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
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
13โ15
10:00 AM โ 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 worldโs 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.
๐ณ๏ธ
NEMOScience Museum
Oosterdok 2, 1011 VX Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.6
17โ19
10:00 AM โ 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
23โ25
9:00 AM โ 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 dayโs fun
Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, 1018 CZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
4.5
14โ16
9:00 AM โ 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
21โ25
10:30 AM โ 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. 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
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
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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 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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Unlock the Hidden Side:
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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:
๐ท๐๐จ
PortoHistoric City Porto
15ยฐC average, ranging 10โ20ยฐC
6๏ธโฃ Affordable, especially compared to major cities like Lisbon or Barcelona.
Euro (EUR) โฌ
Historic City Porto
Vibe:
Porto is famous for its port wine production, with historic wine cellars lining the banks of the Douro River. The cityโs old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and beautiful churches. Porto is also recognized for its traditional cuisine, including the famous Francesinha sandwich. The cityโs vibrant cultural scene includes art galleries, theaters, and music venues, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in history, food, and wine.
Tip:
Porto, located on the Douro River in northern Portugal, is a city brimming with history, culture, and a world-famous culinary traditionโPort wine. The cityโs historic Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is full of narrow alleys, colorful buildings, and spectacular views of the river. Porto is famous for its wine cellars, where visitors can learn about the production of Port wine and sample some of the best vintages. Beyond the wine, Porto offers a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, street art, and the stunning architecture of the Livraria Lello bookstore. The cityโs cuisine is another highlight, with traditional dishes like Francesinha, a hearty sandwich, and fresh seafood from the Atlantic coast. Porto is a city where history and modernity come together in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're wandering the historic streets or enjoying a glass of wine, Porto offers an unforgettable experience.
๐๐ฟ๐
LexingtonEquestrian Lexington Life
5-28ยฐC
6๏ธโฃ Affordable, with a lower cost of living than many larger U.S. cities.
US Dollar (USD) $
Equestrian Lexington Life
Vibe:
Kyoto, known as Japanโs cultural capital, is famous for its historic temples, stunning gardens, and traditional tea houses. The city is home to iconic sites like the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Kyoto also offers a unique glimpse into Japanโs ancient customs, with its geishas, traditional crafts, and beautiful cherry blossoms in spring. Kyotoโs tranquil atmosphere, combined with its rich history and culture, makes it a must-visit for those seeking to experience traditional Japan.
Tip:
Lexington is the heart of Kentuckyโs horse-racing tradition, offering unparalleled access to the world of thoroughbred breeding and racing. The city is surrounded by scenic Bluegrass Country, which is perfect for hiking, biking, and outdoor activities. As one of the worldโs foremost destinations for equestrian events, Lexington draws both seasoned horse racing fans and newcomers alike. Additionally, the city is rich in bourbon heritage, offering tours of distilleries that produce some of the finest whiskey in the world.
๐๏ธ๐ฅ๐
MumbaiLocal Mumbai Highlights
27.2ยฐC
5๏ธโฃ Relatively affordable compared to other global cities, though housing can be expensive in some areas.
Indian Rupee (INR) โน
Local Mumbai Highlights
Vibe:
Mumbai is home to the worldโs most expensive house, Antilia, owned by billionaire Mukesh Ambani. The city is known for its vibrant street food scene, Bollywood, and diverse culture. Mumbai is Indiaโs financial capital and a hub for business, culture, and entertainment. The city boasts colonial-era buildings, modern skyscrapers, and bustling markets. Visitors can explore the iconic Gateway of India, the Elephanta Caves, and enjoy the cityโs lively nightlife. Mumbai is a city of contrasts, with a rich history and a bright, dynamic future.
Tip:
Mumbai is a city where the old and new coexist in perfect harmony, from its historic bazaars to its cutting-edge malls. The hustle and bustle are matched only by its vibrant nightlife, making it a global hub for both business and pleasure. The cityโs street food is legendary, with dishes like Vada Pav and Pani Puri being some of the most iconic snacks. While Bollywood dominates the entertainment scene, the city is also home to rich cultural traditions, making it a true melting pot of art, food, and fashion. With iconic sites like Marine Drive and the Gateway of India, Mumbai offers a stunning view of the Arabian Sea. Mumbai is a city that never sleepsโits markets, restaurants, and nightlife hum with life at all hours of the day and night.
๐๏ธ๐ฐ๐ซ
ZurichZurich Charm Revealed
10.2ยฐC
6๏ธโฃ High cost of living, especially for housing and transportation.
Swiss Franc (CHF) Fr.
Zurich Charm Revealed
Vibe:
Zurich is home to the Kunsthaus Zurich, the oldest art museum in Switzerland, which houses a remarkable collection of Swiss and international artists. The city is known for its high standard of living, financial industry, and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can stroll along the beautiful Limmat River, explore the Old Townโs medieval streets, and enjoy the cityโs world-class dining options. Zurich offers a perfect blend of modernity and history, with stunning lakeside views and a rich cultural scene. The cityโs efficient public transport system makes it easy to explore.
Tip:
Zurich is an eclectic mix of Swiss culture, offering visitors the perfect balance of nature and urban life. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful waters of Lake Zurich or explore the cityโs bustling streets, lined with boutiques, art galleries, and museums. With a long-standing reputation for quality and innovation, Zurich provides a glimpse into Switzerlandโs rich cultural and artistic legacy while showcasing its modern outlook.
๐๐ธ๐
BangkokSpiritual, Exotic Bangkok
24-33ยฐC
5๏ธโฃ Affordable cost of living, particularly for food and transportation, but higher for housing.
Thai Baht (THB) เธฟ
Spiritual, Exotic Bangkok
Vibe:
Famous for the Grand Palace, Bangkok is a city of contrasts, where ancient temples sit alongside modern skyscrapers. Known for its vibrant street life, floating markets, and lively nightlife, the city is a major hub of Southeast Asian culture. Visitors can explore the city's rich history through its ornate temples, such as Wat Arun, while enjoying the thriving shopping, dining, and entertainment scene. With its unique blend of tradition and modernity, Bangkok is a top destination for culture and adventure.
Tip:
Bangkok is a dynamic city known for its electrifying mix of history, culture, and modern life. Its vibrant street life, bustling markets, and golden temples create a unique atmosphere that invites exploration. The city's most iconic sites, such as the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Wat Phra Kaew, showcase Thailand's rich Buddhist heritage. But beyond the temples, Bangkok is a city of contrastsโwhere skyscrapers stand beside traditional wooden houses, and luxurious shopping malls compete with open-air markets. The cityโs renowned street food scene, especially at spots like Yaowarat (Chinatown), is world-famous, offering everything from spicy curries to sweet desserts. With its vibrant nightlife, diverse culinary options, and blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation, Bangkok is an energetic destination that never sleeps and offers something for every traveler, whether seeking history, food, or excitement.
Rugged & Natural
Vibe:
The Azores are known for geothermal activity.
Tip:
The Azores are a hidden gem in the Atlantic, offering dramatic landscapes and a calm, untouched environment. Visitors can take advantage of the islands' geothermal activity by visiting hot springs or watching geysers in action. With an abundant marine life, the Azores is one of the best places for whale and dolphin watching in the world. The combination of stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique culture makes the Azores a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure and tranquility in equal measure.
