Amsterdam
Netherlands
Picturesque canals, world-class museums, and cycling culture in this charming Dutch capital.
About Amsterdam
Amsterdam charms visitors with its distinctive character—a network of 17th-century canals lined with narrow houses, a liberal spirit, and a thriving cultural scene. Home to Rembrandt and Van Gogh, the city boasts incredible museums alongside cozy brown cafés and innovative restaurants. Rent a bike to explore like a local, cruise the canals at golden hour, and discover why this compact city has such an outsized influence on art, design, and progressive thinking.
📅 Best Time to Visit
🏨 Where to Stay
Jordaan
Former working-class area now Amsterdam's most charming neighborhood. Hidden courtyards, independent shops, and cozy cafés.
Canal Ring
UNESCO World Heritage canals with stunning 17th-century houses. The postcard Amsterdam of your dreams.
De Pijp
Bohemian neighborhood with Albert Cuyp Market, diverse restaurants, and young energy. Amsterdam's multicultural heart.
Museum Quarter
Cultural hub with Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh, and Stedelijk museums plus Vondelpark nearby.
Red Light District
Famous for its adult entertainment but also home to historic churches and excellent bars. Go with open eyes.
Noord
Former industrial area across the IJ River now home to creative spaces, eye-catching architecture, and cool bars.
🍽️ Must-Try Food
Stroopwafel
Caramel-filled waffle cookies. Best eaten warm from a street market.
Bitterballen
Crispy fried meatballs served with mustard. Essential brown café snack.
Raw Herring
Traditional Dutch snack with onions and pickles. Try at a haringhandel.
Poffertjes
Tiny fluffy pancakes with butter and powdered sugar.
Dutch Cheese
Gouda, Edam, and more. Visit a cheese market or shop to taste.
📸 Photo Spots
Reguliersgracht
💡 Famous seven bridges in a row shot. Evening when lit is magical.
Bloemenmarkt
💡 Floating flower market. Colorful tulip displays year-round.
Rijksmuseum Tunnel
💡 Cyclists passing under the museum makes a classic shot.
Jordaan Canals
💡 Leidsegracht and Brouwersgracht are particularly photogenic.
A'DAM Lookout Swing
💡 Swing over the edge with Amsterdam views. Book ahead.
🚗 Day Trips
Zaanse Schans
30 minutesHistoric windmills, traditional houses, and cheese-making. Touristy but essential.
Keukenhof
45 minutesWorld's largest flower garden. Only open spring (mid-March to mid-May).
Rotterdam
1 hourModern architecture capital with innovative buildings and harbor views.
Haarlem
20 minutesCharming smaller city with great restaurants and Frans Hals Museum.
🎉 Annual Events
King's Day
April 27th national celebration. The entire country wears orange and parties.
Amsterdam Light Festival
Light installations along canals. Best seen by boat.
Tulip Season
Keukenhof blooms and flower fields throughout the region.
Pride Amsterdam
Famous canal parade with decorated boats celebrating LGBTQ+ community.
Museumnacht
Museums open late with special events and DJ sets.
🎯 Things to Do
⚠️ Good to Know
- •Amsterdam is very safe, but watch for pickpockets in tourist areas and on trams.
- •Watch for bikes—they always have right of way and move fast.
- •Cannabis is tolerated in coffee shops but not allowed in public spaces.
- •Don't photograph the Red Light District workers—it's forbidden and disrespectful.
- •Avoid buying drugs from street dealers—dangerous and illegal.