Amsterdam, the colourful and vibrant capital of the Netherlands, is a city full of history, culture and natural beauty.
Its famous picturesque streets, canals and wonderful museums make Amsterdam one of the most popular destinations in Europe.
The most special (and most touristy) time to visit Amsterdam is during the tulip festival in spring.
Transportation in Amsterdam
To get around Amsterdam you can use public transport, although in the city centre you can simply walk.
When you get on either a bus or the Metro you swipe your card and when you get off you swipe it again, so it charges you according to the distance you’ve travelled.
For me this was better than buying the one hour ticket which cost €3.40.
A 24-hours ticket costs 9.50€, a 48-hours ticket costs 15.50€ and a 72-hours ticket costs 21.50€.
If you want to buy tickets, you download the GVB app on your mobile phone. There you choose the ticket you want to buy and it’s there on your mobile, in case a ticket inspector asks for it.
Sightseeing in Amsterdam
Brouwersgracht
Brouwersgracht is one of Amsterdam’s most picturesque and beautiful neighborhoods, with its distinctive canals and gorgeous houses reflected in the calm waters.
It is located close to the historic city centre and offers the perfect opportunity for a peaceful walk, admiring the architecture of Amsterdam.
A stroll along the canals
You can’t visit Amsterdam without taking a stroll along the city’s famous canals.
Amsterdam’s canal system, which includes the Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht and Herengracht, is a UNESCO heritage site and is the heart of the city.
A boat ride or a walk along the canals is one of the most enjoyable experiences of Amsterdam.
Anna Frank Museum
The Anna Frank Museum is one of the most moving and important cultural sites in the city. The house where Anna Frank and her family hid from the Nazis during World War II is now a museum that documents her story and offers a compelling lesson in human endurance and freedom.
Damrak
The Damrak is the main street connecting Amsterdam’s main railway station with Dam Square.
Dam Square is Amsterdam’s most central square, and there you will find the Royal Palace, the National Monument and many shops, restaurants and cafes.
Damrak Street is also filled with shops, cafes and restaurants and offers the perfect starting point to begin exploring the city.
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace is one of Amsterdam’s most impressive buildings and the official residence of the Dutch King during official engagements.
The palace is open to the public and you can visit it to see the impressive architecture, luxurious rooms and artwork on display inside.
St. Nicholas Basilica (Sint-Nicolaaskerk)
St. Nicholas Basilica is one of the most impressive churches in Amsterdam and is known for its impressive architectural design.
Built in the 19th century, the church is an excellent example of neo-Byzantine architecture and houses outstanding frescoes and hagiographies.
Red Light District
The Red Light District is one of the most famous and controversial areas of Amsterdam.
Here, visitors will find the famous red lights and storefronts where sex professionals work legally.
Of course photographs in the windows are prohibited, especially at night, when things come even more… alive.
Begijnhof
Begijnhof is one of the most peaceful and picturesque areas of Amsterdam.
It is a historic courtyard dating back to the 14th century, where the Beguines, women who dedicated their lives to faith and solidarity, lived.
The area is filled with beautiful old buildings, and the small church in the centre of the courtyard is a retreat for visitors.
Visitors can only go as far as one point, after that access is only allowed to residents of Begijnhof.
Bloemenmarkt
Amsterdam’s famous flower market is the perfect place to find traditional Dutch tulips, as well as other flowers, plants and bulbs.
Anyone visiting the city should not miss this unique experience. You will stroll through the open-air floating markets and enjoy the variety of colours and aromas.
Rembrandtplein
Rembrandtplein is one of Amsterdam’s most popular squares, full of cafes, bars and restaurants.
The square is dedicated to the great Dutch painter Rembrandt, and the area around it is the centre of the city’s nightlife. It is also a reference point for Amsterdam’s public art and cultural life.
Staalmeestersbrug
The Staalmeestersbrug is a bridge that crosses over the Amsterdam canal and offers great views of the city and surrounding buildings.
It is a famous photo spot and one of the many bridges that cross the canals of Amsterdam.
Johan Cruijff Arena
The Johan Cruijff Arena is the home of Ajax and one of the most modern stadiums in Europe. If you are a football fan, a visit here is a must, either to watch a match or to take a tour of the stadium.
The cheapest tour starts at €20 per person.
Food in Amsterdam
Amsterdam, like all of the Netherlands, has a unique cuisine that combines traditional recipes with modern touches.
Of course the first thing to try is Stroopwafels. These are two very thin waffles filled with caramel syrup. In Amsterdam you will find countless shops that make them with various toppings on top.
I suggest you try Melly’s StroopWafels, a small shop full of wonderful smells. There are other more touristy and famous places, but it’s best to avoid them because you’ll end up paying up to 15€ for a stroopwafel that isn’t worth it.
In Amsterdam you will also find poffertjes, small and fluffy pancakes usually served with icing sugar and butter and bitterballen, fried bites filled with creamy meat (mostly beef or chicken) and buttery filling.
They are usually served with mustard and are popular in all “bruin cafés” (traditional Dutch bars).
Hutspot is also a traditional Dutch dish consisting of boiled potatoes, carrots and onions. It is usually served with meat, such as sausage or smoked pork.
The Netherlands is famous for its cheeses such as Gouda, Edam and Leerdammer.
Gouda is probably the best known and can be found at a food market or grocery store.
Last but not least, in Amsterdam a famous street food is thick fries served in a paper cone or small box and accompanied by various sauces.
I tried from Vlaams Friteshuis Vleminckx, a very small shop. Including the sauce, the small potato portion cost 5€.
If you want to see more of my trip to Amsterdam, check out my Instagram profile.
