You still haven?t been to Amsterdam? Change that as soon as possible. Amsterdam is one of those cities that you have to visit at least once. And it will not disappoint. Before going, here are some things to take into account for your first time trip to Amsterdam.
When to go to Amsterdam?
With 920,000 inhabitants versus 21 million overnight visitors (2019), it is safe to say that I can get a bit busy. Pick your potion: opt for better chances of dry days and get more crowds, or the other way around.
- Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October): Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices make these periods ideal.
- Summer (June-August): Expect sunshine, lively events, and peak crowds (and prices).
- Winter (November-March): Cozy cafes, festive markets, and fewer tourists, but colder temperatures and shorter days. Admire the lights during the Christmas period, and special events like Amsterdam Light Festival. Expect more rain.
Where to stay?
- City Center: Immerse yourself in the action, but be prepared for noise and higher costs.
- Jordaan or Plantage: Quaint neighborhoods with charming canals and unique shops.
- De Pijp or Oud-Zuid: Trendy areas with trendy accommodations and vibrant nightlife.
- Cool experiences: consider canal boats, unique but limited space and privacy.
Read this blog to learn about the different neighborhoods, and what there is to do there.
Getting around
Choose your favourite way of moving around; biking, walking, e-scooters, tram, bus or metro. Amsterdammers prefer their bike. Practice riding in a calmer area before you dive into the city madness. Read more tips about cycling in the bike capital of the world here.
- E-scooter: if you have a driver?s licence, make an account on Felyx or Check. Do it in advance, because they have to verify your licence. You can find them all over town. Make sure you are aware of the rules of driving in Amsterdam.
- Public transportation: the provider in Amsterdam is GVB. You can get a ticket inside the tram or at the metro stations, or check in with your bank card. For convenience, purchase a 24-hour ticket, where you have unlimited checking in and out.
- Taxis: travel by car way using Uber, Bolt or regular city taxis.
What to visit in Amsterdam?
You have come to the right place. There are some essentials that every tourist has to visit when they come to Amsterdam.
- Anne Frank museum: the house where Anne Frank and her family were hiding during the second world war. This is where she was writing in her diary during that period. Get your tickets on time, because it can be booked up for months.
- Canals: take a cruise on the waterways that make Amsterdam the city it is. Enjoy a relaxing tour that gives you better understanding of the city.
- Van Gogh and Rijksmuseum: two art museums, in close proximity to each other that cannot be