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About this guide
As the captivating capital and largest city of the Netherlands, Amsterdam has an enchanting allure loved by locals and world travelers. Nestled in the picturesque Dutch province of North Holland, Amsterdam has an intricate UNESCO-listed Canal Belt cityscape of canals, including 90 islands and over 1,300 bridges and viaducts. Amsterdam is a bustling port and a treasure trove of cultural Dutch landmarks.
- Best time to travel: May to October (peak season), November to March (off-season), March to April and October to November (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Central European Time (CET)
- Currency: The Euro (€)
- Noteworthy: King's Day, Koningsdag (April), Holland Festival (June), Pride Amsterdam (July), Kwaku Summer Festival (July-August), Amsterdam Marathon (October), Amsterdam Dance Event, ADE (October)
- Best for: Family Trips, History & Architecture Buffs, LGBTQ+ Trips, Bike Enthusiasts, Food & Drink Tours, Shopping & Nightlife, Budget & Solo Travelers
Get Away: Getting To and Around Amsterdam, The Netherlands
By Air
Travelers can book a direct flight to The Netherlands through Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. As one of Europe's major international hubs, it offers convenient connections from multiple global cities for a smooth and efficient arrival in Amsterdam.
By Car
Car rental services to the Dutch countryside are available for day trips but should be booked in advance. Parking in the city center can be expensive and limited, so it's not ideal for daily urban travel.
By Public Transit
Amsterdam is a bike-friendly city with an efficient and eco-friendly public transportation system, which includes trams, buses, and ferries. The OV-chipkaart is a convenient contactless card that allows for convenient access to local attractions.
Explore Amsterdam, The Netherlands on Foot
Exploring Amsterdam on foot is the best way to enjoy the compact layout, picturesque canals, and pedestrian-friendly streets. Get the authentic Amsterdam experience by discovering local hidden gems, historic sites, cozy cafes, and more.
Quick facts
Central European Time (CET)
The Euro (€)
Dutch and English
Good For
Food & Drink Tours
History & Architecture Buffs
LGBTQ+ Friendly Trip
Budget & Solo Travelers
Keep in mind
- King's Day, Koningsdag (April)
- Holland Festival (June)
- Pride Amsterdam (July)
- Kwaku Summer Festival (July-August)
- Amsterdam Dance Event, ADE (October)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Best Restaurants In Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Earning its Michelin star within its first year, Bougainville Restaurant is led by award-winning Executive Chef Tim Golsteijn. Located in the beautiful Hotel TwentySeven, this sensory gastronomic experience has à la carte classics and seasonal tasting menus.
The intimate Gartine Restaurant & Bakery is perfect for breakfast, lunch, and high tea. The menus showcase authentic regional dishes with garden-sourced dishes, like homemade jam-filled croissants and morning harvest soup.
The Yeti Nepali & Indian Restauranthttps://theyeti.nl/ is ideal for spice enthusiasts who crave vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The rich and diverse 3-course menu has South Asian fusion flavors making this a must-visit spot in Amsterdam.
Owner Harman Singh's passion for his native India shines here with dishes like Papri Chaat and lamb organ josh. Ranging from street food-inspired delights to chef's specials, the Guru Indian Restaurant menu meshes delicious Indian flavors with Dutch hospitality.
For traditional Dutch cuisine, visit Moeders Restaurant for authentic regional flavors in a cozy welcoming atmosphere. Celebrating 30 years of their famous Dutch specialties, this restaurant serves iconic dishes like Stamppot and Bitterballen.
From Argentinian steaks to New Zealand lamb, Day's StoneGrill 1870 has a diverse menu and eclectic bar with impressive selections. There’s a unique 1870-style tableside grilling option and a beautiful covered patio to enjoy sunny lunches and sunset dinners.
Stay
Stay: Best Places to Stay In Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Stay in this picturesque ship suite for the perfect intimate 2-guest getaway. The former skipper's house offers a private entrance, a well-equipped pantry, and a luxurious bathroom.
This eco-conscious hotel has solar panels, recycling practices, and organic food and drink services. The proximity to Vondelpark provides a green escape from the bustling city before relaxing in the spacious bedrooms.
For a uniquely Dutch experience, the houseboat suite is an ideal stay for couples, friends, or business travelers. Located near Vondelpark and Museumsquare, this private Airbnb offers a separate entrance and a charming terrace view of the water.
The Canal House Amsterdam’s three seventeenth-century merchants' houses are nestled along the Keizersgracht in Jordaan. The spot offers private garden views in the Summer & Garden Houses with cocktails at the chic Canal House G&T bar.
Boutique Hotel The Noblemen is in a prime location in Amsterdam showcasing beautiful city views and garden terraces. There’s complimentary WiFi, a continental breakfast, room service, a sauna, and the most elegant rooms in the city.
Centrally located near The Oude Church, Shenzhou is a 6-room hotel with complimentary Wi-Fi and free toiletries. It’s a convenient walk to the Nieuwmarkt tube and ideal for those seeking affordability with a touch of elegance.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Guided by a local, this classic boat cruise is a delightful journey on a wooden saloon boat. Travelers see iconic canals while enjoying Dutch cheese platters and unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks.
This Dutch food and history tour is an intimate, off-the-beaten-path experience led by a local guide. Guests learn about the city's history of famous residents and explore the best food spots.
This bike tour showcases Amsterdam’s iconic attractions and lesser-known treasures in a small-group setting. Visitors ride a bicycle with a guide to learn captivating stories about the city's history and culture.
Located on the Prinsengracht Canal, the Anne Frank House Museum highlights the poignant historical journey. The museum honors the life of Anne Frank with a powerful firsthand narrative using immersive audio, media, and authentic artifacts.
The edibles workshop begins at a local dispensary where guests purchase the special ingredients as a group. Learn to create delicious brownies and gummies while delving into Dutch history, culture, and cannabis customs.
This immersive masterclass teaches mixology secrets, techniques, and tips for crafting cocktails at home. The Shaker Cocktail Club has a personal bar station stocked with essential tools and ingredients to show how mixology works.
With over 7 million intoxicatingly beautiful flowers, The Million Tulips & Windmill Tour is the perfect spot for a relaxing photoshoot. Visitors will go inside the windmill and make a stop at a local chocolate factory for some tasty Dutch goodies.
Body Worlds Museum shows visitors how everyday choices impact their health and happiness through over 200 real bodies plastinated on display. There are seven exhibits ranging from health, sports, diet, and animal anatomy.