Best Time
April to October
Amsterdam is a city that captivates with its artistic legacy and laid-back energy. The city’s free-spirited vibe is reflected in its iconic coffee shops, bike-friendly streets, and progressive culture. Whether you’re 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 city’s vibrant cultural scene.
Airport
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
Minimal List TL;DR
📚Bookstore
MendoWell curated book store offering fascinating pieces on every topic
👚Antique Store
Laura DolsVintage dresses and clothing store
🏙️Observation Deck
A’DAM lookoutObservation deck featuring the world’s highest swing
📓Museum
Anne Frank HouseBiographical museum dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank.
🛳️Science Museum
NEMOScience museum on a boat with interactive exhibits and experiments
🎸Historic Square
Dam SquareOne of the main tourist sights and expect lots of entertainment.
🔬Museum
MicropiaInteractive museum featuring micro organisms with fun live exhibits
🗺Ethnographic Museum
TropenmuseumWorld culture museum with Dutch colonial history exhibits
🌷Garden
KeukenhofOne of the largest spring gardens in Europe featuring over 7 million tulips
🛖Tourist Attraction
Zaanse SchansDutch village famous for its wooden houses and well preserved windmills
⛵Picturesque Village
GeithoornCar-free village for its boat-filled waterways, bicycle trails and centuries old houses
💐City
HaarlemHistoric medieval city with cobblestone streets and famous for its outlying tulip fields
⛪City
UtrechtHistoric city featuring a medieval old town, Gothic cathedrals and a 14th century
Places to See
Overhoeksplein 5, 1031 KS Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.7
13–15
10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
The highest observation deck in Amsterdam, with a rooftop bar
Tip:
Over the Edge' swing, Cocktails
Get To:
Ferry from Amsterdam Central Station
Observation deck featuring the world’s highest swing
Westermarkt 20, 1016 GV Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.7
14
9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
The secret annex where Anne Frank wrote her diary
Vibe:
Emotional, historical
Tip:
Guided tours, educational exhibits
Biographical museum dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank.
Oosterdok 2, 1011 VX Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.6
17–19
10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Features a rooftop terrace with stunning city views
Tip:
Hands-on experiments, Workshops
Get To:
Tram 26 (Nemo stop)
Science museum on a boat with interactive exhibits and experiments
Dam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.6
0
Varies
The heart of Amsterdam, surrounded by historic buildings
Tip:
Street performances, cafes
One of the main tourist sights and expect lots of entertainment.
Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, 1018 CZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
14–16
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
The only museum of its kind, highlighting the invisible world
Vibe:
Interactive, Educational
Tip:
Guided tours, Interactive displays
Get To:
Tram 14, Bus 22 (Micropia stop)
Interactive museum featuring micro organisms with fun live exhibits
Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, 1018 CZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
23–25
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Features a planetarium and beautiful 19th-century architecture
Vibe:
Family-friendly, Educational
Tip:
Animal exhibits, Butterfly pavilion
Get To:
Tram 14 (Artis stop)
Historic zoo, aquarium and planetarium offering a day’s fun
Stadhouderskade 78, 1072 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.4
21–25
10:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Includes a 4D ride and tastings at the end of the tour
Tip:
Beer tastings, Interactive exhibits
Get To:
Tram 24 (Stadhouderskade stop)
Interactive brewery tour and experience with ice cold beers
Linnaeusstraat 2, 1092 CK Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.3
16–18
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Renowned for its ethnographic collections and cultural exhibits
Vibe:
Cultural, Informative
Tip:
Guided tours, Workshops
Get To:
Tram 14 (Artis stop)
World culture museum with Dutch colonial history exhibits
Must Visit:
Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum
Amsterdam is home to over 165 canals, and it’s known for its world-class museums like the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum.
Places to Eat
Sophialaan 55, 1075 BP Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
40–60
12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Known for its unique flavor combinations
Get To:
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
30–50
12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Located along the water's edge
Get To:
Tram 1, Stop: Amstel
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
50–70
12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Known for its sustainable practices and fresh seafood
Get To:
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
25–35
7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Known for its intimate setting and quality service
Get To:
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
50–70
6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Known for its inviting decor and friendly atmosphere
Get To:
Tram 10 (Zoutkeetsgracht stop)
Tip:
Dutch classics, Seasonal specials
Dutch fine dining house-restaurant with old world decor
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/Ten Katestraat 117, 1053 CC Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.4
20–35
5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Features a terrace with canal views
Get To:
Tram 12, Stop: Rokin
Tip:
Brunch options, Craft beers
Seafood restaurant and cocktail bar perfect for celebrating an occasion
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
45–60
12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Features a stylish bar and intimate dining spaces
Get To:
Tram 10 (Heemstedestraat stop)
Tip:
French classics, Seasonal dishes
Living room style restaurant with a French inspired cuisine
Leliegracht 46, 1015 DH Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.3
30–50
12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Offers a unique dry-aging cellar
Get To:
Metro 52, Stop: Amstel
Tip:
Black Angus steak, Craft cocktails
Gastronomic restaurant serving steak and lobster
Must Try:
Stroopwafels, Herring, Dutch Pancakes, Poffertjes, Bitterballen
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 To:
Tram 26, Stop: Amsterdam Central
Tip:
Live jazz, Art exhibitions
Jazz venue surrounded by beautiful scenery featuring top performances
http://www.bimhuis.nl/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/Hobbemastraat 1, 1071 XZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
30-60
12:00 - 00:00
Features an extensive cocktail menu
Vibe:
Stylish, Contemporary
Get To:
Tram 1, Stop: Rokin
Asian fusion bar and bistro serving excellent sushi and bites to share
https://www.momo-amsterdam.com/Overhoeksplein 3, 1031 KS Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
20-50
23:00 - 06:00
Stunning interior design with art from local artists.
Get To:
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/Lijnbaansgracht 234A, 1017 PH Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
10-30
Event-based
Hosts a variety of events and performances
Get To:
Tram 1, Stop: Leidseplein
Tip:
Concerts, Art exhibitions
Historic concert venue playing everything from afro beat to live electronic
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 To:
Tram 10, Stop: Molenwijk
Tip:
Traditional Dutch dishes, Local drinks
Busy Dutch bar and cafe offering drinks by the waterside
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 To:
Tram 1, Stop: Centraal Station
Tip:
Signature cocktails, Tasting menu
Top drawer speakeasy bar with a small intimate setting, just ring the bell
Klönneplein 6, 1014 DD Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.2
15-30
10:00 - 01:00
Features a large outdoor terrace with views of the park
Get To:
Bus 21, Stop: Westergasfabriek
Tip:
Diverse menu, Craft beers
Trendy outdoor terrace café offering a kid friendly atmosphere
Music / Dance:
EDM, Jazz, Blues, Classical, Folk
Places to Network
Silodam 402, 1013 AW Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.7
Free - 50
Event-based
Comprehensive event listing and ticketing.
Get To:
Online booking; events often held in central venues.
Wide variety of networking and fun events in Amsterdam
Key Industries:
Tech, Trade, Tourism
Amsterdam
“Amsterdam is a city filled with lovely canals, impressive architecture and more than a thousand bridges. There is something for every traveler’s taste, from culture and history, partying or just to take a vacation with the chart of an old European city. Maybe that’s 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 To:
Conveniently located near the city center; easily accessible.
Well curated book store offering fascinating pieces on every topic
Wolvenstraat 7, 1016 EM Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.6
30-150
11:00 - 18:00
Specializes in mid-century modern pieces.
Get To:
Located near the Leidseplein, easily accessible.
Tip:
Antiques, vintage decor
Vintage dresses and clothing store
Herenstraat 2, 1015 CA Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
50-200
11:00 - 19:00
Offers unique designs and limited editions.
Get To:
Conveniently located in the heart of Amsterdam.
Unique gifts and souvenir store
Singel, 1012 DH Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
5-20
09:00 - 17:30
Unique floating market experience.
Get To:
Located on the Singel canal; easily reachable by tram.
Tip:
Flowers, bulbs, local plants
Flower market with large varieties of Tulips
Haarlemmerstraat 92, 1013 EV Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
50-200
10:00 - 19:00
Focus on sustainable and ethically produced fashion.
Get To:
Central location in the Nine Streets district.
Tip:
Denim, fashion accessories
Curated denim and jeans store
1011 PG Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.4
Free
09:00 - 18:00
Historic market dating back to the 19th century.
Get To:
Accessible via tram lines 1, 2, and 5 to Waterlooplein stop.
Flea market with vintage clothing and souvenirs
Houtmankade 16, 1013 MX Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.4
50-200
10:00 - 18:00
Focus on fair-trade and sustainable products.
Get To:
Central location near the Museum District.
Boutique home and lifestyle store
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
Canals, museums, and cycling culture.
Amsterdam has more than 1,500 bridges and is often referred to as the "Venice of the North."
Amsterdam is a city where art, history, and modernity blend seamlessly. Known for its beautiful canals, historical architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Amsterdam has something to offer every visitor. Whether you’re cycling along the canals, visiting the world-renowned Rijksmuseum, or enjoying the city’s coffee shops, Amsterdam provides a unique experience. The food scene is eclectic, with everything from street food to fine dining, while the music scene ranges from jazz to electronic.
Watch Out
Watch out for Crowded Areas
Skip
Skip Super Touristic Places
Off the beaten path places in
Amsterdam
Transportation
Bikes dominate, good public transit
City Overview
Amsterdam is famous for its canals, cycling culture, and artistic heritage, home to the works of Van Gogh and Rembrandt. The city’s laid-back vibe mixes historical charm with a modern, eco-conscious ethos.
3 Day City Guide
- Day 1: Morning: Visit the Rijksmuseum. Afternoon: Stroll through the Jordaan neighborhood. Evening: Canal cruise and dinner at a waterside restaurant. - Day 2: Morning: Anne Frank House and the Westerkerk. Afternoon: Visit Vondelpark and Van Gogh Museum. Evening: Explore the nightlife in the De Pijp district. - Day 3: Morning: Bike tour of the city. Afternoon: Explore NDSM Wharf. Evening: Sunset at the A’DAM Lookout.
Current Trends
- Pop-up galleries: The city’s art scene is thriving with temporary exhibitions and street art. - Sustainable fashion: The city is becoming a hub for eco-friendly and second-hand fashion with places like Episode and The Swapshop. - Food markets: Trendy food spots like Foodhallen offer local and international cuisine in a sustainable setting.
Local Events Guide
- King’s Day (April): A national celebration with outdoor parties, flea markets, and music events. - Amsterdam Dance Event (October): A massive electronic music festival drawing top DJs. - Grachtenfestival (August): A classical music festival held along the city’s canals.
Local Insider Tips
- Jordaan neighborhood for trendy cafes and boutique shops. - NDSM Wharf for an artistic, industrial vibe and street art. - Vondelpark for local picnics and people-watching.
Sustainable Travel
- Biking: Amsterdam’s bike-friendly infrastructure makes cycling the greenest way to get around. - Canals: Eco-friendly canal tours are a sustainable way to explore the city. - Green hotels: Stay at Conscious Hotels, which emphasize sustainability and eco-conscious practices.
Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:
Ready to see through a local’s eyes?
Our curated guide unveils top hidden gems, secret spots, and local favorites that you won’t find in typical travel guides.
Whether it’s a cozy café 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 —perfect for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic journey
Sign below for Fresh Updates
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:
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.
More Cities to Visit:
Berlin Hidden Gems
Vibe:
Berlin is home to over 1,700 parks, including the sprawling Tiergarten, and is a city that blends history and modernity effortlessly.
Tip:
Berlin’s 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 café or a techno club, Berlin is constantly changing, with new trends emerging every day.
Local Chicago
Vibe:
Chicago has the world’s first skyscraper, the Home Insurance Building, built in 1885, shaping modern architecture.
Tip:
Chicago is a city of contrasts, where the old and new coexist. Its towering skyscrapers, like the Willis Tower, offer panoramic views of the city. In contrast, the rich blues and jazz culture continues to thrive, with legendary clubs that have hosted the likes of Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy. The city's food culture is just as diverse, from its signature deep-dish pizza to the internationally recognized Chicago-style hot dog. Whether you're visiting for its architectural wonders, live music, or culinary delights, Chicago promises an experience like no other.
Hidden Lisbon
Vibe:
Lisbon is home to the oldest bookstore in the world, Livraria Bertrand, established in 1732.
Tip:
Lisbon is a captivating city that offers an ideal mix of history, culture, and modern vibrancy. Its ancient monuments and picturesque neighborhoods like Baixa and Bairro Alto are filled with art, while the lively Fado music captures the soul of the city. In the evening, Lisbon’s culinary delights—especially seafood—are a must-try for food lovers. Lisbon’s scenic tram rides give you an unforgettable view of this coastal gem.
11.5
8
Hungarian Forint (HUF) Ft
Budapest Unveiled
Vibe:
The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of the largest medicinal baths in Europe, with 15 pools and 3 outdoor pools.
Tip:
Budapest offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. The city’s historic buildings, such as Buda Castle and the Parliament, are a testament to its rich past. The Danube River adds a magical charm to the city, especially at night when the bridges and buildings are lit up. Budapest’s thermal baths are a must-experience, offering visitors the chance to relax in natural hot springs. Whether it’s enjoying Hungarian dishes at a traditional restaurant, exploring the city’s museums, or dancing in the vibrant nightlife scene, Budapest is a city that never fails to captivate.
4-28°C
Moderate
US Dollar (USD) $
Academic
Vibe:
Home to Ohio State University, major business hub
Tip:
Columbus is a city in the midst of growth, offering a rich cultural landscape with numerous museums, parks, and theaters. The presence of Ohio State University brings an energetic vibe to the city, which is reflected in its ever-evolving food scene, music venues, and arts programs. Known for its eclectic mix of modern and historical attractions, Columbus also draws visitors with its diverse green spaces, bike-friendly streets, and dynamic local events. Whether visiting for business or leisure, the city offers something for everyone.
Unseen Vienna
Vibe:
Vienna has a rich tradition of coffeehouse culture, with many establishments dating back centuries.
Tip:
Vienna is a city where grandeur and tradition are beautifully intertwined. Its coffeehouses, with their rich cultural history, are perfect places to relax and enjoy Austrian pastries. The city’s classical music heritage, reflected in the Vienna State Opera, ensures that music lovers will be in paradise. Vienna’s artistic legacy, including its stunning palaces and museums, offers a wealth of experiences for culture seekers.
