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AQI 34

Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands

Amsterdam is known for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, making it a popular destination for sightseeing, art and museum visits, and experiencing the city's unique atmosphere.

Overview Places to Stay Things to do How to Reach More

Amsterdam is popular for

Nightclubs

Museums

Dutch Cuisine

Canals

Boutique Stores

King's Day

Amsterdam in next 3 month

Weather in Amsterdam

jan

-6/14°C

AQI 20

feb

-4/11°C

AQI 20

mar

-3/15°C

AQI 26

apr

-2/16°C

AQI 28

may

4/23°C

AQI 30

jun

9/30°C

AQI 38

jul

11/31°C

AQI 25

aug

11/25°C

AQI 24

sep

10/30°C

AQI 32

oct

5/22°C

AQI 20

nov

-4/14°C

AQI 17

dec

-4/12°C

AQI 20

March in Amsterdam sees milder temperatures with occasional rain showers and moderate air quality.

Usual trip duration

3-4 days

A 3-4 day trip to Amsterdam allows you to explore the city's iconic canals, visit world-class museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum, and experience the vibrant nightlife and culinary scene.

💰

Moderately expensive

Places to Stay

Things To Do

Ideas To Plan Your Trip

Canal Tour: Glide through historic waterways 🛶

Bike Explorations: Pedal around charming streets 🚲

Museum Hopping: Immerse in art and history 🖼️

Tulip Fields Visit: Marvel at vibrant blooms 🌷

Local Food Tasting: Indulge in Dutch delights 🍽️

Street Market Shopping: Discover unique treasures 🛍️

Anne Frank House: Step into history's pages 📚

Vondelpark Picnic: Relax amidst natural beauty 🌳

Red Light District: Experience Amsterdam's infamous area 🚦

Amsterdam Music Scene: Groove to diverse tunes 🎶

Places To Visit

museum

historical

art

park

waterway

palace

science

market

brewery

cultural

bar

attraction

Rijksmuseum

MUSEUM

Dutch Golden Age masterpieces

Anne Frank House

HISTORICAL

Home of a young Holocaust victim

Van Gogh Museum

ART

Artworks by Vincent van Gogh

Vondelpark

PARK

Largest city park

Amsterdam Canals

WATERWAY

Iconic waterways and bridges

Koninklijk Paleis

PALACE

Royal palace in Dam Square

NEMO Science Museum

SCIENCE

Interactive science exhibits

Bloemenmarkt

MARKET

Floating flower market

Heineken Experience

BREWERY

Interactive beer museum

Westergasfabriek

CULTURAL

Cultural park and events

Amsterdam Tulip Museum

MUSEUM

History of tulips in Holland

Museum Van Loon

MUSEUM

17th-century canal house museum

Tropenmuseum

CULTURAL

Ethnographic museum

Amsterdam Icebar

BAR

Bar made of ice

Amsterdam Royal Palace

PALACE

Historic royal residence

Amsterdam Dungeon

ATTRACTION

Interactive horror experience

Places To Eat

The Pantry

The Seafood Bar

Gartine

Bistrot des Alpes

Restaurant Zaza's

Restaurant Olijfje

Box Sociaal

de Silveren Spiegel

De Kas

Bhatti Pasal Voetboog - Authentic Nepalese Food

NENI Amsterdam

Restaurant Wolf Atelier

Café restaurant van Kerkwijk

MOS

Moeders

Ciel Bleu

Vinkeles

Blue Amsterdam

Spectrum

Bussia

How to Reach

More About Amsterdam

Frequently Asked Questions about Amsterdam

What is the best time to visit Amsterdam?

The best time to visit Amsterdam is during the shoulder seasons, from April to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, the crowds are smaller than in the peak summer months, and the prices for accommodation and flights are often more reasonable. April and May offer the added bonus of seeing the tulips in bloom, a truly spectacular sight. September and October provide beautiful autumn foliage and a cozy atmosphere. While summer (June-August) offers the warmest weather, it also attracts the largest crowds, leading to longer queues and higher costs. Winter (December-February) can be cold and damp, but Amsterdam transforms into a winter wonderland with festive markets and cozy cafes, perfect for escaping the chill. Ultimately, the ideal time to visit Amsterdam depends on your preferences and what you want to experience.

How can I reach Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a well-connected city, making it easily accessible by various means of transportation.

Mode	Details
By Air	Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is one of Europe's busiest airports, serving numerous international and domestic destinations. From the airport, you can easily reach the city center by train (approximately 15-20 minutes), bus, or taxi. The train is the most efficient and cost-effective option.
By Train	Amsterdam Centraal Station is a major railway hub, with frequent connections to cities across Europe. High-speed trains like Eurostar and Thalys connect Amsterdam with London, Paris, Brussels, and other major European cities.
By Bus	Several international bus companies, such as Flixbus, operate routes to Amsterdam from various European cities. While buses are generally a more budget-friendly option, they can be slower than trains or flights.
By Car	Amsterdam is accessible by car via the European road network. However, driving and parking in the city center can be challenging and expensive. Consider using park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of the city and taking public transport into the center.

What are the must-visit attractions in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam boasts a wealth of attractions, catering to a wide range of interests. Here's a list of some of the most popular and noteworthy places to visit:

Attraction	Highlights
Anne Frank House	A poignant and moving museum located in the secret annex where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II. Book tickets well in advance.
Rijksmuseum	The Netherlands' national museum, showcasing Dutch Masters like Rembrandt and Vermeer, along with a vast collection of art and historical artifacts.
Van Gogh Museum	Dedicated to the life and works of Vincent van Gogh, featuring the world's largest collection of his paintings and drawings.
Canal Cruise	A relaxing and scenic way to explore Amsterdam's iconic canals and admire the city's architecture.
Vondelpark	Amsterdam's largest park, perfect for a stroll, picnic, or bike ride. It also hosts open-air concerts and performances during the summer.
Heineken Experience	An interactive tour of the historic Heineken brewery, where you can learn about the brewing process and sample the famous beer.
Zaanse Schans	A historic village with well-preserved windmills and traditional Dutch houses, offering a glimpse into the Netherlands' past. (Located just outside Amsterdam)

What are some popular activities to do in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam offers a diverse range of activities to suit every interest and travel style. Beyond visiting museums and historical sites, here are some other popular things to do:

Bike Riding: Rent a bike and explore the city like a local. Amsterdam is incredibly bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes throughout the city.
Explore the Jordaan: Wander through the charming streets of the Jordaan district, known for its independent shops, cafes, and art galleries.
Visit a Flower Market: Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and fragrances of the Bloemenmarkt, Amsterdam's floating flower market.
Take a Day Trip: Explore nearby towns and attractions, such as Zaanse Schans (windmills), Marken (traditional fishing village), or Haarlem (historic city).
Visit the Begijnhof: Discover this peaceful courtyard, a former haven for unmarried religious women.
Enjoy the Nightlife: Amsterdam has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Take a Food Tour: Sample local delicacies and learn about Dutch cuisine on a food tour.

What are some great day trips or nearby destinations from Amsterdam?

Amsterdam's central location makes it a great base for exploring other parts of the Netherlands. Here are some popular day trip destinations:

Destination	Travel Time (approx.)	Highlights
Zaanse Schans	30 minutes by train or bus	Historic village with working windmills, traditional Dutch houses, and craft demonstrations.
Haarlem	15 minutes by train	Historic city with a beautiful Grote Markt (market square), St. Bavo Church, and charming shops and cafes.
Marken & Volendam	45 minutes by bus	Traditional Dutch fishing villages with colorful houses, traditional costumes, and seafood restaurants.
Utrecht	30 minutes by train	Historic city with canals, wharf cellars, and the iconic Dom Tower.
The Hague	50 minutes by train	The Netherlands' political center, home to the Binnenhof (parliament), the Peace Palace, and the Mauritshuis museum.
Keukenhof Gardens (seasonal)	45 minutes by bus (open from late March to mid-May)	One of the world's largest flower gardens, showcasing millions of tulips, daffodils, and other spring flowers.

Where are the best places to shop in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam offers a wide array of shopping experiences, from high-end department stores to quirky boutiques and bustling markets. Here are some of the best places to shop:

Shopping Area	Highlights
De Negen Straatjes (Nine Streets)	A network of charming streets in the Jordaan district, known for its independent boutiques, vintage shops, art galleries, and cafes.
Kalverstraat	Amsterdam's main shopping street, featuring a mix of high-street brands, department stores, and souvenir shops.
Leidsestraat	Another popular shopping street, with a mix of clothing stores, shoe shops, and souvenir shops.
Albert Cuyp Market	Amsterdam's largest and most vibrant street market, offering a wide range of food, clothing, and household goods.
Magna Plaza	A grand shopping center housed in a former post office building, featuring high-end brands and designer boutiques.
Haarlemmerstraat & Haarlemmerdijk	These streets offer a wide variety of independent shops, restaurants, and specialty stores.

What are some recommended restaurants and food experiences in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam boasts a diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from traditional Dutch cuisine to international flavors. Here are some recommended restaurants and food experiences:

Cuisine/Experience	Restaurant/Location	Notes
Traditional Dutch	Moeders	Cozy restaurant serving traditional Dutch dishes in a quirky, home-like setting.
Traditional Dutch	Haesje Claes	Another popular spot for traditional Dutch cuisine, with a more upscale atmosphere.
Indonesian	Kantjil & de Tijger	Serves authentic and flavourful indonesian food
Seafood	The Seafood Bar	Offers a wide selection of fresh seafood dishes in a modern setting.
Street Food	Albert Cuyp Market	Sample local snacks like stroopwafels, herring, and bitterballen.
Fine Dining	Restaurant de Kas	Located in a greenhouse, serving fresh, seasonal dishes with ingredients sourced from its own garden.
Brunch	Bakers & Roasters	Popular brunch spot with delicious coffee and savory and sweet dishes.

What is the best way to get around Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a very walkable and bike-friendly city, making it easy to get around without relying heavily on cars. Here's a breakdown of the best transportation options:

Bicycle: The most popular and efficient way to get around Amsterdam. Rent a bike from one of the many rental shops and explore the city's extensive network of bike lanes.
Walking: Amsterdam's city center is relatively compact and easy to navigate on foot. Walking is a great way to explore the canals, admire the architecture, and discover hidden gems.
Public Transport: Amsterdam has an excellent public transport system, including trams, buses, and metros. Purchase an Amsterdam Travel Ticket for unlimited travel within the city.
Canal Boat: A fun and scenic way to explore the city's canals. Hop-on-hop-off canal boats are available.
Taxi: Taxis are available but can be expensive. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.
Car: Not recommended for getting around the city center due to traffic congestion, limited parking, and high parking fees. Consider using park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of the city and taking public transport into the center.

What are some free things to do in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam can be an expensive city, but there are also plenty of free activities to enjoy. Here are a few ideas:

Walk through Vondelpark: Amsterdam's largest park offers plenty of space for relaxing, picnicking, and enjoying nature.
Explore the Begijnhof: Visit this peaceful courtyard, a former haven for unmarried religious women.
Walk along the Canals: Stroll along the picturesque canals and admire the city's architecture.
Visit the Free Walking Tour: Take advantage of the many free walking tours offered, usually based on tips.
Visit a Free Concert: Some venues offer free classical music concerts, particularly during lunchtime. Check local listings.
Visit NDSM Wharf: This former shipyard has been transformed into a creative hub with street art and industrial architecture.

Are there any cultural etiquette tips I should know before visiting Amsterdam?

While Amsterdam is a liberal and tolerant city, it's always good to be aware of local customs and etiquette. Here are a few tips:

Be mindful of cyclists: Always look both ways before crossing bike lanes and be aware of cyclists, who have the right of way.
Respect the locals: Be considerate of residents, especially in residential areas. Avoid making excessive noise, particularly late at night.
Be polite and respectful: Use "alstublieft" (please) and "dank u wel" (thank you) when interacting with locals.
Don't take photos of people without their permission: Be respectful of people's privacy and ask for permission before taking their picture.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in the Netherlands, but it's customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip (5-10%) for good service in restaurants and cafes.
Queueing: The Dutch are generally very orderly and like to queue. Don't cut in line.

What are some local delicacies I should try in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam offers a range of delicious local treats that you shouldn't miss. Here are some must-try delicacies:

Stroopwafels: Thin waffles filled with caramel syrup, best enjoyed warm.
Herring (Hollandse Nieuwe): Raw herring served with chopped onions and pickles.
Bitterballen: Deep-fried meatballs served with mustard.
Poffertjes: Small, fluffy pancakes served with butter and powdered sugar.
Frites (Fries): Thick-cut fries served with a variety of sauces.
Oliebollen: Deep-fried doughnuts, traditionally eaten during New Year's Eve.

What are some popular festivals and events in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, catering to various interests. Here are some of the most popular ones:

King's Day (April 27th): A national holiday celebrating the King's birthday, with street parties, flea markets, and canal parades.
Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) (October): One of the world's largest electronic music conferences and festivals.
Grachtenfestival (Canal Festival) (August): A classical music festival held on and around Amsterdam's canals.
Holland Festival (June): A major international performing arts festival.
Pride Amsterdam (July/August): A celebration of LGBTQ+ culture, with a famous canal parade.
Sinterklaas (December 5th): A traditional Dutch holiday where Sinterklaas (Saint Nicholas) brings gifts to children.
Amsterdam Light Festival (December/January): A spectacular display of light art installations along the canals.

More About Amsterdam

Frequently Asked Questions about Amsterdam

What is the best time to visit Amsterdam?

How can I reach Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a well-connected city, making it easily accessible by various means of transportation.

Mode	Details
By Air	Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is one of Europe's busiest airports, serving numerous international and domestic destinations. From the airport, you can easily reach the city center by train (approximately 15-20 minutes), bus, or taxi. The train is the most efficient and cost-effective option.
By Train	Amsterdam Centraal Station is a major railway hub, with frequent connections to cities across Europe. High-speed trains like Eurostar and Thalys connect Amsterdam with London, Paris, Brussels, and other major European cities.
By Bus	Several international bus companies, such as Flixbus, operate routes to Amsterdam from various European cities. While buses are generally a more budget-friendly option, they can be slower than trains or flights.
By Car	Amsterdam is accessible by car via the European road network. However, driving and parking in the city center can be challenging and expensive. Consider using park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of the city and taking public transport into the center.

What are the must-visit attractions in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam boasts a wealth of attractions, catering to a wide range of interests. Here's a list of some of the most popular and noteworthy places to visit:

Attraction	Highlights
Anne Frank House	A poignant and moving museum located in the secret annex where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II. Book tickets well in advance.
Rijksmuseum	The Netherlands' national museum, showcasing Dutch Masters like Rembrandt and Vermeer, along with a vast collection of art and historical artifacts.
Van Gogh Museum	Dedicated to the life and works of Vincent van Gogh, featuring the world's largest collection of his paintings and drawings.
Canal Cruise	A relaxing and scenic way to explore Amsterdam's iconic canals and admire the city's architecture.
Vondelpark	Amsterdam's largest park, perfect for a stroll, picnic, or bike ride. It also hosts open-air concerts and performances during the summer.
Heineken Experience	An interactive tour of the historic Heineken brewery, where you can learn about the brewing process and sample the famous beer.
Zaanse Schans	A historic village with well-preserved windmills and traditional Dutch houses, offering a glimpse into the Netherlands' past. (Located just outside Amsterdam)

What are some popular activities to do in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam offers a diverse range of activities to suit every interest and travel style. Beyond visiting museums and historical sites, here are some other popular things to do:

Bike Riding: Rent a bike and explore the city like a local. Amsterdam is incredibly bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes throughout the city.
Explore the Jordaan: Wander through the charming streets of the Jordaan district, known for its independent shops, cafes, and art galleries.
Visit a Flower Market: Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and fragrances of the Bloemenmarkt, Amsterdam's floating flower market.
Take a Day Trip: Explore nearby towns and attractions, such as Zaanse Schans (windmills), Marken (traditional fishing village), or Haarlem (historic city).
Visit the Begijnhof: Discover this peaceful courtyard, a former haven for unmarried religious women.
Enjoy the Nightlife: Amsterdam has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Take a Food Tour: Sample local delicacies and learn about Dutch cuisine on a food tour.

What are some great day trips or nearby destinations from Amsterdam?

Amsterdam's central location makes it a great base for exploring other parts of the Netherlands. Here are some popular day trip destinations:

Destination	Travel Time (approx.)	Highlights
Zaanse Schans	30 minutes by train or bus	Historic village with working windmills, traditional Dutch houses, and craft demonstrations.
Haarlem	15 minutes by train	Historic city with a beautiful Grote Markt (market square), St. Bavo Church, and charming shops and cafes.
Marken & Volendam	45 minutes by bus	Traditional Dutch fishing villages with colorful houses, traditional costumes, and seafood restaurants.
Utrecht	30 minutes by train	Historic city with canals, wharf cellars, and the iconic Dom Tower.
The Hague	50 minutes by train	The Netherlands' political center, home to the Binnenhof (parliament), the Peace Palace, and the Mauritshuis museum.
Keukenhof Gardens (seasonal)	45 minutes by bus (open from late March to mid-May)	One of the world's largest flower gardens, showcasing millions of tulips, daffodils, and other spring flowers.

Where are the best places to shop in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam offers a wide array of shopping experiences, from high-end department stores to quirky boutiques and bustling markets. Here are some of the best places to shop:

Shopping Area	Highlights
De Negen Straatjes (Nine Streets)	A network of charming streets in the Jordaan district, known for its independent boutiques, vintage shops, art galleries, and cafes.
Kalverstraat	Amsterdam's main shopping street, featuring a mix of high-street brands, department stores, and souvenir shops.
Leidsestraat	Another popular shopping street, with a mix of clothing stores, shoe shops, and souvenir shops.
Albert Cuyp Market	Amsterdam's largest and most vibrant street market, offering a wide range of food, clothing, and household goods.
Magna Plaza	A grand shopping center housed in a former post office building, featuring high-end brands and designer boutiques.
Haarlemmerstraat & Haarlemmerdijk	These streets offer a wide variety of independent shops, restaurants, and specialty stores.

What are some recommended restaurants and food experiences in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam boasts a diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from traditional Dutch cuisine to international flavors. Here are some recommended restaurants and food experiences:

Cuisine/Experience	Restaurant/Location	Notes
Traditional Dutch	Moeders	Cozy restaurant serving traditional Dutch dishes in a quirky, home-like setting.
Traditional Dutch	Haesje Claes	Another popular spot for traditional Dutch cuisine, with a more upscale atmosphere.
Indonesian	Kantjil & de Tijger	Serves authentic and flavourful indonesian food
Seafood	The Seafood Bar	Offers a wide selection of fresh seafood dishes in a modern setting.
Street Food	Albert Cuyp Market	Sample local snacks like stroopwafels, herring, and bitterballen.
Fine Dining	Restaurant de Kas	Located in a greenhouse, serving fresh, seasonal dishes with ingredients sourced from its own garden.
Brunch	Bakers & Roasters	Popular brunch spot with delicious coffee and savory and sweet dishes.

What is the best way to get around Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a very walkable and bike-friendly city, making it easy to get around without relying heavily on cars. Here's a breakdown of the best transportation options:

Bicycle: The most popular and efficient way to get around Amsterdam. Rent a bike from one of the many rental shops and explore the city's extensive network of bike lanes.
Walking: Amsterdam's city center is relatively compact and easy to navigate on foot. Walking is a great way to explore the canals, admire the architecture, and discover hidden gems.
Public Transport: Amsterdam has an excellent public transport system, including trams, buses, and metros. Purchase an Amsterdam Travel Ticket for unlimited travel within the city.
Canal Boat: A fun and scenic way to explore the city's canals. Hop-on-hop-off canal boats are available.
Taxi: Taxis are available but can be expensive. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.
Car: Not recommended for getting around the city center due to traffic congestion, limited parking, and high parking fees. Consider using park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of the city and taking public transport into the center.

What are some free things to do in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam can be an expensive city, but there are also plenty of free activities to enjoy. Here are a few ideas:

Walk through Vondelpark: Amsterdam's largest park offers plenty of space for relaxing, picnicking, and enjoying nature.
Explore the Begijnhof: Visit this peaceful courtyard, a former haven for unmarried religious women.
Walk along the Canals: Stroll along the picturesque canals and admire the city's architecture.
Visit the Free Walking Tour: Take advantage of the many free walking tours offered, usually based on tips.
Visit a Free Concert: Some venues offer free classical music concerts, particularly during lunchtime. Check local listings.
Visit NDSM Wharf: This former shipyard has been transformed into a creative hub with street art and industrial architecture.

Are there any cultural etiquette tips I should know before visiting Amsterdam?

While Amsterdam is a liberal and tolerant city, it's always good to be aware of local customs and etiquette. Here are a few tips:

Be mindful of cyclists: Always look both ways before crossing bike lanes and be aware of cyclists, who have the right of way.
Respect the locals: Be considerate of residents, especially in residential areas. Avoid making excessive noise, particularly late at night.
Be polite and respectful: Use "alstublieft" (please) and "dank u wel" (thank you) when interacting with locals.
Don't take photos of people without their permission: Be respectful of people's privacy and ask for permission before taking their picture.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in the Netherlands, but it's customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip (5-10%) for good service in restaurants and cafes.
Queueing: The Dutch are generally very orderly and like to queue. Don't cut in line.

What are some local delicacies I should try in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam offers a range of delicious local treats that you shouldn't miss. Here are some must-try delicacies:

Stroopwafels: Thin waffles filled with caramel syrup, best enjoyed warm.
Herring (Hollandse Nieuwe): Raw herring served with chopped onions and pickles.
Bitterballen: Deep-fried meatballs served with mustard.
Poffertjes: Small, fluffy pancakes served with butter and powdered sugar.
Frites (Fries): Thick-cut fries served with a variety of sauces.
Oliebollen: Deep-fried doughnuts, traditionally eaten during New Year's Eve.

What are some popular festivals and events in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, catering to various interests. Here are some of the most popular ones:

King's Day (April 27th): A national holiday celebrating the King's birthday, with street parties, flea markets, and canal parades.
Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) (October): One of the world's largest electronic music conferences and festivals.
Grachtenfestival (Canal Festival) (August): A classical music festival held on and around Amsterdam's canals.
Holland Festival (June): A major international performing arts festival.
Pride Amsterdam (July/August): A celebration of LGBTQ+ culture, with a famous canal parade.
Sinterklaas (December 5th): A traditional Dutch holiday where Sinterklaas (Saint Nicholas) brings gifts to children.
Amsterdam Light Festival (December/January): A spectacular display of light art installations along the canals.