Amsterdam’s popularity can easily be explained in two simple words; magical charm! With mesmerising canals lined by historic buildings and lush greenery, the world is a fairy-tale land for tourists.The narrow lanes hide perfect paradises you won’t find until you are lost wandering the streets. From tiny hidden gardens, boutique shops, or charming cafes, you’ll never know what you’ll find! Not sure where to start? Don’t fret and follow my travel tips to make your trip to Amsterdam an unforgettable one!
What to Expect
Language
Although the official language is Dutch, everyone speaks English here as well! But make sure to learn a couple Dutch phrases along the way (such as “dank je” for thanks, and “alsjeblieft” for please) to keep the locals happy!
Weather
Amsterdam is typically mild throughout the year, being warm but not hot during the summer, and cold but not freezing during wintertime. Its usually fine to walk or bike around, as long as you have a heavy-duty winter coat on hand. However, it is prone to rain, so obtaining an umbrella or raincoat is a good idea.
How to Travel Around
Public Transport
Depending on where you are located will determine whether you’ll need public transport. If you right in the heart of Amsterdam, taking a tram or bus will be a waste of money. However, if you’ve chosen a hotel or hostel further down, it might be a lifesaver. Trams are usually the easier public transport in the centre area, with lines going down each main street towards the outer areas.
Bike
Do what the locals do and bicycle around! Simply hire one for the time you are here and head off. As the city is swarming with them, large bicycle lanes are on every street giving you easy routes to follow. But due to the popularity of them, there is quite a lot of bike traffic, so make sure you are confident enough before hopping on.
Walking
Easy and breezy, walking is the simplest, cheapest, and best way to see all of what Amsterdam has to offer! As everything is relatively close together, you can stroll your way to attractions, while discovering hidden areas you might not have seen if you had caught the tram.
Where to Stay
The Old Centre
The heart of the city, promising short walks to the main tourist attractions, shops, and nightlife. However, as it is the prime place for tourists to stay, rooms are pricey, so if your wallet is feeling a bit too light for this luxury, maybe skip this for a cheaper hotel a tram ride away instead.
What to do
Canal Cruise
Hop on a canal tour of the city and learn about the city. Seeing Amsterdam from this angle makes it even more stunning, ducking through beautiful arched bridges, and learning about the historic buildings nestled on the edges of the canal.
Albert Cuyp Market
The largest market in all of the Netherlands! Skip breakfast and enjoy the mouth-watering grub including local cheeses or Dutch waffles as you wander past stall for some great souvenirs.
i amsterdam Sign
Your trip to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without the iconic tourist photo at the Iamsterdam sign! Although its usually swarming with tourists, simply wait your turn and you are sure to grab a great photo for your next Instagram photo!
