Amsterdam is a city of canals, culture, and unforgettable charm. Whether it’s cruising along the city’s canals with a glass of fine Dutch beer, exploring vibrant markets, or dining in one of the city’s innovative restaurants, Amsterdam promises an enchanting mix of experiences that cater to every kind of traveler. It’s the perfect destination to escape for a long weekend and gives visitors the opportunity to experience a unique side of Europe.
In this guide, we have outlined our personal recommendations for things to do, places to eat, and where to stay! If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam we hope you try some of these suggestions below and message us if you do.
Getting to Amsterdam
Getting to Amsterdam is a breeze. Schiphol Airport, one of the busiest in Europe, offers direct flights from almost anywhere in the world. On landing, you’ll find it’s just a short, efficient train ride directly into Amsterdam’s city center, unveiling a world of canals, charming narrow houses, and bicycles galore.
You can also easily get to Amsterdam via the rail network. If you are already in Europe check the train lines and see what deals you can find in the city centre.
Things To Do
Albert Cuyp Market
First on our list is the vibrant Albert Cuyp Market, located in the trendy De Pijp neighborhood. A bustling market where you’ll find a range of items from fresh produce to vintage clothes, and the smell of street food wafts through the air. Be sure to try a Stroopwafel – a classic Dutch treat or the herring if you’re up for an adventure!
Museums
Ann Frank Museum
Located along the Prinsengracht Canal, the Anne Frank House is the very building where Anne and her family, along with four other Jewish people, hid for two years during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands in World War II. The museum is a stark and poignant reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust and is a must-visit when you’re in Amsterdam. Be sure to pre-book your tickets though especially during peak season as they tend to sell out weeks in advance.
Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is a vibrant tribute to one of the world’s most renowned artists, Vincent Van Gogh. Housing the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works globally, the museum provides an unparalleled journey into the life and mind of this extraordinary artist. It is one of the most popular museums in Amsterdam and another one that requires a pre-booked ticket. If you manage to visit, it’s a great place to spend the afternoon and enjoy a bit of art. Get tickets here.
Rijksmuseum
As the largest museum in the Netherlands, it’s home to an impressive collection that spans over 800 years of Dutch and global history. It’s a true treasure trove for art lovers, history buffs, and curious explorers alike. Get tickets here.
Heineken Museum
Beer lovers unite at the Heineken Museum. Based on the original Heineken Brewery, this interactive museum offers a glimpse into the history of the iconic Dutch beer. And yes, there are tasting sessions included. The immersive museum is a great activity if you are visiting with friends and would like to enjoy a cold one with a view of the city below. You can book your tickets here.
Canal Boat Cruise
You simply can’t visit Amsterdam without experiencing it from the water. The canals and boat tours offer a quintessential experience to travelers and it’s one activity you can’t miss.
The best boat tour in Amsterdam is run by Flagship Amsterdam. Flagship Amsterdam offers a variety of canal cruises, but the private, 2.5-hour tour was an experience like no other. From the moment we stepped onto our own classic, open-air boat, we knew we were in for a special treat. The boat itself was a beauty, with comfortable seating and an inviting ambiance that made it feel like our personal floating lounge. Included was unlimited beer and wine with soft drinks and snacks, which was perfect for our group of 10 aboard.
As we sailed through the maze of Amsterdam’s canals, the knowledgeable and friendly crew shared fascinating stories and insights about the city’s history and architecture. We navigated past gabled merchant houses, under charming old bridges, and bustling cafes and markets lining the canals, offering us a unique perspective of Amsterdam that one can only get from the water.
The Flagship Amsterdam canal cruise was an absolute highlight of our Amsterdam adventure. It provided a unique and luxurious way to see and learn about the city, all while enjoying excellent drinks in a laid-back atmosphere.
Whether you want a private experience or are open to sharing it with a group, Flagship has so much variety fit for every kind of traveler.
Places to Eat and Drink
Amsterdam is a melting pot of cuisines, offering delectable food and drink options that cater to every palate.
Hannekes Boom
For drinks, we unanimously recommend Hannekes Boom. This rustic, waterfront bar offers an array of drinks with a fantastic view of the Nautical Quarter. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and watch the world go by. You’ll find boats mooring up and ordering food and drinks, especially during happy hour. The place doesn’t take reservations unless you are an extremely large party so be sure to arrive early enough to get a table.
Staring at Jacob
For a delicious brunch experience, visit Staring at Jacob. They’ve taken traditional American brunch and given it a unique Dutch twist. We still dream about their delicious chicken and waffles. Staring at Jacob, nestled in Amsterdam’s hip and vibrant neighborhood of De Pijp.
The standout star of Staring at Jacob is, without a doubt, the food. Inspired by New York-style brunch dishes, the menu offers an array of options from classic Eggs Benedict to fluffy American-style pancakes. One dish that particularly won us over was their renowned Chicken and Waffles. It’s a delectable fusion of crispy, fried chicken paired with sweet, fluffy waffles which George definitely had! If you’re in the area, be sure to make a booking well in advance as it gets busy pretty quickly.
Brouwerij ‘t IJ & Café de Sluyswacht
For local beer lovers, Brouwerij ‘t IJ, located next to the iconic De Gooyer windmill, is a must-visit. Afterward, pop over to Café de Sluyswacht, a charming pub in a 17th-century lockkeeper’s house. It’s the perfect way to experience traditional Dutch gezelligheid (coziness).
Moeders
If you’re seeking a taste of genuine Dutch home cooking in Amsterdam, then you simply can’t miss Moeders, aptly named after the Dutch word for “mothers.” This charming restaurant takes you on a nostalgic culinary journey, offering a menu filled with traditional Dutch cuisine.
Located near the Rozengracht, the ambiance of Moeders is a delightful mismatch of history and homely warmth. The walls are adorned with photos of mothers from all over the world (which was a funny sight to see), a tribute to the restaurant’s theme, and you can even add a picture of your own mother to the collection.
The menu at Moeders is a testament to Dutch culinary traditions. From hearty stamppot (mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables, often served with sausage) to herring served the Amsterdam way, you’ll be transported to a Dutch mother’s kitchen. Our personal favorite was their Dutch Ricedish, a platter featuring a selection of traditional dishes, perfect for those who want to try a bit of everything. This is a restaurant we would recommend if you’re visiting Amsterdam.
O’Bistro
Tucked away in Amsterdam’s bustling city center, you’ll discover a gastronomic gem known as O’Bistro. This chic eatery is where the warm familiarity of a neighborhood bistro converges with the refined elegance of a high-end restaurant, offering a sublime fusion of French and Dutch culinary traditions.
This was the charming setting for George’s birthday dinner, and from the moment we arrived, the exceptional staff made the celebration all the more special. With their genuine smiles and attentive service, they curated an evening that was as warm as it was memorable.
The menu at O’Bistro is a delightful culinary journey, thoughtfully crafted to blend classic French influences with the hearty flavors of Dutch cuisine. The real pièce de résistance, however, is that the menu regularly changes, keeping in tune with the seasons and the availability of local produce. For us, we enjoyed oysters and lobster to start with sea bass and cauliflower chicken for mains.
Places to Stay
After all that adventuring, you’ll need a cozy place to rest your head. Amsterdam’s diverse accommodations cater to every taste and budget.
Linden Hotel
Located in the picturesque Jordaan district, Linden Hotel offers comfort and style without breaking the bank. Its central location makes it a convenient base to explore the city. It perfectly encapsulates the charm and personality of Amsterdam, and the Linden Hotel definitely stands out. Located in the quiet and picturesque Jordaan district, the hotel offers an exceptional blend of modern comfort and historical allure. Its proximity to the heart of Amsterdam allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the city’s unique culture, whilst staying out of the hustle and bustle
The hotel is situated within a stunning 18th-century building that retains many of its original features. But step inside, and you’re greeted by a blend of contemporary design and traditional Dutch elements. Each room is uniquely decorated, combining modern furnishings with antique accents, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
At the Linden Hotel, each room comes equipped with all the modern amenities you would expect. Plus, some rooms offer beautiful views over Amsterdam’s famous canals – a sight that’s truly worth waking up. The staff was a highlight of the hotel helping us with transportation and more, if you’re heading to Amsterdam, definitely stay at the linden hotel.
Citizen M Hotel
The Citizen M Hotel by AMS Airport is more than just a place to stay – it’s a modern marvel that comes to the rescue in the most unexpected of situations. It did just that for us during a recent trip. When our flight was abruptly canceled, we found refuge at the Citizen M Hotel, conveniently located near Schiphol Airport.
The hotel staff, from their swift check-in service to their assistance, were incredible, making us feel welcomed and at ease in the midst of our travel hiccup. The rooms, or “pods”, are compact yet luxurious, featuring state-of-the-art technology and incredibly comfortable beds, creating a soothing haven amidst the travel chaos. As a cherry on top, the staff discovered it was my birthday and surprised me with a delectable complimentary cake, a gesture that truly warmed our hearts.
The hotel’s CanteenM was a surprise, offering a wide array of delicious meals and beverages round the clock. From the early morning coffee to the late-night snacks. Overall, Citizen M turned our unforeseen circumstance into a memorable extension of our Amsterdam adventure. So if you, unfortunately, get flights canceled and you have to stay the night, then consider staying at Citizen M.
To Finish
From cruising along the serene canals, sipping on local beers, to tracing the steps of Van Gogh and Anne Frank, or feasting on Dutch cuisine in the city’s diverse food scene, Amsterdam is a city that we both found to be endlessly captivating.
This vibrant city, steeped in history yet pulsing with modern life, has proven itself to be a mesmerizing blend of the old and the new. Every cobblestone street and winding canal has a story to tell. And whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, a foodie, or just an explorer at heart, there’s a chapter in Amsterdam’s tale that will resonate with you.
Leave a Reply