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Amsterdam is a city of culture and history, with a unique style that sets it apart from the rest of Europe. With its picturesque canals, world-renowned museums, and vibrant nightlife, it's no wonder why Amsterdam is one of the most popular destinations in Europe. But with so many things to do and see, it can be hard to know where to start. That's why we've put together this comprehensive Amsterdam travel guide. You'll find all the information you need right here. So, let's get started!

History 

Amsterdam is the Netherlands' capital and largest city. It is also home to most people in the Netherlands. The Hague (the seat of government) houses the government and the parliament. Amsterdam is in Noord-Holland. But it is not the capital city of this province. That is Haarlem. Amsterdam is part of the Dutch Randstad, which includes Rotterdam and Utrecht and The Hague and Rotterdam. Amsterdam's history is fascinating.

The city is ancient. It also has a beautiful story of tolerance and beauty in its inhabitants and architecture. The city also has a turbulent past, being part of the Eighty Years War and being held by Napoleon Bonaparte. Nazis also occupied it. This has helped it become open-minded, accepting, and the tolerant city it is today. Today, Amsterdam is one of Europe's most popular cities, attracting millions of tourists each year.

Best Time to Visit 

The best time to visit Amsterdam is late spring. Mild temperatures are ideal for cycling around Amsterdam and exploring the countryside. The famous tulips bloom in April and attract tourists from all over the globe. Another major attraction is the King's Day carnival on April 27.

The "Venice of the North," as it is affectionately called, enjoys an oceanic climate, so it doesn't get too hot. As a result, Amsterdam can be a summer destination, unlike the rest of Europe, which flocks to Saint-Tropez and Santorini. However, while you might need to deal with other travelers, it will not stop you from having a great time.

The first fall season also has pleasant temperatures and many outdoor activities. But winter is not to be dismissed. While winter is shortening and the temperature drops, it's still a wonderful time because of the sparkling frozen canals, the holiday spirit, and the absence of crowds.

Things to Do and Places to Visit

These are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Amsterdam.

Van Gogh Museum 

The museum houses hundreds of Van Gogh paintings and a biography about his life. Van Gogh is a famous artist. You will also find paintings by Matisse, Manet, and Monet. It is one of the most famous museums in the city. However, to avoid long lines, book your tickets online in advance or come in the afternoon.

Oost 

East of the city, there is a beautiful park, zoo, and many good restaurants. You'll also find a few tourists here. This is a hidden gem and a great place to visit. Oosterpark is also a great place to spend time. It's quiet and serene.

The Heineken Experience 

This is a worthwhile stop for beer lovers. This section will give you an overview of the company and some sample beers. There are also fun games you can play. This is not a working brewery. Instead, it is a place to learn about one of the most well-known beer brands. 

Canal Tour  

The canals are one of the best ways you can see the city. A lot of people choose to take a tour with large companies. Many options include a wine cruise and pizza and cheese cruises. Moreover, renting your boat is an excellent option if you have the means. Eco Boats Amsterdam offers small open-air boats which are more intimate.

The Jordaan 

This once working-class neighborhood is now home to trendy cafes, shops, and restaurants. You can wander peacefully here while staying away from the crowds. It's also a popular spot for locals to eat in the summer. In addition, it's a great place to take in the sights and visit the farmer's market on weekends.

Windmills 

Dutch people are known for their windmills. It's a great way of taking in Amsterdam. There are eight of them, most of which are in Amsterdam West. De Gooyer, which is in the city's center, is also a brewery. This makes it the ideal place to begin. Moreover, the Amsterdam Centraal station is just 20 minutes away.

Sloten Mill is another worth-seeing windmill. It is a restored mill dating back to 1847 and is open to the public. The tours last for 45 minutes. Guided tours can be taken to Zaanse Schans. This open-air museum, also known as the Windmill Town, teaches you about the inner workings of windmills and other Dutch crafts like clog-making and cheese-making.

The Waterlooplein Flea Market 

The open-air market is a huge flea market. Everything is available here. Around 300 vendors sell hats, secondhand clothing, and gadgets. There are also new items available. It is open Monday through Saturday.

Culture and Customs 

Amsterdam establishments have very consistent hours. For example, the hours of shops and supermarkets are usually from 10 am to 6 pm. Also, most shops and grocers close on Sundays, except in tourist areas such as Nieuwendijk en Kalverstraat. Coffee Shops open early in the morning and close at midnight. But bars and clubs stay open until 3 or 4 am.

Act sensibly in downtown areas is essential to avoid humiliating looks and awkward conversations. Amsterdam natives also consider it poor etiquette to smoke marijuana or drink in public. It is also strictly forbidden to take photos of Red Light District sex workers.

The Dutch are also very direct. Locals will share a straightforward, honest opinion with you. This is a sign that they are simple and not trying to be rude. Dutch culture encourages you to be open and honest with your opinions. "No" is often a complete sentence.

Amsterdam is a severe place for cyclists. Avoid walking in the cycling lane; you could be subject to the wrathful locals. Also, always look in both directions before crossing. While bicycles are silent, accidents can also cause severe injuries to pedestrians.

The oranjekoorts (orange fever) is a famous Dutch trademark at sporting events. Wear the traditional color of the royal family if you want to cheer for the Dutch. The more outrageous and extravagant you can get - including feather boas, wigs, and face paint – the better.

What to Eat 

Amsterdam offers everything you need, including Croquettes at vending machines and Mint Tea. Besides, it's no surprise that beer is the most famous Dutch export. So while the Heineken Experience in De Pijp may be what you would expect, there are many other smaller brewhouses that you can visit.

Herring 

The most popular traditional Dutch street food is Herring. You can find this fish snack at many fish stalls around the city. You can eat it plain or with a sandwich. However, the locals traditionally take a whole herring by its tail and eat it in one bite.

Stroopwafel 

Locals and tourists love the stroopwafel. It consists of two layers of cookies held together with a caramel-like filling. A perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea is a stroopwafel. Locals often balance a string wafel onto their cups to soften their caramel filling. Besides, you can find stroopwafel stands at every outdoor market in the area.

Bitterballen 

A bitterballen is a small fried snack with mustard and a hot, meaty filling. These are often served with kopstoot, a beer with a genever-filled shot glass. You can share these with friends or colleagues.

Kroket 

A Kroket is a larger cylindrical bitterbal served on a bun with mustard or plain. A Dutch fast-food chain, FEBO, sells krokets. They also offer hamburgers and more.

Pannenkoeken 

The Dutch pancakes (pannenkoeken) are more significant and thinner than others. Besides, you can add bacon, cheese, apples, or other toppings. Most people eat pancakes for dinner or lunch. Moreover, Poffertjes are small fluffy pancakes with butter and powdered sugar if you want something quick.

Stamppot 

The Dutch winter classic is this traditional dish made of mashed potatoes and vegetables such as sauerkraut, kale, and carrot. This hearty meal is great after a long day of sightseeing.

Where to Stay 

These are some of the best areas to stay in the Dutch capital. The city offers many boutique hotels on the banks of the Amstel with dutch designs. 

Old Centrum 

Amsterdam Center (or Centrum to locals) is the ideal place to stay for first-time visitors. It has a central location and is the perfect place. You will find it in the Canal Belt. It is the historical center of Amsterdam and its oldest part. Old Centrum is also home to many of the city's most famous tourist attractions, like the Anne Frank House.

The Centrum is divided into smaller neighborhoods, including Nieuwmarkt, De Wallen (Red Light District), and Dam.

Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein 

These are great places to stay in Amsterdam for those looking for vibrant nightlife. Although you can reach any part of the city by public transport, walking back to your hotel from a night out is still lovely. This is possible in the Rembrandtplein area.

Besides, Leidseplein Square is an essential hub for tram lines. It provides easy access to the extensive tram network. A city pass is recommended for those who plan to stay in the area. This allows you to use trams as well as buses and ferries. However, while the site is safe for visitors, it is essential to be vigilant after dark. Therefore, it is important to be careful and aware of your surroundings.

Jordaan 

This area is popular with first-time Amsterdam visitors due to its narrow streets and traditional Dutch canals decorated with flowers.

Moreover, many older houses in Jordaan have a sign or stone tablet above their doors that tells the story of the original occupant. For example, a butcher may have a pig engraved on his table. A tailor might have a pair of scissors, etc.

Museum District 

All travelers should visit the museum district at least once during their Amsterdam trip. This district houses Amsterdam's three leading museums: Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum, and Rijksmuseum.

The Oud-Zuid area is also one of the most beautiful neighborhoods here. You will find upscale cafes and restaurants along with grand manor homes. Here, you will also find high-end shopping along P.C.  Hooftstraat Street is home to luxury retailers such as Gucci, Ralph Lauren, and Hermes.

Besides, this area is a great place to take an Instagram photo. Zevenlandenhuizen Street has seven unique houses. Their designs reflect the distinct architectures of the seven nations. These beautiful houses also make for an excellent backdrop for a great selfie. The area is also famous for its luxury, high-end hotels.

Plantage 

The Plantage district has lots of green spaces and parks. This great location is for families who want to travel with their children. The Jewish Quarter and Plantage also have many kid-friendly attractions to entertain your children.

Besides, Amsterdam's Royal Zoo is located on 25 acres in central Amsterdam. You will find many animals here. The zoo also has a separate science museum that focuses on microorganisms. Moreover, to honor the lives and sacrifices of thousands of Holocaust survivors, many memorials and museums are in the Jewish Quarter. Some museums also have children's exhibits.

How to get around 

Amsterdam offers a variety of public transportation options, including trains, metros, and buses that will take you around the city.

Bicycle - The majority of locals use bicycles to get around. You can rent a bicycle for your ride. There are also many bikes in the area.

Walking - Most places you want to see here are close together. A bus or metro will take you much faster, however.

Ferries - Amsterdam's ferry service is also managed by GVB. The Noordzeekanaal is the North Sea Canal's connection point. 

Trains - The Netherlands boasts a vast national railway network. The trains from the Central Station make it easy to travel to the countryside or other cities.

Metros - The metro system has five routes serving 39 stations and is ideal for reaching the suburbs. 

Trams - Amsterdam's famous blue-and-white trams are a reliable and affordable way to move around the city center. The Central Station is the city's main transport hub and hosts 14 lines.

Buses - The bus network is extensive and efficient, with 35 lines. You can also hop on the shuttle every 15 minutes between the Airport Schiphol and the city center. Night buses are also available.

How to Stay Safe 

Amsterdam is safe and easy for tourists to navigate. You will unlikely be the victim of any criminal activity during your stay in Amsterdam, but it is essential to be alert. While tourists are not often the victims of violent crime, pickpockets or other scammers could take advantage of you. 

Amsterdammers are also known for their hospitality and friendliness toward tourists. Most people speak English, so communication should not be a problem. However, you might encounter unfriendly people as in any big city. Amsterdam is not known to be experiencing any significant political instability. However, staying informed about current events is essential before you travel.

Keep an eye on your belongings when waiting for a bus, taking public transport, or shopping. Also, avoid walking alone after dark in unpopulated and poorly lit areas. Likewise, avoid using ATMs in quiet areas at night. Amsterdam is also a common place for bike theft. Therefore, lock your bicycle properly.