in intensity. You may want to plan to return to your hotel and "hole up" for a couple hours until you become comfortable with the feeling. If you do find yourself too strongly under the influence—feeling nauseated, woozy or faint—drink orange juice or eat something sweet like cookies or candy, and get fresh air. Dutch-grown nederwiet (a.k.a. super skunk) is much stronger than you might expect, even if you are experienced. The THC level can be as high as 15%, twice the norm.

Quality varies. Coffeeshops aimed at tourists are more likely to have overpriced and poor quality products. A simple rule of thumb is: if the place looks good and well-kept chances are their wares will be good as well. Don't just enter a coffeeshop being overwhelmed that it's possible at all to buy and consume cannabis openly: be discerning as to the quality. Coffeeshops sell only soft drugs such as marijuana and hash—asking for other drugs is pointless because coffeeshops are watched closely by the authorities, and nothing will get them closed faster than having hard drugs for sale.

There's a small chance you will be approached by people offering to sell you hard drugs in the street, especially as you are walking through the Red Light District. Ignoring (or failing that, a firm refusal) is enough—they will not pester you. The selling of drugs in the street is illegal and often dangerous; moreover the drugs sold to strangers are usually fake. When they invite you to see the goods, they can lure you into a narrow street and rob you.

The usage of magic mushrooms has been forbidden since December 2008. So-called smartshops do not sell any illegal products, but a range of dietary supplements, including 'herbal ecstasy'—a legal attempt at an ecstasy pill alternative which is a complete waste of money with various more or less obscure psychedelic herbs and, despite the change in the law, one type of magic mushrooms. It is the latter which causes problems as people often underestimate their strength. Magic mushrooms have few physical risks attached to them, but can have a very strong short-acting psychological effect, which can either be great or very distressing, depending on your own mindset (e.g. if you are relaxed, have any serious worries, history of mental illness, etc.) and your surroundings (e.g. if you feel comfortable and safe in them).

The first time you try this should always be in a familiar and trusted environment, not on the streets of an unfamiliar city. If you do decide to try it please get informed first. Conscious Dreams [dead link] , the company that invented the entire concept of a 'smartshop' back in 1994 does this clearly and responsibly (without downplaying the possible risks just to sell more like some other shops do). Also plan well ahead, make sure you have thought out where you will be. Most recommended is going to a large park like the Vondelpark, the Rembrandtpark or the Amsterdamse Bos where it is quiet, and there is no risk from traffic. Make sure that being intoxicated will not endanger your safety, or that of anybody else. Be sure to make your purchase in a smartshop rather than a coffeeshop. They are better regulated and information is available from the attendants that work there. They are also of better quality and stronger potency than at the coffeeshops.

If you're not sure of how much to take, take a small dose. Then you'll know what your "tolerance" level is. People who have bad trips are those who take a dosage over their own tolerance level. Never take more than one packet of mushrooms—usually half is good for your first time. A good smart shop can give you more information about this.

Pharmacies [ edit ]

It might be surprisingly difficult to find a pharmacy in the centre, especially one open in the late afternoon. The Leidsestraat Apotheek in the Leidsestraat is open daily until 11pm. Remember to take medications with you. Some basic OTC drugs can be bought e.g. in Kruidvat [dead link] (convenience drugstore) and Albert Heijn [dead link] (supermarket).

Connect [ edit ]

Internet [ edit ].

The first Internet cafes in the country opened in Amsterdam, but they vanished as quickly as they appeared. Only a few smaller Internet cafes remain in the Binnenstad . Outside of it, you might want to try your luck at one of the phone shops ( belwinkels ) that cater to immigrant communities, but they usually have only one or two terminals.

Free Wi-Fi is provided at OBA public libraries and municipal district offices. Library workstations are available for a fee (or for free with an OBA card).

If you bring a laptop, many hotels in the city offer Wi-Fi for guests, but check in advance as some places still charge high fees, while cheaper hotels and hostels may have no Internet service at all. Several fast food chain restaurants and an ever increasing number of cafés and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi for guests, although you are typically expected to order a drink. Shops like Albert Heijn supermarkets also provide Wi-Fi service. Speed and stability obviously differ per place.

4G is fully available and several providers (including KPN, Vodafone and T-Mobile) have wide 5G coverage in Amsterdam. Other providers are expanding their coverage fast. Be advised that you could incur steep data charges when roaming on a non-EU cellular plan.

Telephone [ edit ]

The country code for the Netherlands is 31 and Amsterdam's area code is 020 . You only need to dial the 0 if you're calling from within the Netherlands.

Pay phones are increasingly rare as most people have a mobile phone. That's why pay phones mostly cater to tourists and can be found around tourist areas. Centraal Station has pay phones in groups of six near the main entrance. If making local calls from a pay phone, you may need a phone card ( €5 minimum) as many green KPN telephone booths do not accept coins. Phone cards can be bought at post offices and some delis, although the cards are increasingly hard to find. The KPN booths are being replaced by newer models that will accept coins again. Blue/orange Telfort booths accept both coins and cards.

If you need to make a call and do not have access to a pay phone, local phone or hotel phone, it is best to go to a phone shop ( belwinkel ). Phone shops can be found all over the city. Outside the city centre, they mostly serve immigrants calling their home country at cheap rates. You can also use a calling service over the Internet like Skype.

If you have a simlock-free European GSM mobile phone (suitable for GSM 900/1800 networks), consider buying a prepaid simcard . You can buy these in any electronics store, and they are often the same price as buying a KPN phone booth card. Calling then is a lot cheaper than using pay phones, and you are mobile.

Cope [ edit ]

Many people choose to visit Amsterdam because of its reputation for tolerance and progressivism. Prostitution is legal and licensed in the Netherlands, so window prostitution is very visible in some areas of Amsterdam. The possession and consumption of small quantities of cannabis and hash, while it is illegal, is tolerated by authorities (the policy of gedogen ). Coffeeshops are allowed to sell cannabis and hash for personal use, and Amsterdam has hundreds of these scattered over the city.

This does not mean that you can get away with anything in Amsterdam. In any case, public attitudes and official policy have hardened compared to some tourist perceptions. The number of coffeeshops has decreased significantly and new laws forbid the selling of dried hallucinogenic mushrooms. Window prostitution outside the Oudezijds Achterburgwal is slowly but surely being closed down by the local authorities.

Depending on your viewpoint some people will consider Amsterdam an unwholesome city whereas other people will find the relaxed attitudes refreshing. If you avoid the Red Light District, Amsterdam is an excellent family destination.

Even though Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands, embassies are located in The Hague , as the government is situated there.

Publications [ edit ]

• Time Out Amsterdam . The monthly bible for what is going on in town. Can be purchased all over town.  
• Uitkrant . A free monthly magazine, listing all concerts, classical, jazz, pop etc., exhibitions, museums and anything cultural to do in Amsterdam. It can be picked up at many spots in the city, e.g. at the Uitburo at the Leidseplein.  

Religious services [ edit ]

• Basiliek van de Heilige Nicolaas , Prins Hendrikkade 73 ( tram or metro Centraal Station ), ☏ +31 20 624-8749 . Eucharist Su 10:30 (Dutch), 13:00 (Spanish), Low Mass M W Th Sa 12:30 (Dutch), Tu 12:30 (English), F 12:30 (Spanish) .  
• Begijnhofkapel , Begijnhof 29 ( tram 1, 2 or 5 to Spui ), ☏ +31 20 622-1918 . Eucharist M-F 09:00 and 17:00, Sa 09:00, Su 10:00 (all Dutch) and 11:15 (French) . Roman Catholic chapel at the Begijnhof, officially known as the HH. Johannes en Ursulakapel.  
• De Krijtberg , Singel 448 ( tram 1, 2 or 5 to Koningsplein ), ☏ +31 20 623-1923 . Eucharist M-Sa 12:30, 17:45, Su 12:30, 17:15 (all Dutch), High Mass Su 09:30, 11:00 (Latin) . Officially St. Franciscus Xaveriuskerk.  
• De Papegaai , Kalverstraat 58 ( tram 1, 2 or 5 to Dam ). Low Mass M-Sa 10:30 (Dutch), High Mass Su 10:30 (Latin), 12:15 (Latin) . Officially the HH. Petrus en Pauluskerk.  
• English Reformed Church ( Engelse Hervormde Kerk ), Begijnhof 48 ( tram 1, 2 or 5 to Spui ), ☏ +31 20 624-9665 . Sunday worship at 10:30 (English) . A Reformed Church led by a (Presbyterian) Church of Scotland minister. An English speaking congregation at the Begijnhof.  
• The Lady of All Nations , Diepenbrockstraat 3 ( near the RAI Convention Centre ), ☏ +31 20 662-0504 . Holy Mass M W F Sa 12:15, Tu: 07:15, Th 18:30, Su 9:30, 11:15 (all Dutch) . Mass times are subject to change. Call to be certain.  
• Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk , Keizersgracht 220 ( tram 6, 13, 14, 17 or bus 21, 170, 172 to Westermarkt ), [email protected] . Holy Mass Sa 19:00 (Dutch), Su 11:15 (Dutch), 18:00 (English) .  
• Oud-Katholieke Kerk Amsterdam , Ruysdaelstraat 39 ( tram 16 or 24 to Ruysdaelstraat ), ☏ +31 20 662-8313 . Eucharist Su 10:00 (Dutch) . A Dutch denomination in communion with the Church of England (Anglican).  
• Parish of the Blessed Trinity , Zaaiersweg 180 ( tram 9 to Brinkstraat ), ☏ +31 20 465-2711 . Mass Su 10:30 and 12:00 (both English) .  

Go next [ edit ]

Almost any place in the Netherlands can be reached within 3 hours of rail travel. To avoid a big list, day trips have been divided into those close to the city (about 30 minutes by public transport) and those further afield.

North Holland [ edit ]

• Alkmaar — historic town with a cheese market
• Enkhuizen — interesting small town with the Zuiderzee Museum that shows how people used to live with the persistent danger of the sea
• Haarlem — the closest of the historic cities, just 15 minutes from Amsterdam Centraal by train
• Muiden — formerly a small port at the mouth of the Vecht, it has the Muiderslot , the best-known castle of the country
• Naarden — surrounded by a complete ring of 17th-century fortifications
• Hilversum — affluent town known for its magnificent town hall, also offers cycling tours through forests and the heath
• Waterland — picturesque countryside villages that can be reached by bicycle
• Zaanse Schans — historic windmills, tradesmen workshops and an open-air museum
• Zandvoort — closest beach resort to Amsterdam

Further destinations [ edit ]

• Delft — well known for its traditional blue and white ceramics
• Gouda — historic town famous for its Gouda cheese and the cheese market
• 's-Hertogenbosch — traditional southern city that goes crazy during carnival
• Keukenhof — blooming flower gardens, a seasonal attraction in spring
• Kinderdijk — an authentic network of windmills that shows the Dutch countryside at its best
• Leiden — vibrant student town with the country's oldest university and several museums
• Rotterdam — has a history of rivalry with Amsterdam and a completely different atmosphere with modern architecture
• The Hague — political heart of the country with Madurodam, Binnenhof and beaches
• Utrecht — historic city with a somewhat less-ambitious canal system

• Has custom banner
• Huge city articles
• Has mapframe
• Maps with non-default alignment
• Maps with non-default size
• Has map markers
• Go listing with no coordinates
• Articles with dead external links
• Do listing with no coordinates
• Has routebox
• Guide cities
• Guide articles
• City articles
• Cities with categories
• All destination articles
• Has Geo parameter
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

Amsterdam » Tips for visitors » Amsterdam tourist office

Amsterdam visitor center - tourist office

Amsterdam has two official visitor centers: one in the Amsterdam Schiphol Airport Terminal and one in front of the Central Station. These offices not only inform you about the city in a professional way but can also give you free small maps and folders with information about the city.

Online sources of informaton about Amsterdam

Before going to the tourist center, our pages might answer your questions about Amsterdams:

• Discount city passes
• Touristic attractions
• Accommodation
• Guided Tours

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport

I amsterdam visitor center Arrivals Hall 2. open daily from 7:00 to 22:00

Central Station

Located in a small wooden house outside of central station building on the station square. Between the central station main entrance and city center.

I amsterdam visitor center Stationplein 1 open daily from 9:00 to 18:00

Amsterdam Store

It is a place where you can buy local products and souvenirs. Like books, clothing, flowers, small gifts, but also food and drink that are local delicacies. They also sell entrance tickets to local events.

The I amsterdam store is located inside the central station building. It is not outside like the visitor center.

They are open from 10:00 to 19:00 on weekdays. And 9:00 to 18:00 on weekends.

Visiting the Netherlands

Apart from the Amsterdam office, there is also the National Board of Holland Tourism, which may be useful if you plan to visit any of the many tourist attractions out of Amsterdam, other old cities, museums in Haarlem, The Hague and Rotterdam, Dutch castles or the tulip gardens.

Welcome to Amsterdam

Amsterdam has fascinated us since our first visit many years ago. The history, the canals and the connection with the element water make this city unique.

Why this Travel guide?

This guide is our way of sharing our knowledge and enthusiasm for Amsterdam. It should help you to experience and discover the city.

Due to the fact that accommodation is not cheap, most Amsterdam tourists stay in the city for only a few days. Time is short. It is therefore a good idea to do your research beforehand to avoid wasting time and money on the spot. It is a shame to waste time in this fascinating city.

We will show you how to experience Amsterdam in a short time. That’s why you’ll find lots of information & insider tips on how to avoid queues at ticket counters or how to buy public transport tickets online before your trip.

We hope you enjoy reading this guide and have a great trip to Amsterdam.

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies.

We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.

Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.

These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.

Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refusing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.

We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.

We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.

These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are, or to help us customize our website and application for you in order to enhance your experience.

If you do not want that we track your visit to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here:

We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.

Google Webfont Settings:

Google Map Settings:

Google reCaptcha Settings:

Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:

The following cookies are also needed - You can choose if you want to allow them:

You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.

Amsterdam Tourist Guide

A handy Amsterdam guide for city information and activities.

Choose your category

Featured tours, rijksmuseum, canal "booze" cruise, amsterdam light festival.

We take you on an unforgettable expedition through the illuminated canals. The open-air exhibition “10 Years Light Festival” is the tenth edition of the Amsterdam Light Festival. From 2th of December, 2021 to  23th of Januari, 2022, Amsterdam will once again be the stage for international light art. Learn all about the artworks from the trained skipper and hostess. Make sure to book in advance to secure your spot!

Most popular tours

Heineken experience, madame tussauds, amsterdam dungeon, casa rosso erotic theatre, body worlds, enjoy amsterdam.

Questions or remarks? Let us know!

Copyright © 2021 amsterdam tourist guide.

• Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Tourism in Amsterdam - Statistics and Facts

Who travels to amsterdam, impact of covid-19 on accommodation in amsterdam, key insights.

Detailed statistics

Inbound tourist arrivals in the Netherlands 2012-2022, by accommodation type

Tourist accommodation establishments in Amsterdam, Netherlands 2010-2022

Number of overnight accommodation units in Amsterdam in the Netherlands 2022, by type

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

Accommodation.

Average cost of overnight accommodation in Amsterdam 2019-2023, by month

Number of hotels in Amsterdam (Netherlands) 2007-2020

Short-Term Rentals & Holiday Homes

Number of Airbnb listings in Amsterdam 2023, by room type

Further recommended statistics

• Basic Statistic Travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in the Netherlands 2019-2022
• Premium Statistic International tourism receipts in the Netherlands 2010-2023
• Basic Statistic Change in inbound tourism receipts due to COVID-19 in the Netherlands 2019-2020
• Basic Statistic Tourism expenditure in the Netherlands 2010-2020, by category
• Basic Statistic Change in international tourist arrivals due to COVID-19 in the Netherlands 2019-2021
• Premium Statistic Number of tourism jobs in the Netherlands 2010-2022

Travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in the Netherlands 2019-2022

Total contribution of travel and tourism to GDP in the Netherlands in 2019 and 2022 (in billion euros)

International tourism receipts in the Netherlands 2010-2023

International tourism receipts in the Netherlands from 2010 to 2023 (in billion U.S. dollars)

Change in inbound tourism receipts due to COVID-19 in the Netherlands 2019-2020

Change in international tourism receipts in the Netherlands due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in 2019 and 2020, by quarter (in million U.S. dollars)

Tourism expenditure in the Netherlands 2010-2020, by category

Tourism expenditure in the Netherlands from 2010 to 2020, by category (in million euros)

Change in international tourist arrivals due to COVID-19 in the Netherlands 2019-2021

Change in international tourist arrivals in the Netherlands due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic from January 2019 to April 2021 (in 1,000s)

Number of tourism jobs in the Netherlands 2010-2022

Number of jobs in the tourism industry in the Netherlands from 2010 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

• Premium Statistic Tourist accommodation establishments in Amsterdam, Netherlands 2010-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of overnight accommodation units in Amsterdam in the Netherlands 2022, by type
• Premium Statistic Inbound tourist arrivals in the Netherlands 2012-2022, by accommodation type
• Premium Statistic Average cost of overnight accommodation in Amsterdam 2019-2023, by month

Number of tourist accommodation establishments in Amsterdam, Netherlands from 2010 to 2022

Number of overnight accommodation establishments in Amsterdam in the Netherlands as of December 2022, by type

Number of international tourist arrivals in the Netherlands from 2012 to 2022, by type of accommodation (in 1,000s)

Average cost of overnight accommodation in Amsterdam, the Netherlands from January 2019 to December 2023 (in euros)

• Premium Statistic Number of hotels in Amsterdam (Netherlands) 2007-2020
• Premium Statistic Number of hotel rooms in Amsterdam from 2017 to 2020, by classification
• Premium Statistic Tourist arrivals in hotels in Amsterdam 2022, by origin
• Premium Statistic Leading travel markets in Amsterdam 2019-2022, by number of hotel overnight stays

Total number of hotels in Amsterdam (Netherlands) from 2007 to 2020

Number of hotel rooms in Amsterdam from 2017 to 2020, by classification

Tourist arrivals in hotels in Amsterdam 2022, by origin

Number of tourist arrivals in hotels in Amsterdam, the Netherlands in 2022, by origin (in 1,000s)

Leading travel markets in Amsterdam 2019-2022, by number of hotel overnight stays

Number of tourist overnight stays in hotels in Amsterdam, the Netherlands from 2019 to 2022, by country (in 1,000s)

• Premium Statistic Number of Airbnb listings in Amsterdam 2023, by room type
• Premium Statistic Number of Airbnb listings in Amsterdam 2022, by district
• Premium Statistic Overnight stays spent at Airbnb rentals in Amsterdam 2016-2019

Number of Airbnb listings in Amsterdam, the Netherlands as of December 2023, by room type

Number of Airbnb listings in Amsterdam 2022, by district

Number of Airbnb listings in Amsterdam, the Netherlands in 2022, by district

Overnight stays spent at Airbnb rentals in Amsterdam 2016-2019

Number of overnight stays spent in Airbnb accommodation in Amsterdam in the Netherlands from 2016 to 2019 (in 1,000s)

Business tourism

• Basic Statistic Overnight stays in hotels by business travelers in Amsterdam 2012-2022
• Premium Statistic Overnight stays in hotels by business travelers in Amsterdam 2022, by category
• Premium Statistic Number of meetings held in Amsterdam 2014-2020
• Premium Statistic Leading exhibitions in Amsterdam 2021, by number of visitors

Overnight stays in hotels by business travelers in Amsterdam 2012-2022

Number of nights spent by business tourists in hotels in Amsterdam, Netherlands from 2012 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Overnight stays in hotels by business travelers in Amsterdam 2022, by category

Number of nights spent by business tourists in hotels in Amsterdam, Netherlands in 2022, by star rating (in 1,000s)

Number of meetings held in Amsterdam 2014-2020

Total number of meetings held in Amsterdam, Netherlands, from 2014 to 2020

Leading exhibitions in Amsterdam 2021, by number of visitors

Leading trade and public exhibitions in Amsterdam, the Netherlands in 2021, by number of visitors

Cultural activities

• Premium Statistic Attendance at the Rijksmuseum 2014-2021
• Premium Statistic Attendance at the Van Gogh Museum 2014-2021
• Premium Statistic Visitors to the Anne Frank Huis in Amsterdam in the Netherlands 2011-2020
• Premium Statistic Visitors to the NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam in the Netherlands 2011-2020
• Premium Statistic Visitors to the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam (Netherlands) 2012-2020
• Premium Statistic Number of visitors to Natura Artis Magistra Zoo Amsterdam 2011-2022

Attendance at the Rijksmuseum 2014-2021

Total number of visitors to the Rijksmuseum in the Netherlands from 2014 to 2021 (in millions)

Attendance at the Van Gogh Museum 2014-2021

Total number of visitors to the Van Gogh Museum in the Netherlands from 2014 to 2021 (in millions)

Visitors to the Anne Frank Huis in Amsterdam in the Netherlands 2011-2020

Number of visitors to the Anne Frank Huis in Amsterdam in the Netherlands from 2011 to 2020 (in 1,000s)

Visitors to the NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam in the Netherlands 2011-2020

Number of visitors to the NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam in the Netherlands from 2011 to 2020 (in 1,000s)

Visitors to the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam (Netherlands) 2012-2020

Number of visitors to the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam (Netherlands) from 2012 to 2020 (in 1,000s)

Number of visitors to Natura Artis Magistra Zoo Amsterdam 2011-2022

Number of visitors to the Natura Artis Magistra Zoo in Amsterdam in the Netherlands from 2011 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Further reports

Get the best reports to understand your industry.

Mon - Fri, 9am - 6pm (EST)

Mon - Fri, 9am - 5pm (SGT)

Mon - Fri, 10:00am - 6:00pm (JST)

Mon - Fri, 9:30am - 5pm (GMT)

Amsterdam doesn’t want any more tourists – so here are 10 alternatives

A 200-yard-long TikTok-generated queue for fries; shoulder-to-shoulder pedestrians in shopping streets; parks so packed they look like a festival is on the go; restaurants and cafes where you struggle to get a table – overtourism is strangling Amsterdam . Cheap air tickets and the direct London to Amsterdam Eurostar connection keep the people flowing in. 

After the pandemic-induced lull, numbers of visitors to Amsterdam have shot back up to around 20 million a year. That’s for a city that is home to just over 900,000 somewhat overwhelmed Amsterdammers. Party tourism – British stag and hen parties, especially – generates the most media outrage, but the overcrowding floods into all corners of the city, and is not just caused by pub-crawlers and pot-smokers. Getting a ticket to a good exhibition can be just as much a trial as pushing your way through revellers in the red-light district.

Now even the tourists are starting to complain. An academic study reported in local newspaper Het Parool found that tourists’ brain waves (measured using an EEG helmet) showed a panicked flight response at the sight of busy city tourist spots.

Amsterdam authorities have announced various measures in recent years as part of attempts to tackle the problem, such as severe restrictions on short-term rentals and a ban on disruptive activities such as beer bicycles and large walking-tour groups. An online campaign that directs people Googling for information on stag venues to a site imploring them not to come has had little notable effect. Currently Europe’s most expensive city break destination , Amsterdam again raised its tourist tax this year to 12.5 per cent (the highest on the continent). But global tourists are getting richer, and the visitors continue to come.

It is time to start looking for somewhere else and, luckily, the Netherlands has plenty of alternatives. Here are 10 of the best.

Best for a vibrant city atmosphere

Rotterdam’s raw urban edge, bravura architecture and big-town buzz set it apart from other Dutch cities. From the Blaakse Bos (cube-shaped apartments up-ended on one corner and perched on stalks), to the exuberantly colourful Markt Hal, the city brings a sense of adventure. Different city quarters flip the mood as you go: hip eateries and quirky shops in the Laurenskwartier; young-talent art galleries around Witte de Withstraat; the old-world gabled charm of Delfshaven. The Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum (boijmans.nl; famed for its surrealist collection) is closed till 2029, but check out what’s on at the Kunsthal (kunsthal.nl).

How to do it: Fly to Rotterdam The Hague Airport with British Airways (from London City and Edinburgh) or Transavia (from Edinburgh). Trains from Amsterdam to Rotterdam take 40–75 minutes. The direct Eurostar London-Amsterdam train also stops in Rotterdam.

CitizenM Rotterdam is a buzzy hotel with compact but comfortable rooms, near the old harbour area and one of the hippest parts of town.

Best for a chic experience and fine art

Funky Amsterdam’s slightly disapproving, posher sister is the seat of government and home to the Dutch Royals, as well as host to embassies, the world Peace Palace and powerful international courts. It boasts a sedate and grand air, especially as you wander where the big wheels turn: Binnenhof, Lange Voorhout and Paleis Noordeinde. All this is leavened by a large city forest, the Scheveningse Bosjes, and a long stretch of seafront at Scheveningen. Added in the mix come the Mauritshuis museum (with Vermeer, Rembrandt and more fine Golden Age painting) and the Kunstmuseum , which shows excellent modern and contemporary art.

How to do it: Fly to Rotterdam The Hague Airport with British Airways (from London City and Edinburgh) or Transavia (from Edinburgh), or take the Eurostar to Amsterdam. Trains from Amsterdam to The Hague take around 50 minutes.

The Collector is a friendly hotel with contemporary verve, right in the heart of town.

Best for porcelain aficionados

One of the prettiest towns in the Netherlands, Delft offers teaspoon-sized helpings of Dutch charm: tree-lined canals, gabled houses, a lively market, quiet cafe terraces, a Renaissance-style city hall, august churches – together with many a street scene that could have been painted by its most famous son, Johannes Vermeer. Visit Royal Delft , where the famous blue-and-white porcelain has been made since 1653, to see how it is done and admire the collection. 

How to do it: Fly to Rotterdam The Hague Airport with British Airways (from London City and Edinburgh) or Transavia (from Edinburgh), or take the Eurostar to Amsterdam. Trains from Amsterdam to Delft take an hour, transfers from Rotterdam Airport around 40 mins.

Hotel Arsenaal is an exquisitely restored 17th century arsenal, on a canal in the heart of town.

Best for student bonhomie

The Netherlands’ northern capital is a lively university town with a fierce sense of independence. Offbeat and bohemian, Groningen is more laid-back than hip. It’s been a prosperous place since medieval times (witness the towering Gothic steeple of the Martinikerk and occasional patrician mansion), but prefers bonhomie to boasting. Wander among the quirky stores and cafes on Oosterstraat and Nieuwe Ebbingestraat for a taste of easy-going Groninger life, test the nightlife along Poelestraat, or take in the zany design of the Groninger Museum where differently coloured walls, odd angles and motley mosaic stairwells set the mood for displays of contemporary art.

How to do it: Fly to Schiphol Airport (served by British Airways , KLM , easyJet , and Ryanair, from various UK locations) or take Eurostar to Amsterdam. Trains from Amsterdam to Groningen take around 2.5 hours.

The Prinsenhof is an elegant city-centre hotel dating back over six centuries, with a walled garden.

Best for ceramics lovers

Leeuwarden was the birthplace of seductress and spy Mata Hari and the artist MC Escher, whose former home (originally an 18th-century royal palace) now forms part of the Princessehof Ceramics Museum . The museum’s superb collection is especially strong on Chinese Imperial porcelain, Art Nouveau and Art Deco, and of course, Dutch ceramics and contemporary work. For more on Mata Hari, head to the Frisian Museum, which also has displays of Escher, local Frisian art and culture, and, curiously, the pre-Raphaelite artist Lawrence Alma-Tadema.

Look out for men walking rabbits, too. No, really. That’s what Gavin Haines saw on a visit for Telegraph Travel .

How to do it: Fly to Schiphol Airport (served by British Airways , KLM , easyJet , and Ryanair, from various UK locations) or take the Eurostar to Amsterdam. Trains from Amsterdam to Leeuwarden take 2–2.5 hours

Boutique Hotel Catshuis offers contemporary calm in a canalside location.

Best for design buffs and techies

The Dutch narrative rarely touches on the country’s fifth biggest city – but Eindhoven is more than a name from the football fixture list. It is home to an internationally renowned Design Academy and a leading technical university. And it delivers striking architecture in the Evoluon , a UFO-esque landmark which, though built in 1966, still speaks of the future. Visit the hip Strijp-S and Strijp-R, former industrial areas with restaurants, bars, art and design spaces, and a lively skatepark; or the restaurants, cafes and weekly market around Kruisstraat.

How to do it: Fly to Eindhoven Airport with Ryanair (from London Stansted), or take the Eurostar to Amsterdam. Trains from Amsterdam to Eindhoven take around 1 hour 20 minutes.

Hotel Piet Hein Eek incorporates work by some of the Netherlands’ best new designers into an art-cum-living space near the hip Strijp-S quarter

Best for foodies and the good life

The oldest city in the Netherlands, Maastricht (on a narrow tongue of land that pierces south between Belgium and Germany) is also one of the most beautiful, with huge cafe-filled squares, fine buildings, cobbled alleys to explore, and a wide, slow river meandering through the middle. To the Dutch, Maastricht is the symbol of the southern love of the good life, and, indeed, the food here, from market and cafe to high-end restaurant and chocolatier is superb. Along the way, take in the gentle Romanesque arches of Onze Lieve Vrouwebasiliek (the Basilica of Our Dear Lady), medieval carvings and modern art at the Bonnefantenmuseum , and 10th-century glitz in the treasury of the vast St Servaas Basiliek.

How to do it: Fly to Schiphol Airport (served by British Airways , KLM , easyJet and Ryanair, from various UK locations) or take the Eurostar to Amsterdam. Trains from Amsterdam to Maastricht take 2 hours 20 minutes.

Hotel Au Quartier offers cosy charm in an 18th-century city centre townhouse.

Best for that ‘little Amsterdam’ feel

A 25-minute rail trip from the Dutch capital, Utrecht shares many characteristics with its bigger sibling – quaint canals, world-class cultural attractions, a thriving nightlife – but without the crowds. The Centraal Museum boasts the world’s largest collection of work by Gerrit Rietveld, a principal member of De Stijl art movement (including his famous Red Blue Chair), as well as 400 other works, from medieval paintings to dresses by the designers Viktor & Rolf. The ancient Catharijneconvent has beautiful medieval paintings and stages impressive, well thought-out exhibitions.

How to do it: Fly to Schiphol Airport (served by British Airways , KLM , easyJet , and Ryanair, from various UK locations) or take the Eurostar to Amsterdam. Trains from Amsterdam to Utrecht take around half an hour.

Mother Goose is a friendly boutique hotel in the heart of where it’s all happening.

Best for bulb lovers

Leiden has it all: canals, gabled houses and world-class museums – with a few windmills thrown in for good measure. It hosts the country’s most prestigious university, dating back to 1581, was Rembrandt’s birthplace and home to the Pilgrim Fathers before they set off for America, and is the site of the first tulips ever grown in Holland. Those were planted by Carolus Clusius in 1593 in the Hortus Botanicus, a tranquil botanical garden you can still visit. There’s a rich repository of Old Masters at De Lakenhal Museum , and one of the best collections of Japanese art and artefacts in the world at the Sieboldhuis . Leiden is also a good base for trips to the bulb fields in spring.

How to do it: Fly to Schiphol Airport (served by British Airways , KLM , easyJet , and Ryanair, from various UK locations) or take the Eurostar to Amsterdam. Trains from Amsterdam to Leiden take 30 to 40 minutes.

Hotel d’Oude Morsch offers a time-warp stay in an old guardhouse, right in the city centre, beside a park and canal.

Best for cheese lovers

Famed for its cheese (more varied and exciting than what the British call “gouda”) and top-class candles, Gouda has a thriving arts-and-crafts scene. Top attractions are the fairytale-like Gothic Stadhuis and the 16th-century Sint Janskerk – the longest church in the Netherlands, incorporating some fine medieval stained glass rescued from a predecessor. A re-enacted medieval cheese market (Thursday mornings in summer), beloved by tour groups, is easily avoided if it’s not quite your thing.

How to do it: Fly to Rotterdam The Hague Airport with British Airways (from London City and Edinburgh) or Transavia (from Edinburgh), take the Eurostar to Rotterdam, or fly to Amsterdam Schiphol. Trains from Amsterdam to Gouda take around 50 minutes, transfers from Rotterdam Airport around an hour.

The Weeshuis is housed in a 16th-century former orphanage and city landmark, and is renowned locally for its friendly staff and cuisine

Play The Telegraph’s brilliant range of Puzzles - and feel brighter every day. Train your brain and boost your mood with PlusWord, the Mini Crossword, the fearsome Killer Sudoku and even the classic Cryptic Crossword.

The Best Way To Travel From Roermond To Amsterdam Airport

• Last updated May 18, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

Are you planning a trip from the picturesque city of Roermond to the bustling Amsterdam Airport? If so, you may be wondering what the best way to travel between these two destinations is. With several transportation options available, it can be difficult to decide which one is the most convenient and efficient. In this article, we will explore the various ways you can travel from Roermond to Amsterdam Airport, helping you make an informed decision for your journey. Whether you prefer a direct and time-efficient option or a scenic and leisurely route, we've got you covered. Let's dive in and find the best way to get you to Amsterdam Airport from Roermond!

What You'll Learn

Transportation options from roermond to amsterdam airport, train schedules and fares for travelling between roermond and amsterdam airport, bus services available for the journey from roermond to amsterdam airport, tips for a smooth journey from roermond to amsterdam airport.

If you're planning to travel from Roermond to Amsterdam Airport, there are several transportation options available. Whether you prefer convenience, speed, or affordability, you can choose the option that suits your needs. Here are three common ways to make this journey:

The train is a popular choice for travel between Roermond and Amsterdam Airport because it's convenient and efficient. The journey takes approximately 2-2.5 hours, depending on the train you take. Here's how you can make this journey by train:

• Start by heading to Roermond Train Station, which is located in the city center. You can easily reach the station by walking, cycling, or taking a local bus or taxi.
• Check the train schedule in advance to find a suitable departure time. Trains from Roermond to Amsterdam Airport run frequently throughout the day, usually with a transfer at Eindhoven or Utrecht.
• Purchase your train ticket at the station or online. You can buy tickets from self-service machines or at the ticket office.
• Board the train and relax during the journey. Most trains offer comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets for charging your devices. Some trains may require reservations, so it's best to check in advance.

If you prefer a more affordable option, you can take a bus from Roermond to Amsterdam Airport. While this may take longer than the train, it can be a cost-effective choice. Follow these steps to travel by bus:

• Head to Roermond's main bus station, which is centrally located near the train station. You can walk or take a short taxi or bus ride to reach the bus station.
• Look for buses heading to Amsterdam. Some buses may have direct routes, while others may require a transfer at another city or bus station. Check the bus schedule to find a suitable departure time.
• Purchase your bus ticket before boarding. You can buy tickets at the bus station or sometimes directly from the driver. It's a good idea to have cash on hand as some buses may not accept card payments.
• Once aboard the bus, find a seat and prepare for the journey. Buses usually have comfortable seating, air conditioning, and sometimes even Wi-Fi. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.

Car rental or taxi:

If you prefer a more private and flexible option, you can consider renting a car or taking a taxi from Roermond to Amsterdam Airport. This option can be more expensive, but it allows you to travel at your own pace and take any desired stops along the way. Here's what you need to know:

• If you plan to rent a car, you can find several car rental companies in Roermond. Compare prices and choose a reputable provider. Make a reservation in advance to ensure availability.
• If you prefer to take a taxi, you can easily find taxi services in Roermond. Book a taxi in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle. Taxis can pick you up from your location and drop you off directly at the airport.
• The journey by car or taxi usually takes around 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Consider leaving with extra time, especially during peak travel hours or on busy days.

Before you travel, it's essential to check the latest travel advice and any restrictions or requirements due to COVID-19. Additionally, make sure to allow enough time for your journey, especially if you have a flight to catch. Safe travels!

The Ultimate Guide on How to Travel from London to Warsaw

You may want to see also

If you're looking to travel from Roermond to Amsterdam Airport, you have a few different options. One of the most convenient and efficient ways to make the journey is by train. The train journey takes approximately 2 hours and requires a transfer at Eindhoven. Here's a complete guide on train schedules and fares for traveling between Roermond and Amsterdam Airport.

Train Schedules:

The train service between Roermond and Amsterdam is operated by Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), the national railway company in the Netherlands. Trains on this route run frequently, offering a good level of flexibility for travelers. The first train from Roermond to Amsterdam Airport typically departs around 5:00 am, and the last train leaves around midnight.

To find the most up-to-date train schedules, it is recommended to check the NS website or use their mobile app. These platforms provide real-time information on train departures, arrivals, and any possible disruptions or delays.

To get from Roermond to Amsterdam Airport, you will need to make a transfer at Eindhoven. The journey from Roermond to Eindhoven takes approximately 30 minutes, and from Eindhoven to Amsterdam Airport, it takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The transfer time at Eindhoven can vary, but in most cases, it allows for a smooth transition between trains.

The cost of the train ticket from Roermond to Amsterdam Airport can vary depending on several factors such as the time of travel, the class of service, and whether you purchase a single or return ticket. However, as a general guideline, a one-way ticket for this journey can cost between €20 and €40.

To get the best fares, it is recommended to book your train tickets in advance. The NS website and mobile app offer an easy and convenient way to purchase your tickets online. Additionally, NS frequently offers special deals and discounts, so it's worth keeping an eye out for any promotions that may be available.

Ticket Validation:

When traveling by train in the Netherlands, it's important to remember to validate your train ticket before boarding the train. Most train stations have yellow ticket validation machines located at the entrance of the platforms. Simply insert your ticket into the machine, and it will be stamped with the date and time, validating it for your journey.

Tips for a Smooth Journey:

• Arrive at the train station in Roermond a few minutes before your scheduled departure to allow enough time to find your platform and validate your ticket.
• Check the NS website or app for any updates or disruptions to train services before you travel.
• Make a note of your connection time at Eindhoven to ensure a smooth transfer between trains.
• Keep your ticket handy throughout the journey, as you may be asked to show it to train staff or ticket inspectors.

By following these tips and understanding the train schedules and fares, you can easily travel from Roermond to Amsterdam Airport without any hassle. The train journey offers a comfortable and efficient way to reach your destination, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic Dutch countryside along the way.

Is it Necessary to Exchange Currency Before Traveling to France?

If you need to travel from Roermond to Amsterdam Airport, there are several bus services available to make your journey convenient and hassle-free. Here are the details of these bus services:

• FlixBus: FlixBus is a popular long-distance bus service that offers daily connections between Roermond and Amsterdam Airport. They have comfortable buses equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard toilets. The journey takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on the traffic conditions. To book your ticket, you can visit the FlixBus website or use their mobile app.
• Eurolines: Eurolines is another well-known bus company that provides services from Roermond to Amsterdam Airport. They offer regular direct connections, usually with one transfer along the route. The duration of the journey may vary depending on the transfer time, but it typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. Eurolines buses are equipped with facilities like air conditioning and comfortable seats. To book your ticket, you can visit the official Eurolines website or visit their ticket office in Roermond.
• RegioJet: RegioJet is a Czech bus company that operates on the Roermond-Amsterdam Airport route. They offer affordable and comfortable bus services, featuring amenities like free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. The journey duration with RegioJet usually ranges from 2 hours and 45 minutes to 3 hours and 30 minutes, depending on the traffic. To book your ticket, you can visit the RegioJet website or check their mobile app for availability and schedules.
• Flibco: Flibco is a shuttle bus service that specifically caters to airport transfers. They offer direct connections between Roermond and Amsterdam Airport, making it a convenient option for travelers. The journey time with Flibco is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. You can book your ticket on the Flibco website or purchase it directly from the driver upon boarding the bus.

When using any of these bus services, it is recommended to arrive at the bus stop or station a few minutes before the scheduled departure time. Make sure to have your ticket ready, either in print or on your mobile device, as you may be asked to show it during boarding. Additionally, check the luggage restrictions of the respective bus company to avoid any last-minute inconveniences.

Overall, these bus services offer a reliable and cost-effective way to travel from Roermond to Amsterdam Airport. Plan your journey accordingly, considering traffic conditions, to ensure you reach the airport on time for your flight.

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling from Denver Airport to Breckenridge

Traveling from Roermond to Amsterdam airport may seem like a daunting task, but with a little planning and preparation, your journey can be smooth and stress-free. Here are some tips to help you navigate the transportation options and ensure a hassle-free trip:

Choose the right mode of transportation:

• Train: The train is the most convenient and popular mode of transportation for this journey. There are frequent trains running from Roermond to Amsterdam. Check the train schedule in advance and plan your journey based on the departure and arrival times that best suit your needs.
• Bus: If you prefer to travel by bus, you can find several bus operators offering services from Roermond to Amsterdam airport. However, keep in mind that buses may take longer than trains to reach the airport.

Book your tickets in advance:

To avoid last-minute hassles, it is advisable to book your train or bus tickets in advance. This not only ensures you have a seat reserved but also helps you save time and money.

Check the travel duration:

Depending on the mode of transportation you choose, the travel duration may vary. Trains generally take around 2-2.5 hours to reach Amsterdam airport, while buses may take longer. It is essential to consider this when planning your journey and factor in sufficient time for any layovers or delays.

Plan for airport transfers:

Once you reach Amsterdam airport, you may need to transfer to the appropriate terminal or gate for your departure. It is crucial to know the layout of the airport in advance to avoid any confusion or unnecessary delays. Consider using luggage carts or airport trolleys to ease the process of transporting your luggage.

Pack and prepare wisely:

Before your journey, ensure you have packed all the necessary travel documents, such as your passport, boarding pass, and any other relevant identification. Check the weight and size restrictions for your luggage to avoid any additional charges or inconveniences at the airport. Additionally, consider carrying essential items like water, snacks, and entertainment to make your journey more comfortable.

Check for any updates or disruptions:

Prior to your departure, check for any updates or disruptions in the train or bus schedules. This can help you avoid unnecessary delays or cancellations. Many transportation companies provide real-time updates on their websites or through mobile applications, so it's a good idea to stay informed.

Arrive at the station or bus stop early:

To ensure a stress-free journey, plan to arrive at the train station or bus stop well in advance. This will give you ample time to find the platform or boarding area, gather any necessary information, and settle in before your departure.

Stay connected:

It is always a good idea to have a mobile device or access to the internet during your journey. This allows you to stay connected and informed about any last-minute changes or updates that may affect your travel plans.

By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey from Roermond to Amsterdam airport. Remember to plan ahead, stay organized, and enjoy your trip without unnecessary stress or complications.

Traveling with CBD Oil in Checked Luggage: Everything You Need to Know

Frequently asked questions.

• Paolo Barresi Author

• Duke Trotter Author Editor Reviewer Traveller

It is awesome. Thank you for your feedback!

We are sorry. Plesae let us know what went wrong?

We will update our content. Thank you for your feedback!

Leave a comment

Travel photos, related posts.

Mastering the Art of Making Money in the Global Travel and Tourism Industries

• May 12, 2024

The Best Places to Dine for Solo Travelers in Prague

• May 08, 2024

Exploring Hawaii's Beautiful Landscapes: A Guide for H1B Visa Holders

• Mar 26, 2024

Unlock Your Travel Adventures: Exploring Visa's Travel Rewards Program

• Apr 13, 2024

The Perfect Size: Understanding the EVOC Travel Bag for Your Next Adventure

• May 11, 2024

Understanding Travel Money with NatWest: A Comprehensive Guide

• May 13, 2024

Europe Chevron

The Netherlands Chevron

18 Places to Visit in the Netherlands That Aren't Amsterdam

By Chris Schalkx

Take it from a born-and-raised Dutchman: There are plenty of places to visit in the Netherlands that aren’t Amsterdam . If you stick to just the capital city, you’re only scratching the surface of this small-but-mighty country.

Look beyond Amsterdam’s tourist-thronged canal belt, and you’ll find plenty of villages plucked straight out of a classic painting by one of the Old Masters—windmills, tulips , swirling waterways, and all. There are sprawling national parks brimming with birdlife and criss-crossed with cycling trails , while envelope-pushing cities like Eindhoven and Rotterdam show that the country is a creative powerhouse too.

The best part? The national train network reaches all corners of the country, and its relatively small size puts even the most far-flung places within a day-trip distance from Amsterdam. Below, 18 places to visit in the Netherlands that aren’t Amsterdam—from frozen-in-time villages to museum-packed cities —to consider adding to your itinerary.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Katherine LaGrave and Caitlin Morton.

Wrapped in the Dutch countryside within easy day-trip distance from Amsterdam, Zaandam once stood at the heart of the Dutch milling industry. Remnants of these glory days can be found at Zaanse Schans, a short drive north from downtown, where a stroll through its jumble of windmills and clapboard houses feels like stepping into a real-life version of an Old Masters painting. Downtown, the ubiquitous Zaan-style architecture has gotten a mind-bendingly modern makeover at the landmark Inntel Hotel (an Escher-esque mash-up of traditional Zaanse houses), and the Zaandam City Hall, which reinterprets the shapes of Zaanse houses into minimalist masterpieces.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Zaandam in 15 minutes.

For Dutch standards, the two-hour train ride to this northern city is a nearly impossible schlep, but the picturesque journey through rolling farmlands is well worth it. Criss-crossed with canals and dotted with monumental churches, Renaissance-era gardens, and warehouses dating back to the 16th century, Groningen is packed with history. But as one of the country’s main university towns, the city has a surprisingly forward-thinking nightlife scene too. Most of the action happens around de Grote Markt (Big Market) square, which hosts a lively fish and food market by day, and turns into a party hub after dark.

How to get there : Trains from Amsterdam with a transfer in Utrecht or Almere bring you to Groningen in about two hours.

Thought this place was pancake-flat? Most of it is, yes—but Maastricht and the surrounding Zuid Limburg countryside prove that there’s more to this land than polders and endlessly flat farmland. Start off in Maastricht, the country’s southernmost major city, where you can walk through centuries worth of history in its cathedrals and limestone mines. After, venture into the undulating hills, forests, and meadows of Zuid Limburg via picturesque towns such as Valkenburg and Gulpen, from which miles of walking and cycling trails roll into every direction. The area’s close proximity to Belgium and Germany make it possible to visit all three countries within a single day.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Maastricht in two and a half hours.

This tiny village in the country’s northeast is often referred to as the “ Venice of the Netherlands,”and it’s easy to see why. With its thatched-roof farmhouses and wooden arch bridges, Giethoorn seems to have come straight out of a fairytale. It’s best explored via its network of bike lanes and canals—either by boat, or by ice skating during the frozen winter months. For a lay of the land, make the Museum Giethoorn ’t Olde Maat Uus your first stop. Set in a former farm, this museum walks guests through Giethoorn’s fascinating history via historic artifacts, hand-written letters, and hands-on workshops on old-timey cottage crafts.

How to get there : Trains from Amsterdam bring you to Zwolle in about an hour, from where buses link to central Giethoorn.

Matt Ortile

Scott Laird

Siobhan Reid

Meaghan Kenny

This picturesque fishing village is Holland’s best-known for a reason: It’s filled with colorful wooden houses, bobbing fishing boats, and seafood stall after seafood stall dishing up fish and chips, smoked eel, and pickled herring piled high with onions (to be eaten like the Dutch: in a single gulp). Once you’ve had your share of Volendam, hop on a ferry across the Markermeer lake to Marken, another old-timey Dutch village on a small island some 30 minutes away.

How to get there : Bus 316 leaves from Amsterdam Central station and brings you to Volendam in around 30 minutes.

Imagine a scene of the bucolic Dutch countryside, and the village of Kinderdijk is probably what comes to mind. In other words: lots of windmills. The village’s 19 monumental mills were built in the early 18th century to prevent flooding and keep soil dry, and the mill network has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Some of the mills, including Blokweer and Nederwaard, are open to the public and function as fascinating museums that share a peek into the lives of the families that once inhabited them.

How to get there : Buses leave from Rotterdam and bring you to Kinderdijk in about 30 minutes.

Alkmaar has many intriguing museums and lots of medieval architecture worth checking out, but most visitors flock here for one reason: cheese. The town is known for its traditional cheese market, which takes place on Friday mornings from April to early September. There’s plenty to see in other months too, though: There’s a cheese museum located in the 16th-century Waagtoren tower, half a dozen hofjes (almshouses) with gorgeous courtyard gardens, and a handful of ornately decorated churches dating back to the 17th century.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Alkmaar in just over 30 minutes.

Haarlem’s cobbled streets and pretty canals make this northern Dutch city feel like Amsterdam without the tourist crowds. Even its museums are of a similar caliber, with the renowned Frans Hals Museum exhibiting pieces by Dutch Masters such as Frans Hals and Pieter Bruegel, and its ‘Hal’ wing showcasing contemporary works by international artists. There are historic churches, market squares and quaint hofjes to explore, while the miles of dunes rolling along the coast make for a perfect break away from the city.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Haarlem in 15 minutes.

De Hoge Veluwe National Park

This park is one of the largest in the Netherlands, and within its 13,343 acres, counts rare wildlife, some of the most iconic buildings in the country, and the Kröller-Müller Museum , which showcases a collection of nineteenth and twentieth century art in addition to the largest private collection of Van Goghs. Zoom around on a (free) white bike—the park has about 1,700 on loan at central locations.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Apeldoorn in an hour, from where buses link to various points around the park.

Wadden Sea Islands

The five islands in the Wadden Sea, part of an archipelago of about 50 islands that stretches all the way to Denmark , are some of the country’s best places to unplug. Each one has a unique character, but all deliver seaside tranquility in spades—windswept dunes, cheeky seals, frozen-in-time villages and all. Seek out Texel, the largest of the bunch, for its wildlife-rich nature reserves; opt for largely car-free Schiermonnikoog, if it’s beachside hiking you’re after; or plan a trip to Vlieland during its annual Into The Great Wide Open festival around September, which transforms the island into a giant laid-back music and arts exhibition.

How to get there : Ferries from different cities on the mainland (including Harlingen) with a seasonally-changing schedule bring you to each island in about one to one and a half hours.

You can’t visit the Netherlands and not seek out some of its famous technicolor tulips. There are many places around the country to view the beautiful flowers , but the Keukenhof Gardens (open from March to May) and sprawling fields around the town of Lisse are a sure thing. The floral frenzy is at its peak around mid-April, when the annual Bloemencorse Bollenstreek parade of flower-adorned floats will travel from Noordwijk to Haarlem, with a stop at the Keukenhof along the way.

How to get there : The Keukenhof Express bus from various locations around Amsterdam and Schiphol airport brings you to the Keukenhof in about 30 minutes.

Many people flock to Delft for its eponymous blue pottery, but don’t overlook the town’s Renaissance architecture and Vermeer Centre museum (the Dutch painter, famous for such works as Girl with a Pearl Earring and The Milkmaid , was born and died here). The compact size of its historic center make it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls: Stop for coffee along its canals, browse Delftware in its numerous boutiques, and sample cheeses at the cafe-lined Markt square in front of the Nieuwe Kerk, where a lively local market pops up every Thursday.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Delft in an hour.

If you like technology and design, head to Eindhoven, a southern city home to some of the country’s most envelope-pushing museums and design academies. Seek out the Van Abbemuseum for its modern and contemporary art; stop at industrial park-turned culture hub Strijp-S; and hit up the Inkijkmuseum , a micro-museum located in a former washhouse. The city is at its best during the yearly Dutch Design Week (the largest design fair in northern Europe), which takes over Eindhoven’s creative spaces every October .

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Eindhoven in just under one and half hours.

Utrecht’s historic canal houses have two stories, and its centuries-old wharf cellars now serve as spots to enjoy food and drinks at water level—something unique to this city. You can also enjoy the towering churches and cozy cafes of Utrecht by bicycle, as it’s one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world. It’s also the perfect place for history buffs, with sites like the Dom Tower and Centraal Museum offering glimpses into the country’s past.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Utrecht in 25 minutes.

Beemster Polder

About thirteen miles north of Amsterdam, the Beemster region is a prime example of a Dutch polder—a flat piece of green farmland formed by draining a body of water. Aside from its cultural significance (it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999), the Beemster Polder is a gorgeous landscape, complete with little canals, windmills, and lush green fields. Make sure to stop by Middenbeemster, which, like most towns in the country, is impossibly charming.

How to get there : Buses from various locations around Amsterdam bring you to the Beemster in about 30 minutes.

Holland’s second-largest city lost most of its heritage buildings during World War II bombings, but now leads the way in envelope-pushing architecture. Its skyline is a highlight reel of works by architecture greats such as Rem Koolhaas, who designed the gravity-defying De Rotterdam tower that soars above the Meuse river. Other standouts include the quirky cube houses ( for rent on Airbnb !) by Dutch architect Piet Blom; the horseshoe-shaped Markthal building by local architecture firm MVRDV; and the Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, a bowl-shaped metallic edifice that’s home to the Boijmans Van Beuningen’s 151,000-piece art collection.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Rotterdam in 45 minutes.

Located near the Belgian border in the province of Limburg, Thorn is another one of those postcard-pretty Dutch hamlets with cobblestone roads and ancient churches. What makes Thorn unique, though, is its whitewashed architecture; at the Thorn Museum in the center of town, you’ll learn why this all-white look was an ingenious form of Medieval tax evasion. The other can’t-miss attraction is the 10th-century abbey church, which throughout history grew into a tiny kingdom ruled by noblewomen.

How to get there : From Amsterdam, trains to Weert take about two and a half hours, from where buses connect you to Thorn.

Amsterdam may be the capital, but the Dutch parliament meets in this stunning city on the North Sea. Within its Gothic-style Inner Court lie some of the country’s best museums, including an homage to M.C. Escher and the Mauritshuis (which houses Girl with the Pearl Earring ). Most locals, though, flock to The Hague for its beaches: long stretches of sand lined with lively boulevards, seafood restaurants, and breezy beach clubs.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to The Hague in 50 minutes.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Amsterdam Houses, NY

Amsterdam Houses

Around the Globe

Hurricane tracker.

Severe Weather

Radar & Maps

News & features, winter center.

Max UV Index 4 Moderate

Wind NE 6 mph

Wind Gusts 9 mph

Probability of Precipitation 19%

Probability of Thunderstorms 0%

Precipitation 0.00 in

Cloud Cover 84%

Wind NE 2 mph

Wind Gusts 5 mph

Probability of Precipitation 8%

Cloud Cover 45%

Sun & Moon

Temperature history, further ahead.

Top Stories

Houston storms leave 7 dead, and power outages may last weeks

8 hours ago

Damaging thunderstorms to jolt Gulf Coast states into the weekend

14 hours ago

Weather News

Memorial Day Weekend: Stormy and smoky for some, hot for others

11 minutes ago

Life-threatening flooding problems to expand across southern US

3 minutes ago

Weather Forecasts

'Hot even for Florida natives' as heat wave builds

13 hours ago

Featured Stories

AAA says 2024 to be second highest Memorial Day travel forecast since ...

Lost branch of the Nile could help solve long-standing pyramid mystery

Study reveals when the first warm-blooded dinosaurs roamed Earth

Grocery prices are finally falling

Scientists say they’ve discovered a ‘phonetic alphabet’ in whale calls

Weather Near Amsterdam Houses:

• Bridgeport , CT
• New York , NY
• Newark , NJ

We have updated our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy .

Get AccuWeather alerts as they happen with our browser notifications.

Notifications Enabled

Thanks! We’ll keep you informed.

• Motorcycles
• Car of the Month
• Destinations
• Men’s Fashion
• Watch Collector
• Art & Collectibles
• Vacation Homes
• Celebrity Homes
• New Construction
• Home Design
• Electronics
• Fine Dining
• Les Marquables de Martell
• Mira Villas
• Panther National
• Reynolds Lake Oconee
• Wynn Las Vegas
• 672 Wine Club
• Sports & Leisure
• Health & Wellness
• Best of the Best
• The Ultimate Gift Guide

Who Needs Paris? These New Private Villa Rentals Put You in the Heart of Provence

The residences range from an 18th-century farmhouse to a clifftop abode overlooking luberon regional national park. , abby montanez, abby montanez's most recent stories.

• Brad Pitt Spent ‘Months’ in Racecar Driver Training for His Upcoming F1 Movie
• Baz Luhrmann Just Relisted His Dramatic N.Y.C. Townhouse for $16 Million
• ‘Big Little Lies’ Season 3 Is Happening. Here’s Everything We Know So Far.
• Share This Article

While everyone’s heading to Paris for the Summer Olympics, Onefinestay’s new collection of villa rentals might make you want to jet off to Provence instead.  

Related Stories

Vermont is famous for summer retreats. this new white-glove resort wants you to stay year-round., las vegas’s mirage hotel is being transformed into a hard rock resort.

• Meet Vijay Kumawat, the Only Private Guide in India’s Most Renowned Tiger Sanctuary

In Provence, we’re talking residences with 24-hour concierge service, along with tons of customizable amenities to enhance your stay. Think everything from daily housekeeping to private chefs, childcare, a fleet of luxury vehicles, and off-site excursions. Of course, most of the properties also feature outdoor areas, swimming pools, and Mediterranean Sea views. 

Near the famous village of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, an 18th-century French farmhouse starts at $2,123 per night. Dubbed Mas Pascal , the stone-clad digs accommodate 12 guests across six bedrooms. In Gordes, the six-bedroom La Vite is perched high up on a clifftop overlooking the scenic Luberon Regional National Park. Here, you can step out onto any of the terraces to watch the sunset over the mountains, spend your time doing laps in the heated pool, or cheffing it up at the outdoor kitchen ($2,115 per night). The ancient village is one of the most famous in Provence, so you’d be remiss not to venture into town at least once.  

Click here to see more photos of Onefinestay’s new Provence villa collection.  

Abigail Montanez is a staff writer at Robb Report. She has worked in both print and digital publishing for over half a decade, covering everything from real estate, entertainment, dining, travel to…

Read More On:

• Vacation Rentals

More Hotels

Inside the Emory, London’s Newest All-Suite Hotel

What It’s Like to Stay at Estancia Vik, a Palatial Cattle Ranch on the Uruguayan Coast

Culinary Masters 2024

MAY 17 - 19 Join us for extraordinary meals from the nation’s brightest culinary minds.

Give the Gift of Luxury

Latest Galleries in Hotels

The Emory in Photos

The King’s Lodge in Photos

More from our brands, pride month celebrates its 25th anniversary: the 2024 collections from brands that give back to support lgbtqia+ community, pbr goes live with cbs sports, dr. phil’s merit street media, movistar plus+ partners on alauda ruiz de azúa’s ‘los domingos’ (exclusive), christie’s website still down hours before evening sales, causing concerns, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors.