Amsterdam, founded in the 13th century as a fishing village, quickly became a major trading port. Its name comes from a dam on the Amstel River. While known for its Red Light District, there’s much more to explore. From historic architecture and museums to vibrant nightlife, Amsterdam has something for every traveler.
I’ve visited Amsterdam multiple times, and each visit reveals new facets of the city. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive guide for your trip, including hotel recommendations, activities, sightseeing tips, food suggestions, and more.
Best time to visit Amsterdam
Spring Season (March to May) – Best for seeing Amsterdam in bloom
The Netherlands are known for its spectacular flower fields, blooming from late March to early May. Spring weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for seeing Amsterdam at its most colorful. If you can, take a day trip to Keukenhof. This park has 7 million tulip bulbs planted each year, making it one of the most beautiful spring gardens in the world. Open from March to May, you can book tickets online in advance.
Summer Season (June to August) – Best for music and festival lovers
You can party all year in Amsterdam, but summer is special with its numerous open-air festivals. Summer is peak season, with temperatures around 20-25°C. August often brings rain. Expect larger crowds and higher accommodation prices during this time.
Fall Season (September – October) – Best for Sightseeing
To avoid crowds, plan your trip outside of summer and choose the fall season. Spring (April and May) or fall (September and October) are ideal. These times are less busy, and the weather is milder than the hot, dry summer.
Winter Season (November – February) – Best for Budget Travellers
Amsterdam is colder in winter, with temperatures between 0-10°C. Tourists often avoid these months, making it perfect for budget travelers. Despite the cold, Amsterdam has its own charm. Don’t miss the Annual Amsterdam Light Festival with its magical canal light installations. The city also offers many indoor activities, so winter shouldn’t stop you from visiting.
How many days to stay in Amsterdam
For first time travellers 3-4 days should be enough to see all the big sites Amsterdam has to offer. If you are planning on day trips, consider staying 5 days. Amsterdam is a great starting point for day trips. Scroll down to see some of the best day trips you can do from Amsterdam.
How to get around in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is well connected and offers great public transportation. The city transport company GVB offers a variety of different ticket options for bus, trams and metros (trains are not included):
- GVB 1 day / 24h ticket: 8.50€
- GVB 2 days / 48h ticket: 13.50€
- GVB 3 days / 72h ticket: 20€
- GVB 4 days / 96h ticket: 25.50€
- GVB 5 days / 120h ticket: 29.50€
- GVB 6 days / 144h ticket: 34€
- GVB 7 days / 168h ticket: 37€
If you are planning on visiting numerous tourist attractions, you might also consider the I Am Amsterdam City Card, that will get you access to over 70 museums (including the world famous Rijksmuseum, Canal Cruises, major attractions and will grant you to use the city-wide public transport.
Prices for the I Am Amsterdam City Card in 2024:
- 1 day / 24h ticket: 65€
- 2 days / 48h ticket: 90€
- 3 days / 72h ticket: 110€
- 4 days / 96h ticket: 125€
- 5 days / 120h ticket: 135€
Check out their official website here to book the tickets online and check what attractions are included
Where to stay in Amsterdam
Grachtengordel– Best for first-timers and history fans
Pulitzer Amsterdam $$$: This 5 Star Luxury Hotel perfectly combines both traditional and modern dutch design and is situated along the famous Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht canals. The hotel is once set the scene for trade deals between merchants and was even home to Dutch aristocrats.
Nadia Hotel $: Hotel Nadia is a 2** star hotel situated between historic surroundings of Queen Palace on Dam Square and Wester Church and in walking distance from major sites, museums and the shopping district. The Hotel itself is very historical and was being renovated in 2010. The rooms are on the smaller side but offer everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Plantage – Ideal for families & budget travellers
De Plantage was gaining popularity in the 19th century with a lot of theaters and bars opening their doors. Many wealthy actors and writers moved to this area and build new beautiful homes that you can still see today. Today De Plantage is home to a vatriety of modern, artsy coffees and the famous Artist Zoo, making it ideal for families. De Plantage is a 20 minute walk away from the city center but offers great public transportation that will bring you to the heart of Amsterdam within a few minutes.
Where to stay in Plantage Amsterdam
Lancaster Hotel $$ (where we stayed): The Lancaster Hotel Amsterdam is situated in a historical building from the 19th century. The rooms were quite spacious and the hotel itself is perfectly located near public transportation that will bring you to the city center in a few minutes. You will find numerous hip cafés and restaurants in the neighborhood and the Zoo is just a short 5 minutes walk away.
Jordaan – ideal for first-timers & art lovers
Once a working-class neighborhood, today the Jordaan district is home to different art galleries, artsy shops and restaurants. The district is located right in the heart of the city center and major sites in Amsterdam such as the Red Light Distright or Anne Frank House are in the vicinity, making it perfect for first-time visitors and art lovers.
Best Hotels in Amsterdam City Center
Inntel City Center $$ Being located just 5 minutes away from the main station, this hotel is perfect for exploring the city. The hotel features a stylish bar, wellness and a gym. The Flying Pig Downtown $ A famous place among backpackers and also voted „Most Popular Hostel“ in 2014. The Red Light District, Dam Square, Anne Frank House and Centraal Station are technically right in
What to do in Amsterdam
Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House was dedicated to the same named Jewish girl who hid during the Second World War in the Netherlands. The house is still intact and became a museum for visitors all around the world. Currently all tickets must be purchased online and for a specific timeslot. Tickets start at 1€ for children and go up to 14€ for adults. The tickets can sell out quickly and will become online every Tuesday of the month and I suggest booking them right away to secure your visit.
Museumsplein / Museumsdistrict
Right in the heart of the city, you will find the biggest square of Amsterdam with the most important museums all located next to eachother. If you are planning on visiting multiple museum, you might consider getting the above mentioned I Am Amsterdam City Card that will grant you access to over 70 museums!
- Rijksmuseum (Time needed: 2-3 hours): If you only have time for one museum visit, I highly recommend prioritizing the Rijksmuseum. This museum is the national Dutch museum and home tp the paintings of famous artists such as Van Gogh, Rembrandt and Vermeer. Tickets can be purchased online for 20€.
- Stedelijk Museum – This museum features modern and contemporary art from the early 20th century to the 21st century, including works by Andy Warhol and Van Gogh. Initiated by local authorities and private individuals, the museum was designed by architect Adriaan Willem Weissmann in the Neo-Renaissance style.
- Van Gogh Museum Like the name suggests, the Museum is home to the largest collection of the famous paintings of Van Gogh. Since 2019 you can also find the immersive exhibition within the museum, showcasing both of the artists life and works.
- Moco Museum (Time needed: 2 hours): The Moco museum is great for contemporary art lovers and offers art from well known artists like Banksy, Andy Warhol and more. The exhibition will change, so make sure to check the artists beforehand on the website. Tickets can also be purchased online for 15.50€
Canal Cruise
Another great way to experience Amsterdam is with a canal cruise that glides over the iconic canals and passes by historic landmarks, buildings and gives you a view on the beautiful scenery the city has to offer. The Canal Cruise is included in the I Am Amsterdam City Card.
Heineken Experience
A memorable experience for every beer lover! Heineken is a Dutch brewing company founded in Amsterdam in 1864. The oldest brewery of the company is still located in Amsterdam and can be visited to learn about the history of the brand, the brewing history and much more. Tickets start at 21€ and include a beer at the bar. Note, that the Heineken experience only allows visitors over. You can book your time slot (1.5 hours) here.
Where to eat in Amsterdam
Food markets
Albert Cuyp Market
With 260 stands, the Albert Cuyb Market is the most popular and biggest outdoor food market in the Netherlands. The market was named after the Painter Albert Cuyp and is located in the popular district DePijp. You can visit this outdoor market six days a week (closed on Sundays) to find fresh produce like cheese, vegetables or meat or browse through the food stalls that feature a variety of different cultural food. Whether you are looking for traditional Dutch food or cuisines from other countries, the Albert Cuyp market is the perfect stop for every foodie.
De Hallen Food halls
Another great stop for every foodie is offered by the De Hallen Food Halls that is home to 21 culinary stands that will offer you a unique menu from around the world. This popular indoor food market is located in a monumental building in Amsterdam West and while the food halls are open 7 days a week from 11AM to 11.30PM / 1 AM, I suggest going during the evening to really experience the relaxed bar-like atmosphere.
Breakfast & Brunch
Omelegg
Omlegg is a popular breakfast and brunch spot in Amsterdam with many diverse omelets options. In addition to their signature eg dishes, the menu also includes other breakfast and brunch items such as scrambled eggs, shakshuka, sandwiches, salads, and pancakes.
Coffee and Coconut
Coffee & Coconuts is a coffee roastery and café situated in Amsterdam’s vibrant De Pijp district. Upon entering, you’ll feel all the tropical vibes reminiscent of Bali, thanks to the café’s island-inspired decor. They boast their own roastery, featuring coffee beans sourced from around the globe. The menu offers a wide selection of breakfast and lunch options, including coconut pancakes and breakfast burritos, with both vegan and non-vegan choices available.
Lunch & Dinner
Vegan Junk Food Bar
Vegan food is often seen as healthy but somewhat bland; however, this bar will completely change your perspective! The name says it all: from plant-based burgers to vegan “fish” and even traditional Dutch treats like Bitterballen, the Vegan Junk Food Bar offers a unique and exciting dining experience. It’s a must-visit spot to add to your food list, even if you’re not vegan.
Sweets & Treats
Van Leuwen
If you have a sweet tooth, stroopwafels are a must-try treat. A stroopwafel is a thin, round waffle with a crispy-chewy texture, thanks to the caramel filling between two waffle cookies. This delicious snack can be found all over Amsterdam, but my favorite comes from Van Leuwen, where they bake your waffle right in front of you and let you choose your toppings.
Polar Berry
A playful shop selling fresh strawberries and other fruits covered with rich Belgian chocolate. The designs are as playful as the shop itself and also make a great souvenir for friends and family.
