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.
Year
1275 AD Medieval era, founded as a small fishing village along the Amstel River.
Airport
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
Cost of Living (10)
7️⃣ Cost of living is relatively high, but still more affordable than London or Paris.
Minimal List TL;DR
📚ShopBookstore
4.7MendoWell curated book store offering fascinating pieces on every topic
🎸SeeHistoric Square
4.6Dam SquareOne of the main tourist sights and expect lots of entertainment.
🛳️SeeScience Museum
4.6NEMOScience museum on a boat with interactive exhibits and experiments
🔬SeeMuseum
4.5MicropiaInteractive museum featuring micro organisms with fun live exhibits
🍓LuxuryRestaurant
4.9De KasGreenhouse restaurant with ingredients harvested fresh from the garden
🛋️EatRestaurant
4.3Lion NoirLiving room style restaurant with a French inspired cuisine
🎷DrinkConcert Hall
4.8BimhuisJazz venue surrounded by beautiful scenery featuring top performances
🏊DrinkLuxury Hotel
4.8W AmsterdamOffers guest rooms, suites and a heated wet deck rooftop pool in the city center of Amsterdam
🍻DrinkBrewery
4.6Brouwerij 't IJModern brewery next to a windmill producing organic blonde & dark beers & running short tours.
🎤DrinkCultural Venue
4.5MelkwegHistoric concert venue playing everything from afro beat to live electronic
🎵DrinkRestaurant
4.5ShelterSubterranean night club and exhibition space offering a fresh perspective
🍣DrinkAsian Fusion
4.5MomoAsian fusion bar and bistro serving excellent sushi and bites to share
🍻DrinkSpeakeasy
4.4Door 74Top drawer speakeasy bar with a small intimate setting, just ring the bell
Places to See
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.
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:
Ferry from Amsterdam Central Station
Observation deck featuring the world’s highest swing
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.
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
Science museum on a boat with interactive exhibits and experiments
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:
Tram 14 (Artis stop)
Historic zoo, aquarium and planetarium offering a day’s fun
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:
Tram 14, Bus 22 (Micropia stop)
Interactive museum featuring micro organisms with fun live exhibits
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:
Tram 24 (Stadhouderskade stop)
Interactive brewery tour and experience with ice cold beers
Must Visit:
Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, Vondelpark, and Canal Ring. Amsterdam’s 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 city’s vibrant art scene and laid-back atmosphere, combined with its cycling culture, make it one of Europe’s most charming cities.
Places to Eat
Must Try:
🍪 Stroopwafels (Thin waffle cookies filled with caramel) 🐟 Herring (Raw fish served with onions and pickles, often eaten as a snack) 🥞 Dutch Pancakes (Thin, sweet or savory pancakes, often topped with syrup) 🍩 Poffertjes (Mini, fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar) 🍖 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:
🎧 EDM: The city is the hub of global EDM, hosting festivals like ADE. 🎷 Jazz: International artists perform at Bimhuis. 🎸 Blues: Blues clubs like The Bitter End. 🎻 Classical: The Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra. 🎤 Folk: Dutch indie-folk scene at venues like Paradiso.
Places to Network
We'll be updating more places soon!
Key Industries:
🖥️ Tech (growing tech start-up scene and home to many digital agencies), 🌍 Trade (port city, a central node for European logistics), 🌞 Tourism (rich culture, canals, and tulip fields draw millions) - Amsterdam’s 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 city’s 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 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
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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 city’s rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant arts scene. The city’s 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 city’s 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 city’s charming neighborhoods offer everything from quirky boutiques to trendy cafes. Amsterdam’s 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 you’re 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
Watch out for Crowded Areas
Skip
Skip Super Touristic Places
Off the beaten path places in
Amsterdam
Transportation
🚲 Bikes dominate the city's transport, with bike lanes everywhere. 🚇 Public transit includes trams, buses, and the metro, all efficiently integrated. 🚖 Taxis and boats are also options for getting around. 🚶♂️ 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.
Amsterdam’s 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 city’s local life.
For those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, Amsterdam’s 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 city’s 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 you’re 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
🌅 Day 1: 🕘 9:00 AM: Start your day at the world-renowned Rijksmuseum 🖼️. 🕛 12:00 PM: Wander through the charming Jordaan neighborhood 🏙️, full of unique shops and cafés. 🕑 2:00 PM: Enjoy a serene canal cruise 🚤 and dine at a waterside restaurant 🍽️. 🌇 Day 2: 🕘 9:00 AM: Visit the Anne Frank House 📖 and the nearby Westerkerk 🏰. 🕛 12:00 PM: Stroll through the peaceful Vondelpark 🌳 and visit the Van Gogh Museum 🎨. 🕑 3:00 PM: Explore the lively De Pijp district 🍻 and enjoy the local nightlife. 🌅 Day 3: 🕘 9:00 AM: Rent a bike 🚴♂️ for a fun city tour. 🕛 12:00 PM: Visit NDSM Wharf 🎨 for vibrant street art and unique culture. 🕑 3:00 PM: End your trip with stunning sunset views at 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. 🚴♂️ Cycling culture: Amsterdam’s bike lanes are expanding, encouraging even more locals and tourists to explore the city by bike. 🧘♀️ Mindfulness retreats: There’s a rising trend of wellness retreats offering everything from yoga to digital detoxes in peaceful locations.
Local Events Guide
👑 King’s Day (April): The entire city turns orange in celebration of the royal family, with street parties and music. 🎧 Amsterdam Dance Event (October): A massive electronic music festival with top international DJs. 🎶 Grachtenfestival (August): A classical music festival held along the picturesque canals. 🌸 Tulip Festival (April): The city blooms with vibrant tulips, celebrating the Netherlands’ iconic flower. 🎨 Stedelijk Museum Exhibitions (Year-round): Hosting contemporary art exhibitions showcasing local and international artists.
Local Insider Tips
🏡 Explore Jordaan, a charming area with trendy cafes and boutique shops. 🎨 Visit NDSM Wharf, a creative hub with street art and cultural events. 🌳 Spend time in Vondelpark, enjoying picnics and local performances. 🛶 Try a canal cruise for unique city views. 🧀 Discover local cheese shops for authentic Dutch flavors.
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. 🍴 Organic dining: Visit local markets like Noordermarkt for fresh, organic produce. 🌳 Green spaces: Vondelpark is perfect for nature lovers.
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
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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:
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:
8°C – 16°C
7️⃣ Affordable by Western European standards, but higher in central areas.
Euro (EUR) €
Political Hub Brussels
Vibe:
Manneken Pis, a small statue that has become a national symbol, is just one of the many quirky features of Brussels, Belgium’s capital city. Known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and delicious food, Brussels is home to historic landmarks such as the Grand Place and the Atomium. It is also the de facto capital of the European Union, housing major EU institutions. Belgian cuisine, famous for waffles, fries, and chocolate, can be found around every corner of the city.
Tip:
Brussels is a city that blends history, culture, and modernity in an extraordinary way. As the capital of Belgium and the European Union, it is a place of politics, history, and international significance. The city is home to stunning architectural landmarks such as the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Atomium, an iconic example of postwar architecture. Brussels’ rich culinary scene is world-renowned, especially its chocolate, waffles, and beer, which are key parts of the Belgian identity. The city also boasts a vibrant arts scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters, alongside a lively music and nightlife culture. Brussels is a city of contrasts, where medieval buildings stand alongside sleek modern structures. Its blend of history, contemporary flair, and diverse cultural influences makes it a unique and exciting destination, perfect for those looking to explore both the old and the new.
🏟️🍷💃
MadridArtistic Madrid Culture
15.1°C
7️⃣ Moderate cost of living, with housing and transportation as the primary costs.
Euro (EUR) €
Artistic Madrid Culture
Vibe:
Madrid, Spain’s capital, is known for its grand historic buildings, including the Royal Palace and Prado Museum. As the world’s oldest restaurant, Sobrino de Botín, established in 1725, serves traditional Spanish cuisine in a historic setting. The city is home to lush green parks, including Retiro Park, and boasts a vibrant nightlife scene. Madrid’s food culture is world-renowned, with tapas bars, markets, and elegant dining options. The city is a blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy, offering a rich cultural experience.
Tip:
Madrid pulses with energy, where passionate flamenco dancers perform in its historic plazas, and musicians strum Spanish guitars in the streets. Known for its late-night culture, the city’s vibrant atmosphere is matched by its rich history. Must-try dishes like the famous churros and paella are part of Madrid’s unique cultural experience. Madrid’s perfect blend of traditional and contemporary makes it an exciting destination.
17.1°C
9️⃣ High cost of living, especially for expats in terms of housing and luxury goods.
Chinese Yuan (CNY) ¥
Urban Shanghai Wonders
Vibe:
Shanghai is home to the iconic Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world at 632 meters. The city blends futuristic architecture with traditional Chinese culture, offering a dynamic mix of the old and new. Visitors can explore the historic Bund, walk along the Huangpu River, and shop in luxury malls. Shanghai is a hub for finance, innovation, and culture, boasting a vibrant arts scene and world-class museums. With its bustling streets, stunning skyline, and rich history, Shanghai is one of the world’s most exciting cities.
Tip:
Shanghai is China’s shining star, where East meets West in an eclectic blend of modern skyscrapers and ancient temples. The city’s fusion of global culture is felt in its bustling markets, innovative technology, and stunning architecture. A food lover’s paradise, Shanghai offers delectable street foods alongside haute cuisine. Its nightlife scene is dynamic, and the city’s vast energy is infectious, making it an unforgettable destination.
9.9°C
7️⃣ Affordable compared to major Western European cities, but higher than Eastern European cities.
Euro (EUR) €
Berlin Hidden Gems
Vibe:
Berlin is a city that seamlessly blends history with modernity, featuring over 1,700 parks, including the famous Tiergarten. Known for its diverse culture, rich history, and vibrant arts scene, Berlin is also home to iconic landmarks like the Berlin Wall Memorial and Brandenburg Gate. With a unique mix of historical sites and cutting-edge architecture, the city is an international hub for innovation, technology, and culture, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into Germany’s past and present.
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.
9°C
9️⃣ Expensive cost of living, especially for dining out and housing.
Danish Krone (DKK) kr
Hidden Copenhagen Charms
Vibe:
Copenhagen is frequently ranked as the happiest city in the world, thanks to its high quality of life, green spaces, and social support systems. The city is known for its stunning architecture, modern design, and bike-friendly streets. Copenhagen has a thriving food scene, with many Michelin-starred restaurants, and is home to the famous Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. The city’s charming canals, modern design, and sustainable living practices make it a unique and pleasant destination for travelers.
Tip:
Copenhagen is a model city for modern living, blending green spaces, world-class architecture, and innovative design. The city's sustainable mindset is matched by its warm, welcoming vibe, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking culture, nature, and good food. Whether biking through its streets, enjoying Danish pastries, or exploring iconic landmarks, Copenhagen offers something for everyone.
🏟️🍷💃
MadridArtistic Madrid Culture
15.1°C
7️⃣ Moderate cost of living, with housing and transportation as the primary costs.
Euro (EUR) €
Artistic Madrid Culture
Vibe:
Madrid, Spain’s capital, is known for its grand historic buildings, including the Royal Palace and Prado Museum. As the world’s oldest restaurant, Sobrino de Botín, established in 1725, serves traditional Spanish cuisine in a historic setting. The city is home to lush green parks, including Retiro Park, and boasts a vibrant nightlife scene. Madrid’s food culture is world-renowned, with tapas bars, markets, and elegant dining options. The city is a blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy, offering a rich cultural experience.
Tip:
Madrid pulses with energy, where passionate flamenco dancers perform in its historic plazas, and musicians strum Spanish guitars in the streets. Known for its late-night culture, the city’s vibrant atmosphere is matched by its rich history. Must-try dishes like the famous churros and paella are part of Madrid’s unique cultural experience. Madrid’s perfect blend of traditional and contemporary makes it an exciting destination.
