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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. 

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

Bougainville Restaurant

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.

Gartine Restaurant & Bakery

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 Restaurant

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.

Guru Indian Restaurant

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.

Moeders Restaurant 

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.

Day's StoneGrill 1870

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.

Play

Play: Things To Do In Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam Classic Boat Cruise With Live Guide, Drinks and Cheese

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. 

Grand Dutch Food and History Tour

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.

Bike Tour Highlighting Amsterdam's Hidden Gems

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. 

Visit the Anne Frank House Museum

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.

Edibles Workshop With Get Baked Amsterdam

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.

Make Cocktails With The Shaker Cocktail Club

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. 

The Million Tulips & Windmill Tour

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

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.