If you’re looking for a city break that offers something a little different, look no further than Amsterdam. This vibrant and eclectic city is home to stunning architecture, world-class museums, and lovely canals – not to mention plenty of excellent restaurants and bars.
Here are our favorite Amsterdam travel tips to help make your visit as enjoyable as possible.
Amsterdam is a wonderful city with so much to offer. Whether you’re an adventurous traveler, history buff, or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, you will surely find excellent things to do in Amsterdam.
But don’t let the romanticism of Amsterdam’s canals and tulips – or even the Dutch peoples’ quintessential good nature fool you; traveling there can be challenging if you’re not prepared.
This list will help make sure your trip goes smoothly and that you get the most out of your time in this beautiful city. Additionally, we’ll take a look at some of the things that make Amsterdam unique, such as its architecture, diversity, and culture.
According to TripAdvisor, 78% of travelers who visit Amsterdam say they would recommend the city to others – so it’s definitely worth putting some effort into making the most of your time there.
Top Travel Tips for Visiting Amsterdam
1. Do your research before you go
There’s a lot to see and do in Amsterdam, so it’s a good idea to do some research before you visit. This way, you can make sure you don’t miss any of the city’s highlights. Additionally, knowing what to expect will help you avoid any unwelcome surprises.
For instance, while Amsterdam is generally a safe city, there are some areas that are best avoided – particularly at night.
2. Get a travel insurance policy
No matter where you travel, it is always a good idea to purchase a travel insurance policy. This will protect you from any unforeseen problems that may arise, such as lost luggage or medical emergencies. When purchasing a policy, be sure to read the fine print so you know exactly what is covered.
If you are traveling outside of North America, travel insurance is especially important as your health coverage likely only applies to emergencies that happen in Canada or the United States.
Travel insurance usually covers things like lost luggage, stolen possessions, and trip cancellation. By purchasing a policy before your trip, you can relax and enjoy your time abroad knowing that you are protected in case of any unforeseen problems.
We’ve used and reviewed a ton of travel insurers, here are a few you should consider.
See Related: Best Cancel Anytime Travel Insurance
3. Get an I Amsterdam City Card if you plan to visit 3+ attractions
If you plan on visiting more than three Amsterdam attractions, get an I Amsterdam City Card. It’s a pass that allows you to visit many of the city’s top attractions at discounted rates. It also includes free public transportation and can be used as an alternative to purchasing individual tickets.
For instance, if you’re planning on visiting The Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum (the world’s largest museum), Anne Frank House, and Scheepvaartmuseum (a maritime museum with an amazing collection of works by Dutch masters).
The I Amsterdam City Pass will save you money compared with buying individual tickets for each attraction.
The pass costs €55 for adults and €45 for children ages 4-18—and can be purchased at any of the city’s attractions or from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport when you arrive in Amsterdam.
The card is valid for 48 hours, depending on the card you purchase, after first use or 72 hours after first use.
If you want another option, consider the GoCity’s Amsterdam City Card which offers a similar approach but is more geared towards maximizing the Amsterdam museum experience.
See Related: GoCity Amsterdam Review: Is it Worth it?
4. Pack light
Amsterdam is a fairly compact city, so you won’t need to pack too much for your trip. In fact, bringing less luggage will make it easier to get around. If you’re traveling in the summer, remember to pack light, airy clothing that can be used with flexibility.
If you plan to arrive via Amsterdam Centraal Station (Amsterdam Central Train Station), the walk to your hotel (depending on your location) can be very crowded, especially on weekends, and the city center is filled with cobblestone streets so lugging pounds and pounds of luggage can be dreadful.
We know a thing or two about efficient packing and quality luggage.
Learn from our hard-won wisdom.
See Related: Amsterdam Packing List: What to Bring on Your Trip
5. Make Use of Public Transit Apps for City-Wide Info and Digital Tickets
Whether you’re using public transit or biking, there are a number of apps that can help you make your trip easier. For example, if you’re planning your route and want to take advantage of public transit in Amsterdam, download the app for GVB (Amsterdam’s transport company).
The app has many features like real-time updates on departures and arrivals, an interactive map with directions to most major stops in Amsterdam, a journey planner, and more. It’s also very easy to use: simply type in where you want to go and the app will give you all the options available on your route.
When it comes time to purchase tickets for public transportation or bike share programs such as OV-fiets (Amsterdam’s bike share program), use the GVB app again.
It’s much faster than standing in line at one of their ticket machines which tend to be slow.
- Just open up the GVB app on your phone or tablet when you board a tram or ferry;
- tap “buy ticket”;
- select which type of ticket (e.g., single fare) based on how long/far away from home/work);
- scan QR code displayed by conductor/driver into the device (this automatically deducts amount owed);
- show receipt on camera so the conductor can confirm payment has been made successfully before letting passengers disembark at the stop where they wish to get off at next destination point within city limits.
Simple!
6. Learn some Dutch phrases
Amsterdam is a very international city, so you’ll be able to get by without speaking Dutch. However, learning a few basic phrases will help you connect with locals and make your trip more enjoyable.
Plus, people will appreciate the effort as the Dutch language is not as commonly used around the world as it once was during the Dutch Golden Age of trade.
And even more importantly; Amsterdam is full of great people who want to meet other people!
So if you’ve got a couple of extra hours on your hands while waiting for that boat tour across town, go try out some new type of beer at one of those awesome bars and see if your Dutch language skills help spur up a conversation with a local.
7. Don’t Arrive by Car or Rent a Car
The most expensive thing about visiting Amsterdam is the car. The only reason you’d want to rent one is if you plan on driving through the countryside, and even then, it’s not necessary.
You can easily get around on foot or by bike (which are much cheaper than renting a car), so don’t waste your money on one – you simply do not need them.
You can easily use the superb public transport like bikes and trains, which you’ll probably appreciate more anyway because they’re less stressful than driving in busy urban areas like Amsterdam.
Plus, there are plenty of other options: Uber or Lyft will let you order rides from your phone with little hassle—and they’re both cheaper than taxis.
If you absolutely must rent a car (no judgment) you can normally find cheap car rental options through Kayak.
See Related: Rental Cars That You Can Take Out of State
8. Book Your Train Tickets in Advance
The best way to make sure you get the best rates is to book your train tickets in advance. In addition to saving money, booking your train tickets early also helps avoid long lines and rush hour crowds.
When traveling internationally, it’s important to know what currency you’ll need as well as how that currency will be accepted in Amsterdam.
If you are planning on using a credit card during your trip, check with your bank about foreign transaction fees before leaving home so you can plan accordingly for any additional costs associated with international travel.
See Related: Top Sites for Booking Tours: Maximize Your Experience
9. Bring Cash and a Backup Bank Card
You should have plenty of cash on hand when traveling to Amsterdam—and a backup bank card. If you lose your primary bank card, it is possible to get a new one at the airport ATM, but don’t count on this as an option.
In that case, you may need to wait until you get home before you can access more funds from your account.
If you do lose all of your money but still have a backup card and enough cash for some basic needs (food and transportation), then there are many ATMs throughout the city. You should be able to withdraw up to €90 per transaction at most Dutch ATMs.
It’s also worth noting that the Euro and the good ol’ USD are valued at roughly the same right now, so if you’re wondering how much everything is costing you in dollars, it’s about the same (minus any exchange fees).
See Related: Best Credit Cards For Travel Perks of February
10. Visit During the Low Season
You’ll find that the low season is November through March, which means visiting Amsterdam without the crowds of summer.
This will also give you a lot more time to explore this gorgeous city at your own pace, and it’s likely that flights and hotels will cost less during this time as well.
As an added bonus, the weather is milder during these months—it may still rain from time to time, but it won’t be nearly as snowy or cold as in wintertime.
11. Visit Museums Before 2 pm
The museums in Amsterdam are a great way to learn more about the area, but they can be crowded. If you’re visiting during peak tourist season (like me right now – ugh), you’ll find yourself fighting for elbow room with rowdy crowds eager to take selfies with Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers.”
Luckily, most museums are free after 2 pm—so if you arrive early enough, you can enjoy your museum time without fearing that someone will take your favorite spot right next to Rembrandt’s self-portrait or Vermeer’s “Girl With a Pearl Earring.”
That five minutes before 2 pm (or 4:30 pm in some cases) can make all the difference!
See Related: Best Museums in Europe to Visit
12. Explore the Canal Belt Before Nightfall
The Canal Belt is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s extremely enchanting right at sunset and nighttime. It’s quiet, romantic, and serene. You can walk along the canals and take in all of the sights and sounds that make Amsterdam so memorable.
The canal area is generally very busy with tourists, locals, and street performers alike—which means it gets loud during the day. The canals aren’t lit up completely at night, except for the bridges—so they’re dark as well.
And while the lack of light adds romance to the experience…it also makes it difficult to see where you’re going if you need to cross them (or even just look at them).
It’s best to see the canals after peak tourist hours and right before the sun has completely set.
13. Book your accommodation in advance
If you’re planning on visiting Amsterdam during peak season, it’s important to book your accommodation in advance. That way, you’ll be guaranteed a room – and you might even get a discount. Hotels in Amsterdam can fill up quickly, so it’s best to book as soon as you know your travel dates.
There are a number of websites where you can find hotel discounts, including our favorites Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com. Be sure to read the reviews before booking, as not every budget hotel is as nice as they seem in the images online.
It’s also a good idea to check out the location on a map to make sure it’s in a safe area and close to the attractions you want to see.
See Related: Best Websites for Cheap Flights and Hotels
14. Watch Out for Bikes at All Times. And Ditch Any Umbrella!
You must be vigilant when traveling in Amsterdam.
Cyclists are everywhere, and they don’t mess around. They’re fast, they can come from anywhere at any time, and they won’t hesitate to swerve right into your path to avoid a pothole or a pedestrian stepping off the curb and into the bike lane.
This can lead to collisions between cyclists and pedestrians that result in serious injury or death every year.
In Amsterdam, bike lanes are generally clearly marked as red. I like to call the red bike lanes, LAVA. If you are walking, STAY OFF THE LAVA aka the bike lanes.
Also, for this reason, we recommend leaving your umbrella at home (or better yet — never buy one) and not using headphones while crossing the street (though some people might say that if you have music on too loud it can actually make it harder for you to hear bikes coming up behind you).
Also, be sure not to cross without looking both ways first!
15. Ride a bike
Whether it’s a guided bike tour or a trip to the shops, if you’re looking for an easy way to get around Amsterdam, consider renting a bike. This is a great way to explore the city, get exercise, and see as much of Amsterdam as possible in one day.
It’s also very easy to find bike rentals; there are many different companies from which you can rent bikes in Amsterdam and prices range from €10-40 per day depending on the length of rental and type of bike (e.g., electric versus regular).
While most people do not need reservations for these types of services, it’s always good practice to call ahead to confirm availability just in case.
Amsterdam canals are in layers in the canal belt. Hence, the name. But outside of the canal belt, there are a ton of other great Amsterdam canals to explore, and the best way to see the hidden gems is by riding a bike.
See Related: Brussels vs Amsterdam: What’s the Difference?
16. Do not take photos in the red light district!
The famous Amsterdam red light district is a major tourist attraction in Amsterdam; where you can book an Amsterdam Red Light District Walking Tour, but it’s important to be respectful when visiting this area.
Do not take photos of the women working in the windows—this is prohibited and can result in a hefty fine or maybe even result in your phone ending up in one of the canals.
Be respectful of these sex workers in Amsterdam’s red light district. They are respected by the local community and are supported by their own worker’s union in the Netherlands.
If you want to take photos in the area, focus on the architecture or canals.
This is a historic area of Amsterdam and there are plenty of beautiful things to photograph without needing to take pictures of sex workers.
17. Be Careful About Where You Buy Your Weed!
When you’re looking for weed, make sure to buy from reputable coffee shops aka “coffeeshops” that have good reviews and respect the product they are selling. Just like any business or restaurant, you want a good product and experience if you’re using your hard-earned money to purchase something.
There are several coffeeshops that have opened in Amsterdam to simply chase money and are not selling a good product or experience. Focus on the household coffeeshops that have a great reputation such as Boerenjongens, Abraxas, Barney’s Coffeeshop, Grey Area, and The Bulldog.
See Related: Best & Most Beautiful Cities in Europe to Visit
18. Don’t buy drugs from street dealers
While drug use is tolerated in Amsterdam (to an extent – Dutch law is complicated), it’s important to remember that ultimately, drugs are still illegal. Do not purchase drugs from street dealers. This is illegal, highly discouraged, and can result in serious consequences.
If you do want to purchase drugs, we recommend doing so from a coffeeshop—these are legal establishments where you can buy and consume cannabis products. Just be sure to bring your ID, as you must be at least 18 years old to enter a coffeeshop in Amsterdam.
19. Bring an Outlet Adapter with Two USB Ports
If you’re traveling to Amsterdam, you need an adapter to charge your phone.
Why?
Well, most Dutch hotels don’t have enough outlets for everyone in the room (a common problem), and since the Netherlands uses a different voltage from other countries, you’ll need a converter in order to charge your gadgets properly.
See Related: Best Travel Accessories
20. Can I use Airbnb or VRBO to Snag a Fantastic Apartment in…Amsterdam?!? Yes!
Vacation rental companies like VRBO and Airbnb are not only a great way to save money, but they also give you the opportunity to stay in a place that’s more like a “home.” That means the place you rent might have a little extra space and fewer rules than the standard hotel room.
You can book your own apartment on Airbnb, or you can find a space owned by someone who lives in Amsterdam and rent it out when they are away (this is called renting an “entire home/apartment”).
It’s important to note that not all of these options will be available for your trip (or even exist yet), but if they do, I highly recommend checking them out!
See Related: Best Apps & Websites to Book Hotels in Europe
21. Go on a canal cruise
One of the best ways to see the Amsterdam canals is from the water. There’s something unique about riding on a boat in Amsterdam that’s unlike anywhere else in the world.
Canal cruises are a great way to get an overview of the city and learn about its history. There are many different companies that offer canal cruises, and prices vary depending on the length of the tour and whether or not you want to include a guide.
Amsterdam Canal cruises typically last about an hour, and most of them depart from the Amsterdam Centraal Station (Central Station) area. If you’re short on time, this is a great activity to do in Amsterdam.
It’s also worth noting that if you opt for an Amsterdam card, you’re eligible for a free canal cruise!
See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Amsterdam, Netherlands
22. Enjoy Some Dutch Cuisine
In addition to the cultural aspects of Amsterdam, you can also enjoy some Dutch cuisine. While Dutch food doesn’t get the attention of Italian and French cuisine, it’s still good food and it’s very dynamic.
The Dutch are proud of their cheese, so try some Gouda, Edam or Leidse. They also make great street food such as the legendary herring: try kibbeling (fried), schol (raw) and boterzure (soused in vinegar).
You can’t visit Amsterdam without eating a pancake. Try poffertjes—small pancakes served with butter and syrup—or other kinds of Dutch pancakes like slaaien and pannenkoeken.
And finally…you have to try an entire meal based around meatballs. These are called kroketten and/or bitterballen in Holland and come with different sauces such as curry or mustard.
See Related: Best Amsterdam Food You Need to Have
23. While you’re at it, try some amazing international cuisine! (Indonesian, Surinamese, African, and more!)
Due to its colonial history and desirable standard of living, Amsterdam is home to people from all over the world. As a result, you can find cuisine from just about anywhere in the world in one city! Amsterdam is the second most diverse city in the world, after New York City.
One of the most popular cuisines in Amsterdam is Indonesian food. There are dozens of great Indonesian restaurants throughout the city, each with its own take on classic dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice), gado gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce), and satay (grilled meat skewers).
If you’re looking for something a little closer to home, though, there are also plenty of great options for Italian, French, British, German, Spanish, and other types of global cuisine.
And of course, no trip to Amsterdam would be complete without trying some of the city’s famous Dutch specialties like stroopwafels (syrup waffles) and the ubiquitous herring.
The Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s most-visited park, with millions of visitors each year. It’s also one of the city’s most important green spaces and home to a variety of events throughout the year. The park is an ideal spot for guided bike tours.
If you’re looking for something a little more offbeat, though, try one of Amsterdam’s hidden courtyards—often called Hofjes (“courtyard houses”).
Hofjes are small enclaves within larger neighborhoods that were historically built as affordable housing for Dutch citizens who couldn’t afford to live in Amsterdam proper.
These days they’re usually privately owned but still open to the public as destinations for recreation and relaxation. You’ll find several dozen hofjes scattered across the city center; some are free while others charge entry fees, require reservations, or are private for residents.
See Related: Best Gardens in Europe to Visit
25. Make a list to visit some of the most historic brown bars and cafes
Plan to visit some of Amsterdam’s most historic brown bars and cafes. The Dutch love their beer, and there’s no better place to sample a wide variety than in Amsterdam.
The city has some of the best pubs in the world; prepare a list of Amsterdam’s most historic brown bars and cafes. We recommend starting with De Zwarte Zwaan, which was established in 1790 but closed during World War II after it was bombed by German forces.
It re-opened shortly after the war and is still going strong today. Try their traditional Heineken on draft along with some tasty snacks like bitterballen (fried dumplings).
26. Consider exploring Amsterdam North
If you want to explore Amsterdam like a local or escape the touristy things to do, one of my favorite travel tips is to head to Amsterdam Noord (Amsterdam North).
Amsterdam Noord is across the IJ from Amsterdam’s city center and can be reached by a free ferry. It’s a great place to explore with its own unique character, architecture, and major attractions.
Some of the highlights of Amsterdam Noord include the EYE Film Institute, A’DAM Lookout, NDSM Werf (a cool creative hub), and the EYE Museum.
Amsterdam Noord is also home to some great restaurants, cafes, and bars, so it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening exploring.
27. Take a day trip from Amsterdam
There are plenty of great places to visit outside of Amsterdam, and if you have the time, we recommend doing a day trip or two. Amsterdam is centrally located in the Netherlands, so it’s easy to get to other parts of the country.
Some of the most popular day trips from Amsterdam include visits to Utrecht, The Hague, Rotterdam, Volendam, Kinderdijk, Leiden, and Haarlem. Each of these cities has its own unique attractions and things to see and do.
If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, consider doing a day trip to Keukenhof Gardens or Zaanse Schans and Volendam. An I Amsterdam Card will include transportation to places like Zaanse Schans, Volendam, Marken, and Muiderslot castle.
See Related: Amsterdam Souvenirs to Buy on Your Trip
28. Consider taking a walking tour
If you want to learn more about Amsterdam and its history, consider taking a walking tour. This is one of the most obvious Amsterdam travel tips as it’s common for nearly every city.
But in the Dutch capital of Amsterdam, there are many different kinds of tours available, so you can choose one that interests you.
For instance, there are walking tours and boat tours that combine with skip-the-line tickets to the museum that sponsored the tour. There are also food tours, which is a great way to try some of the local cuisines.
No matter what kind of tour you choose, it’s a great way to learn more about Amsterdam and its history.
See Related: Best Amsterdam Tours
29. Visit Amsterdam’s markets
Amsterdam has many different kinds of markets, from the large Flower Market to the smaller neighborhood markets. The city’s markets are a great place to find fresh produce, flowers, and other local goods.
Some of the best markets in Amsterdam include the Albert Cuyp Market, the Noordermarkt, and the Dappermarkt. The Albert Cuyp Market is the city’s largest and most well-known market, while the Noordermarkt is a great place to find organic produce and local specialties.
The Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s most-visited park, with millions of visitors each year. It’s also one of the city’s most important green spaces and home to a variety of events throughout the year.
If you’re looking for something a little more offbeat, though, try one of Amsterdam’s hidden courtyards—often called Hofjes (“courtyard houses”).
Hofjes are small enclaves within larger neighborhoods that were historically built as affordable housing for Dutch citizens who couldn’t afford to live in Amsterdam proper.
These days they’re usually privately owned but still open to the public as destinations for recreation and relaxation.
You’ll find several dozen hofjes scattered across the city center; some are free while others charge entry fees, require reservations, or are actually private residences. Be careful who’s door you knock on!
31. Tipping is optional so keep the calculators in hand
Amsterdam provides a good living wage even to restaurants, and unlike in the United States, tipping isn’t socially required – but always appreciated. When you eat at the finest dining establishment, the tipping can exceed 10 percent.
However, do remember customer service is no longer just about a quick wait for you to respond. They are more relaxed and arranged to aid you rather than pamper you. You do not have to give tips in bars or cafés. It’s generally not expected.
My Favorite Do’s and Don’ts of Amsterdam
DO’s
Do Rent a Bike
Amsterdam is a very bike-friendly city and it’s a great way to get around. Just be sure to watch out for the tram tracks.
Do Try the Local Food!
There are many different kinds of Dutch food to try, from bitterballen to stroopwafels. A great place to try these Dutch snacks is at a market or a local cafe. If you want to try other types of cuisines, check out the Foodhallen in Amsterdam Oud West for a fun environment of food and drinks.
Do take a canal cruise
A canal cruise is an essential activity in Amsterdam. It’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective and learn more about its history. There is so much to learn about the Dutch capital, each canal house feels like it has its own piece of history behind it.
Do get an Amsterdam City Card
Amsterdam’s museums are unlike anywhere in the world. If you’re a fan of art, history, or culture, then Amsterdam is the place for you. The city has world-renowned museums like the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum.
With an Amsterdam City Card, you can get free entry to many of the city’s museums as well as public transportation.
Do visit the markets
Amsterdam’s markets are a great place to find fresh produce, flowers, and other local goods. If you are in town on the third weekend of the month, make sure you visit IJ-Hallen in Amsterdam North, it’s Europe’s largest flea market.
Don’t come by car
Traveling to Amsterdam via automobile is not the best plan of action. It may be hard for you to get around. There isn’t much need for an automobile in town and you can’t get much done with it. For longer journeys into town, use public transportation.
Parking is also very costly in Amsterdam and many hotels lack parking as well.
Don’ts
Don’t walk on the bike lanes & don’t bike on the sidewalks
It’s a good thing to learn a few facts about Amsterdam before walking around. Bicycles are king in cities and most are biking. The bike lane is typically a separate bike lane and these have no specific purpose, except for bicycles. Do not go through the bike lane or stand on the road. If a biker needs a crossing lane, make the crossing as quickly as possible.
Don’t miss Van Gogh!
There are so many fascinating museums in Amsterdam, and choosing where to get there isn’t always easy. However, if you have visited one museum in Amsterdam, you must visit Van Gogh Museum.
It houses the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh’s paintings (and some of his most important artworks).
You will also see works by artists in similar time periods. But there are also major focus points on his life and masterpieces. It is the most-visited museum in the Netherlands and it’s worth it when you are visiting Amsterdam.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Amsterdam is a very safe city, but it’s always better to be cautious. If you need help or directions, don’t be afraid to ask. The locals are generally very friendly and happy to help.
This is just a start but hopefully, it will give you some good ideas for your trip.
See Related: Best Warm Winter Destinations in Europe
Traveling in Amsterdam: Types of Transportation and Getting Around the City
Amsterdam is a relatively small city, and it’s easy to get around on foot. However, if you want to see more of the city, there are a few other options for transportation.
Biking
Biking is a great way to get around Amsterdam. There are plenty of bike paths throughout the city, and it’s a fun way to see the sights.
Trams: Amsterdam has an extensive tram system that can take you to most parts of the city. Trams are a great option if you want to avoid traffic and getting lost.
Buses
Buses are also available, but they are not as convenient as trams or bikes and are generally located outside of the canal ring.
Taxi
Taxis are available, but they can be expensive. If you take a taxi, make sure the meter is running.
Water Taxi or Boats
Water taxis are a fun way to get around Amsterdam. They are typically more expensive than other forms of transportation, but they offer a great view of the city.
Metro
Amsterdam has a clean, efficient underground metro that is also very fast but it only runs north to south. If you are looking for accommodation that’s outside the city center, consider booking a place in De Pijp, which is close to the metro transit stop.
Getting around Amsterdam by foot is the best way to see the city center. However, if you want to explore more of Amsterdam, there are a few other options for transportation.
Biking, trams, buses, and taxis are all available, but the best way to get around is by foot. Water taxis are also an option, but they are typically more expensive.
See Related: Best Cities in the Netherlands to Visit
Best Time to Visit Amsterdam
The best time to visit Amsterdam is from April to May or September to October. The weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. However, if you want to experience the city’s famous tulip festival, plan your trip for April. Keep in mind that hotels and flights are typically more expensive during these months.
When to Avoid Amsterdam
To me, any time in Amsterdam is fine by me. The city is wonderful but if you like avoiding crowds, the busiest time to visit Amsterdam is from June to August. The city is crowded with tourists and the weather is warm (there can be cooler days during this time period though).
If you want to avoid the crowds, plan your trip for another time during year, such as spring or early fall.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s visiting museums and parks, learning about the many famous artists that the Netherlands has produced, or enjoying a cheeky pre-roll, Amsterdam is a city that should be enjoyed at a leisurely pace.
The Dutch capital of Amsterdam is a beautiful, vibrant city with plenty to see and do and it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world for good reason.
But one thing that Amsterdam features is an incredibly well-planned city center, where you can see most of the city’s history in a variety of ways such as via tram, boat, bike, walking, moped, kayaks, and even car.
Relax, take it easy, and soak up the atmosphere of this wonderful city. If you feel that we missed the mark on any of these Amsterdam travel tips, please feel free to reach out and let us know.
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FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Amsterdam?
The best time to visit Amsterdam is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. However, keep in mind that peak season (May-September) is also a great time to visit, as there are many events and festivals taking place.
How long should I stay in Amsterdam?
Most travelers suggest spending at least 3-4 days in Amsterdam. That way, you’ll have enough time to see the main sights and do some exploring. Of course, if you have more time, you can always stay longer.
What is the best way to get around Amsterdam?
There are many ways to get around Amsterdam, including walking, biking, and public transportation. This is generally based on your personal preferences, if you’re looking for a more active vacation, you might want to walk or bike. Or, if you prefer a relaxing vacation, you might want to take public transportation.
What are some must-see sights in Amsterdam?
Some of the must-see sights in Amsterdam include the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum, Artis Royal Zoo, Van Gogh Museum, and Dam Square. Of course, there are many other tourist attractions worth visiting, like simply enjoying all that the Amsterdam canals have to offer – it all depends on your interests.
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