Amsterdam is a city that captivates with its artistic legacy and laid-back energy. The cityโs free-spirited vibe is reflected in its iconic coffee shops, bike-friendly streets, and progressive culture. Whether youโre visiting the Anne Frank House, exploring the Van Gogh Museum, or enjoying a leisurely boat ride through its canals, Amsterdam offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Its multicultural influence can be seen in the diverse food offerings and music genres that permeate the cityโs vibrant cultural scene.
Year
1275 AD Medieval era, founded as a small fishing village along the Amstel River.
Airport
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
Cost of Living (10)
7๏ธโฃ Cost of living is relatively high, but still more affordable than London or Paris.

Minimal List TL;DR
๐ShopBookstore
4.7MendoWell curated book store offering fascinating pieces on every topic
๐ณ๏ธSeeScience Museum
4.6NEMOScience museum on a boat with interactive exhibits and experiments
๐ฌSeeMuseum
4.5MicropiaInteractive museum featuring micro organisms with fun live exhibits
๐LuxuryRestaurant
4.9De KasGreenhouse restaurant with ingredients harvested fresh from the garden
๐ทDrinkConcert Hall
4.8BimhuisJazz venue surrounded by beautiful scenery featuring top performances
๐DrinkLuxury Hotel
4.8W AmsterdamOffers guest rooms, suites and a heated wet deck rooftop pool in the city center of Amsterdam
๐คDrinkCultural Venue
4.5MelkwegHistoric concert venue playing everything from afro beat to live electronic
๐ตDrinkRestaurant
4.5ShelterSubterranean night club and exhibition space offering a fresh perspective
๐ฃDrinkAsian Fusion
4.5MomoAsian fusion bar and bistro serving excellent sushi and bites to share
๐ปDrinkSpeakeasy
4.4Door 74Top drawer speakeasy bar with a small intimate setting, just ring the bell

Places to See

Must Visit:
Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, Vondelpark, and Canal Ring. Amsterdamโs cultural highlights include world-famous art museums, historic neighborhoods, and scenic canals, blending history with modern culture.
Amsterdam is a city defined by its canals, with over 165 of them stretching throughout the city. The canals, part of the city's UNESCO World Heritage listing, create a picturesque and historic setting. Amsterdam is also home to world-class museums such as the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and Anne Frank House. The cityโs vibrant art scene and laid-back atmosphere, combined with its cycling culture, make it one of Europeโs most charming cities.

Places to Eat
Sophialaan 55, 1075 BP Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
40โ60
12:00 PM โ 10:00 PM
Known for its unique flavor combinations
Get:
Tram 12, Stop: Wibautstraat
Tip:
Creative tapas, Local wines



Contemporary tapas style restaurant with an open kitchen
https://rongastrobar.nl/Prinsengracht 274, 1016 HH Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
30โ50
12:00 PM โ 10:00 PM
Located along the water's edge
Tip:
Seafood dishes, Premium wines



Popular restaurant serving steak and surf & turf options.
http://www.venusenadonis.nl/Scheldeplein 4, 1078 GR Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
50โ70
12:00 PM โ 10:30 PM
Known for its sustainable practices and fresh seafood
Get:
Tram 10 (Heemstedestraat stop)
Tip:
Seafood dishes, Wine pairings



Upscale contemporary seafood restaurant
http://www.visaandeschelde.nl/Tweede Hugo de Grootstraat 2-6, 1052 LC Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
25โ35
7:00 AM โ 10:00 PM
Known for its intimate setting and quality service
Get:
Tram 10 (Zoutkeetsgracht stop)
Tip:
Seasonal dishes, Brunch specials



Mediterranean restaurant serving visually appealing food
http://www.morganandmees.com/Spuistraat 294-302, 1012 VX Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.4
50โ70
6:00 PM โ 11:00 PM
Known for its inviting decor and friendly atmosphere
Get:
Tram 10 (Zoutkeetsgracht stop)
Tip:
Dutch classics, Seasonal specials



Dutch fine dining house-restaurant with old world decor
http://vijffvlieghen.nl/Valeriusplein 2, 1075 BG Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.4
30
12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Known for its classic dishes and friendly service
Tip:
Classic dishes, wines



Perfect stage for rotisserie and charcoal grill lovers.
https://georgebistro.nl/De Wallen, Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.3
0
Varies
Famous for its liberal attitude and vibrant nightlife
Vibe:
Lively, controversial



Amsterdam's red light district.
Reguliersdwarsstraat 28, 1017 BM Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.3
45โ60
12:00 PM โ 10:30 PM
Features a stylish bar and intimate dining spaces
Get:
Tram 10 (Heemstedestraat stop)
Tip:
French classics, Seasonal dishes



Living room style restaurant with a French inspired cuisine
http://www.lionnoir.nl/Must Try:
๐ช Stroopwafels (Thin waffle cookies filled with caramel) ๐ Herring (Raw fish served with onions and pickles, often eaten as a snack) ๐ฅ Dutch Pancakes (Thin, sweet or savory pancakes, often topped with syrup) ๐ฉ Poffertjes (Mini, fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar) ๐ Bitterballen (Deep-fried meatballs, a popular Dutch snack)

Places to Drink
Piet Heinkade 3, 1019 BR Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.8
10-30
10:00 - 00:00 (event-based)
Renowned for its jazz performances
Get:
Tram 26, Stop: Amsterdam Central
Tip:
Live jazz, Art exhibitions



Jazz venue surrounded by beautiful scenery featuring top performances
http://www.bimhuis.nl/Oosterdoksstraat 4, 1011 DK Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.6
20-50
10:00 - 01:00
Offers stunning city views from the rooftop
Get:
Tram 1, Stop: Amstel
Tip:
Signature cocktails, Tapas



Rooftop bars with a view over the city
http://www.skyloungeamsterdam.com/Funenkade 7, 1018 AL Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.6
10
2:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Modern brewery next to a windmill producing organic blonde & dark beers & running short tours.
http://www.brouwerijhetij.nl/Lijnbaansgracht 234A, 1017 PH Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
10-30
Event-based
Hosts a variety of events and performances
Get:
Tram 1, Stop: Leidseplein
Tip:
Concerts, Art exhibitions



Historic concert venue playing everything from afro beat to live electronic
https://www.melkweg.nl/nl/Overhoeksplein 3, 1031 KS Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
20-50
23:00 - 06:00
Stunning interior design with art from local artists.
Get:
Accessible via tram line 14 to the Amstelveenseweg stop.
Tip:
Seasonal dishes, local wines



Subterranean night club and exhibition space offering a fresh perspective
https://shelteramsterdam.nl/Hobbemastraat 1, 1071 XZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
30-60
12:00 - 00:00
Features an extensive cocktail menu
Vibe:
Stylish, Contemporary



Asian fusion bar and bistro serving excellent sushi and bites to share
https://www.momo-amsterdam.com/Reguliersdwarsstraat 74, 1017 BN Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.4
15-30
18:00 - 03:00
Features a secret entrance and unique cocktails
Vibe:
Intimate, Exclusive
Get:
Tram 1, Stop: Centraal Station
Tip:
Signature cocktails, Tasting menu



Top drawer speakeasy bar with a small intimate setting, just ring the bell
http://www.door74.net/Dijksgracht 4, 1019 BS Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.4
10-20
11:00 - 01:00
Located on a historic boat dock, popular for sunset views
Get:
Tram 10, Stop: Molenwijk
Tip:
Traditional Dutch dishes, Local drinks



Busy Dutch bar and cafe offering drinks by the waterside
http://www.hannekesboom.nl/
Music & Dance:
๐ง EDM: The city is the hub of global EDM, hosting festivals like ADE. ๐ท Jazz: International artists perform at Bimhuis. ๐ธ Blues: Blues clubs like The Bitter End. ๐ป Classical: The Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra. ๐ค Folk: Dutch indie-folk scene at venues like Paradiso.

Places to Network
We'll be updating more places soon!

Key Industries:
๐ฅ๏ธ Tech (growing tech start-up scene and home to many digital agencies), ๐ Trade (port city, a central node for European logistics), ๐ Tourism (rich culture, canals, and tulip fields draw millions) - Amsterdamโs economy thrives across multiple industries. It serves as a key hub for international trade and digital businesses, making it a prime location for tech networking, trade fairs, and startup accelerators.
Amsterdam
Amsterdam captivates with its intricate canal system and vibrant tulip fields; each corner offers a glimpse into a rich history. The cityโs laid-back vibe and artistic spirit invite you to explore its museums, cafes, and charming streets, creating a delightful balance of history and modernity. Amsterdam is a city filled with lovely canals, impressive architecture and more than a thousand bridges. There is something for every travelerโs taste, from culture and history, partying or just to take a vacation with the chart of an old European city. Maybe thatโs a reason why its colloquially known as the Venice of the North.

Places to Shop
Nieuwe Doelenstraat 10, 1012 CP Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.7
20-100
10:00 - 18:00
Known for its curated selection and aesthetic appeal.
Get:
Conveniently located near the city center; easily accessible.
Tip:
Art books, design publications



Well curated book store offering fascinating pieces on every topic
http://www.mendo.nl/Haarlemmerstraat 92, 1013 EV Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
50-200
10:00 - 19:00
Focus on sustainable and ethically produced fashion.
Get:
Central location in the Nine Streets district.
Tip:
Denim, fashion accessories



Curated denim and jeans store
http://www.tenuedenimes.com/Herenstraat 2, 1015 CA Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
50-200
11:00 - 19:00
Offers unique designs and limited editions.
Get:
Conveniently located in the heart of Amsterdam.



Unique gifts and souvenir store
https://thepropertyof.com/Houtmankade 16, 1013 MX Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.4
50-200
10:00 - 18:00
Focus on fair-trade and sustainable products.
Get:
Central location near the Museum District.
Tip:
Handmade textiles, unique decor items



Boutique home and lifestyle store
http://atelier-sukha.nl/1011 PG Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.4
Free
09:00 - 18:00
Historic market dating back to the 19th century.
Get:
Accessible via tram lines 1, 2, and 5 to Waterlooplein stop.
Tip:
Vintage clothing, local street food



Flea market with vintage clothing and souvenirs
https://waterlooplein.amsterdam/en/
Luxury
Kamerlingh Onneslaan 3, 1097 DE Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.9
50-100
12:00 - 22:00
Unique setting in a former greenhouse.
Get To:
Accessible by tram line 9 to the Duivendrecht stop.



Greenhouse restaurant with ingredients harvested fresh from the garden
Singel 235, 1012 WE Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.8
50-100
12:00 - 22:00
Luxurious boats equipped with fine dining.
Get To:
Departure from various central locations.



Luxury dinner cruise on an antique riverboat

Amsterdam Views Uncovered
Canals, museums, cycling culture, tulips, and historic neighborhoods.
Amsterdam, often referred to as the "Venice of the North," boasts over 1,500 bridges, a series of picturesque canals, and beautiful 17th-century architecture. Known for its laid-back vibe, the city is also famous for its world-class museums, including the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. Amsterdam is a haven for cyclists, with an extensive network of bike paths. Visitors can enjoy the cityโs rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant arts scene. The cityโs historic center, with its narrow houses and winding streets, provides a charming and authentic European experience.
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a city where art, history, and modernity come together in perfect harmony. Known for its picturesque canals, historical architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Amsterdam offers a unique experience for every visitor. The cityโs world-renowned museums, such as the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Anne Frank House, provide a glimpse into its rich artistic and historical heritage. Cycling along the canals is a quintessential Amsterdam experience, and the cityโs charming neighborhoods offer everything from quirky boutiques to trendy cafes. Amsterdamโs food scene is eclectic, with everything from street food to fine dining, and its music scene is equally diverse, ranging from classical to electronic music. Whether youโre visiting for its art, history, or laid-back atmosphere, Amsterdam offers a blend of old-world charm and modern innovation that appeals to travelers from around the world.

Watch Out
Watchย out for Crowded Areas

Skip
Skip Super Touristic Places
Off the beaten path places in
Amsterdam
Transportation
๐ฒ Bikes dominate the city's transport, with bike lanes everywhere. ๐ Public transit includes trams, buses, and the metro, all efficiently integrated. ๐ Taxis and boats are also options for getting around. ๐ถโโ๏ธ The city is highly walkable, especially in the center.

City Overview
Amsterdam: The City of Canals and Culture
Amsterdam is a city where artistic heritage, scenic waterways, and progressive values come together. Known for its picturesque canals and cycling culture, the city is home to world-class museums like the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and the contemporary Stedelijk Museum.
Amsterdamโs charm extends beyond its cultural landmarks. Explore the vibrant Jordaan district, where narrow streets are lined with independent boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes. The historic Anne Frank House provides a moving glimpse into the past, while the buzzing Albert Cuyp Market offers an authentic taste of the cityโs local life.
For those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, Amsterdamโs NDSM Wharf, a creative hub in a former shipyard, is a treasure trove of street art and quirky cafes. Nature enthusiasts can escape to the tranquil Vondelpark, while food lovers will delight in the cityโs unique fusion of global cuisines and Dutch classics like stroopwafels and herring.
With its mix of historic charm, vibrant neighborhoods, and a commitment to sustainability, Amsterdam is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether youโre cruising its canals, cycling its streets, or soaking in its laid-back vibe, Amsterdam is sure to leave a lasting impression.

3 Day City Guide
๐
Day 1: ๐ 9:00 AM: Start your day at the world-renowned Rijksmuseum ๐ผ๏ธ. ๐ 12:00 PM: Wander through the charming Jordaan neighborhood ๐๏ธ, full of unique shops and cafรฉs. ๐ 2:00 PM: Enjoy a serene canal cruise ๐ค and dine at a waterside restaurant ๐ฝ๏ธ. ๐ Day 2: ๐ 9:00 AM: Visit the Anne Frank House ๐ and the nearby Westerkerk ๐ฐ. ๐ 12:00 PM: Stroll through the peaceful Vondelpark ๐ณ and visit the Van Gogh Museum ๐จ. ๐ 3:00 PM: Explore the lively De Pijp district ๐ป and enjoy the local nightlife. ๐
Day 3: ๐ 9:00 AM: Rent a bike ๐ดโโ๏ธ for a fun city tour. ๐ 12:00 PM: Visit NDSM Wharf ๐จ for vibrant street art and unique culture. ๐ 3:00 PM: End your trip with stunning sunset views at AโDAM Lookout ๐
.

Current Trends
๐จ Pop-up galleries: The cityโs art scene is thriving with temporary exhibitions and street art. ๐ Sustainable fashion: The city is becoming a hub for eco-friendly and second-hand fashion with places like Episode and The Swapshop. ๐ Food markets: Trendy food spots like Foodhallen offer local and international cuisine in a sustainable setting. ๐ดโโ๏ธ Cycling culture: Amsterdamโs bike lanes are expanding, encouraging even more locals and tourists to explore the city by bike. ๐งโโ๏ธ Mindfulness retreats: Thereโs a rising trend of wellness retreats offering everything from yoga to digital detoxes in peaceful locations.

Local Events Guide
๐ Kingโs Day (April): The entire city turns orange in celebration of the royal family, with street parties and music. ๐ง Amsterdam Dance Event (October): A massive electronic music festival with top international DJs. ๐ถ Grachtenfestival (August): A classical music festival held along the picturesque canals. ๐ธ Tulip Festival (April): The city blooms with vibrant tulips, celebrating the Netherlandsโ iconic flower. ๐จ Stedelijk Museum Exhibitions (Year-round): Hosting contemporary art exhibitions showcasing local and international artists.
Local Insider Tips
๐ก Explore Jordaan, a charming area with trendy cafes and boutique shops. ๐จ Visit NDSM Wharf, a creative hub with street art and cultural events. ๐ณ Spend time in Vondelpark, enjoying picnics and local performances. ๐ถ Try a canal cruise for unique city views. ๐ง Discover local cheese shops for authentic Dutch flavors.
Sustainable Travel
๐ฒ Biking: Amsterdamโs bike-friendly infrastructure makes cycling the greenest way to get around. ๐ค Canals: Eco-friendly canal tours are a sustainable way to explore the city. ๐จ Green hotels: Stay at Conscious Hotels, which emphasize sustainability and eco-conscious practices. ๐ด Organic dining: Visit local markets like Noordermarkt for fresh, organic produce. ๐ณ Green spaces: Vondelpark is perfect for nature lovers.

Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:
โ
Ready to see through a localโs eyes?
Our curated guide unveils top hidden gems, secret spots, and local favorites that you wonโt find in typical travel guides.
Whether itโs a cozy cafรฉ tucked away in a historic neighborhood, a scenic trail only known to insiders, or unique cultural sites, has so much more to offer beyond the tourist hotspots.
Dive into our off-the-beaten-path guide and discover the true heart โperfect for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic journey
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We will send you the latest curation of places and cities straight to your inbox along with access to the pop-up store & exclusive events.
Unlock the Hidden Side:
โ
Each spot in our City guide is handpicked to help you experience the city like a local, avoiding the crowds and discovering the best-kept secrets.
From charming local eateries and breathtaking viewpoints to tucked-away art galleries and vibrant local markets, this guide lets you explore beyond the surface.
Follow our recommendations for an unforgettable adventure and see why these places stand out as favorites among locals.
For more unique experiences like these, explore our full collection of off-the-beaten-path city guides and make every trip a journey of discovery.
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Indian Rupee (INR) โน
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Vibe:
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Tip:
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๐๐๏ธ๐ต
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US Dollar (USD) $
Cosmic Houston Adventures
Vibe:
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Tip:
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๐๐๏ธ๐
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US Dollar (USD) $
Academic Columbus Culture
Vibe:
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Tip:
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๐ฐ๐ป๐จ
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Euro (EUR) โฌ
Berlin Hidden Gems
Vibe:
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Tip:
Berlinโs unique cultural blend creates an exciting atmosphere. It offers a perfect mix of history, art, and innovation. Explore the remnants of the Berlin Wall, immerse yourself in contemporary art at the East Side Gallery, and visit its 170+ museums. Berlin's ever-evolving food scene, from vibrant street food markets to upscale dining, showcases the city's fusion of tradition and modernity. Whether you're in a minimalist cafรฉ or a techno club, Berlin is constantly changing, with new trends emerging every day.



๐ถ๐๏ธ๐
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9ยฐC โ 18ยฐC
8๏ธโฃ High living costs, particularly in housing, but still lower than cities like Paris or London.
Euro (EUR) โฌ
Historic Gem Bonn
Vibe:
Beethovenโs birthplace, Bonn is a city of classical music and cultural heritage. The Beethoven House, now a museum, celebrates the composerโs legacy and attracts visitors from around the world. Bonn, once the capital of West Germany, has a blend of old and new architecture, with picturesque squares and modern buildings. The city also has strong connections to science and education, with the University of Bonn and the nearby Max Planck Institutes contributing to its intellectual reputation.
Tip:
Bonn, located on the banks of the Rhine River, is a city with a rich cultural heritage, particularly known as the birthplace of the legendary composer Ludwig van Beethoven. The cityโs historical significance extends beyond its musical roots; it was once the capital of West Germany before the reunification of the country. Bonn is home to numerous museums, such as the Beethoven House and the Bundeskunsthalle, which celebrate both the arts and German history. The city also has a youthful energy, thanks to its status as a university town, with a vibrant cultural scene and a range of outdoor activities in the surrounding countryside. Visitors can stroll along the Rhine Promenade or explore the nearby Siebengebirge mountains for a mix of history and nature. With its combination of intellectual heritage, cultural attractions, and natural beauty, Bonn offers a rich and varied experience for visitors.



