Plan Your Adventure in Amsterdam
Best Travel Tips & Guides
The Netherlands
Hey there! Thinking about visiting Amsterdam for a weekend trip? Michael and I have wandered these canal-lined streets countless times, and we've figured out which spots are actually worth your time (and which tourist traps will just waste your money).
From best local breweries in Amsterdam Noord to authentic Dutch food spots in Amsterdam that most tourists never find, our guide has all the good stuff. Keep reading for our honest, been-there-done-that tips that'll help you see Amsterdam like we do!
About Merel
Discover Amazing Places
Our must-sees in Amsterdam
Amsterdam Weather
What's the weather like in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam's weather changes faster than we can swap our raincoats for sunglasses! Winters are chilly and damp, with temperatures around 0-5°C, while summers bring pleasant warmth usually between 20-25°C. The best time to visit Amsterdam is during May when tulips bloom or September when tourist crowds thin out. We've experienced all four seasons in a single day here - that's why locals always seem prepared with layers.
The city's quick weather shifts are part of its charm! We've started canal cruises in sunshine and finished them in rainfall. Those occasional morning mists create magical scenes along the waterways. Our best tip: always pack a reliable travel umbrella for Amsterdam regardless of the forecast. Some of our favorite memories involve ducking into cozy brown cafés when unexpected showers hit! Don't let the unpredictable weather stop you from exploring this amazing city.
Amsterdam tips
Must do's and try's in Amsterdam
Amsterdam has much more going for it than just canals and tulips. The local culture comes alive through food and everyday experiences that most tourists miss. Here's what we think makes the city special beyond the usual sightseeing spots.
- Stroopwafels: These syrup-filled waffle cookies are seriously good. Get them fresh at a market stall where they're still warm - the caramel inside gets all melty and the cookie part stays crispy. So much better than the packaged ones.
- King's Day Celebrations: Once a year in April, the whole city wears orange and parties hard. Everyone sells their old stuff on the streets, boats pack the canals, and there's music everywhere. It gets crowded but the atmosphere is worth it.
- The Begijnhof: This quiet courtyard sits right in the middle of the busy city. Most people walk right past the entrance without noticing it. The old buildings used to house single women, and it still feels like stepping back in time when you visit.
- Herring: Raw fish might sound weird, but trying herring from a street stand is a real Amsterdam experience. They serve it with chopped onions and pickles, and locals eat it by holding the tail and lowering it into their mouths. You might love it or hate it, but it's worth trying.
Pack comfortable shoes and an open mind when exploring Amsterdam. The city rewards those who wander off the main streets and try new things, whether that's a strange food or a neighborhood most tourists never see.
Sightseeing in Amsterdam
- Rijksmuseum
- Van Gogh Museum
- Anne Frank House
- Canal Ring
- Dam Square
- Heineken Experience
- Red Light District (for a "unique" perspective on life)
Plan your activity
What to do in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam is more than just pretty canals! During our many visits, we've discovered the best things to do in Amsterdam like a local. Skip the tourist traps and dive into experiences that show you the real city. Whether you're into unique Amsterdam food tours or hidden canal cruises at sunset, these are the activities we always book when we return to this amazing city.
Where to go?
The best areas in Amsterdam
Amsterdam unfolds through distinct neighborhoods, each with their own character and local feel. Whether you're after peaceful canals, independent shops, or everyday Dutch life, these areas show different sides of the city. We've wandered through them all countless times and still discover new spots with every visit.
Jordaan
The winding streets of the Jordaan hide tiny courtyards and brown cafés where locals gather. Best cafés in Jordaan Amsterdam tend to be authentic places where you might hear live folk music on weekend afternoons. We love how this former working-class area keeps its community feel despite becoming more upscale. The Saturday Noordermarkt organic market here is one of our favorite morning rituals.
De Pijp
De Pijp buzzes with energy around Albert Cuyp Market. This is where we head for authentic Amsterdam street food when we're hungry - the stroopwafels made fresh before your eyes are unbeatable. The side streets fill with small bars that locals actually visit, unlike the tourist traps downtown. We've spent many evenings hopping between Surinamese restaurants and Dutch brown cafés here.
Vondelpark
Vondelpark becomes Amsterdam's outdoor living room in good weather. Running routes in Vondelpark Amsterdam take you past impromptu music performances and families grilling on portable barbecues. Michael broke his wrist cycling here once (typical Amsterdam story), but we still think it's the perfect escape from city streets. The park feels different each season - especially beautiful in fall.
Amsterdam Noord
The free ferry to Noord gives you the best skyline views of the city. This former industrial area now houses alternative Amsterdam art spaces in converted warehouses alongside working-class neighborhoods. We love the contrast of old-school Dutch pubs next to trendy food halls. The monthly flea market at IJ-Hallen is massive - we always find weird treasures there.
Eastern Docklands
The Eastern Docklands show how Amsterdam reinvents itself. Striking modern architecture sits on artificial islands where ships once docked. We often bring visitors here for the best architecture walks in Amsterdam away from crowds. The hanging houses over the water at Borneo-Sporenburg look impossible, yet people actually live in them. This area feels completely different from historic Amsterdam.
Where to stay?
Where to stay in Amsterdam?
Whether you're visiting Amsterdam for a weekend or settling in as digital nomads in Amsterdam, these handpicked hotels offer the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Our personal favorites provide authentic Dutch experiences in prime locations!
Where to work out?
Top wellness spots
After a day of exploring Amsterdam, your body might need some TLC. We've tested many wellness spots across the city (tough job, but someone had to do it!). From cozy local saunas to gyms where you can keep up your routine, here are the places we actually use when living in Amsterdam.
No wellness spots added yet. Stay tuned!
No wellness spots added yet. Stay tuned!
No wellness spots added yet. Stay tuned!
No wellness spots added yet. Stay tuned!
Transportation tips
How to get around in Amsterdam
Getting around Amsterdam is straightforward once you know your options. We've tried them all - from wobbling on bikes after a few beers (not recommended) to getting lost on late-night trams. Here's what actually works for navigating Amsterdam as a tourist.
Public Transport
The trams, buses and metro in Amsterdam run frequently and cover pretty much everywhere worth going. Get an OV-chipkaart at any station - it makes life so much easier than buying single tickets. Just don't forget to tap in AND out, or you'll lose your deposit like Michael did three times before he finally learned.
Single rides cost around €3.20, but day passes at €8.50 make more sense if you're doing multiple trips. We usually get a 48-hour pass for €13.50 when friends visit - saves both money and hassle.
Biking
Everyone bikes in Amsterdam, and there's a reason - it's genuinely the fastest way around the center. Rental shops are everywhere, but check the bike thoroughly before accepting it. The best bike rental shops in Amsterdam give you a proper lock and explain the basic rules (like which lanes are actually for bikes).
Basic bikes cost €10-15 per day. Spend the extra euro for one with hand brakes if you're not used to pedal brakes - worth every cent when you need to stop suddenly for that inevitable tourist who steps into the bike lane.
Walking
We walk everywhere in central Amsterdam. The canal belt is smaller than it looks on maps, and you miss so much when zooming past on bikes. Walking lets you peek into windows (a very Dutch tradition - nobody uses curtains) and discover tiny shops. The most walkable neighborhoods in Amsterdam are the Jordaan and Negen Straatjes.
Walking is free and often faster than public transport for short trips. Just remember the unwritten rule: the bike lane is sacred territory. Step into it without looking and you'll learn some colorful Dutch phrases very quickly.
Plan your journey
Ready-to use itineraries for Amsterdam
Browse our itineraries and find the perfect plan for your trip!
Get to know Amsterdam
Frequently asked questions about Amsterdam
Can I drink alcohol on the street in Amsterdam?
Not exactly, but you can bend the rules! Technically, drinking alcohol in public spaces is a no-go in many areas of Amsterdam. However, if you’re in a park or near a canal, you might get away with it—just don’t be a loud, obnoxious tourist. The city has been cracking down on rowdy behavior, especially in places like Vondelpark. So, sip your drink, but keep it discreet and enjoy the scenery!
Why do my shoes feel sticky after walking around?
Welcome to the coffee shop capital! If your shoes are sticking to the ground, it might be due to spilled drinks or, let’s be honest, the remnants of some “herbal” adventures. The streets can get a bit messy, especially around popular nightlife spots. Bring an old pair of shoes, or be prepared for a little shoe cleaning when you get back to your hotel!
Is it true that cyclists are ruthless in Amsterdam?
Absolutely, and they mean business! Cyclists in Amsterdam are like the kings and queens of the road. They will not stop for you, even if you’re standing in the bike lane, so keep your head on a swivel. If you’re walking, stay on the sidewalks and avoid jaywalking. A bike bell ringing is your cue to get out of the way—fast!
What’s the deal with “coffeeshops” and can I just walk in?
Yes, but keep your expectations in check! Coffeeshops in Amsterdam are not your average café. They sell cannabis, and while walking in is easy, you might get asked for ID, and don’t expect a menu like Starbucks. Also, be prepared for a smoky atmosphere—if you’re not into that, maybe grab a traditional Dutch coffee instead!
Can I use my credit card everywhere?
Not even close! While Amsterdam is modern, many small shops, cafés, and markets still prefer cash. It’s not uncommon to find places that won’t accept credit cards, especially if you’re trying to buy a stroopwafel from a street vendor. So, hit the ATM and keep some euros handy to avoid awkward moments!
Why are there so many “no photos” signs in museums?
Because art deserves respect! Many museums in Amsterdam, like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, have strict no-photo policies to protect the artwork and enhance the visitor experience. Flash photography can damage the paintings, and trust me, no one wants to be that person ruining a masterpiece for everyone else. So, enjoy the art with your eyes, not your camera!
Wondering what a trip to Amsterdam will cost?
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Community Q&A
Got a question about Amsterdam? Fire away!
I first noticed it on an autumn afternoon while walking along the Pontsteiger—the warm, slightly bitter scent just hung in the air. The strange thing is that it doesn’t always smell like this; it depends on the wind direction and how the beans are processed. Some Amsterdammers recognize the scent immediately and find it nostalgic, while others have never noticed it at all. I’m going back in January, and I can’t wait!
Personally, I’ve only ever tried it inside a coffeeshop, just for the experience. And trust me, the vibe is way more chill than awkwardly trying to smoke outside and getting weird looks from locals. So if you’re visiting, be mindful of where you light up—just because you don’t see police stopping people doesn’t mean it’s always allowed.
Love, Merel
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