The Best of Amsterdam | Recommended Places to Stay and Visit

Amsterdam's Special Features and Attractions

Canals and Historic Architecture: Amsterdam’s iconic canal ring, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-see. The city’s canals, lined with 17th-century merchant houses and charming houseboats, create a scenic and serene atmosphere. Taking a canal cruise is a popular way to explore the city and learn about its history and architecture. Walking or biking along the canals also provides a delightful way to soak up the city’s beauty.

Rijksmuseum: The Rijksmuseum is the Netherlands' most famous museum, housing an extensive collection of Dutch art and history. Highlights include masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh. The museum’s impressive architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens add to the overall experience, making it a must-visit for art lovers.

Van Gogh Museum: Dedicated to the life and works of Vincent van Gogh, this museum features the largest collection of his paintings and drawings in the world. Visitors can explore Van Gogh’s artistic journey through his self-portraits, landscapes, and still lifes. The museum offers a deep and personal insight into the artist’s turbulent life and groundbreaking work.

Anne Frank House: A poignant and powerful experience, the Anne Frank House is where Anne Frank wrote her famous diary while hiding from the Nazis during World War II. The museum preserves the secret annex and offers exhibits that detail the Frank family's life in hiding, as well as the broader context of the Holocaust. It’s a moving tribute to resilience and a stark reminder of history.

Vondelpark: Amsterdam’s largest park, Vondelpark, is a beautiful green space perfect for relaxation and recreation. Locals and tourists alike enjoy picnicking, jogging, biking, and attending open-air concerts in the park’s picturesque surroundings. The park’s peaceful atmosphere provides a great escape from the bustling city.

Amsterdam's Dining and Nightlife

Amsterdam’s culinary scene is diverse and vibrant, offering everything from traditional Dutch fare to international cuisine. Restaurant De Kas is known for its farm-to-table dining experience, featuring fresh produce grown on-site. The Pancake Bakery is a beloved spot for traditional Dutch pancakes, served with a variety of sweet and savoury toppings.

For a more casual meal, Foodhallen is a trendy indoor food market offering a wide range of global dishes from local vendors. Café Winkel 43 is famous for its delicious apple pie, a must-try treat when in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam’s nightlife is legendary, with a wide array of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein are popular nightlife districts, home to many lively bars and clubs. Bimhuis is a renowned jazz club offering performances by both local and international artists, while Paradiso and Melkweg are iconic music venues hosting a variety of concerts and events.

Shopping in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers a fantastic shopping experience, with everything from high-end boutiques to quirky markets. De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets) is a charming shopping district featuring independent boutiques, vintage stores, and cosy cafes. For luxury shopping, P.C. Hooftstraat is home to high-end fashion brands and designer stores.

Albert Cuyp Market is the city’s largest and most famous market, offering a wide variety of goods, from fresh produce to clothing and souvenirs. The Waterlooplein Flea Market is great for special finds and antiques.

Practical Tips

Transport: Amsterdam is well-connected by public transport, including trams, buses, and the metro. The city is also very bike-friendly, with numerous rental shops available. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport offers flights to many international destinations, and the city’s central train station provides easy access to other major European cities.
Accommodation: Amsterdam offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Hotel De L’Europe provides luxury and historic charm, while The Hoxton offers stylish, mid-range boutique lodging. For budget travelers, Generator Amsterdam is a trendy hostel with modern amenities.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Amsterdam is during the spring (April to May) when the tulips are in bloom, or the summer (June to August) when the weather is warm and many outdoor festivals take place. Autumn (September to November) also offers mild weather and fewer crowds.