Best Places to Travel in Amsterdam

“Get Ready to Fall in Love with Amsterdam: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Places to Travel!”

Amsterdam, a city of canals, bikes, and endless charm. Planning a trip? Get ready to be amazed by its beauty and culture. Here’s a list of the best places to travel in Amsterdam.

Start with the must-visit spots: stroll through the Red Light District, explore Jordaan, and take a canal boat tour. Art lovers, don’t miss the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum.

For accommodation, choose from luxurious options like Pulitzer Amsterdam or Conservatorium Hotel, or budget-friendly choices like The Student Hotel and Volkshotel.

Foodie paradise: try stroopwafels, bitterballen, and visit De Kas for a unique dining experience.

Discover vibrant nightlife at Leidseplein square or upscale experiences at Rembrandtplein square.

No matter where you go, you’re bound to have an amazing time. Pack your bags, hop on a bike, and fall in love with Amsterdam.

1. Exploring the Canals of Amsterdam

The Charm of the Canals

Amsterdam is known for its beautiful canals, and exploring them is a must-do activity while in the city. With over 100 kilometers of canals, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Take a boat tour for a unique perspective of the city or rent a bike and ride along the canals at your own pace.

The three main canals in Amsterdam are Herengracht, Prinsengracht, and Keizersgracht, and they all offer stunning views of the city’s architecture and charming houseboats. You can also take a walk along the canals and stop at one of the many cafes or restaurants for a break and some people-watching.

Hidden Gems Along the Canals

While the main canals are definitely worth a visit, don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and explore some of the smaller, lesser-known canals. These hidden gems offer a more intimate and authentic experience of Amsterdam‘s canal culture.

One of these hidden gems is the Brouwersgracht, which is often referred to as the most beautiful canal in Amsterdam. It’s lined with picturesque houses and quaint bridges, making it the perfect spot for a romantic stroll. Another hidden gem is the Singel canal, which is home to the famous floating flower market and offers a unique shopping experience.

Best Ways to Explore the Canals

As mentioned before, taking a boat tour is a popular way to explore the canals. There are many companies that offer different types of tours, from hop-on-hop-off to dinner cruises. This is a great option if you want to sit back, relax, and take in the sights without having to navigate through the busy streets.

If you prefer a more active approach, renting a bike is the way to go. Amsterdam is a very bike-friendly city, and you’ll find designated bike lanes along the canals. This is a fun and efficient way to explore the city and its canals, and you can stop whenever you want to take photos or grab a bite to eat.

Table: Boat Tour Companies in Amsterdam

2. Immerse Yourself in Dutch Culture at the Museums

Van Gogh Museum – Amsterdam

The Van Gogh Museum is a must-visit for any art lover. It houses the largest collection of Vincent Van Gogh’s paintings in the world, including famous works such as “Sunflowers” and “The Bedroom.” The museum also features exhibitions on other artists who were influenced by Van Gogh, making it a comprehensive and educational experience.

One tip for visiting the Van Gogh Museum is to book your tickets online in advance. This will save you from waiting in long lines, especially during peak tourist season.

Rijksmuseum

Another must-visit museum in Amsterdam is the Rijksmuseum, which is dedicated to Dutch art and history. Here, you’ll find masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other renowned Dutch artists. The museum also has a beautiful garden where you can relax and enjoy a picnic after exploring the galleries.

If you’re short on time, make sure to check out the highlights tour offered by the museum. This will give you a taste of the most famous pieces in the collection and save you some time.

Anne Frank House

For a more somber but important cultural experience, visit the Anne Frank House. This is where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II, and it’s now a museum that tells their story. You’ll walk through the secret annex where they lived and learn about the impact of the Holocaust on Amsterdam.

Tickets for the Anne Frank House can only be purchased online, and they often sell out quickly. So make sure to plan ahead if you want to visit this powerful museum.

List: Other Must-Visit Museums in Amsterdam

• Stedelijk Museum (modern and contemporary art)
• NEMO Science Museum (interactive science exhibits)
• Rembrandt House Museum (former home of the famous artist)
• Tropenmuseum (world cultures and ethnography)

3. Indulge in Delicious Dutch Cuisine – Amsterdam

Traditional Dutch Dishes

When in Amsterdam, you must try some of the local dishes. One of the most famous is stroopwafels, which are thin waffles filled with caramel syrup. You can find them at street markets or specialty shops throughout the city. Another must-try is bitterballen, which are deep-fried meatballs served with mustard for dipping.

For a hearty meal, try stamppot, a dish made of mashed potatoes and vegetables such as kale or sauerkraut. And for dessert, indulge in poffertjes, mini pancakes topped with powdered sugar and butter.

Trendy Food Scene

Amsterdam also has a thriving food scene with trendy restaurants popping up all over the city. For a unique dining experience, check out De Kas, a restaurant located in a greenhouse where they grow their own ingredients. Or head to Foodhallen, a food hall with a variety of vendors serving up delicious bites from around the world.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try some of the local delicacies like haring (herring) or kibbeling (fried cod). And don’t forget to wash it all down with a cold glass of Dutch beer.

Markets and Street Food

For a more budget-friendly option, check out the many street markets in Amsterdam. The Albert Cuyp Market is the largest and most famous, offering a variety of food stalls as well as clothing and souvenirs. You can also find delicious street food at the Ten Katemarkt and Dappermarkt.

And if you’re looking for a quick and tasty snack, grab a cone of fries from one of the many frites stands scattered throughout the city. These thick-cut fries are served with a variety of sauces, including the classic Dutch mayo.

Table: Best Restaurants in Amsterdam

4. Experience the Vibrant Nightlife – Amsterdam

Leidseplein Square

Leidseplein is one of the liveliest squares in Amsterdam, and it’s a popular spot for nightlife. Here, you’ll find a variety of bars and clubs, making it a great place to bar hop and experience different vibes. Some popular spots include Paradiso, a former church turned concert venue, and Jimmy Woo, a trendy nightclub.

During the day, Leidseplein is also a great spot to grab a drink or a bite to eat on one of the many outdoor terraces.

Rembrandtplein Square

For a more upscale nightlife experience, head to Rembrandtplein square. This area is known for its fancy cocktail bars and clubs, and it’s a popular spot for bachelor and bachelorette parties. Check out Club AIR for a night of dancing or visit the famous Café Schiller, a historic bar with a beautiful Art Deco interior.

Alternative Nightlife

If you’re looking for something a little different, Amsterdam has plenty of alternative nightlife options. For live music, check out the Bitterzoet or Melkweg, both popular venues for local and international bands. And for a unique experience, visit the A’DAM Lookout, a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.

List: Other Nightlife Options in Amsterdam

• Jazz cafes (Café Alto, Bourbon Street)
• Brown cafes (traditional Dutch pubs)
• Coffeeshops (where marijuana is legally sold and consumed)

5. Where to Stay in Amsterdam

Luxury Hotels – Amsterdam

Amsterdam has no shortage of luxurious hotels for those looking for a high-end experience. The Pulitzer Amsterdam, located in the charming Jordaan neighborhood, offers elegant rooms and a beautiful garden courtyard. The Conservatorium Hotel, housed in a former music conservatory, boasts a spa and Michelin-starred restaurant.

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

For budget travelers, there are also plenty of options in Amsterdam. The Student Hotel offers trendy and affordable rooms, as well as communal spaces where you can meet other travelers. Volkshotel, located in the up-and-coming East neighborhood, offers a variety of room options, including bunk beds for solo travelers.

Unique Accommodations

If you want to make your stay in Amsterdam even more memorable, consider staying in a unique accommodation. The Botel, a floating hotel on the river IJ, offers cozy rooms with beautiful views of the city. And for a truly one-of-a-kind experience, book a stay at the Crane Hotel Faralda, a luxury hotel located in a converted crane with a panoramic view of Amsterdam.

Table: Comparison of Accommodation Options in Amsterdam

6. Day Trips from Amsterdam

Zaanse Schans

Just a short train ride from Amsterdam is the charming village of Zaanse Schans. Here, you can step back in time and visit traditional Dutch windmills, wooden houses, and shops selling local products. You can also learn about the history of the area at the Zaans Museum.

Keukenhof Gardens – Amsterdam

If you’re visiting Amsterdam in the spring, don’t miss out on a trip to the Keukenhof Gardens. This stunning park is home to over 7 million tulips, daffodils, and other flowers, making it a must-see for any flower lover. You can easily reach the gardens by bus or organized tour from Amsterdam.

Haarlem

For a taste of small-town Dutch life, take a day trip to Haarlem. This picturesque city is known for its beautiful architecture, quaint streets, and lively market square. You can also visit the Frans Hals Museum, which showcases works by the famous Dutch painter.

List: Other Day Trip Options from Amsterdam

• Utrecht (charming university town)
• Rotterdam (modern architecture and vibrant food scene)
• The Hague (political capital of the Netherlands)