Tourism in Amsterdam: Travel Tips and Best Places to Visit
Practical information for travelers visiting Amsterdam, Netherlands
The city of Amsterdam is seeing an increase in visitors. There are numerous tourist attractions in Amsterdam. When visiting Amsterdam, what are the most fun things to do? Thereโs enough here to keep you busy for a few days at a minimum. For instance, take a canal cruise to see the moored barges. Visit the Beguinage, one of the cityโs many squares, or the seedy โDe Wallenโ neighbourhood. Visit the cityโs Vondelpark and Hortus Botanicus for additional sightseeing opportunities.
The Dutch capital, Amsterdam, is a top tourist destination in Europe and beyond. In addition to its many universities, academies, and research institutes, Amsterdam also boasts over 40 museums, theatres, and other entertainment venues. Aside from that, the city is well-known for its numerous historic residences, many of which are constructed in the form of fans out of mud and extend up to 18 metres into the ground before ending in a solid sandy foundation.
Within the cityโs 2,000 hectares, there are approximately 6,750 structures dating from the 16th to the 18th centuries AD, interspersed with 160 canals. Many of these structures are floating residences. Eight of the cityโs 90 islands are connected by antique movable wooden bridges, such as the Magere Brug bridge, which is a popular location for photographers to capture the beauty of the city.
The following is a rundown of some of the cityโs most popular tourist attractions.
Tourist attractions in the Dutch city of Amsterdam
1- Rijksmuseum
Located in the heart of Amsterdamโs Museum Quarter, the Rijksmuseum National Museum is a must-see for art lovers and history buffs alike. For more than two centuries, it has been home to the nationโs largest collection of priceless antiques and fine art. Collection spans from the 13th century to today, with over 8,000 famous paintings scattered throughout the museumโs 250 exhibition halls. With over 35,000 books and manuscripts, the Rijksmuseum has one of the worldโs largest art libraries. It also houses an array of fascinating exhibits that chart the history of art and culture in the Netherlands for over 1,000 years. Sculptures and artefacts from the Middle Ages and contemporary art are also on display in the museum.
There are a variety of English-speaking guided tours available at the museum, each with its own flavour. The Rijksm Museumโs exhibits will take you on a fascinating journey through history and culture, and you can dine in the museumโs Michelin-starred restaurant to top it all off.
- Address: Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam
- Website:ย www.rijksmuseum.nl/en
2- Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House, on the Prinsengracht Canal in Amsterdam, was built in memory of Anne Frank, a Holocaust survivor who became a global icon. During World War II, the Anne family, originally from Frankfurt, Germany, had been hiding in this house. A few years after she died at the age of 15, Anne wrote her diary here, which was later turned into a best-seller and was released just two months before the war ended. A significant portion of the mansion has been preserved in its original state as a tribute to a tragic period in human history. Make sure to purchase your admission ticket on the official home website at least two months before your visit if you want to guarantee entry.
The Anne Frank Museum is right next door to Amsterdamโs Westerkerk, one of the cityโs most recognisable churches. This stunning Renaissance church, completed in 1630, incorporates many elements of Gothic design throughout the interior and exterior. The churchโs 85-meter-high tower, known as Langer Jan or John the Long, is the tallest structure in the city. As a tribute to Austrian Emperor Maximilian, a massive replica of the Emperorโs crown was placed atop the towerโs spire. The towerโs unusual bells are also famous.
Both the historic 1622 organ and the magnificent 1906 Rembrandt marble column, which is located outside the cathedral and honours the artistโs memory, are well worth seeing (and later inserted into the church).
- Address: Prinsengracht 263-267, 1016 GV Amsterdam
- Official website:ย www.annefrank.org/en
3- Van Gogh Museum
For art and history aficionados, the Van Gogh Museum has been a must-see in Amsterdam since it opened in 1972. This striking modern museum was designed by Gerrit Rietveld in honour of the famed Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh, whose life was full of surprises. Since his brother Theo and other family members generously donated paintings and artwork by Vincent van Gogh, the Van Gogh Museum has amassed the worldโs largest collection of his work.
In addition to the 700 letters he wrote to family and friends, the museum also has 200 paintings and 500 engravings and drawings from the finest collections. the paintings displayed here cover a wide range of Van Goghโs career including his realist period from 1880 to 1887, when he painted famous works like The Potato Eaters. Vase with Sunflowers, one of Van Goghโs most well-known paintings, was painted between 1887 and 1890, during the height of the Impressionist movement.
The museumโs Meet Vincent Van Gogh Experience multimedia presentation uses digital replicas of the artistโs artwork to reveal glimpses into the artistโs life. The exhibition also features works by Van Goghโs contemporaries, including Paul Gauguin and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec.. If you have the time, ask about the museumโs drawing and photography workshops.
- Address: Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ, Amsterdam
- Website:ย www.vangoghmuseum.nl/en
A video of the Arab traveler Ahmed Mamdouh and a special tour in Amsterdamhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/Aiedc0nRUj4?feature=oembedTop Amsterdam attractions and tips for travelers
4- The Jordaan neighborhood
For many years, the Jordaan has been Amsterdamโs most recognisable area, and itโs known for its distinctive design that incorporates residential areas with green spaces, bustling markets, and fine dining establishments. Hiking through the neighborhoodโs picturesque streets and visiting many notable attractions like the Anne Frank House of the Month and lesser-known tourist attractions like the Woonboots Museum on a boat and the Amsterdam Cheese Museum are just a few of the many fun things to do in this area.
A huge open-air market takes place every Saturday morning on the Lindengracht, featuring local artisan crafts, flowers, and other delectables. Every Monday, the 200-stall Westerstraat Street Market with a secondhand store is open. People-watching and Dutch folk music can be enjoyed in the Jordaan neighborhoodโs restaurants and cafes.
5- Vondelpark
With a total area of 120 hectares, Vondel Park in Amsterdam is the cityโs largest park and a popular destination for visitors from all over the world. There is a lot of open space in the park, as well as serene ponds and numerous hiking trails. Thereโs also a flower garden with over 70 different kinds of flowers.
Besides the statues and sculptures, there are also playgrounds, other facilities, and recreational activities like ski shoe rental, and the Vondelpark Open Air Theater, which hosts theatrical and musical performances from May to September, all in the park. Additionally, there are numerous cafes serving a wide variety of foods, from snacks to full meals.
6- Dam Square
When visiting Amsterdam, donโt forget to go to Dam Square, one of the cityโs most popular tourist attractions. Located in the plaza, the 17th-century Royal Koninklijk Palace was once home to the Dutch royal family and is now the site of royal celebrations and events. As a result of the plazaโs many tourist attractions (such as the nearby Nieuwe Kerk New Church and Madame Tussauds), itโs become a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike.
Here on the public square youโll find a slew of places to eat delectable fare and pick up unique gifts. Visitors will be enticed by the enormous Ferris wheel, as well as other attractions like street shows and music festivals.
7- The Royal Palace of Amsterdam
When the king comes to town, he stays at the royal palace, which was formerly the town hall. The construction of the palace began in 1648 with the erection of 13,659 columns to support the enormous structure. Aside from the royal palaceโs classic exterior design, which draws inspiration from ancient Roman architecture, it also features a lavish interior design that includes marble statues, carving, ornament, and carvings, as well as paintings on the ceilings by Ferdinand Paul and Govert Flink, students of Rembrandtโs.
The royal palace also includes the Treasury Room, which is home to some of the most opulent pieces of furniture in the city. In the local council membersโ hall, there are paintings by Paul and Fellink and a marble fireplace, as well as ceiling paintings by Cornelis Holstein. In terms of size and opulence, the Majlis Hall is the crown jewel of the royal palace. English-speaking guides and audio guides with access cards are available for tours of the Royal Palace.
- ุงูุนููุงู: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 147, 1012 RJ Amsterdam
- Official website:ย www.paleisamsterdam.nl/en
8- Rembrandt House Museum
The Godenbreestraat house where Rembrandt and his wife Saskia lived during their happiest and most prosperous years is now a museum. During his wanderings through the ghetto, Rembrandt came across examples and subjects for his Bible-inspired paintings, and he also painted beautiful scenes of the canalโs edge. For the past two decades, Rembrandt has called this house his home. It is decorated with period pieces from the seventeenth century, as well as engravings and memorabilia from Rembrandtโs personal collection. There are tour guides on hand who speak English.
Just a two-minute walk away is the Southern Zuiderkerk Church, which houses the remains of two of Rembrandtโs sons, as well as the remains of one of his pupils.ย Built between 1603 and 1611, this church was the first Protestant church to be built in Amsterdam after the Reformation, and was designed by the architect Hendrik de Kaiser, who was also buried there.
The church has undergone significant restoration and is currently hosting many local cultural events and activities.ย There is also Rembrandt Square, which houses many cafes and restaurants, as well as a statue of the famous painter.
- Address: Jodenbreestraat 4, 1011 NK Amsterdam
- Official website:ย www.rembrandthuis.nl/en
9- The Botanical Gardens
Amsterdam is distinguished by its picturesque nature.ย In the heart of the city is the Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, which tourists from all over the world are keen to visit.ย The Botanical Garden was founded in 1638 and was initially a modest herb garden for doctors and pharmacies.ย Currently, the park includes rare plants and trees, flowers, and a large greenhouse that includes different tropical areas.
The old wing is one of the most prominent features of the Botanical Garden, which is a hexagonal structure dating back to the late seventeenth century, in addition to the orange nursery dating back to the seventies of the nineteenth century.ย The Palm House is distinguished by its unique Amsterdam School architecture.ย Plant lovers will enjoy visiting this garden, which is home to a large variety of rare plants and trees, including Persian ironwood trees, in addition to many tropical plants.ย And for those wishing to spend more time, they can sit in the cafe in the park.
- Address: Plantage Middenlaan 2a, 1018 DD Amsterdam
- Official website:ย www.dehortus.nl/?lang=en
10. Artis: Amsterdam Royal Zoo
The Royal Zoo is just 5 minutes walk from the Botanical Gardens.ย This world-class park was established in 1838 and is one of the oldest zoos in Europe.ย This shady park includes a large and diverse group of animals from all over the world, in addition to many historical buildings, including an aquarium built in 1882 that includes a coral reef system, in addition to providing a wonderful view of the bottom of the Amsterdam canal.
The park also includes a house for nocturnal animals, a zoology museum, an insect pavilion, a butterfly pavilion and a dome of the planetarium.ย There is also a library containing an extensive collection of historical books, publications and artwork.ย This is in addition to the Normaal Amsterdams Peil showing the average water level in the North Sea.
- ุงูุนููุงู: Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, 1018 CZ Amsterdam
- Official website:ย www.artis.nl/en
11- The Oude Kerk
The ancient church was built in 1306 and is the oldest building in the city and has maintained its old form since the era of Rembrandt.ย The old church is the first church of its kind in the north of the Netherlands, and this wonderful architectural masterpiece has become a model for many churches in this region.ย There are many additions to the church, such as the large side chapels that date back to the early 16th century.ย There is also a gate that leads to the Iron Chapel where there are historical documents, such as the Tax Freedom Document issued in 1275. The tower was added in the 16th century AD, and it is equipped with wonderful bells and offers wonderful views of Amsterdam.
The interior design of the church has pre-Reformation features, among them striking windows dating back to the Dutch Renaissance and wooden choir stalls.ย Currently, the church hosts several galleries that display works of contemporary art.ย After completing a visit to this important historical monument, you can go to Zeedijk, one of the oldest streets in Amsterdam and includes many sloping buildings.ย It is believed that House No. 1 dating back to the fifteenth century AD is the oldest building in the city.
- Address: Oudekerksplein 23, 1012 GX Amsterdam
- Official website:ย www.oudekerk.nl/en
12- Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam
The Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam (Municipal Museum) was founded in 1895. The museum houses one of the most important and most fascinating art collections in Europe, and includes works from the most famous schools and art movements, including the De Style School, with a special focus on French and Dutch painting during the ninth centuries Ten and twenty AD.
The museum also houses the fine works of artists Theo van Doesburg, Piet Mondrian, Gerrit Rietveld, Rosenkist, Warhol, Chagall, Debbat, De Kooning, and Matisse.ย In the sculpture garden, there are models of Rodin, Moore, Renoir and Visser.ย The museum offers its visitors guided tours who speak English, as well as interesting family art workshops.ย There is also a shop and a restaurant on site.
- Address: Museumplein 10, 1071 DJ Amsterdam
- Official website:ย www.stedelijk.nl/en
13- The Begijnhof
The district of Begijnhof is one of the quiet destinations in the city that tourists overlook as they move from one tourist attraction to another.ย This wonderful historical district is well worth a visit in order to discover its attractions.ย Although there are residents in most of the old houses, the public is allowed to roam in the lanes and corridors between these houses, so do not be shy about wandering freely in this area.ย You will greatly enjoy the picturesque views of the green lawns and courtyards surrounded by a group of the oldest houses in the Dutch city of Amsterdam, including the only remaining wooden house from the fourteenth century.ย The small church in the area still opens its doors to visitors, and it was originally the headquarters of a group of Catholic women, and the last of these women left our world and was buried in this church in 1971.
- Address: 1012 AB Amsterdam
- Official website:ย http://begijnhofkapelamsterdam.nl/english-information/
14- The Jewish Historical Museum
The Jewish Museum is housed in four identical synagogues, including the Grote Synagogue that dates back to 1670. The museum houses a huge collection of religious artifacts and art, including silver Torah vessels, Torah robes, and ornate headdresses, as well as ceremonial pendants and umbrellas.ย There is also a Holy Shrine made of white marble.
The museum also houses a huge library, and in the Upper Synagogue, there is a Kosher restaurant.ย And donโt forget to visit the museumโs website for details about the concert program, which includes candlelight performances by famous local and international artists.
Outside the museum is the Docker Monument, which was built in memory of the 1941 strike, when workers refused to cooperate with the deportation of Jewish citizens.ย And in the Portuguese Portuguese Synagogue, a temple dating back to the late 17th century, is the Ets Haim Library, the oldest of its kind.ย And you can book a place on one of the tours in English in the Jewish Museum to learn more about the history of the Jews in Amsterdam and in the historic Jewish Quarter.
- ุงูุนููุงู: Nieuwe Amstelstraat 1, 1011 PL Amsterdam
- Official website:ย https://jck.nl/en
15- The Nieuwe Kerk
The new church is the church dedicated to the coronation of Dutch kings since 1814, and it is located in the heart of Amsterdam next to the royal palace in Dam Square. This historical square was built in 1270 to separate the Amstel River from Lake IJ, and the city was named after this square.
Currently, many public events are organized in the field and in the church, such as art exhibitions and others.ย This church, which dates back to the fifteenth century AD, hosts regular concerts.ย The church is distinguished by a wonderful pulpit dating back to 1649 and wooden carvings dating back to the Baroque era. It is decorated with pictures of the writers of the four gospels, in addition to figures that embody faith, hope, benevolence, justice, and wisdom.ย The church also contains an organ dating back to 1670, a bronze choir screen, and impressive choir stalls.
Not only that, there are also graves of famous Dutch personalities, including BC Hovet, Nicholas Tolpe and Admiral Michel de Ruyter, who died in 1679. The church is also distinguished by its beautiful stained-glass windows, one of which dates back to 1650 and embodies the granting of William IV The coat of arms, while the Queenโs Window, dating back to 1898, commemorates Queen Wilhelminaโs coronation.
- Address: Dam, 1012 NP Amsterdam
- Official website:ย www.nieuwekerk.nl/en
16- The National Monument
On the other side of Dam Square, the National Monument, which is considered an Amsterdam tourist attraction, is an amazing obelisk 22 meters high.ย It was placed in this place after World War II in memory of the victims of war and as a symbol of liberation.ย Architect J.ย C.ย B.ย Oud design the memorial, while it is decorated with sculptures by artist JW Radler depicting war (4 males), peace (a woman with a child), and resistance (two men with howling dogs).ย There are jars containing earth from 11 provinces, as well as a jar containing earth from the Cemetery of Honor in Indonesia.
Queen Juliana inaugurated the memorial on May 4, 1956, the National Day in Memory of the War Victims.ย On this day every year, wreaths are laid at the memorial and everyone is silent for two minutes.ย The memorial is a destination where young people from all over the world meet throughout the year.ย And if you want to learn more about the history of the Netherlands during World War II, you should visit The Resistance Museum, which provides a great deal of information about civilian life during the German occupation of the country, as well as the role of the national resistance.
- Address: Dam, 1012 JL Amsterdam
17- Kalverstraat and Kalverstraat and Vlooienmarkt
Shopping experiences are absolutely indispensable for the holidays.ย Amsterdam has many destinations that offer a variety of shopping experiences that include high-end luxury goods, local handicrafts and exquisite souvenirs.ย Kalverstraat is the most popular shopping destination in the Dutch capital, Amsterdam, with many stylish stores, a gallery, perfume stores, cafes and restaurants.ย This street witnesses unprecedented crowding on Saturdays, but you will discover an exceptional and unforgettable experience.
You can also discover a completely different shopping experience at the Vlooienmarkt in Amsterdam, which has been held since 1886. In this ancient market, you can buy everything, including utensils, antiques, clothes and other goods, whether new or used.ย Most of the shopping streets branch out from Muntplein, which was a sheep market in the fifteenth century.ย There is also the Munttoren tower, which dates back to 1672, when the French occupied Utrecht.ย And at the Flower Market, a unique shopping experience awaits you, a historic floating market selling all kinds of plants imaginable.ย There are still a few flower stalls, the rest being souvenir shops.
18- Amsterdam Museum
The Amsterdam Museum is located in the former municipal orphanage that was built in 1414, and the museum consists of a number of spacious courtyards where visitors can learn about the history of the city of Amsterdam and its influential role in the history of the country and the world.ย The exhibition includes discoveries from prehistory, the original city charter, and exhibits from the current era, as well as exhibits that illustrate how land was deducted from the sea and reclaimed.
You can also enjoy discovering the inner courtyards that house the ancient archery gallery.ย In addition to the cafรฉ, there is a huge library in the museum that includes a large collection of literature on the history of the city, and some graphics and paintings can also be displayed by prior arrangement.ย English-speaking guided tours are available at the museum.
- Address: Kalverstraat 92, 1012 PH Amsterdam
- Official website:ย www.amsterdammuseum.nl/en
19- NEMO Science Museum
The Science Museum rises above the surface of the water to look like the hull of a powerful warship. The museum is distinguished by its modern design and continues to fascinate its visitors more than 20 years after its opening in 1997. This world-class science center is located on the dock of the old port and includes 5 floors located in Each one has interesting and attractive interactive exhibits for all family members and children of all ages.
The museum includes sections devoted to the human body and mind, which contain countless high-tech tools and devices, in addition to a number of short films.ย In the museum there is a playground, a shop and a cafรฉ on the roof, from which you can enjoy stunning views of the city.ย Another contemporary building worth a visit is EYE Film Institute Netherlands, which opened in 2012 and houses a collection of the Netherlandsโ most important national films, as well as copies of every foreign film that has been shown in the Netherlands.ย When you visit this institute, you will enjoy watching the films shown, in addition to the wonderful exhibits related to cinema and filmmaking.
- Address: Oosterdok 2, 1011 VX Amsterdam
- Official website:ย www.nemosciencemuseum.nl/en
20- The National Maritime Museum
The National Maritime Museum is an ideal and must-visit destination for all those interested in ships and the ancient history of the Dutch military and merchant fleets.ย This museum offers a wonderful look at the influence of this small countryโs fleets on the world over the centuries, through an impressive collection of exhibits and artifacts related to marine life.
In addition to exhibits focusing on ships and sailing, the museum also houses a large and varied collection of ship models, historical weapons, maps, and artwork, including many models depicting some of the important sea battles in the history of the Netherlands.
The museum building itself has a long history, as it was founded in 1656 and has long been used as a sea depot.ย Your visit to the museum would not be complete without discovering the model of the โAmsterdamโ, the most famous ship in the history of the Netherlands.ย Guided tours of the museum and the ship are available, and English language guides are also provided.ย There is a store and a restaurant in the museum.
- Address: Kattenburgerplein 1, 1018 KK Amsterdam
- Official website:ย www.hetscheepvaartmuseum.com
21- Museum of the Tropics
Founded in 1864, the Museum of the Tropics is an ideal destination for those interested in the history of the former Dutch colonies.ย The museum is housed in a specially constructed cave-like hall to display numerous artworks and exhibits that reflect daily life in the tropics and subtropics.ย The museum also hosts regular concerts that include oriental and Asian music playing using traditional instruments.ย English-speaking guided tours are available at the museum.
There is also the Hermitage Amsterdam, which was opened in 2009 in an imposing old building dating back to the 1780s known as the Amstelhof.ย The museum houses exhibits focusing on the long-standing relationship between Russia and the Netherlands, and there are also exhibits explaining the history of the building itself.ย There is a picturesque garden and a good restaurant on site.
- Address: Linnaeusstraat 2, 1092 CK Amsterdam
- Official website:ย https://tropenmuseum.nl/en
Best cheap, medium and luxury hotels in Amsterdam, Netherlands
If you are planning to visit Amsterdam for the first time, the best place to stay is the World Heritage city center, known as the Canal Ring.ย This area is bordered on the north by the Central Railway Station in Amsterdam and on the south by Leidseplein and Museumplein, where there are the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksm Museum and the Stedelijk Museum, while it is bordered on the west by the Jordaan district, with its art galleries and modern cafes.ย And in this small area, there are the most important tourist attractions.ย Here is a list of the best hotels in Amsterdam:
- Luxury Hotels:ย The Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam is a collection of grandiose mansions dating back to the 17th century, which sit on the banks of the beautiful Herengracht canal.ย The hotel is elegantly designed and offers its guests a personalized concierge service and exceptional dining experiences in a fine Michelin-starred restaurant, as well as amazing spa treatments.ย Also on the banks of the Herengracht canal is the Ambassade Hotel, which consists of palatial mansions dating back to the seventeenth century.ย The hotel features luxurious rooms and suites that feature Louis XVI-style furniture with a modern twist.ย Steps from the Anne Frank House, The Toren is a small, two-house family hotel with a great location on the banks of the lake.ย The hotel has wonderful rooms and suites, each with its own character.
- Mid-Range Hotels:ย Just a 10-minute walk from Amsterdam Central Railway Station, Hotel Sebastianโs offers elegant rooms that mimic the luxurious rooms of the neighboring Hotel The Turin.ย If you plan to focus on visiting museums, the Hotel Fita is the ideal choice for its homely atmosphere, and the hotel is steps away from Museum Square.ย Adjacent to the station bearing his name and a short walk from the city center, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Amsterdam Centraal Station features small rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows providing natural light.ย Apple iMacs are available at the hotel.
- Budgetย Hotels:ย Within walking distance from Museum Square and Leidseplein Square, Hotel La Boheme is an eco-friendly hotel with clean rooms and comfortable beds. Rates include breakfast.ย The Hotel Museumzicht is located close to the Museum Square, and is distinguished by its elegant and predominantly artistic design and comfortable rooms with a homey feel.ย The Clemens Hotel is located close to Dam Square and the Jordaan district and offers compact, comfortable rooms.
Tips for tourists traveling to Amsterdam
Amsterdam is one of the most important tourist destinations that tourists from all over the world are keen to visit, as more than 18 million tourists visit the city every year, including those who love tulips, those wishing to spend the weekend and those wishing to discover Dutch culture.ย Amsterdam is a very attractive tourist city with an impressive infrastructure.ย In this article, we will review together the most important travel tips that will help you enjoy visiting the city for the first time.ย Enjoy the most enjoyable time in Amsterdam, save your expenses, and discover a tourism experience like no other.
Some basic information about Amsterdam
Before visiting Amsterdam, you should be aware of these basic information:
Language: Dutch
Time zone: GMT + 1
International Calling Code: +31
Currency: Euro
Best time to visit Amsterdam
The period from April to May
Spring, from April to May, is the best time to visit Amsterdam, when the weather is perfect and tulips are in bloom.ย Also, the period from September to November is an ideal period to visit Amsterdam when the weather is great, especially when exploring the canals and the famous Dutch countryside.ย During this period, the city is not crowded with tourists.ย During the summer, from June to August, tourists spend fun in the city and enjoy summer concerts and festivals.ย In winter, the number of tourists decreases a lot, the prices of flights decrease, and there is room to visit museums and other tourist attractions away from the cold weather.
1- Tulips only bloom in April and May
Almost all of Amsterdamโs photos must feature tulips or windmills, but tulips only bloom for a short time during the spring season that runs from mid-March to mid-May.ย This period is the peak season for the city of Amsterdam, as tourists from all over the world come to it to enjoy watching the tulips in their wonderful colors as they bloom, so be sure to visit Amsterdam during this wonderful period to enjoy the Tulip Colors Festival.ย Keukenhof Gardens, 40 km from Amsterdam, is the best destination for viewing tulips.ย If you want a comfortable and affordable way to visit the gardens, you can reserve a place on one of the group tours.ย After visiting the gardens, you can rent a bike and discover the nearby flower fields or enjoy a boat tour of the beautiful canals.
2- Enjoy an exceptional tour of Amsterdamโs canals
Amsterdam canals date back to the 17th century when swamps were drained to create a new urban area within the boundaries of Singelgracht.ย The entire Qanawat area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is an urban area characterized by its picturesque scenery.ย You can enjoy discovering Amsterdamโs canals on a boat tour.ย The fun will be completed with an exceptional dining experience.ย During the tour, be careful and keep your belongings well as it is difficult to find lost items.ย Avoid walking near canals on your own at night.
3- Enjoy good, cheap accommodation far from the city center
The Amsterdam city center is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the city, but it is very crowded with tourists.ย So, if you want to have a more realistic experience about the lives of locals, you should reside in other areas outside the city center, such as Nord, Boss en Lomer, Od West, Westerpark, De Parcges, Museum Quarter, Dipbe, Aud Zuid, Zuides, Ost, Zuidost, Dimen, Amstelveen and Bigmar.
An Arab Traveler video that provides important advice for travelers to Amsterdam, Netherlandshttps://www.youtube.com/embed/gS63Pk7VhaI?feature=oembedTravel tips for Amsterdam, Netherlands
4- Enjoy shopping in the local markets
You can discover an authentic Amsterdam experience when you visit the local markets that resemble open museums.ย And at the Bloemenmarkt, which welcomes visitors all year round, you can buy colorful tulips in the spring and Christmas gifts in the winter.ย The Albert Cuypmarket is the largest open market in the city, where you can enjoy delicious food and free music.ย There are also many other markets that offer exceptional and memorable experiences, including Waterlooplein Market, Noordermarktย Flea Market and Sunday Market Westergasย .
5- Enjoy a bike ride in Amsterdam
Renting a bike and joining one of the tours is a great way to discover Amsterdam. It is truly an amazing experience that you must try at least once during your visit to the city.ย Make sure to stick to the bike lanes on the right side of the road, and keep away from the walking paths and the main road.ย Also, avoid stopping in the middle of the road to take photos so as not to hinder other cyclists.ย Locals are keen to ride their bicycles through the quiet city streets, so make sure to take great photos for unforgettable memories.
6- Discover wonderful experiences in the beautiful Dutch countryside
Amsterdam is a wonderful city full of interesting activities, but if your stay in the city will extend for more than 24 hours, be sure to visit the Dutch countryside to learn about the simple rural way of life.ย You will enjoy seeing windmills, canals and vast fields, which are prime landmarks of the Netherlands.ย You can go on a one-day tour to one of the following destinations: Volendam, Edam, Zance Chance, Marken, Rotterdam, The Hague or Giethoorn.ย Group tours are usually cheap and include bus transfers.
7- Enjoy concerts and cultural events on summer nights
Summer is the ideal time when visitors to Amsterdam can freely enjoy their nightlife.ย On weekends, there are nearly 200 events organized in Amsterdam, including the Kwakuย Summer Festivalย , theย Vondelpark Open Air Theaterย concertsย and the summer evenings at theย ARTIS Summer nightsย .ย Also, local beaches welcome visitors at Sloterplas and the Amsterdam Bos forest, and the rooftop terraces are transformed into special places for celebrations.
8- Enjoy a drink of espresso in the cafes
The โcoffeeshopโ in Amsterdam is famous for serving traditional coffee and snacks, but โCoffeeshopโ is a term that refers to stores that sell marijuana and other similar products.ย And if you are traveling with your children, make sure carefully before entering these stores.
9- Be prepared for emergencies, and keep travel insurance
You may face emergency situations at any time, such as accidents and others.ย The best way to deal with these emergencies is to have travel insurance to avoid high hospital expenses.ย The emergency number in Amsterdam is 112, through which you can contact the police, fire department, and ambulance.ย There are also emergency medical services available 24/7 at 0880030600. To report thefts and other police inquiries, you can call 09008844.
10- Balance between using your credit card and cash
All European countries apply standard fees for transactions and exchange of currencies.ย In Amsterdam, if you use a credit card or withdraw cash from an ATM, you will need a card with a 4-digit personal identification number, not 5 or 6 numbers.ย And if you like to eat street food or shop at the local markets, it is best to use cash.ย It is also preferable to buy passes for important attractions, such as the I Amsterdam Card and a set of admission cards that allow you to visit several places at one time.ย And if you are not a fan of carrying cash, you can purchase these cards in advance online.
11- Use the Able Amsterdam website to find out about wheelchair-accessible attractions
Amsterdam, with its canals and streets crowded with cyclists, is a busy city, but it also welcomes tourists with mobility difficulties.ย Theย Able Amsterdamย website providesย useful information and maps on attractions, restaurants, cafes, gyms, public spaces and wheelchair-friendly routes.
12- Do not forget to carry an umbrella at all times
Most of the time, the weather in Amsterdam is unpredictable, as it rains on about 200 days throughout the year, which means that it is better for you to carry an umbrella and raincoat regardless of weather forecast apps.
13- Try to learn a few Dutch phrases and words
Most Dutch are fluent in English, so you generally wonโt have any problems communicating.ย But you will find appreciation from the locals when you try to put in some effort and use a few Dutch phrases and words.
14- Buy souvenirs
Amsterdam is full of souvenirs to buy for friends when you return home.ย You can buy dutch cheese, Dutch licorice candy, pepernoten, hagelslag and muisjes.ย And donโt forget to buy wooden clogs from Zanci Chans and white and blue crockery from Delft.ย There are also bicycle covers, biscuit molds and clothes.
15- Tips in Amsterdam are not compulsory
Residents of Amsterdam enjoy a high standard of living, and the same goes for restaurant workers, so tips are not compulsory in Amsterdam.ย And if you like the level of service in the restaurants, you can pay a tip of up to 10%.ย Keep in mind, however, that customer service in Amsterdam is not all about fancy all-in-one service, but is simpler than that and is centered around helping you.ย You do not have to tip in bars and cafes, but it is sufficient to round the amount to the nearest whole number.
16- Restaurants and cafes in Amsterdam close their doors early
Amsterdam is famous for its nightlife and nightlife, but major restaurants and cafes close at 10 pm.ย Also, most major stores close their doors at 9 or 10 pm, so you will only find snack shops in the city center that are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.ย And if you are planning to spend a night out, make sure you have food at your place of residence so that you do not have to sleep hungry.ย And in summer, do not forget to reserve in advance at major restaurants.
17- Make sure to carry your passport at all times
Tourists must hold passports at all times during their stay in Amsterdam.ย Also, be sure to keep one card with a little cash in a bag around your waist.ย Although the crime rate is low, pickpockets are found in abundance in tourist areas.ย You can also keep your luggage and valuables in the lockers of the central train station and Schiphol Airport, for rates starting at 7 euros per day.
18- Enjoy a wonderful stay in a hostel or hotel
Amsterdam is a modern city characterized by a wonderful aesthetic design, and this also applies to hostels and budget hotels that offer prices lower than the prices of accommodation with host families.ย There are many excellent hostels and hotels in Amsterdam, including Ecomama Lodge, Cocomama Lodge, ClinkNoord, Hostel Van Gogh, Lucky Lake Hostel, Qbic Hotel, the Lucky Lake Hostel, Qbic Hotel, and the Low Hotel. Lloyd Hotel and Amstel Botel.
19- Donโt be fooled into buying tulips and other things
Tulips only bloom in the spring if planted in the fall.ย You will not find good tulips in Amsterdam any other season.ย And if you are traveling to the USA or Canada, be sure to ensure that the tulips you have purchased are certified so that they are not subject to confiscation at the airport.ย Also, do not forget that there are no free cruises in the Amsterdam canals.ย Make sure to rent bicycles from designated places for this purpose and not from people on the street in front of the hotel, as they may be bicycle thieves.
Famous foods worth trying when visiting Amsterdam
Amsterdam is famous for its many delicacies including sugar-filled desserts, such as tompouce and bossche bol, and fast food items such as patatje oorlog and frikandel speciaal sausage.ย Below is a list of some of the popular food items available in restaurants, shops and bakeries around Amsterdam.
1- Croquet Croquet
The crunchy meat-stuffed croquette that looks like a sausage is one of the most popular fast food items in the Netherlands.ย Although there are many ways to prepare croquette, in the Netherlands most croquettes are stuffed with lamb or beef.ย This filling melts into the croquette when it is well fried.ย You can buy croquettes from anywhere in Amsterdam, especially from FEBO, a fast-food chain that uses coin-operated machines.
2- Speculaas biscuits
The Dutch eat delicious Spiculus chips during the Christmas season, and they contain nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves.ย These aromatic spices are mixed with butter, flour and sugar to make a speculus biscuit dough that is cooked in the oven until it acquires a distinctive crunchy texture.ย These chips are popular with the Dutch, who make sure to eat them during the festive seasons.ย There are also many toppings that resemble peanut butter, which are prepared using Speculos biscuits and are widely used in the Netherlands and Belgium as one of the popular food items.
A video by Arab traveler Adham Hamshari exploring street food in the Dutch city of Amsterdamhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/dxVCA7CAAQE?feature=oembedThe best food to try in Amsterdam, Netherlands
3- French Fries Patatje Oorlog
This classic Dutch fast food combines many high-calorie ingredients.ย This dish is prepared by preparing a layer of French fries in the Dutch way, then adding mayonnaise, onions and hot peanut sauce.ย Although this mixture may seem somewhat strange, its ingredients are well balanced as it is distinguished by its nutritional value and spicy flavor.ย This dish is usually served in a cone at fast food vendors, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a quick snack while wandering around Amsterdam.
4- Stroopwafel
This sweet waffle is deliciously irresistible and is available in all major stores in Amsterdam and in markets, including Albert Cuypmarkt and Dappermarkt.
5- Frikandel Speciaal
This classic fast food snack consists of hotdogs with onions, curry ketchup and mayonnaise.ย During national holidays, the Dutch flag is placed on the plate as a symbol of patriotism.ย And this dish is served alone or with other fried foods (Fish and Chips).ย Frikandel sausages are sold at snack bars all over Amsterdam, including fast-food chain FEBO.
6- Bossche Bol
This delicious cream-filled and chocolate-covered dessert is similar to the famous chocolate eclair, but it comes in the form of balls about the same size as tennis balls, and is often covered with cream or dark chocolate.ย Given their size, shape, and melting ingredients, this type of dessert is difficult to eat without making a mess.ย The city of Saint-Hertogenbosch is the original home of this dessert, which has achieved great fame throughout the Netherlands since the early twentieth century.
7- Tompouce
Creamy pastry cream is one of the main ingredients in the popular Dutch desserts.ย For example, the main ingredient in toppies is the cream stuffed between two pastry sandwiches, garnished with pink toppings.ย And during national holidays, such as Kingโs Day, it is common to find this dessert topped with orange rather than pink, in honor of the royal family, the Urani-Nassau family.
8- Herring
Dutch herring is distinguished by its wonderful appearance and delicious taste, especially when it is served with onions and pickles.ย This classic Dutch dish is sold in fish shops around Amsterdam, and usually costs between 3 and 5 euros.ย Herring is also sold in supermarkets in packages with onion slices to be ready to eat.ย You can enjoy herring, the localsโ way, or you can order a broodje haring instead.
9- Bitterballen meatballs
Peterball meatballs are a Dutch snack served in hundreds of bars and restaurants all over Amsterdam.ย Meatballs are stuffed with a mixture of meat or vegetables that resembles the filling inside a croquette.ย As with other Dutch snacks, the meatballs are well fried until they become deliciously crunchy.
10- The Rijsttafel rice table
A rice table is a large meal served in Indonesian restaurants in Amsterdam.ย This meal includes egg rolls, pickles, satay dishes and cooked vegetables, in addition to a variety of rice dishes.ย Discover an exceptional experience in the company of friends or family with the rice table served in the many fine restaurants.
11- Dutch licorice dessert Liquorice Drops
Licorice candy is spread all over the world, but the Dutch dessert is famous for being rich in salmiak salt, which gives it a pleasant sour taste.ย This ingredient balances out the sweetness of licorice to provide an amazing blend of flavors.ย Often this type of candy comes in cute little shapes (cars, animals, and smileys).ย These sweets are sold in all Dutch stores in cardboard bags and boxes.
12- Roti Roti
This classic Surinamese dish is named for the main ingredient, roti.ย This delicious dish usually consists of spicy curries, potatoes, boiled eggs and beans.ย Surinamese restaurants are famous for serving roti with sambal, a type of spice made from ground chili peppers.ย And this dish does not require the use of tableware.
Photos from Amsterdam City Center
Enjoy this virtual tour in the city of Amsterdam by watching the photos below:
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