Amsterdam is a city that has something for everyone—whether you're exploring with friends, enjoying a romantic getaway, or traveling solo. Its charming canals, historic architecture, and vibrant culture create a perfect backdrop for adventure. From iconic museums like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum to tucked-away gems like cozy cafes and peaceful gardens, there's always something new to discover. With easy transportation and a relaxed vibe, getting around the city is a breeze. Whether you're cycling along the canals or enjoying a sunset boat ride, Amsterdam’s beauty and charm will capture your heart.
Where to Stay
Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam | $$$$
The Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam offers a luxurious stay in a historic canal-side setting, with the unique perk of a serene private garden where guests can unwind amidst beautifully landscaped greenery, right in the heart of the city.
The Dylan Amsterdam | $$$$ | Hannah's Favorite
Combining timeless luxury with contemporary design, The Dylan offers the unique perk of a Michelin-starred restaurant where guests can indulge in world-class dining right on the hotel’s scenic canal-side terrace.
The Hoxton | $$$
Blending cozy, stylish design with a lively atmosphere, The Hoxton offers guests the unique perk of a trendy, riverside terrace perfect for relaxing with a cocktail while enjoying picturesque views of the Herengracht canal. Hotel MAI Amsterdam | $$$
Hotel MAI Amsterdam offers a chic, art-inspired stay with a standout feature: a private rooftop terrace where guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and canals, providing a peaceful escape in the heart of Amsterdam.
INK Hotel Amsterdam | $$$
INK Hotel Amsterdam offers a stylish, urban retreat with the unique perk of its creative, journal-inspired design, where guests can unwind in a trendy, writer-themed atmosphere and enjoy cocktails in a vibrant, book-lined bar. Hotel Estheréa Amsterdam | $$
Blending classic charm with modern comfort, Hotel Estheréa offers the unique perk of a beautifully restored 17th-century canal house where guests can enjoy a cozy, intimate atmosphere and stunning views of the historic Singel canal.
What to Do
Take a Cruise on a Canal Boat Tour | Hannah's Favorite
Cruising the canals of Amsterdam on a boat tour offers an intimate and scenic way to explore the city's historic waterways, charming bridges, and picturesque architecture.
Enjoy the Heineken Experience
Offers an interactive tour through the historic brewery, where you can learn about the beer-making process and enjoy tastings along the way.
Take a Bike Ride through Vondelpark
A bike ride through Vondelpark lets you enjoy lush greenery, peaceful ponds, and scenic pathways in Amsterdam’s most iconic park.
Stroll through Bloemenmarkt
Bloemenmarkt, the world’s only floating flower market, offers a fragrant and colorful experience where you can shop for fresh flowers, unique Dutch souvenirs, and traditional bulbs, all set along the picturesque Singel canal.
Tour the Tulip Fields
Touring the Keukenhof Gardens, just a short 30-minute drive from Amsterdam, offers a vibrant explosion of color as you stroll through expansive fields and meticulously designed gardens filled with millions of blooming tulips, creating an unforgettable springtime experience.
Make time for the Museums
Amsterdam's museums offer a captivating mix of world-class art, history, and innovation, with highlights like the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum. Purchase tickets 1-2 weeks in advance.
Visit the Anne Frank House
A visit to the Anne Frank House immerses you in the powerful story of Anne Frank’s life in hiding, offering a heartfelt glimpse into the history of WWII through her diary and the preserved rooms of the secret annex.
Learn how to make the iconic Dutch stroopwafel from scratch in a hands-on workshop, where you’ll craft the delicate waffle layers and rich caramel filling for the perfect authentic treat!
Where to Drink
Door 74
A hidden speakeasy with an intimate, vintage vibe, offering expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy, dimly lit setting that feels like stepping into a Prohibition-era lounge.
Bar Botanique A lush, tropical-themed bar with vibrant greenery, retro décor, and a laid-back atmosphere, offering creative cocktails and a refreshing escape in the heart of the city.
Madam Amsterdam A stylish rooftop bar with sleek, modern décor, offering stunning panoramic views of the city skyline, where you can sip cocktails while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking sunsets.
Hannekes Boom
A laid-back, waterside bar with a bohemian vibe, featuring rustic wooden tables, cozy outdoor seating, and a lively atmosphere, perfect for enjoying drinks with a view of Amsterdam’s canals.
Hiding in Plain Sight (HPS) | Hannah's Favorite
A hidden speakeasy with a glamorous, vintage-inspired interior, offering expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, dimly lit atmosphere that exudes old-world charm and sophistication.
Bar Oldenhof
An Amsterdam classic, upscale cocktail bar with an elegant, vintage-inspired interior, offering expertly crafted drinks in a refined, intimate setting that exudes timeless charm. Dante
A sleek and minimalist cocktail bar with a refined, contemporary aesthetic, offering expertly crafted drinks in an intimate, stylish setting.
SkyLounge
An elegant rooftop bar with stunning panoramic views of the city skyline, featuring a chic, modern design and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying craft cocktails while watching the sunset over the city.
Where to Eat
Hearth
A cozy, rustic spot serving wood-fired dishes with seasonal flavors, offering a warm and intimate dining experience. Il Panorma
A charming Italian restaurant with a cozy, rustic atmosphere, offering authentic dishes made with fresh ingredients, all complemented by stunning views of Amsterdam's canals and skyline. Lolo Amsterdam | Hannah's Favorite
Boasting a moody, intimate atmosphere with dim lighting and sleek, contemporary décor, Lolo Amsterdam offers creative, globally-inspired dishes and cocktails in a stylishly relaxed setting perfect for an evening out. Saint Jean
A stylish, intimate bistro with a cozy yet modern ambiance, offering French-inspired dishes made with fresh, local ingredients in a chic, understated setting. Van Wonderen Stroopwafels
A charming, vibrant shop serving indulgent, hand-crafted stroopwafels with creative toppings, all in a cozy, colorful space that brings a fun twist to this classic Dutch treat.
Le Forel A sleek, modern restaurant offering elevated European cuisine with seasonal ingredients, set in a cozy, minimalist space.
Bakers & Roasters
A stylish, New Zealand-inspired café with a cozy, rustic vibe, serving vibrant and hearty brunch dishes like avocado toast and pancakes in a warm, laid-back atmosphere. De Kas A chic farm-to-table restaurant in a stunning greenhouse, offering seasonal, locally grown dishes in a bright, airy setting surrounded by lush greenery.
Amsterdam is a city that has something for everyone, with endless sights to see and corners to explore. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did! A few tips: be cautious of cyclists—they have right of way here—and make sure to pack comfy shoes since the city is best explored on foot. Alternatively, you can buy a travel pass for quick and easy access to the efficient public transport system. Amsterdam is sure to leave you with amazing memories!
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