If you’re looking for a city break that’ll treat you right, look no further than Amsterdam. This European hotspot is home to stunning architecture, world-renowned art museums, and an impressive canal system that’ll make you feel like you’re in Venice. In addition to all of that, Amsterdam is also one of the most bike-friendly cities on the planet, which makes getting around a breeze. Check out our seven tips for having an incredible time in Amsterdam!
Get There Early to Beat the Crowds
Amsterdam is a popular destination for tourists, which means that some of the city’s most popular attractions can get pretty crowded. To avoid spending your trip elbow-to-elbow with other visitors, try to arrive in Amsterdam as early as possible. That way, you’ll be able to explore at your own pace and enjoy all that the city has to offer without feeling rushed. Arriving early also has another benefit – many of Amsterdam’s museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of every month! If this means that you need to check out early or arrive before check-in, don’t let your luggage wear you down. There are many luggage storage options available throughout the city, so you can relax and enjoy your trip without having to lug your belongings around with you. So, if you’re looking to save some money and enjoy some world-class art, plan your trip accordingly.
Rent a Bike
Amsterdam is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, so take advantage of that fact and rent a bicycle for your trip! Cycling is an incredibly efficient way to get around, and it’s also a great way to see some of the city’s more off-the-beaten-path sights. Plus, it’ll help you work up an appetite for all of those delicious Dutch dishes you’ll be indulging in. If you’re not used to riding a bike, don’t worry – Amsterdam is relatively flat, so cycling here is mostly hassle-free. Just make sure to brush up on your traffic laws before hitting the streets!
Visit the Rijksmuseum
No trip to Amsterdam would be complete without visiting the Rijksmuseum, one of the world’s most renowned museums. The museum is home to over eight million works of art, including masterpieces by Dutch masters such as Rembrandt and Vermeer. So even if you’re not usually one for art museums, the Rijksmuseum is definitely worth a visit – it’s an incredible experience that you won’t soon forget. If you’re short on time, make sure to check out the museum’s highlights tour, which covers all of the must-see paintings in just one hour.
Take a Canal Cruise
Amsterdam’s canals are one of the city’s most iconic features, so it would be a shame to visit without taking a cruise down them. There are plenty of different companies offering canal cruises, so you’re sure to find one that fits your schedule and budget. And, if you want to get even more out of your experience, opt for a dinner cruise – they’re usually pretty reasonably priced, and you’ll get to enjoy some delicious Dutch cuisine as you float down the canals. Just be sure to dress warmly – it can get pretty chilly on the water, even in the summer!
Go Shopping at the Albert Cuyp Market
The Albert Cuyp Market is Amsterdam’s largest and most popular market, and it’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs, try some Dutch delicacies, or just do some people-watching. The market is open six days a week (closed on Sundays), so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to check it out. And, if you’re looking for something specific, the chances are good that you’ll find it here – the Albert Cuyp Market has over 250 stalls selling everything from fresh produce to clothes to electronics.
Visit Keukenhof Gardens
If you’re visiting Amsterdam in the spring, make sure to add a trip to Keukenhof Gardens to your itinerary. The gardens are only open for eight weeks each year (from late March to early May), and they attract over 800,000 visitors annually. With over seven million tulips, daffodils, and other flowers on display, Keukenhof is truly a sight to behold. So don’t miss the chance to see one of the most beautiful places on earth – add Keukenhof Gardens to your list of must-see attractions in Amsterdam!
Food & Drink
Amsterdam is a foodie destination! There are some amazing restaurants, wine bars, and cafés, so make sure to stop at one (or two, or three…) for a drink and a bite to eat.
If you’re looking for something sweet, order a piece of Dutch apple pie – it’s delicious! Don’t forget to buy stroopwafel biscuits which are like a syrup sandwich squeezed between two thin waffles.
And, of course, no trip to Amsterdam would be complete without trying some traditional Dutch food. Some of our favorites include bitterballen (fried meatballs), herring (raw or pickled), and Poffertjes (mini-pancakes, often freshly made at market stalls in large, hot cast-iron moulds). For something stronger, head to a brown cafe – these Amsterdam staples are known for their dark wood interiors and extensive selection of beers. Proost!
As you can see, there’s a lot to do in Amsterdam – you’ll never be bored here! We hope these tips have inspired you to start planning your own trip to this incredible city.
Disclaimer: this is a collaborative post.
