amsterdam worth a visit

Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting? 10 Reasons For And Against

Published August 2, 2022

Amsterdam is a city that I have many conflicting feelings about (as you might have guessed from the title of this post). My extended family and I recently spent five days in Amsterdam on the tail end of a  Viking River Cruise along the Rhine . It was great opportunity to get to know this bustling city famous for its canals, Red Light District, and progressive social policies.

This post will highlight six reasons in favor of visiting Amsterdam, then present four reasons against visiting. In the end, I’ll reveal whether I think this city is worth visiting or not. To skip down to any of those sections, click or tap the corresponding link below!

• The city center is truly beautiful.
• Bike tours here are lots of fun!
• The Anne Frank House can’t be missed.
• You can cruise the canals on a boat tour.
• Public transportation is excellent.
• Day trips from Amsterdam make it easy to see the rural side of the Netherlands.
• The city center is crowded and hectic.
• Some parts of town aren’t very picturesque.
• The food scene here wasn’t my favorite.
• Amsterdam is expensive.

Final Verdict: Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting?

Six reasons for visiting amsterdam, 1. the city center is truly beautiful..

Let’s set my mixed feelings on Amsterdam aside for a second and agree that the heart of Amsterdam, or Centrum, is uniquely pretty . The stunning architecture here is a product of Amsterdam’s former status as the economic center of Europe during the colonial period. We learned on one of our tours that the Dutch taxation system historically incentivized townhomes and warehouses to become narrower and narrower, which is why buildings here are so characteristically thin.

In addition, the canals keep the main roads feeling wide, open, and sunny despite the densely packed homes. The water also reflects the pretty colors of various façades, which make it easy to take great pictures.

Amsterdam also has a few iconic churches worth checking out, including  De Oude Kerk ,  Westerkerk , and  Basilica van de Heilige Nicolaas . The Amsterdam Centraal Station is also architecturally stunning.

2. Bike tours here are lots of fun!

Did you know the Netherlands has more bikes than people? That lifestyle stands in stark contrast to the car-centric urban sprawl that many Americans are used to, and I frankly think it’s worth experiencing first-hand . We booked a group bicycle tour (“Bill’s Bike Tour”) with a company called  Tours & Travels Amsterdam , and it ended up being one of the highlights of our time here.

Our guide did an excellent job of showing us parts of the city that are off the beaten path. This was great because we avoided both tourist crowds and other cyclists.

The tour was centered around  Westerpark , a large green space on the city’s northern side. We also took our bikes on a free ferry up to Amsterdam-Noord . This is an industrial and artsy part of town across the IJ (the city’s widest river running west to east). While there, we got to see a ton of graffiti and learned about how the area is quickly gentrifying and pushing artists further away from the city center.

Our tour ended with a visit to the  Tony Chocoloney Home (flagship) Store . For those unfamiliar, this chocolate company’s goal is to shine a light on corporate giants in the industry for their use of slave and child labor. They do this by vocally advertising their own (more) ethical supply chains. It’s a fascinating and innovative way to pressure multinational food conglomerates to do better.

As someone who hasn’t ridden a bike in years, I had no issues in terms of stamina or difficulty on this tour . It should also be noted that the tour did not provide helmets. In fact, no bikers in Amsterdam wear helmets! According to our guide, there is an anti-helmet sentiment in the city because of the message it sends (that bikes are dangerous). This was a really interesting insight into the local mindset and culture around bicycles.

I think the main reason this tour was so good was that our guide didn’t attempt to bring us to the very center of the city (the vicinity of Amsterdam Centraal Station). That would’ve been so crazy and chaotic! The neighborhoods we biked through near Westerpark were still lovely, but had much calmer and quieter streets.

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3. The Anne Frank House can't be missed.

Whether you’ve read Anne Frank’s “The Diary of a Young Girl” recently, many years ago, or not at all, I highly recommend you visit the Anne Frank House while in Amsterdam. Tickets  must be booked online  for a timed entrance, but it is worth planning for.

The visit begins with a walk at your own pace through a museum that was built next to the home. Exhibits introduce you to the lives of the Frank family and the historical context for their going into hiding. As you learn more, you eventually enter the hidden annex where Anne Frank  stayed for over two years . It’s a visceral and emotional experience that can’t be put into words.

There is no photography allowed inside the museum or the house. I think this really adds to the experience.  We all put our phones away, and everyone was fully present during our visit. The most shocking thing for me was the speed at which discrimination and oppression turned into full-scale genocide in Nazi-occupied Europe. It’s a warning to the world, and one that humanity hasn’t always done a great job of heeding after World War II.

The Anne Frank House may make visitors uncomfortable, but that’s kind of the point . Book your tickets early and be sure not to miss the opportunity to learn about this integral part of Dutch history.

4. You can cruise the canals on a boat tour.

Amsterdam’s canals are pretty enough that they’re worth seeing both on foot and by boat. Many canal cruises are only an hour, which means you don’t have to dedicate an entire day to this fun outing. The one we went on offered beer, wine, and soft drinks plus some narration about what we were seeing. However, our guide didn’t have a microphone, so she was at times hard to hear over the engine of the boat or other background noise.

5. Public transportation is excellent.

Getting around Amsterdam is pretty straightforward. First off, the city is incredibly dense, which means walking from one destination to the next is usually possible. If you need to go a little further, there are metros, trams, buses, and “Sprinter” trains . In general, Google Maps seems pretty integrated with all of the various systems.

6. Day trips from Amsterdam make it easy to see the rural side of the Netherlands.

The Netherlands is a small country, so Amsterdam is pretty close to lots of small towns in all directions. We booked a day trip to the historic village of  Zaanse Schans , had lunch in  Volendam , and then took the ferry to  Marken . Even though it rained all day, I’m so glad I got to see these rural areas north of the Dutch capital.

Zaanse Schans is a town where visitors can see authentic old Dutch architecture, including both the interior and exterior of windmills. We also witnessed an impressive wooden clog manufacturing demonstration . Some might call Zaanse Schans a tourist trap (and maybe it is), but I still liked it.

After that, we stopped at the  Henri Willig cheese farm . Employees gave a short presentation about how they raise their cows and how they age the cheese. The visit culminated in a visit to their large gift shop, where they sell dozens of different flavors of cheese and offer lots and lots of free samples .

For lunch, our group was driven further north to the seaside town of Volendam. This area is famous for its locally sourced eel , so I had to try it at  Smit-Bokkum restaurant . It was very tasty but not overly fishy!

To end the day, we took a slow ferry from Volendam to Marken. This tiny settlement of only about 2,000 residents is connected to the mainland via a manmade dyke, so our driver met us there and brought us back into Amsterdam.

If Zaanse Schans and Volendam don’t interest you, there are many other places you could spend a day instead. My point here is, the Dutch countryside is a totally different world than the city streets of Amsterdam, and it’s worth seeing if you can.

Four Reasons Against Visiting Amsterdam

1. the city center is crowded and hectic..

I’m going to be blunt: Amsterdam is crowded. All of those beautiful canals and narrow homes (and the drinking and partying scene) draw massive crowds from all over the world. Given that this is the first year that things are genuinely almost “back to normal” after the pandemic, I can only imagine that the crowding here is going to get worse as the decade goes on.

In addition, the number of cyclists can be a little overwhelming , at least for your first day or two. You really have to be careful and alert at all times. Bikes functionally have the right of way over pedestrians, so I don’t recommend walk around with your nose buried in your phone. You also have to watch out for tram lanes in addition to bike and car lanes.

Now, don’t get me wrong: I think it’s amazing that Amsterdam is a city that doesn’t require residents and visitors to have a car! In fact, even though foot traffic and bicycle traffic can be overwhelming, there are relatively few motor vehicles on the road. It’s one thing you won’t have to worry about (as much). But bikes are quiet and can sneak up on you, so the flow of traffic takes some getting used to.

2. Some parts of town aren't very picturesque.

Amsterdam is not a city of skyscrapers, but it is incredibly dense. It’s so dense, in fact, that there is literally no space between buildings. In some districts, this adds to the beauty of the homes and streets. However, in other areas, simplistic architectural designs appear to be repeated over and over again , spanning entire city blocks.

This is obviously a matter of opinion, and most cities have sections that aren’t so quaint. With that said, some outskirts of the city were surprisingly drab and dull.

3. The food scene here wasn't my favorite.

The first thing I noticed about Amsterdam’s restaurant scene is how international it is. There are lots of options and offerings from all over the world. Despite this, the food in Amsterdam just wasn’t my favorite. Every meal I had was good, but none of them really stood out as fantastic.

In terms of local food, the most prominent specialty is Dutch pancakes. There are so many pancake houses around town, so I suggest you try at least one. We had brunch one day at  De Carrousel Pannenkoeken , a fun restaurant with a circus-themed interior. We tried poffertjes , which are a traditional Dutch plate of mini pancake bites. They’re delicious but very sweet, so an English breakfast split among four of us was perfect for offsetting some of the powdered sugar on the poffertjes.

4. Amsterdam is expensive.

There’s no getting around this one. Amsterdam is expensive. Everything from food and drink to metro tickets is more expensive here than in many other parts of Europe. If you’re looking to stretch your dollar or euro as far as it’ll go, the Netherlands is probably not the best place to do that .

You’ve seen the good, you’ve seen the bad. So is Amsterdam worth visiting at least once? I’d say yes. It still offers a unique travel experience, and all of the organized tours we went on surpassed my expectations. However, I think you’ll enjoy your trip a bit more if you know what to expect and what to watch out for.

Would I go back?

I’m not opposed to returning to Amsterdam someday, but I’m going to prioritize other capitals of Europe first. With that said, I am still intrigued by the country of the Netherlands. I’d be much more interested in checking out some of the other towns, cities, villages, and coastal areas there than returning to Amsterdam.

Have you been to Amsterdam or any other part of the Netherlands? Did you love it, hate it, or fall somewhere in between? Are you headed to this city of canals soon? Leave a comment and let me know! Thanks for reading and see you next time!

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This post was published on Aug 2, 2022

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Hi, I’m Kevin ! I’m a coffee addict from Seattle, and I love to travel. Caffeinated Excursions is a record of my trips. Since I started blogging in January 2018, I’ve lived in Mexico, Vietnam, and Brazil. I moved to Chicago in 2021 and love exploring this amazing city. Thanks for checking out my blog!

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This post has 5 comments.

Really enjoyed this piece, Kevin. I’ve been wondering about a City Breaks Amsterdam series and this shows there would be plenty to talk about! Thank you. Marian (www.citybreakspodcast.co.uk)

We had only one day in Amsterdam. But knew we would be back because this is a big gateway city from Canada. We just have not yet made it back. But your post gave me so many reasons we need to plan a longer stay. We loved a long canal tour. But we did not get off to explore so many of the quaint streets. Interesting that you were not enamoured with the food.

I loved my spring long weekend visit to Amsterdam and the vicinity. I agree that I would never ride a bike in the city center. That’s strange about the helmets. The best meal I had was a rice table Indonesian food, which was fabulous.

We will be going on the Rhine Getaway in March. We would appreciate suggestions for clothing and insights in to the weather the last two weeks of March. Since we live in Texas, this is super important. We don’t want to be uncomfortably cold the entire trip. We are so excited.

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Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting – An Ultimate Local Guide

Amsterdam is one of the most popular and vibrant cities in Europe, attracting millions of visitors every year. But is Amsterdam worth visiting? What makes this city so special and appealing? In this article, we will explore the reasons for and against visiting Amsterdam, helping you decide if it’s worth adding to your travel itinerary and what you can expect from this amazing destination.

Six Reasons For Visiting Amsterdam

1. the architecture.

Amsterdam is a city with a rich and diverse architectural heritage, which reflects its history and culture. You can find buildings and structures from different periods and styles, such as the medieval, the renaissance, the baroque, the neoclassical, the art nouveau, the art deco, and the modern. You can also admire the distinctive and colorful houses that line the canals, which are often narrow, crooked, and leaning, due to the unstable soil and the wooden foundations. Some of the most notable architectural landmarks in Amsterdam are:

• The Royal Palace: The former city hall and the current official residence of the king, which was built in the 17th century in a classical style, and features a magnificent facade, a dome, and a clock tower.
• The Central Station: The main railway station and the gateway to the city, which was built in the 19th century in a neo-renaissance style, and stands on an artificial island on the IJ river.
• The Westerkerk: The largest and most famous church in Amsterdam, which was built in the 17th century in a renaissance style, and features a 85-meter-high tower, which is the highest in the city.
• The Amsterdam Arena: The largest and most modern stadium in the Netherlands, which hosts football matches, concerts, and events, and has a retractable roof and a capacity of 54,000 spectators.
• The Charming City Center: Amsterdam’s city center, also known as Centrum, is undeniably beautiful. The amazing buildings, influenced by the city’s important role in the colonial period, are a sight to see. The narrow buildings with their special fronts, and the canals flowing through the streets, make for a unique and pretty vibe. The canals also mirror the bright colors of the buildings, making for lots of chances to take great pictures. Make sure you visit famous spots like De Oude Kerk, Westerkerk, and Amsterdam Centraal Station, which add to the charm of the city center.

2. The Bicycles

The Netherlands is famous for its cycling culture, and Amsterdam is no exception. Amsterdam is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, with over 800,000 bicycles and 400 kilometers of bike lanes. Cycling is not only a convenient and eco-friendly way of getting around the city, but also a fun and healthy activity that lets you experience the city like a local. You can rent a bike from one of the many bike shops or stations in the city, and explore the sights and attractions at your own pace. You can also join a guided bike tour, or take a ferry to the nearby countryside and enjoy the scenic views and fresh air.

3. The Museums

Amsterdam is home to some of the world’s most renowned and diverse museums, covering a wide range of topics and interests. Whether you are into art, history, culture, science, or anything else, you will find a museum that suits your taste in Amsterdam. Some of the most famous museums in Amsterdam are:

• The Rijksmuseum: The national museum of the Netherlands, which houses a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from the Dutch Golden Age, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals.
• The Van Gogh Museum: The largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh, the influential and troubled post-impressionist painter, who spent some of his most productive years in the Netherlands.
• The Anne Frank House: The former hiding place of Anne Frank, the Jewish teenager who wrote a diary during the Nazi occupation of Amsterdam, and became a symbol of the Holocaust. The house is now a museum and a memorial, where you can see the original diary and learn more about her life and legacy.
• The Stedelijk Museum: The museum of modern and contemporary art, which showcases works by artists such as Picasso, Mondrian, Kandinsky, Warhol, and many more.

4. Canal Cruises

One of the most iconic features of Amsterdam is its network of canals , which crisscross the city and create a unique and picturesque scenery. The canals were built in the 17th century, during the Dutch Golden Age, to facilitate trade and transport. Today, they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a source of charm and beauty for the city. While walking along the canals is enjoyable, taking a boat tour offers a unique perspective of the city. Instead of opting for the crowded and touristy canal tours, consider hiring a private boat or joining a smaller group tour. This allows for a more intimate experience as you navigate the canals , passing under low bridges and admiring the beautiful architecture along the waterways.

5. The Parks

Amsterdam is a green and leafy city, with over 30 parks and gardens that offer a relaxing and refreshing escape from the urban life. You can find large and spacious parks, to enjoy the nature, the wildlife, the flowers, and the activities. Some of the most popular parks in Amsterdam are:

• The Vondelpark: The largest and most famous park in Amsterdam, which covers 47 hectares and attracts over 10 million visitors a year. The park has a lake, a rose garden, a playground, a skate park, and several cafes and restaurants. It also hosts free concerts, performances, and festivals in the summer.
• The Amstelpark: A park that was created for the 1972 Floriade, a world horticultural expo, and still retains some of the attractions and features from that event. The park has a maze, a miniature train, a petting zoo, a windmill, and a greenhouse.
• The Rembrandtpark: A park that is named after the famous painter, and features a statue of him and his wife. The park has a pond, a playground, a basketball court, and a farm.

6. The Festivals

Amsterdam is a city that loves to celebrate, and hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year that showcase its diversity and creativity. You can find festivals of all kinds and genres, from music, film, and art, to food, beer, and flowers, and join the locals and the visitors in having fun and enjoying the city’s atmosphere. Some of the most famous festivals in Amsterdam are:

• The King’s Day: The national holiday that marks the birthday of the king, which is celebrated on April 27th. The city turns into a huge and colorful party, with people wearing orange, the national color, and taking part in street markets, concerts, boat parades, and carnivals.
• The Amsterdam Light Festival: A winter festival that transforms the city into a magical and illuminated spectacle, with artists from around the world creating light installations and sculptures along the canals and the streets. The festival runs from late November to mid-January, and can be enjoyed by boat, bike, or foot.
• The Amsterdam Dance Event: The largest and most influential electronic music festival and conference in the world, which attracts over 400,000 visitors and 2,500 artists every year. The festival takes place in mid-October, and features hundreds of events, parties, and workshops in various venues across the city.

Three Reasons Against Visiting Amsterdam

1. crowded and hectic city center.

Amsterdam’s popularity as a tourist destination means that the city center can be crowded and hectic, especially during peak travel seasons. Navigating the narrow streets alongside hordes of tourists can be overwhelming. Additionally, the sheer number of cyclists in Amsterdam requires constant vigilance, as bikes have the right of way over pedestrians. While the absence of motor vehicles is commendable, the flow of bike traffic can take some getting used to.

2. Mixed Dining Experiences

Amsterdam offers a diverse range of international cuisines, but some visitors may find that the local food scene doesn’t meet their expectations, especially when going to the restaurants in the citycenter. While there are plenty of dining options, not every meal will be a standout experience. It’s worth trying traditional Dutch pancakes and exploring the variety of international cuisines available in the city. However, if exceptional dining experiences are a top priority for your trip, managing expectations and researching specific restaurants is recommended.

3. High Costs

Amsterdam is known for being an expensive city . From accommodation and dining to transportation and attractions, costs can quickly add up. Visitors on a tight budget may find it challenging to stretch their money, as prices in Amsterdam tend to be higher compared to other European destinations.

Final Verdict:

After considering the pros and cons, the question remains: Is Amsterdam worth visiting? The answer ultimately depends on your personal preferences and travel interests. However, I’d say it’s totally worth it! Amsterdam offers a unique travel experience with its rich history, charming canals, and vibrant culture. The city’s organized tours and attractions often exceed visitors’ expectations.

Speaking from a local’s perspective (yup, that’s me!), I’ve had some fantastic times here. From exploring the historical sites to chilling by the canals, Amsterdam has a lot to offer. And let’s not forget the diverse culture that adds a special charm to the city.

As a local here in the Netherlands, I’m all for encouraging people to check out Amsterdam as a great place to visit. If you’re thinking about your next trip, definitely consider Amsterdam! and yeah, it can get a bit busy and expensive. But trust me, the special experiences you’ll have here totally make it worth it.

Have you visited Amsterdam or any other part of the Netherlands? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. is amsterdam safe to visit.

Amsterdam is generally a safe city for travelers. However, it’s always important to take normal precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas.

2. How many days should I spend in Amsterdam?

The ideal duration for a visit to Amsterdam depends on your interests and the pace at which you prefer to explore. A minimum of three to four days is recommended to see the main attractions and get a feel for the city’s atmosphere. However, if you have more time, consider extending your stay to fully immerse yourself in Amsterdam’s culture and take day trips to nearby towns.

3. What is the best time of year to visit Amsterdam?

The best time to visit Amsterdam is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). The weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded compared to the peak summer months. However, Amsterdam has something to offer year-round, so the best time to visit ultimately depends on your preferences and the activities you wish to experience.

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Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting? Ultimate Guide to The Dutch Capital

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Amsterdam is known for a few things, including partying, canals, and bikes, but is Amsterdam worth visiting? I loved visiting Amsterdam, but I can see why some people may not enjoy the city as much as others.

In this article, I’ll go over what makes Amsterdam worth visiting (or avoiding), including the top things to do, how easy it is to navigate the city, and when you should and shouldn’t visit.

Keep reading to decide if Amsterdam is worth visiting for you.

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Table of Contents

Are Amsterdam’s Attractions Worth Visiting?

Sure! Here’s a simpler version:

Amsterdam is an old city with lots to see. It has canals around it that make it special. You can see beautiful art and learn about its history. There are many things to do, like visiting famous museums and historic sites.

Here are some of the top things to do in Amsterdam:

• The Rijksmuseum:  Explore the Rijksmuseum’s extensive collection of Dutch art, including iconic works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh.
•   Anne Frank House:  Take an important journey through history at the Anne Frank House, where you’ll learn about the life and experiences of Anne Frank and her family during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. Walk through the secret annex where Anne and her family hid, and reflect on the impact of their story.
•   Exploring Vibrant Neighborhoods:  Wander through the different neighborhoods of Amsterdam, such as Jordaan, known for its charming canals, quirky boutiques, and cozy cafes. Don’t miss the famous Amsterdam Tulip Market, where you can immerse yourself in colorful flowers.
•   Dam Square:  Feel the excitement at the center of Amsterdam, where the old meets the new. See the impressive Royal Palace, a sign of Dutch riches and strength. You have to experience the lively vibe of this busy square.
•   Vondelpark:  Relax in Vondelpark, a big park in the city. Walk or bike around and enjoy the green space, with its paths, ponds, and grassy areas. Have a picnic, watch a show at the outdoor theater, or just sit and watch people in this peaceful park.
•   Van Gogh Museum:  Explore the Van Gogh Museum and see the most paintings by Vincent van Gogh. Look at famous paintings like “The Starry Night” and “Sunflowers.” Learn about Van Gogh’s life and art journey through his paintings

In Amsterdam, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history lover, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture.

Transportation in Amsterdam

Getting around Amsterdam is easy because it’s small and has good public transportation. You can walk or bike easily, as the city is known for being bike-friendly. Trams, buses, and ferries also go all over the city, making it easy to reach all the popular places.

Even though Amsterdam’s airport doesn’t have a train right to the city, as some other airports do, Schiphol Airport is close and easy to get to. It’s well-connected, so you can easily get from the airport to the city center.

With some planning ahead for transportation and timing, your time in Amsterdam can be stress-free, letting you enjoy the city without worrying about getting around.

Choosing the Best Time to Visit Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is great to visit any time of year. But when you go, it can change your experience a lot.

From April to May and September to November, the weather in Amsterdam is nice, not too hot or cold. It’s perfect for walking or biking, which are popular ways to get around.

In spring, you can see beautiful tulips blooming, especially at Keukenhof Gardens, which is close to the city.

Summer is a busy time for tourists in Amsterdam. It’s lively, but there are more people, especially at places like the Rijksmuseum. If you want to go in the summer, booking your tickets and hotel early is a good idea. The city has many festivals and outdoor events, like concerts and parades, that you can enjoy.

In autumn, the leaves on trees turn yellow and red, which is pretty. There are fewer people in the city, so it’s quieter. If you like cozy cafes and cultural events, there are many things to do indoors, like film festivals and museum nights.

Winter in Amsterdam is cold, and the days are short, but it’s still nice because of the holiday lights and markets. The city feels festive and magical. If you like quieter places, it’s a good time to visit, and you might find cheaper hotels and fewer tourists.

Remember that while Amsterdam is captivating year-round, some attractions may have limited hours or be closed, particularly during the winter.

Furthermore, Amsterdam gets a lot of tourists, which can sometimes cause problems. Too many people can strain the city and make it less enjoyable for visitors. It’s a good idea to visit during quieter times and explore neighborhoods that aren’t as famous for spreading out the positive effects of tourism.

Tips for Traveling to Amsterdam

To really experience Amsterdam and avoid the crowded places tourists usually go, try exploring beyond the usual tourist spots.

One great way is to rent a bike, which is how locals get around. It’s the most authentic way to see the city and lets you find hidden places at your own speed.

For dining, skip the restaurants in busy tourist areas and main squares. Instead, try neighborhoods like De Pijp or Jordaan, where locals go. There are lots of cafes and restaurants with Dutch food or international dishes. You’ll often find better prices and quality here.

While you should visit famous museums like the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum, don’t forget about smaller art galleries and museums. They can have interesting collections and fewer people. But, if you are going to the popular places, book tickets ahead to avoid long lines and have a better time.

For an authentic experience, check out Amsterdam’s markets like Albert Cuyp Market and Bloemenmarkt (flower market). You can see what daily life is like and find special souvenirs. If you like history, visit lesser-known historical places like Begijnhof or hidden churches in old houses.

By following these tips and getting into the local vibe, you can have a special Amsterdam trip that’s different from the usual tourist experience. It’ll be memorable and authentic!

So, Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting?

Amsterdam offers a unique blend of historical charm, vibrant culture, and picturesque scenery, making it a destination worth visiting.

From exploring iconic museums to discovering hidden gems in local neighborhoods, Amsterdam is an unforgettable place to visit.

Ready to book your trip to Amsterdam? Here are some of my favorite trip-planning resources:

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Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting? An Honest Review!

Is Amsterdam worth visiting? If you’re planning a trip to the Netherlands , you may be asking yourself this very question. As a country with so much to offer, is hitting up the capital worthwhile, or should you discover other cities instead?

If you dream of a European adventure filled with picturesque canals, historic charm, and interesting culture, the Dutch capital has got you covered.

As someone who’s explored the city many times, I assure you that despite the crowds, Amsterdam is one of the best places to visit in Europe. In fact, there’s a reason why it’s so popular.

However, no city comes without drawbacks. There are a number of cons to visiting Amsterdam that I’ll also share in this post to help you make an informed decision.

Let’s get to it!

Table of Contents

Is amsterdam worth visiting in short, 1. big variety of museums – for all interests, 2. unique and cool attractions, 3. a great nightlife, 4. incredible day (or weekend) trip options, 5. amazing food-spots, 6. beautiful city center, 7. over-tourism is a big problem, 8. amsterdam is expensive, 9. the weather is unpredictable, 10. lots of tourist traps, is amsterdam safe, conclusion: is amsterdam worth visiting, faq: is amsterdam worth visiting, about the author.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Read my  disclaimer  for further information.

Simply put, Amsterdam is 100% worth visiting. Although it can get crowded (especially during peak season), it’s one of those cities with much to offer. I absolutely loved my visits and always had a good time.

Not only will the locals welcome you with open arms, but it’s a city that embraces all cultures, religions, and sexualities . In a nutshell, you can truly be yourself in Amsterdam and that’s the true beauty of the city.

Of course, that is also one of the major downsides of Amsterdam. Many people are on drugs, loud, noisy, or even bothersome to others.

If loads of (sometimes rowdy) people are not your cup of tea, you might want to opt for a different European city. But as this is one of the only true downsides of Amsterdam, it is still very much worth visiting in my opinion.

So, if you’re yet to explore this well-loved European gem, I highly recommend jumping on a plane, bus, or train to experience the city for yourself. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

Pros of Visiting Amsterdam

Amsterdam has friendly locals and a great nightlife – and some super cool and unique attractions.

There are museums for all interests and beautiful flowers to be seen in Amsterdam. Read here about my five biggest reasons to visit the Dutch capital!

When it comes to museums, Amsterdam truly has them all. If you’re an art lover, you won’t want to miss the Rijksmuseum , and Van Gogh Museum. One of my favorites is the Moco Museum.

Of course, you need to book your slot early, as the museums are always super busy and in demand. We booked too late and didn’t get a spot sadly.

You could also head to the ever-popular Stedelijk Museum. It is quite modern and presents mostly contemporary art.

If you love history, you should check out the Amsterdam Museum, Anne Franks House , or the Jewish Museum. Amsterdam has a super interesting history, and especially the heritage of the Jews during the Second World War should be mindfully remembered.

The Anne Frank House was my favorite museum in Amsterdam , but make sure to book your slot early on as well. You can combine it with a walking tour through the Jewish quarters in Amsterdam, which is also super interesting.

If you want something a little more different, you can pop into the Katten Kabinet. It is a museum solely dedicated to cats. Alongside cat-focused art, photography, and ornaments, you’ll also see cute cats roaming around the building. Cat lovers will be in their element here (not me tho, I don’t like cats).

For those a little more adventurous, check out the Museum of Prostitution. It shows the history of a different part of Amsterdam, the famous Red Light District.

Are you on the hunt for unique attractions in the Dutch capital ? Then you’re in luck! Aside from interesting museums, Amsterdam offers a whole lot of funky attractions.

Here are my favorite spots you need to check out:

🌸 NSDM Wharf: Located in Amsterdam Noord, NDSM is a quirky area where you’ll find street art, museums, and artist studios. If you’re a creative soul, you’ll love this place as much as I do!

🌸 Straat Museum: It is situated in NDSM Wharf. This museum is dedicated solely to impressive street art. Expect to find large colourful murals that will blow your mind.

🌸 A’DAM Lookout: Feeling daring? Then head to A’DAM Lookout to swing over the edge on Europe’s highest swing. I absolutely loved the thrill.

🌸 Houseboat Museum: This one is a bit more quirky. The houseboat museum is the perfect spot to discover how many residents live on the canals of Amsterdam. This unusual museum shows an intriguing history dating back to 1914.

🌸 Roller Dreams: For a super fun activity in the Dutch capital, head to Roller Dreams to rollerskate to the beat of 80s classics.

🌸 Amaze: Over the course of an hour, you’ll venture through seven rooms all with their own theme and feel in Amaze. They have vibrant light shows throughout each room and you’re sure to have a good time!

🌸 The Smallest Cheese Store: You can find a miniature cheese store in Amsterdam. Barely two people can fit inside of it. It is so cute and definitely worth a visit.

Aside from the spots listed above, there’s so much more to see and do in Amsterdam. In fact, you could easily fill a whole week (or longer) exploring lesser-known activities. I have been going back to Amsterdam for a couple of times now, and have never gotten bored so far.

Amsterdam is known for its amazing nightlife. After experiencing it myself on a number of occasions, I can definitely see why.

I spent my 21st birthday partying in this amazing city. After recently hitting up many of the city’s top cocktail bars, I can confirm that not much has changed. It is still as fun as ever.

Amsterdam has long been a haven for party lovers and is internationally famous for it. With sophisticated cocktail bars, cozy pubs, impressive clubs, and karaoke spots, there’s something for everyone in Amsterdam!

Even if you’re looking to paint the town red on a Monday, you can find a spot. The same can’t be said about any other spot in Europe!

If you want to explore more of the local culture in the Netherlands, Amsterdam is a great place to base yourself.

From the capital, you can head off on lots of adventures. If you’re looking for a day trip or weekend getaway from the Dutch capital , there are lots of options to choose from!

For example, popular choices include Zaanse Schans , Zaandam, Haarlem, Giethoorn, and many more. However, one of the top options has got to be The Hague. It has an awesome beach and some impressive museums.

Located around 45 minutes from Amsterdam via the speedy train, you can also admire the impressive cube houses in Rotterdam. Afterward, hit up the Markethal for a bite to eat and stop by the harbor before heading towards Museum Park.

For something a bit more off the beaten path, consider hitting up the fairytale castles and flower gardens of the Netherlands. By renting a car, you can explore lesser-known spots in this beautiful country while wandering enchanting grounds and admiring stunning architectural gems.

If this sounds appealing, add the following castles to your road trip itinerary; De Haar Castle, Muiderslot, and Loenersloot Castle. You may also want to squeeze in visits to quaint towns and villages such as Breuleken and Vreeland.

Lastly, if you crave some beach time you can hit up the stunning Wadden Islands Texel or Terschelling.

Amsterdam is a great place for foodies! I have never found more cute food spots than in Amsterdam.

I totally love Dutch street food. Bitterballen – these are like crispy meatballs – are a must-try. Then there’s Stroopwafel, super yummy caramel-filled waffles. They are amazing with afternoon coffee.

If you’re into cheese , (sadly, I’m not), you’re in for a treat. You can find cheese shops everywhere with free samples. Surprisingly, you can even find cheese near the Amsterdam flower market.

Don’t miss out on the Indonesian food too. Because of the Dutch colonial history, Amsterdam has amazing Indonesian restaurants. Rijsttafel (rice table) is this spread of tons of small dishes. It is a great way to try a bunch of flavors. Nasi is another Dutch-Indonesian favorite for me.

And lastly, cafes and brunch spots. Amsterdam’s café culture is top-notch and you’ll find many cute cafés in the city. My favorites are Dignita Hoftuin or Corner Bakery. These alone make Amsterdam worth visiting for me.

Amsterdam’s city center is gorgeous. It has lots of charming canals, cute little bridges, and those iconic narrow houses lined up along the water. It’s like walking through a postcard – and you’ll get so many Instagram-worthy shots in. Especially in Spring, Amsterdam i s breathtaking and definitely worth visiting.

Don’t miss the Dam Square – it’s the heart of the city. The Royal Palace is right there, and it’s pretty impressive. Check out the Bijenkorf for some shopping if you are in the area.

The Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) area is one of my favorite areas in Amsterdam. Super cute boutiques, cozy cafes, and vintage shops. Perfect for wandering around and enjoying the view.

You can take a river cruise or even just walk along the canals, you’ll find so many picture-perfect spots. Every turn has something new and beautiful. You’re gonna love exploring it all – I surely did.

Cons of Visiting Amsterdam

No destination is perfect – and neither is Amsterdam. While I have always enjoyed my time there, there are quite some drawbacks that you should consider before planning your visit.

Despite the downsides, Amsterdam is worth visiting. But it is always nice to know what to expect.

As one of the most visited cities in the world, over-tourism is a big issue in the Dutch capital Amsterdam.

This means that during peak times, tourist attractions are often crowded and you may need to wait in long queues. I have visited Amsterdam throughout the year, and besides winter it is always peak time.

Many travelers and nature lovers head to Amsterdam during spring to experience the tulip season. Come summer , people flock to the city in their millions to attend music festivals, pride, and other key events across the city. Also fall is quite busy because it is so charming.

Amsterdam attracts many youngsters across the globe thanks to its legalization of certain things . The city’s coffee shops and famous Red Light District have become one of the main reasons for heading to the city. Honestly, I don’t like these kinds of drug tourists and they really annoyed me.

Ultimately, this makes Amsterdam one of the most crowded places to visit in Europe. And sadly, the crowd is not always a good one. As mentioned before, the drug culture kinda ruins the vibe for me a bit.

Don’t get me started on all the cyclists that will try to run you over at every corner.

If you’re not a fan of crowds, you should consider going elsewhere. Visiting in winter could also give you a better experience.

If you’re heading on a summer getaway to Amsterdam, be prepared to spend some serious money.

In the height of summer, accommodation is not cheap. In fact, you can expect to spend at least € 60 (typically more) per night for a bed in a shared dorm. Compared to other European cities, that’s seriously expensive.

Hotel prices are pretty insane year-round , but especially in spring you’ll pay a lot.

Also, food prices are not cheap. A typical Dutch dinner for two people will be around EUR 100.

Although accommodation is expensive in Amsterdam, it’s worth noting that the city has a lot of free activities. If you’re visiting on a budget, don’t fret! You could easily take advantage of free attractions and have an amazing time without spending a small fortune.

Another thing about Amsterdam is its unpredictable weather. Even in the summer, rainfall can be common.

One minute the sun is shining, the next, it starts pouring with rain. If you’re looking to sunbathe, you may want to head to Italy or Greece instead. This is sadly very typical for the Netherlands (I’ve lived there for three years now, and it is insane how quickly the weather changes).

The best time to visit weather-wise is probably summer or late spring. You’ll get cold and rained upon pretty much during most months in fall and winter. Very rarely, the city even sees a bit of snow.

Is your heart still set on the Dutch capital? Not to worry! Just come prepared with layers, waterproof shoes, and an umbrella.

All in all, the weather shouldn’t stop you. I have enjoyed Amsterdam even in the coldest of winter months and on some rainy spring days. Amsterdam is still worth visiting – despite the crazy climate.

Tourist traps in Amsterdam are kinda like those in any big city – they look exciting but can be overpriced and not always the real deal.

Souvenir Shops are the perfect example of a tourist trap. You’ll see loads of these, especially around the city center and major tourist spots. They sell stuff like wooden tulips, cheesy t-shirts, and miniature windmills. Cute, but sometimes pricey, not always authentic, and usually not from local production.

Attraction Queues are another example of a tourist trap. Big-name attractions like the Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, and Heineken Experience are awesome, but the queues can be crazy! And sometimes once you are in, they’re just too packed to enjoy fully.

If you are a bit mindful of what you consume, you can luckily avoid getting taken advantage of. So while Amsterdam’s merchants love ripping off some tourists, you can do a good job avoiding them.

Amsterdam is generally safe, especially compared to other big cities. Like any city, it has its less charming parts, but overall, it’s pretty secure.

You’ve got the usual stuff – pickpocketing, especially in crowded places like the Red Light District and around major tourist spots. It’s smart to watch your bag and pockets there.

Bike theft is a big thing too. Seriously, bikes might as well have legs! If you rent one, make sure you lock it up well.

Regarding neighborhoods, most of Amsterdam is chill, but it’s wise to be a bit more cautious at night in areas like Bijlmer, though it’s been improving a lot. Still, it’s not the same vibe as the city center or the museum quarter, you know?

Stick to well-lit, busy streets and trust your gut. Avoid provoking drunk people and drug addicts, which are sadly pretty common in the Netherlands.

Do you need travel insurance in Amsterdam? Yes, travel insurance in Amsterdam is highly recommended. Bike theft, road accidents, and food poisoning are only a few examples of when travel insurance could come in handy.   EKTA offers worldwide travel insurance  with 24/7 service and no hidden fees or restrictions.

To conclude, Amsterdam is 100% worth visiting for its picture-perfect vibes, unique activities, and unique atmosphere.

Even if you’re not a fan of crowds or you’re traveling on a budget, there are many ways to get around the cons of Amsterdam and have a fab time in this incredible city!

There are not too many downsides to visiting Amsterdam, and the upsides make up for it in my opinion. The city is beautiful and worth seeing at least once, despite the crowds and drug culture in the city.

For more inspo about beautiful European capital cities, check out my guides on visiting Brussels in spring , Hamburg for Christmas , and of course my favorite – Paris .

Although you can see the highlights in a day, it doesn’t give you enough time to delve deeper into Dutch culture and explore some of the lesser-known attractions. If you can, I highly recommend spending a week in Amsterdam. This gives you the chance to discover hidden gems and explore nearby destinations.

Yes, Amsterdam can get pricey. However, if you’re visiting outside of peak months, it’s much easier to visit the city on a budget. Avoid tulip season as best as you can, as it is the most expensive season of the year in Amsterdam.

Absolutely! There’s a reason why Amsterdam is one of the most visited cities in the world. The city is super instagram-worthy, the cafés and cocktail bars are a dream and there is so much history to be explored in the Dutch capital. It is also a great hub for weekend trips around the Netherlands.

Sabrina is a passionate travel blogger and content creator, based in the Netherlands. She spends most parts of the year abroad at various destinations with her husband.

She provides slow-paced itineraries that focus on quality over quantity. Sabrina wants to help her readers to get more out of their travel experiences – while doing less. Read more.

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Reasons Why You Should Visit Amsterdam

George Tsafos/Getty Images

If you're planning a European trip, first read this list of reasons to include Amsterdam on your journey. You might be surprised by a few!

You'll Get to Know an Urban Village

A cool thing about Amsterdam -- and perhaps a lesser known fact -- is that the city is small enough (roughly 740,000 locals inhabit its central area) that visitors can get a real feel for its people, neighborhoods, sights and secrets. Compared to sprawling Paris and London, this European capital is more of a village -- and visitors can see nearly all of it on a bike ride , walking tour or public transportation in just a few days. This accessibility means you'll spend your time making memories instead of making sense of an overwhelming itinerary to see too much in too little time. Likewise, it's a cinch to take the train to destinations outside Amsterdam; in as little as ten to 15 minutes, you can be in the next town or city on your itinerary.

A Floating City Is Truly Magical

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Most people who've never even been to Amsterdam have at least heard about its canals. They are certainly worth seeing, as the 165 waterways create a seemingly floating city of 90 islands connected by 1,281 bridges. A canal cruise is a must-do activity in Amsterdam; and just walking the winding, narrow streets along the waters will give you a sense of the magic this city possesses. Want to take in some of the landmark canal-front architecture? Visitors can admire the city's typical canal houses from both inside and out; see a master list of monumental canal architecture , or for an interior view, check out these Amsterdam canal houses that have been converted into public museums.

You'll Get One of Europe's Best Visual History Lessons

With more than 6,800 houses and buildings protected as monuments and dating from the 16th to the 20th century, Amsterdam boasts the largest historical inner city in Europe . You might see the Triple X (XXX) Coat of Arms throughout the city. The towering, sturdy warehouses and elegant homes built by wealthy merchants during Holland's Golden Age (the 17th century) line the city's canals and are perhaps its most distinguishing architectural features, but the oldest architecture in town dates back to the medieval period; read more about Gothic architecture in Amsterdam for details. And don't think for a moment that Amsterdam has any lack of churches: from its most famous historic churches to its only basilica , the city is a trove of ecclesiastical architecture. Visitors can even scale some of the local church towers for some of the best panoramic views of the city .

Unique, World-Class Museums Abound

Take your pick: see the works of Dutch masters and treasures of a time when Amsterdam was the richest city in the world at the Rijksmuseum ; learn about the styles and secrets of the man who could be considered Holland's most interesting painter at the Van Gogh Museum ; or walk through the tiny annex that a group of eight called home for two years during Nazi-occupied Amsterdam in World War II at the Anne Frank House. These are among the top museums in Amsterdam , but there are nearly 50 more to teach, entertain or move you. You can even save some money on multiple museum visits with one of these  tourist discount cards , some of which are also valid for cities outside Amsterdam; don't miss our recommendations for must-see museums in The Hague and museums in Leiden , both conveniently close to Amsterdam.

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Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting: 33 Reasons to Tour the City

• Post author: Naddya and Svet
• Post category: City Travel
• Post published: April 19, 2023

Wondering whether to travel to the Dutch capital? You should know that:

Amsterdam is worth visiting for its pulsating nightlife, infamous coffeeshops, and picturesque canals. Activity-seekers will love its bike-friendly atmosphere, culture geeks – the Rijksmuseum, adventure fans – the red-light districts, and architecture enthusiasts – the city’s crooked houses.

In this guide, we present you 33 reasons to visit Amsterdam .

From the mesmerizing marketplaces to the gorgeous bridges, and from the diverse cuisine to the fascinating houseboats, one thing is certain – you’ll have a blast in the so-called “Venice of the North”.

Fasten your virtual seatbelts on, and let’s discover!

Note : This article contains affiliate links . In case you purchase something through one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost for you. Thank you for helping us keep creating the free content on this website!

Visit Amsterdam for Its Famous Landmarks

Amsterdam is known for its numerous stunning attractions . Find the most fascinating of them in the section below.

• Rijksmuseum . The famed Rijksmuseum displays over 8,000 artworks and artifacts, covering 800 years of Dutch art and history. Some of the world-famous masterworks you must explore are Vermeer’s paintings, the Night Watch by Rembrandt, and “the rough style” portraits of Frans Hals. Every year, over 2 million visitors flock to the Rijksmuseum, making it the most visited in the Netherlands.
• The Royal Palace . The 350-year-old palace initially acted as a City Hall for burgomasters and magistrates. With its wealth stemming from ocean trade, Amsterdam held a prominent position in Europe during the so-called Dutch Golden Age. In 1808, King Louis Napoleon Bonaparte transformed the building into a royal residence. The Royal Palace is open to the public when there are no official occasions or state visits. The staggeringly beautiful exhibitions and intricate interior of the palace are definitely worth a visit.
• Bloemenmarkt . The Amsterdam Flower Market is the only floating flower market on the planet. The irresistible fragrances filling the streets all year round make the bustling market not only a feast for the eyes but also for the senses. Founded in 1862, Bloemenmarkt is located at the heart of the Singel Canal. The flower stalls on the houseboats transport you to a bygone era when the market relied on daily boat deliveries. You can purchase bouquets, single flowers, or bulbs at Bloemenmarkt.
• Albert Cuypmarkt . Functioning since 1905, Albert Cuypmarkt is the largest and most popular open-air bazaar in the Netherlands. With 260 stands covering approximately 2,000 ft. (600 m), the over-a-century-old marketplace is an impressive sight. You’ll find anything from exotic fruits, meats, and flowers to jewelry, leather goods, and cheap clothes. Vendors are fun and friendly, and the overall atmosphere of the bazaar is laid back, which makes shopping a breeze.

Discover the Dutch Capital’s Peculiar Symbols

Amsterdam is jam-packed with fascinating sights to explore. In the following section, we’ll show you the most peculiar symbols of the Dutch capital.

• The leaning houses . As you walk through the streets of Amsterdam, you’ll be struck by the city’s iconic, crooked architecture. To deal with the swampy grounds, Amsterdam’s houses are built on long wooden stilts drilled into wet soil. The natural deterioration over the centuries caused the wooden poles to sag. Another noteworthy aspect is the slanted façades of the buildings. The narrow fronts of the houses make it challenging to carry heavy goods up the stairs. That’s why the houses are built with a forward incline to ensure a smooth transfer of items through the windows. Explore the crooked houses by joining this special, private walking tour of Amsterdam .
• The Three Xs . Despite its reputation for X-rated entertainment, the three X-s on Amsterdam’s flag have no connection to adult content. The XXX symbol represents three vertical St. Andrew’s Crosses. The saint was a fisherman who lived in the 1st century. He was crucified on a “cross decussate” (X-shaped cross). The symbol’s origins date back to the early 16 th century when it first appeared on the flags of registered ships and boats.
• Canals . In 2010, the 17 th -century Amsterdam canal ring was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites . Known as “Venice of the North”, Amsterdam has 165 canals with a total length of 60 mi (96 km) across the city. Three concentric canals, the Herengracht, Prinsengracht, and Keizersgracht, encircle the city. Cruising Amsterdam’s waterways is the ultimate way to explore the sights of the city. Ticket prices start from €12.50 ($14.70) and may vary depending on the pier of departure, journey length, boat type, and tour inclusion. Use this link to book our favorite canal cruise in Amsterdam .
• Islands . Amsterdam is home to roughly 90 islands forming the city’s territory. The majority of them are artificial. To meet the housing needs of the city’s escalating population, the local government constructed an archipelago of 10 man-made islands in 2015. The Dutch used the “pancake method” technique to create the islands , which will house up to 45,000 people.
• Free Ferries . One of Amsterdam’s unique features is the availability of free ferries for transportation. This is not a common amenity in most cities around the world. Find the free connections across the River IJ when departing from the central station. The boats, painted in blue and white, offer a convenient way for pedestrians, cyclists, and mopeds to reach various piers in Amsterdam Noord.

• Bicycles . Amsterdam consistently ranks in the Top 10 most bike-friendly cities across the globe. Bicycles hold a special place in the hearts of the Dutch. To truly grasp their significance in Amsterdam’s culture, consider that there are four times more bicycles than cars in the city. Saying that cyclists own the Dutch capital isn’t an overstatement. No matter where you look, you’ll see someone cycling. Wanna feel like a local? Explore the streets of Amsterdam on this guided, eco-certified bike tour .
• Orange . Even though the color isn’t on the national flag, orange is widely recognized as a symbol of the Netherlands. The reason for the Dutch romance with orange is tied to the Royal Family whose members belong to the House of Orange-Nassau. The dynasty finds its origins in 1544. That’s when William of Orange gained the title at the fragile age of 11. To witness the entire city transformed into a sea of orange, plan a visit to Amsterdam on April 27, King’s Day.
• Windmills . Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to leave Amsterdam to see this piece of Dutch heritage. Historically, there were countless windmills in the city serving different purposes. Some helped the Dutch fight floods, while others helped them prepare mustard or collect crops. As the city expanded, many of the windmills were either moved or dismantled. Today only eight of those remain, with just one open to the public. Founded in 1847, the Molen van Sloten continues to function today. Discover Amsterdam’s only-operational windmill on this guided tour .
• Tulips . The tulip bulbs are deeply rooted in Dutch history, having first been introduced to the nation in 1593. During the 17 th century, the flowers were incredibly valuable. A single tulip was worth as much as a mansion on Amsterdam’s Grand Canal. The tulip season lasts from the end of March until halfway through May. Plan a visit to the Flower Market and the Keukenhof Gardens in mid-April if you want to see the tulip bulbs blooming at their peak.
• Clogs . Also known as Klompen , clogs have been an essential part of the lifestyle of the Dutch working class since the 13 th century. The wooden, water-resistant shoes protected the feet of artisans, fishermen, and farmers from the wet climate and allowed them to walk on the soppy ground. The sturdy handmade clogs were thick-soled with leather straps on top. However, you won’t find anyone in the city going about their day wearing them. Amsterdam’s gift shops have many variants of clogs as souvenirs for tourists to take home.

Go to Amsterdam for its Unique Lifestyle

Amsterdam is worth visiting for the countless unique experiences only typical for the Dutch capital. This section will show you the one-of-a-kind lifestyle of Amsterdam.

• Houseboats . What was once a symbol of poverty is now a desirable dwelling moored in Amsterdam’s waters. The luxuriously furnished, multi-story woonark (house ark) is equipped with modern amenities and isn’t motorized. Many floating homes are a century old and are anchored to a specific spot in the canals of Amsterdam. Around 5,500 people living in the 2,500 boat homes enjoy jaw-dropping vistas of Amsterdam’s canal ring and waterways. Fancy staying in a boat in the calm water? You can book a houseboat here .
• Coffeeshops . Amsterdam is home to over 160 coffeeshops selling a variety of marijuana strains. In the Netherlands, a coffeeshop is a legal establishment for smoking weed or eating desserts infused with cannabis. Drug dealers used coffeeshops as a cover name to sell soft drugs. Even though smoking marijuana is now legal in the Netherlands, the name remains the same. Note that if traditional espresso or cappuccino is more your thing, then koffiehuis (coffee house) is your place. 
• The elevation . Most of the territory of the Netherlands is reclaimed from the sea. The land around Amsterdam was once a part of a shallow bay. With the sea level rising with time, the city’s land began to submerge gradually. That’s why the Dutch capital ended up below sea level. Amsterdam’s lowest elevation is -23 ft. (-7 m), with the average being -6.5 ft. (-2 m).
• Nightlife . Amsterdam is distinguished for its nightlife culture. A host of venues, festivals, and parties attract music lovers like a gravitational pull. From techno and house to trance, hip-hop, and funk, DJs keep the crowd going wild all night long. Want to dance till you drop or enjoy a pint of beer with two fingers of foam? Amsterdam has the recipe for the most buzzing night out for people of all tastes. 

• Safety . The Economist’s Safe Cities Index 2021 placed Amsterdam as the sixth most secure city in the world. However, don’t stir the peaceful environment of the town by doing these two things. Firstly, don’t take pictures of brothels or ladies of the night in the red-light districts. Secondly, and more importantly, never buy or consume drugs on the street.
• Diversity . The Dutch capital is known for its diverse culture . The city’s urban population is under 1 million, but people from over 180 countries call Amsterdam home. You’ll meet members of different ethnic groups with countless backgrounds and traditions in the city. The variety of food, festivals, and art exhibitions is another example of the cross-cultural influence on the Dutch capital. Besides that, millions of tourists from across the world visit Amsterdam every year, creating a distinct cultural fusion.
• One-of-a-kind lodgings . One of the things that make Amsterdam worth visiting is its unique accommodations. In the Dutch capital, you can choose between picturesque houseboats, 17 th -century buildings, and reinstated bridge houses. De Pijp, De Wallen, and Jordaan are the best areas to stay in Amsterdam for an unusual experience. So, if you’re looking for something you’ll never forget, don’t hesitate to book your stay in this quirky city.
• Chinatown . Amsterdam takes pride in hosting Europe’s oldest Chinatown . In the early 20 th century, Chinese sailors settled in the Zeedijk area of Amsterdam – a former red-light district. The neighborhood boasts a unique blend of Chinese, Indonesian, Thai, and Vietnamese cultures. Want to treat your tastebuds to something extraordinary? Restaurants in this vibrant region will knock your socks off.

Visit Amsterdam for the Delectable Gastronomy

Dutch cuisine might not rival Italian or French, but if you like fried dishes, you’ll have a gourmet blast in Amsterdam. Let’s explore the most notable foods and beverages in the Dutch capital.

• Cheese . What’s a better place to try cheese than the leading exporting country in the world? If you love Edam, Leyden, Limburger, Gouda, or Maasdam, then we have some good news. You can try them all in Amsterdam. Cheese is definitely among the top things Amsterdam is worth visiting for. So, when you’re in the Dutch capital, it’d be a sin not to sample the huge variety of cheeses.
• Dutch New Herring . Also known as Nieuwe Haring , this is a type of raw herring caught during the months of May to July. The fish is cleaned, gutted, and brined for a few days for a crave-worthy flavor. Eateries serve the resulting soft raw fish with chopped onions and gherkins. You can eat the succulent snack on its own or with freshly baked bread.
• Kibbeling . This popular Dutch snack consists of chunks of fish battered in flour, spices, and beer. The deep-fried kibbelings come with delectable garlic mayo or tartar dip sauce. You can buy the dish at fish stands and markets, fish and chips shops, as well as pubs and eateries. 

• Frikandel . If you haven’t had enough fried dishes in Amsterdam, our last suggestion is frikandel . The skinless sausage snack is a combination of pork, beef, and other ingredients, deep-fried to perfection. You can either savor it on its own with a dollop of mayo or nestled in a roll. For the real Dutch experience, smother your frikandel mustard and chopped onions.
• Stroopwafel . Seeking an explosion of taste that’ll make your palate dancing with delight? Then, try stroopwafel in Amsterdam. This baked golden waffle is made from wheat flour, brown sugar, and butter. The sweet, warm caramel syrup between the two layers of the cookie will bless you with culinary ecstasy. The scent of cinnamon and vanilla and the waffle’s rich flavor is perfect for sweet tooths from around the globe. You can easily find stroopwafel in almost every Amsterdam café or supermarket. 
• Beer . In the 16 th century, drinking water in Amsterdam was often contaminated. So, the city’s folk took beer as a source to quench their thirst. Since then, the Dutch capital has excelled in brewing a variety of the golden-colored beverages. Heineken is a true icon in Amsterdam’s brewing industry, and the unparalleled flavor of Amstel is also worth a shot. However, if you crave something more potent, the robust nature of the Trappist brew La Trappe will satisfy any beer aficionado.
• Jenever . This juniper-flavored traditional liquor is sometimes regarded as Dutch gin. Jenever can pack a strong punch of up to 50% alcohol. You can find two types of the Dutch gin in Amsterdam. First, you have jonge jenever , which is similar to vodka due to its neutral taste, with hints of juniper and malt wine. Second, you have oude jenever . The “old jenever” has a much smoother taste packed with malty flavors and aromas.

Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting? Now, You Know the Answer

Well, there you have it – 33 top reasons to visit Amsterdam .

From exquisite museums to red-light districts, and from world-class beer and mouthwatering cheese to fascinating canal cruises, the Dutch capital is packed with tons of things to do and see.

Don’t forget one of our best Amsterdam travel tips – leave your prejudices at home and discover the city with an open mind.

Now, we’re curious:

Do you think Amsterdam is fun to visit?

Let us know by leaving a comment below.

Naddya and Svet

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Why Everyone Should Visit Amsterdam at Least Once

Even for the most world-weary traveller, there is something very special about Amsterdam.

The city’s olive-green canals and handsome gabled mansions are indeed beautiful, but perhaps above all, it’s the flavour of the city that appeals – its inhabitants a creative and imaginative bunch who quite simply bring the place alight.

In the 17th century, Amsterdam boomed as a trading city, its merchant fleet transporting goods to every corner of the globe. This was Amsterdam’s Golden Age , the age of Rembrandt and Frans Hals, and it witnessed the construction of the fine mansions that are such a feature of the city today. Yet, the grandeur did not last and, surprising as it may seem today, Amsterdam in the 1950s was a staid and rather provincial city with a hesitant future.

The 1960s changed all that. Suddenly, Amsterdam found a new counter-cultural voice, becoming a hotbed of hippy action and all that entailed – with sit-ins and love-ins galore. Neither were the hippies without humour, as their well-planned ‘happenings’ focused on playful games highlighting specific urban problems from pollution to a lack of social housing.

Amsterdam has an exciting contemporary art scene

Amsterdam’s contemporary art scene is exhilarating – and intensely international. The city boasts the showcase Stedelijk Museum , which may look something like a giant bathtub from outside, but its temporary exhibitions are both avant-garde and highly rated. Amsterdam is also blessed with two top-ranking photography museums, Huis Marseille and Foam, a hipster hang-out popular with the young creatives who have made such a mark on the city. These same creatives also support a string of sleek, private art galleries; however, if you are looking to buy, prices are predictably eye-watering.

Works of art from Amsterdam’s Golden Age are world-renowned

Amsterdam’s Golden Age witnessed an extraordinary flourishing of the arts – and much of it is displayed here in Amsterdam, adding greatly to the city’s allure. The most famous Golden Age painter was Rembrandt, arguably one of the greatest artists of all time, but there were many other talented figures, too, such as Johannes Vermeer, Frans Hals and Jan Steen. In the particular, the city’s premier art museum, the capacious Rijksmuseum , holds a wonderful, world-class collection of paintings from the Golden Age, most notably a hatful of works by Rembrandt, with its closest rival being a specialist art museum, the remarkable Van Gogh Museum .

The Koningsdag (King’s Day) celebrations are something to behold

Nominally, this riotous festival is held in honour of the king – Willem-Alexander, who looks very much like a stereotypical banker – but it’s really more of a national knees-up in which even the most sensible of Amsterdammers seem to throw caution, and sometimes self-respect, to the wind. Wear something orange: it’s the national colour, and everyone else does, from hats and wigs through to capes and shoes. There are outdoor concerts, boat parties and a parade or two – if you can squeeze through the multitudes. Held on 27 April – or on 26 April if the 27th falls on a Sunday.

One word: Jenever (for the uninitiated, that’s ‘gin’)

When you visit Amsterdam, be sure to try Dutch gin (‘jenever’) , which is a bit weaker and a little oilier than English gin. It is served in small glasses and sold at a number of specialist gin bars, but is widely available elsewhere. Choose from oude (old) or jong (young) or korenwijn , which has a malty, oaky flavour. A glass of beer with a jenever chaser is called a kopstoot – and it will soon lay you low or incoherent.

The Dutch capital is a cyclist’s haven

There is no getting away from it – Amsterdam is pancake-flat. The great bonus is that this makes it perfect for cycling, and that’s exactly what city folk do by the thousand. This is citizen cycling – so no need for figure-hugging lycra and other specialist clobber – and, even better, Amsterdam has a legion of bike-hire outlets . Cyclists can relax, too – well almost: motorists are especially keen not to clip cyclists; this is not to do with an excess of kindness, but rather highway rules that favour the pedallers.

Amsterdam’s modern architecture reflects a sensitive approach to city design

Almost without exception, and this is one of its main appeals, Amsterdam has dodged the soaring skyscrapers that have scarred so many cities, opting instead for a much more organic approach – citizen-sensitive development at its best. In the city centre, the prime example is the Eye Film Museum , housed in a graceful, shimmering structure with sleek angular lines. Away from the centre, the Het Schip municipal housing estate is a high-spec, early 20th-century development in a flourishing Expressionistic style, while the reclaimed islands of the Oosterdok abound with stylish houses and apartments offering gentle canal and river views.

The impressive beer offering goes beyond Heineken

The days when it was hard to get any beer apart from pilsner in Amsterdam are long gone, and although Heineken still rules the alcoholic roost, you are now spoilt for choice: a brigade of small, specialist bars sell all manner of domestic and imported beers – Belgian beers are especially popular – and there are also half a dozen city-based craft breweries : try, for example, the brews of either Brouwerij ‘t Ij or Brouwerij De Prael.

Amsterdam’s parks and green spaces are a great escape

You don’t associate Amsterdam with green spaces, but on a hot summer’s day, there is nothing better than joining the locals at their favourite park, the Vondelpark , whose lush greenery drapes itself around a serpentine canal and its dinky little footbridges. For something a little wilder, take the tram to the wooded parkland of the Amsterdamse Bos, or catch a ferry over the River IJ and cycle to the small towns of the Ijsselmeer – rural Marken is the prettiest.

The city’s canal system has an interesting history

With every justification, Amsterdam is famous for the beauty of its canals , a network of narrow waterways that surpass every expectation and rival Venice in their historic charm. Most visitors opt for a canal cruise, but there are other, better ways of enjoying the waterways: the canal hop on-hop off service escapes much of the tourist throng to explore quieter parts of the city, while the energetic can hire a four-seater pedalo and thrash away to see exactly how far they can get.

Amsterdam’s Pride celebration is one of the year’s happiest

The flourishing LGBTQ community in Amsterdam is a real boon to the city, and the high point is Pride, held in late July and early August. There are street parties, exhibitions, a parade and scores of supporting events spread across the city centre, not to mention a lively and elaborate canal parade with decorated floats jamming the waterways.

The design stores pack a distinctive product offering

Discovering unique and immaculately designed products in Amsterdam is simple. Surprises include a specialist shop devoted to the humble toothbrush, but the pick of the lot is Droog, a design shop par excellence. The emphasis here is on the domestic, but – as they so aptly put it – “We treat serious matters in a playful way.” Hard to beat.

This article is an updated version of a story created by Tom Coggins .

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting: Top Reasons to Visit 2023

Is Amsterdam worth visiting?

If you are wondering if Amsterdam is the destination for you, then you have come to the right place. Charlotte from The Geo Room is the perfect person to answer this question. She is currently traveling around Europe and is sharing  everything you need to know  when trying to decide if Amsterdam is worth visiting.

Amsterdam is at the top of many travelers’ bucket lists as it is known for being an exciting and beautiful city to visit. And it is! Amsterdam is a great destination for a city break and you can easily spend anywhere from a day to a week there without running out of things to do.

There are many reasons to visit the city and everyone will be looking for something different from their trip. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break from reality or want a jam-packed itinerary, there is something for everyone in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam often gets mixed reviews. Some people love the city while others find it’s just not for them. Everyone’s opinions can often leave you wondering, “Is Amsterdam worth visiting?”

In this post, you will discover all the details you need to help you decide whether you should visit the Netherlands’ capital city and provide all the reasons why your trip to Amsterdam should be soon!

Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting

Amsterdam is absolutely worth visiting and a must visit destination even if it’s only for a day trip. There really is something for everyone in Amsterdam and you’ll easily fill up to a week’s itinerary without getting bored!

There are a lot of common misconceptions about Amsterdam and many people avoid it based on other people’s bad experiences. But please don’t be one of those people. The only way to find out if you like something is by trying it yourself!

The city is just beautiful and the Dutch people are so kind and welcoming . Dutch culture is still so alive in the city despite it being modernized and t here is a huge celebration of all things Dutch throughout the streets.

The locals are proud of the things that make their city famous such as the canals , tulips, and windmills and there are so many experiences that keep the culture alive in Amsterdam and beyond.

There are many things to admire in the city including the huge network of canals and wonderful mix of old and modern architecture. The traditional houses along the canal side are so idyllic and it is great to see that many locals still use the canals as their main route to and from their homes.

The city is full of delicious eateries from every country imaginable so you’ll never be hungry! While many travelers tend to pass on most authentic Dutch main dishes due to their acquired tastes you’re sure to find a treat that you’ll love in the city of Amsterdam.

In terms of activities, Amsterdam really has a very broad spectrum. There are museums for pretty much everything, art galleries, boat rides, bike tours, hundreds of day trip tour options and beautiful parks and churches to explore.

Why Amsterdam May Not Be Worth Visiting

Amsterdam has earned itself a bit of a reputation for being dirty, full of young, rowdy teens, and a city that ‘encourages’ activities that the rest of Europe won’t allow at all. 

If you visit in the peak season of July and the start of August then you likely will encounter groups of teenagers or lots of stag and hen do attendees but at other times of the year, you’re more unlikely to be hassled.

Visiting at the end of August or September is a great time of year as the city begins to quiet down after its peak season but the warm weather still gives you lots of time in the sun to explore the city.

The Red Light District & “Coffee Shops”

When many people hear Amsterdam their mind immediately jumps to drugs and prostitution. Unfortunately, these are just things you’ll have to get used to about Amsterdam. The locals see no issue with either drugs or sex work and so they are likely to stay.

The good news is though that you can absolutely avoid areas of the city where prostitution and marijuana are used if it’s not something you’d like to be involved in.

The Red Light District is very well sectioned off – you don’t need to pass through it in any route you might need to take through the city. The Red Light District is also a historic center in Amsterdam and offers many other things to do as well.

Marijuana, like prostitution, is actually illegal in the Netherlands but is tolerated by the government as they believe that they can’t stop it.

Smoking marijuana is allowed anywhere in Amsterdam except the Red Light District. You’ll mainly find people purchasing and using it in ‘coffee shops’.

If you’re looking to avoid areas where people will be using the drug then opt for ‘cafes’ rather than an eatery with ‘coffee shop’ in its name.

Is Amsterdam Expensive

Other travelers think that a visit to Amsterdam is just not worth the expense. Amsterdam is quite an expensive city to visit and activities can be a lot more pricey than what you’d expect .

However, in comparison to other cities like Paris or London , Amsterdam is on the same end of the price scale. Finding affordable and good-quality accommodation in the city typically only happens when you book months in advance. 

To get around high prices make sure to book things in advance before your trip – mainly your flights and accommodation.

Having a day-by-day itinerary organized before your visit also helps to cut expenses and using Google Maps allows you to opt for cheaper restaurants and cafes. Purchasing an I Amsterdam Card is also a fabulous way of saving money by giving discounts on top attractions.

Top 10 Reasons to Visit Amsterdam

If you’re on the fence about if Amsterdam is worth visiting and still aren’t convinced that you should go then here are all of the top reasons that you should!

1 . Amsterdam’s Beautiful Canals

Amsterdam is infamous for its canal network. There are hundreds of waterways throughout the city and it is great to see that they are still so well used.

Taking a canal tour while on a trip to Amsterdam is a must as they give great views of the architecture. The ride down the canals is very calm and relaxing , listening to your skipper tell you all about Amsterdam’s history and nicest spots.

Best Canal Cruise in Amsterdam

⭐ RATING:  4.6 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH : 1 hour | ✅ BOOK NOW

What makes this tour unique:

• Offers open boat from March to October
• 4,000 outstanding   reviews
• Well-rounded tour of the canals
• 1-hour canal cruise
• Budget friendly

The Amsterdam: Open Boat Canal Cruise is one of the best tours of the canals and is budget-friendly. The tour is 60 minutes, which is the perfect amount of time to cruise along the iconic canals and learn about the historic buildings that line the famous waterfront.

“ Loved loved loved it! We went right around sunset and it was perfect. Dusk with the city lights coming on! Definitely recommend and also the open boat. I had thought about the closed one in case it was cold but it would have taken away from the experience. The boat had blankets so those worked great. ” -GetYourGuide traveler (see more  reviews )

Between the months of March to October, the tour is on an open boat , which allows for better views of the surrounding canals and buildings.

Another perk is that it’s a smaller boat , so the experience and the atmosphere felt more intimate , where you can ask questions and be involved in the conversation.

✅ Check rates & availability for the Open Boat Canal Cruise here

2. Laid Back Atmosphere

The atmosphere in Amsterdam is just great. Everyone is so relaxed and really seems to be enjoying their lives.

Residents in Amsterdam share a common idea of tolerance. They are respectful of everyone, regardless of if they agree with their beliefs or identities , and are open to new things.

3. Great Starting Point for Day Trips 

Amsterdam is a fabulous starting point for day trips around the Netherlands and beyond. There are a number of great destinations that are less than a few hours from the Dutch capital. You can even cross borders into France, Belgium, or Germany for a day trip.

One of the best day trips is from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans , which is a traditionally decorated town just 30 minutes from Amsterdam with some of the country’s only working windmills.

4. The Anne Frank House

While Amsterdam has many interesting attractions, The Anne Frank House is a reason in itself to visit the city. The Anne Frank house is one of the most visited places in Amsterdam and it is easy to see why.

The Franks’ hiding place has been so carefully preserved and has been made into a fabulous exhibition. The museum is very informative about the persecution of Jewish people during the war and gives an incredible insight into the life of Anne Frank and her family.

The museum is a must-visit destination when visiting Amsterdam.

Tickets for the Anne Frank House

Tickets for the Anne Frank House can only be purchased on the official website. I highly suggest you book your tickets in advance.

Every first Tuesday of the month, all tickets for the following month become available. Once they sell out, there is no waiting list for tickets.

You can also add on an additional guided tour to the Anne Frank House. Your tour guide will walk you through the Jewish Quarter and the historical city center of Amsterdam while sharing Amsterdam’s WWII history and stories of Anne Frank.

“Wonderful walk and informative Tour. Totally recommend.” – GetYourGuide Traveler (read more reviews )

✅ Check rates & availability for the Life of Anne Frank and World War II walking tour here

5. Great Public Transport

It is very easy to get around in Amsterdam , the public transport is excellent. The ticket prices are fair, with good deals available for multi-day travel and the number of services is faultless.

The metro in particular is extremely useful for getting around the city and trains run north and south every few minutes. You never need to look at a timetable for the metro because there is guaranteed to be one in front of you on the platform within a mere five minutes.

The tram services are also really good, servicing the majority of the city of Amsterdam and stopping at many top attractions.

Transportation Passes Tips

There are two travel passes offered in Amsterdam that are great for saving money while using public transportation.

One is the GVB and the other is the Amsterdam Travel Ticket. They both offer unlimited travel in Amsterdam (bus, tram, metro, ferry) for the designated time frame you select.

However, the main difference is that the Amsterdam Travel Ticket also includes transportation (by metro or Amsterdam Airport Express bus 397) to the Schiphol Airport. The GVB does not.

The train ride to Amsterdam Central Station is only 14 to 17 minutes and it is also the f astest way to get into the city. So unless you plan on only taking Ubers and Taxis in Amsterdam, this pass easily pays for itself after a day of exploring the city.

✅ Check rates & availability for the Amsterdam Travel Ticket here

6. The City is Just Beautiful

Amsterdam is a very, very pretty city. There are photo opportunities at every corner and the bridges over the canals make perfect locations for views along the canals.

The city’s council clearly invests lots of money into keeping the city looking lovely with beautiful flower boxes and hanging baskets dotted all over Amsterdam and there is very little litter on the streets. 

7. Amsterdam Has Dozens of Museums

You can’t leave Amsterdam without picking up a few facts that you never knew before. The city is full of museums about pretty much anything you could be interested in.

The Tulip Museum is a favorite among visitors due to its huge selection of bulbs available in the store to take home and the Heineken Experience is raved about.

Whether you’re looking to visit a museum about cannabis, prostitution, the human body, or medieval torture you can find them all in Amsterdam!

8. The Crooked Houses

All travelers coming back from Amsterdam will tell you that the architecture in the city is stunning and it is!

But there is something very unique about the buildings on the canal sides – most of them are leaning! Whether it be forwards, backwards, or side to side, most houses in Amsterdam are tilted, and some far more than others.

The reasoning was originally intentional with many residents wanting their house to lean forward so that it could be seen from down the street , but now with the ground sinking in the city with sea level change, most buildings are starting to go a bit askew.

Don’t worry though, engineers in Amsterdam have it all covered and are able to support the houses with many different techniques. Looking around the city for the most crooked house you can find is a fun task and you get some great photos to show family and friends.

9. Amsterdam is Home to Some Delicious Sweet Treats

Amsterdam’s main dish cuisine may be a bit of a downer but they make up for it in scrumptious desserts.

Stroopwafel is the most popular snack and dessert in the city and they are absolutely delicious; it is easy to see why locals are obsessed with stroopwafels .

Another sweet treat that is worth trying in the city are poffertjes (or mini Dutch pancakes) which can be topped with a variety of toppings and are super light and fluffy.

10. The Huge Range of Parks and Gardens

While Amsterdam is a hectic and busy city no matter the time of year, there is always somewhere to relax and unwind away from the hustle and bustle.

T he city has over 30 parks and gardens to enjoy , the most popular being Vondelpark . If you’re not keen on big cities then knowing that there are lots of quiet spaces is a great help.

There are often free concerts and other events in parks across the city – perfect for visiting on a budget.

Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting FAQs

Is it worth it to go to amsterdam for 2 days.

Spending two days in Amsterdam is enough to see all of the top sights and visit some of the top attractions.

With three days in the city , you would also be able to fit in a half-day trip to nearby towns like Zaasne Schans which gives an even greater insight into Dutch culture so if you have time to extend your trip then it would be beneficial.

What is So Special About Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is so special as it is a city with a fascinating history and beautiful scenery. Unlike many other European cities, Amsterdam still retains the authentic Dutch culture with many traditional celebrations and events taking place all year round.

The canal waterways are unlike any other city in eastern Europe and set Amsterdam apart. The perspective you get of the beautiful architecture from the canals should not be missed.

Conclusion: So Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting

Amsterdam is definitely a city worth visiting. Careful planning of your trip will be needed to make sure that you have an enjoyable time and aren’t surrounded by rowdy groups.

The best time to visit Amsterdam is April to May and late August to September. The city is full of things to see and experiences to do so you’ll be able to pack lots into just a few days. A short trip to Amsterdam is enough to see the whole city and get a real feel for Dutch culture.

If you find a good deal on flights or accommodation in Amsterdam then you should absolutely book to go and see the city for yourself!

This post was written by Charlotte from The Geo Room . Charlotte is a geography student who loves to travel and write blogs about her experiences. She is currently traveling around Europe in her free time and hopes to expand her horizons within the next couple of years and become a full-time nomad!

Alisha Rose is the founder of TTWT and has lived in California since 2016. She is a Registered Nurse, but loves exploring her beautiful home of California every chance she gets with her family and two Golden Retrievers. Also a world traveler, she has traveled to over 21 countries, a total of 5 continents, and 27 states in the US.

Is Amsterdam worth visiting? Is Amsterdam expensive? And everything else you need to know

Are you planning a trip to Europe and want to know is Amsterdam worth visiting? In this guide we go through absolutely everything you need to know before you visit including answering the questions, is Amsterdam safe, is Amsterdam expensive, and much more.

Disclaimer :  This post contains affiliate links, so if you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.

Before we answer the question ‘Is Amsterdam worth visiting’ here is some background

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Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands, and is famous for its canals, narrow houses and museums. There are about 821,000 people living in the city, but 1.2 million bikes! In fact bikes definitely rule when it comes to transport in Amsterdam. They have right of way over both pedestrians and cars.

Amsterdam is a pretty expensive city to visit. Maybe not in the same realms as London or Oslo , but it’s definitely not super cheap.

One of the most expensive bits is accommodation. You are generally looking at paying a minimum of €130 per night for a 4 star hotel. Space is at a premium in the city, and this is very much reflected in hotel costs.

We recommend budgeting about €150 per person per day for things like attractions, food, drink, and transport. You can do things a lot cheaper if you are careful where you and eat and drink though, which is good if you are travelling on a budget.

We do recommend having some cash when visiting Amsterdam. A lot of places will allow you to pay by card, but there are still places that only accept cash. It’s easy to get cash out at the many ATMs dotted around the city.

The majority of people in Amsterdam speak Dutch. That being said English is incredibly common and you will be able to get by with only English.

The easiest way to get into Amsterdam is via the airport. The cities main airport is Schiphol Amsterdam Airport. There are several European and international flights that arrive here, and this is the hub for dutch airline KLM.

Getting from the airport to the centre of Amsterdam is also quite easy. You can get a taxi, which will set you back about €40. Or get a train for €6.

There are also several options to get to Amsterdam by train. These arrive from all over the country, and Europe, at Amsterdam Centraal Station. The station is centrally located and easy to get to other parts of the city from.

Finally you can also get a boat into Amsterdam, boats arrive at the port of Ijmuiden. You will need to get a bus from here into Amsterdam. This is around 40 minutes.

You can even get a boat from  Newcastle to Amsterdam  and we have written a full review on this.

Four days is generally a good amount of time to explore Amsterdam. This gives you a good amount of time to explore the tourist spots, enjoy some food and drinks, and have a little wander by the canals.

It is possible to see Amsterdam in a day. I mean we did it on a cruise, but we didn’t get to explore in depth, and would really of liked to see a lot more. Realistically you need a minimum of 3 days to really get to grips with the city.

Despite it’s party reputation Amsterdam is actually one of the safer capitals in Europe. Like anywhere there are parts of the city you should avoid, but the main tourist areas are generally fine.

The Red Light District is also relatively safe, but definitely somewhere you should remain a bit more vigilant as tourists can be targeted for muggings or petty theft.

The other thing to keep in mind is that a lot of people visit Amsterdam to have a good time. So there can be drinking and drug taking going on, and this can make you a little more vulnerable to having things stolen, so again just keep this in mind.

Amsterdam is very much worth visiting compared to other European cities. It’s a very laid back and open city which is something you don’t always find in Europe. It’s beautiful canals, and stunning architecture also make it a very unique place to visit. And let’s not forget about the food. I mean it’s literally worth visiting for Dutch Pancakes alone!

If you are trying to decide between London or Amsterdam or Amsterdam and Copenhagen here are some helpful guides.

Amsterdam has some excellent public transport options which we will get to in a moment. But if you really want to blend in with the locals we suggest you get around by bike. There are a number of different companies you can use to rent a bike with, and the prices do vary. It’s definitely an authentic way to get around the city.

But if you aren’t brave enough to bike your way around, then there are other options. For one thing Amsterdam is pretty walkable, although you will probably need to use public transport at some point on your trip.

Trams are the easiest way to get around. There are 15 routes that go through the city, and you can buy day tickets at the stations.

Wondering is Amsterdam worth visiting for attractions alone? Here are some of the best things to do in city. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but some of the highlights to give you inspiration on your next trip.

DO A CANAL CRUISE

Considering Amsterdam is famous for its canals, a great way to see the city is from the water. We really do recommend going on a cruise to orient yourself with the city. Tours take about an hour and you can book these online in advance.

WALK THE CANALS

We spent a lot of time exploring the city on foot. We loved the beautiful canals and discovering the leafy atmospheric streets. Amsterdam is one of those places that is fantastic to just get lost in and see what you find. Just watch out for the bikes!

RIJKSMUSEUM

The Rijksmuseum or the National Museum of the Netherlands is a great place to visit to learn all about the arts and history of the country. You can buy tickets on the day but if you are super keen then you can  book your tickets here in advance .

ANNE FRANK HOUSE

This is probably one of the most well-known museums in Amsterdam. It’s a very sombre reminder of the horrors inflicted during WW2, and if you do get a chance to visit then do. You will learn all about Anne and her family, and you can tour the place they called home for 2 years whilst hiding from the Nazi’s.

VISIT A MUSEUM

There are so many amazing museums to visit in Amsterdam, not just the Anne Frank House or the Rijksmuseum. In fact there are several smaller hidden gems dotted across the city. One of our recommendations is the Straat Museum which is dedicated to street art.

EXPLORE THE EDGIER SIDE OF AMSTERDAM

Amsterdam is of course a very edgy city with several coffeeshops. These are shops that essentially sell marijuana, either to smoke or eat in baked goods.

Interestingly there are strict rules when it comes to drug use in the city. It’s fascinating walking through the edgier parts of Amsterdam which gives you insight into something we normally wouldn’t see back home.

RED LIGHT DISTRICT

Admittedly the Red Light District in Amsterdam isn’t going to be for everyone. But walking through is certainly an eye opening experience to say the least. It’s not as graphic or dangerous as you might think. You will see red-lit windows, sex shops, and strip clubs in the area, which might be out there for some but it’s a testament to the open attitude towards sex the Dutch hold. Also it is the oldest part of the city, and one of the oldest trades, so it is worth a visit.

FLOATING FLOWER MARKET

The Amsterdam Flower Market is the only floating Flower Market in the world. The shops are located inside a row of barges, and is a homage to the days when flowers arrived here by boat from the countryside.

Because Amsterdam is such a safe place to visit, we think it is very much worth visiting for solo travellers. There is also a lot to see and do, making it easy to pass the time.

Another cool thing is that there are so many group tours you can book including pub crawls, so if you are travelling alone these are a great way to meet people.

The quaint streets, stunning canals, and quirky bars in Amsterdam are the perfect backdrop for a couples holiday in Amsterdam. Even just walking around or taking a boat trip is incredibly romantic in this fairy tale place.

You might think that Amsterdam is all parties, and adult activity, but this could not be further from the truth. There are so many interesting things to do with kids. You can do canal cruises, go on a bike ride, and even visit the many museums and learn about the history of the city.

If you are wondering is Amsterdam worth visiting for foodies, then our answer is yes! It’s a very multicultural places and you can see this in the cuisine available in the city.

If you are after more traditional Dutch foods, we recommend things like dutch cheese, pancakes, and herring. Although the herring is definitely more of an acquired taste.

A food tour is a great way to experience what the city has to offer when it comes to culinary delights, and we have included a few examples below.

Amsterdam is a popular destination for a wild night out. I mean you just have to look at the number of people heading here for stag or hen parties to see that.

The good news though, is that the city has all kinds of nightlife to suit every taste. You have speakeasy style bars serving cocktails, chilled out dive bars serving beers, and places serving wine and dutch cheese.

Clubbing is also a big deal in Amsterdam so you will find a lot to keep you entertained if this is your thing.

Amsterdam is actually a pretty green city with a number of parks and waterways to explore in the city itself. If you want to get a little bit closer to nature though you will need to head out into the greater Amsterdam area.

There are quite a few beautiful national parks like Amstelland Green Area and National Park Zuid-Kennemerland which are under an hours drive from Amsterdam.

Amsterdam is another fantastic choice for culture lovers. For starters you have the museum quarter where you can indulge in art and history. You also have several music festivals including the Red Light Jazz Festival, or catch a classical music performance by the canals at Grachtenfestival.

Summer is one of the most popular times to visit Amsterdam. The city comes alive with festivals, and you can sip drinks in the sunshine by the canals. You will also see people sailing along the canals, sipping cocktails on boats.

Temperatures range from 11-25 degrees Celsius, which is quite mild compared to other parts of Europe.

Summer is peak season which does have a negative side. For instance, the city can become overrun with tourists. On top of that accommodation prices increase substantially. You need to book well in advance to get the best prices.

Amsterdam is also a good place to visit in the winter. The city almost becomes this magical winter wonderland. You can ice skate on the canals (obviously if it is cold enough!), visit the Christmas Markets, and just enjoy the atmosphere.

It’s also a great time of year to sip mulled wine in a pub and watch the world go by.

Apart from your usual packing list here are some suggestions for things to pack when visiting Amsterdam.

• Comfortable walking shoes – you will do a lot of walking
• A warm jacket depending on the season
• Portable charger – you will take a lot of photos
• Layered clothing – temperatures are mild in Amsterdam so bring layers to warm up or cool down quickly
• Casual clothes – the vibe in the city is pretty relaxed so you won’t need to bring over the top outfits

Here are some final tips for visiting Amsterdam that will hopefully help you on your trip.

• Bikes rule when it comes to exploring Amsterdam so be careful and don’t walk in bike lanes.
• You need to carry ID with you at all times in Amsterdam, as if the police stop you, you can be fined for not carrying it.
• Hard drugs are not tolerated, and honestly be careful with marijuana – don’t be that stupid tourists that has too much and freaks out.
• Be prepared for all kinds of weather – it can be very unpredictable.
• Do not photograph the workers in the Red Light District – It’s illegal and just gross and rude.

Hopefully this article has helped you answer the question is Amsterdam worth visiting. In our opinion Amsterdam is very much worth a visit. It’s such a unique and picturesque city, and you will find so much to see and do here.

Yes it can be expensive, and yes there are problems with mass tourism, but if you try and visit during the off season, and plan things in advance you can have an amazing trip.

If this article has been helpful don’t forget to pin it for later.

Happy Travels!

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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Is amsterdam worth visiting my verdict is “yes”.

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Updated: 2 December 2022

If you read past the title of this blog post, then you’re probably shaking your head in surprise and confused. I mean, is Amsterdam worth visiting? Wait. Seriously, Rachel? Amsterdam? 

Haha, yup, that’s a real question that I’ll aim to answer in this post. I already know some of you are probably thinking, “Huh? What a weird question, though. Amsterdam is one of the most famous cities in the world. Of course Amsterdam is worth it!”

However, you’d be surprised how many questions I’ve gotten about Amsterdam’s high prices (compared to other parts of the Netherlands) and massive summer crowds. 

Furthermore, I’ve also been asked whether or not the city was too mobbed with, not only tourists, but shamelessly high and annoying tourists to even consider visiting.

Determining whether or not Amsterdam is a good place to visit tends to be on the minds of families looking for a more wholesome experience, or solo female travelers in Amsterdam wondering if it is sketchy due to the Red Light District.

Table of Contents

Is Amsterdam Worth It (Re: Overtourism)?

I will admit that overtourism is a problem in Amsterdam, and while the COVID-19 pandemic brought a brief break, a lot is still at stake.

Housing is in short supply, and rents are rising for locals. This trend has happened in a lot of other cities where Airbnbs and other apartment rentals start squeezing the local real estate market.

Overtourism is a legit concern, and I always advocate for visiting smaller shops and staying at independently owned hostels and hotels to off set some of the pain from this.

Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting Even  With So Many Tourists ?  

So … I have a lot of opinions on the tourist versus traveler debate.

Without a doubt, there’s an annoying trend happening in the travel industry. Actually, this trend has been going on for years, even back when I first started this travel blog in 2015. The sentiments aren’t new.

In this space, a pervasive message encourages “real travelers” to get as far away from the traditional tourist trail as possible. According to these people, big cities like Amsterdam are “overrated” and “not worth” a true adventurer’s time. You’re not a true traveler for going to European capitals.

Say whaaaaat?

Now don’t get me wrong. Over-tourism is  a problem that we need to seriously tackle. As visitors, we need to respect the environment around us and realize our collective actions have big consequences, especially when it comes to protecting fragile historical buildings and natural wonders.

Not to mention, I’m all for restricting travelers in very delicate spaces such as the Cinque Terre in Italy. Too many tourists leads to destruction. I’d be hard-pressed and wrong to argue against reality. 

Howeverr, in my humble opinion, the most visited cities in the world are popular for good reasons, and shouldn’t be ignored for the sake of being one of the “cool travel kids.” 

“Is Amsterdam worth visiting?” isn’t a question you should ask yourself, because you read bad information online.

And, if your heart is set on Amsterdam, don’t skip it, because a couple of naysayers say the city’s too packed with drugged out and obnoxious tourists on their stag parties. 

Dig deeper to find the true magic of Amsterdam. I already know I want to come back to this city one day. This capital can even be a – gasp – peaceful experience depending on how you plan your trip.

Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting? “Yes!”

Amsterdam is absolutely worth visiting for new and experienced travelers. I had a lot more fun in Amsterdam than I had originally expected (which is why you don’t believe everything you read in travel forums), and at this point, I would recommend the city to anyone coming to Europe.

Amsterdam has a thriving food scene and several cool neighborhoods, and smaller museums that are still hidden from the vast majority of tourists.

And like most major European cities, if you move away from the main streets and squares, you’re relatively left alone and unburdened by crowds and tacky souvenir stores. Even at the heigh of summer, I found some quiet places to simply enjoy my own company like a cool Berlin-style cafe with comfortable sofas.

But what abut solo travelers? Are you alone and want to go to Amsterdam, but have some tingling nerves prickling under your skin? No worries! Solo travel in Amsterdam is easy, safe, and fun. The city is worth visiting with a group of friends or completely on your own. 

Again, planning is key.

5 Reasons Amsterdam is Worth It!

Okay, let’s get into five specific reasons why Amsterdam is worth visiting!

For the sake of brevity, I’ve only listed five reasons in this post, but I’m sure there are fifty million more reasons why travelers should come to Amsterdam.

Hopefully, by the end of this post, you’re convinced to book the next flight to Amsterdam!

Of course, you can always plan your own trip if you bring a guidebook to Amsterdam with the most up to date information. This post is to inspire the wheels in your head to start turning.

An Outstanding Food Scene

My stomach was very, very, very happy in Amsterdam.

Seriously, folks, I was full for a week after I came back home to New Jersey. The food was  that  amazing. 

I’ll admit it. Dutch cuisine isn’t something that immediately comes to mind when asked about the best food experiences.

However, without a doubt, Amsterdam is home to incredible restaurants. 

Want something quirky? Check out Moeders with its walls covered in pictures of mothers. Want something extra fancy? Go to Restaurant de Silveren Spiegel and eat several courses in a historically warm atmosphere. Want to try exquisite cocktails? Go to Bar Twentyseven at the hotel of the same name.

If you’re traveling solo and don’t want to eat alone, then it’s definitely worth booking a spot on a food tour of Amsterdam . You’ll enjoy both culinary enrichment and new friends. Win/win situation if you ask me!

Count calories at home. Diets have no place in the Dutch capital, although I suppose you can rent a bike and burn all those meals off. 

World-Class Art Museums

As readers of this blog know, I’m a huge fans of wandering aimlessly through art museums. And Amsterdam? Is home to some of the best art museums in the world.

For example, the Van Gogh Museum has the largest collection of the famous artist’s paintings and drawings. Tickets are timed which cuts down on the crowds. And seeing his most well-known pieces, such as Sunflowers and The Potato Eaters, is a thought-provoking experience. 

For travelers wanting a “quieter” experience, modern museums such as Moco Museum and Stedelijk Museum offer great alternatives to the bigger places such as the Rijksmuseum. 

Don’t overdo it with museum. Rushing through attractions won’t make your trip to Amsterdam fun. Instead do your research and tailor museums based on your own personal interests rather than only what’s most popular on TripAdvisor. 

A Fascinating & Inspiring History

In addition to museums, Amsterdam has a rich history that’s made clear on every street. 

As a visitor, I’d highly recommending going on a free walking tour to get an overview of Amsterdam’s history before setting out on your own. 

Strolling down any street gives you a cool slice of the past. For example, most of Amsterdam’s stunning row homes have the date of construction displayed above the doors. A lot of these homes date all the way back to the late 1600s. It’s easy to imagine the merchants’ families climbing the steep stairs. 

In addition, some of my favorite historical places include a hidden Catholic church in an attic. Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder is a gorgeous museum without the same large crowds that go to the Anne Frank House (which is still worth it, in my opinion). 

A Brilliant Location for Taking Day Trips

Amsterdam is one of the best bases for day trips. I’m not kidding.

Off the top of my head, I can think of seven day trips to take from Amsterdam , although I’m sure plenty more options exist for tourists and locals alike.

My favorite day trips include places like Zaanse Schans where you’ll see iconic windmills, sample chocolates, and chill at a nearby brewery. I also fell in love with more “off the beaten path” cities such as Hoorn which was a significant port during the Dutch Golden Age. 

Don’t feel nervous about exploring outside of Amsterdam without a tour either.

The Netherlands has a great public transportation system that even new travelers will find easy to navigate. Buses and trains run to the popular villages 24/7. So get out and have fun! 

You’ll Still Find Quiet Corners of the City

Last but not least, Amsterdam isn’t just a big tourist attraction. If you’re asking yourself, “is Amsterdam worth visiting?,” because it’s too touristy, then don’t hang out in Dam Square or the Red Light District all freakin’ day. Simple.

You guys, I gotta say it. I think there are a lot of misconceptions about big European capitals in the sense that they’re viewed as tourist amusement parks rather than cities where real people actually live and work. 

Amsterdam is no different.

But this is a lie. All big cities, including Amsterdam, have special places that aren’t overrun with bustling crowds, even during the busiest tourist seasons.

So I challenge you to leave the most crowded parts of the city to find establishments where the locals go to eat, drink, and unwind. You’ll never know what discoveries you’ll make when you close your guidebook and branch outside your comfort zone. 

Is Amsterdam Worth Seeing? — My Final Words

Sooo. Is Amsterdam worth visiting? I hoped that I convinced you that the answer is a firm and unwavering “yes.”

Yet, like everywhere else, Amsterdam is what you make of it. 

Amsterdam is a very unique city as far as design goes. I can’t think of another city with Amsterdam’s canals and row homes, nor can I quite explain the energy that pulsates through the neighborhoods. 

Plan your adventure to Amsterdam around your likes and dislikes. See what you want to see and eat what you want to eat. Ignore anyone who discourages you to go to Amsterdam for subjective reasons. Explore this city for yourself.

If you’re still asking yourself, “Hmmmm, is Amsterdam worth visiting?”, I hope that I convinced you to book that ticket to the Dutch capital! Happy travels to the Netherlands!

Rachel Elizabeth

At 22, I took my first overseas trip to Bermuda. Took a break to follow the "American Dream." Had my self-esteem broken. Embarked on my first solo trip to Scotland at 26. The travel bug dug its way under my skin. I now book multiple trips a year.

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Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting in 2024?

As with many popular cities in Europe, you may be wondering whether Amsterdam lives up to all the hype. You may even ask yourself if Amsterdam is worth visiting. As someone who has traveled to Amsterdam, I will answer this very question and highlight some of the amazing things that the city has to offer.

This post contains affiliate links. When you click on one of these links and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Where is Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands , which is situated in Northwestern Europe and serves as the country’s cultural and economic hub. Furthermore, the city is built on a network of canals that flow into the IJsselmeer, a large lake that was once part of the North Sea.

Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting? 7 Reasons You Should Visit Amsterdam

First, let me say that I fell in love with Amsterdam so I definitely believe it’s worth visiting. It is a beautiful city with plenty of things to do no matter what your interests. Here are 7 of my favorite reasons why you should visit Amsterdam.

1. It’s Canals

Amsterdam’s iconic canals are an absolute must-see and a defining feature that sets this city apart as a unique and enchanting destination. The picturesque waterways winding through Amsterdam offer visitors a unique experience, allowing them to immerse themselves in the city’s rich history, breathtaking architecture, and vibrant culture.

These waterways, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, paint a charming backdrop to the city’s landscape, lined with historic buildings, picturesque bridges, and bustling streets.

Moreover, the canals aren’t just about sightseeing; they offer an immersive experience of local life. They act as a central hub for Amsterdam’s residents, with houseboats adorning the water’s edge and locals cycling alongside the banks, creating an authentic and dynamic ambiance.

Whether it’s capturing the perfect photograph of the iconic canal houses or simply enjoying the serene beauty while savoring a stroopwafel from a nearby vendor, Amsterdam’s canals weave an enchanting tapestry that truly encapsulates the city’s charm, making it an essential addition to any traveler’s itinerary .

I thoroughly enjoyed my wheelchair-accessible canal boat tour . I got to see many of Amsterdam’s major highlights during my short time in the city. It was also a great way to get my bearings and I could make a mental note of the areas I wanted to go back to visit when I was on land.

Accessibility of the Amsterdam’s Canals

The canals are easily enjoyed both by land and through a canal boat tour. As I mentioned above, there is even a wheelchair-accessible canal boat tour that you can take.

This tour is made accessible through the use of a motorized lift that comes out of the floor of the boat. Once onboard, you can choose to either sit inside at an accessible table or outside for unobstructed views.

Just make sure to contact the boat tour company in advance so they can ensure they have the right type of boat for you and inform you of available times.

☑️ Prebook your Amsterdam Canal Boat Tour in advance to secure your preferred date and time by clicking here . During peak travel season, tours do sell out.

2. The Art Museums

Amsterdam stands tall as a cultural hub and a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts, boasting some of the best art museums in Europe. The city’s art scene is nothing short of spectacular, with world-renowned institutions that house an incredible wealth of artistic treasures.

At the forefront is the Rijksmuseum , a crown jewel renowned for its extensive collection of Dutch Golden Age masterpieces, including Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch” and Vermeer’s “The Milkmaid.”

Adding to this impressive lineup is the Van Gogh Museum , an institution dedicated to the life and works of Vincent van Gogh, housing the largest collection of his paintings, sketches, and letters in the world. It offers an intimate journey through the mind and soul of this iconic artist, allowing visitors to delve deep into his creative evolution and emotional depth.

Each museum contributes uniquely to the city’s artistic tapestry, making Amsterdam a haven for those seeking to immerse themselves in the vibrant and diverse world of art.

Accessibility at the Art Museums

The most popular art museums in Amsterdam all offer access to wheelchair users and other services for people with disabilities. There are step-free routes, availability of mobility devices like manual wheelchairs, and specialized tours for people with low vision and cognitive problems such as dementia.

Make sure to check the website of the museum you are interested in visiting for availability and more detailed information.

3. Visiting the Anne Frank House

Visiting the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam is a profoundly moving and historically significant experience that adds immeasurable depth to any traveler’s visit to the city. The house, where Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis during World War II, provides a glimpse into the life of a young girl amidst the horrors of the Holocaust.

Stepping into the clandestine annex where Anne wrote her famous diary brings history to life, evoking emotions and fostering a profound sense of empathy and reflection.

The Anne Frank House offers a compelling narrative, guiding visitors through the concealed rooms, displaying personal artifacts, and sharing Anne’s powerful words. It’s an important reminder of the atrocities of war and the resilience of the human spirit.

Furthermore, the museum doesn’t just focus on the past; it prompts introspection, fostering discussions about tolerance, human rights, and the importance of standing against discrimination.

☑️ To learn more about Amsterdam’s history during World War II, make sure to combine a visit to the Anne Frank House with a historical walking tour like this on e .

Accessibility at the Anne Frank House

The museum where Anne’s original diary is located is wheelchair accessible. For obvious reasons, the attic where she and her family hid is not (there are steep and narrow stairs to access it). However, the museum does offer an innovative virtual reality tour of the attic for people with mobility problems who are not able to access it directly.

4. Tulip Season is Gorgeous

Tulip season in Amsterdam is an enchanting spectacle that captivates travelers from around the world, making it an irresistible reason to visit this vibrant city. Typically peaking from late March to mid-May, the city bursts into a range of colors as millions of tulips bloom.

The sheer beauty and diversity of tulip varieties on display are nothing short of breathtaking, with rows upon rows of meticulously cultivated tulip fields painting the landscape in vivid hues of reds, yellows, pinks, and purples.

Keukenhof Gardens, often referred to as the “Garden of Europe,” is the quintessential destination during this season, offering a mesmerizing showcase of tulips alongside other bulb flowers like daffodils and hyacinths. Visitors can wander through intricately designed gardens, take stunning photographs, and learn about the history and cultivation of tulips through various exhibits and displays.

Beyond Keukenhof, the countryside surrounding Amsterdam transforms into a patchwork of colorful blooms, and many opt for scenic drives or cycling tours to explore these picturesque fields.

Whether you’re an avid horticulture enthusiast or simply someone seeking natural beauty, the tulip season in Amsterdam offers an unparalleled visual feast, leaving visitors awestruck by the sheer magnificence of these iconic flowers and providing an unforgettable experience that embodies the essence of Dutch springtime.

Accessibility of Tulip Season in Amsterdam

During Spring, you are likely to see tulips throughout the city and in some of the public gardens. There are some accessible tours to Keukenhof Gardens and the countryside available but always check with the tour company to see if they can accommodate your needs.

For example, some can store your mobility device but you must be able to climb the stairs of the bus. While others may have lift-equipped vehicles that allow you to stay in your wheelchair.

☑️ Tours to Keukenhof Gardens will sell out during tulip season so make sure to book in advance by clicking here .

5. It Makes a Great Base for Day Trips

Amsterdam’s central location and well-connected transportation network make it an ideal hub for embarking on captivating day trips that offer diverse experiences just a stone’s throw away from the city. This allows you to see more of this beautiful country without having to move hotels all of the time.

Furthermore, the Netherlands’ compact size allows travelers to easily venture beyond Amsterdam to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage, charming towns, and picturesque landscapes within a short journey.

Popular Day Trips from Amsterdam

One popular day trip option is a visit to the historic city of Haarlem, merely a 15-minute train ride from Amsterdam. Haarlem’s cobblestone streets, stunning architecture, and iconic landmarks such as the Grote Kerk (Great Church) and Frans Hals Museum make for an enriching cultural excursion.

Additionally, a short train ride to Utrecht unveils a vibrant city adorned with canals, medieval structures, and the iconic Dom Tower. Utrecht offers a blend of historical charm and modern flair, perfect for exploring its lively cafes, unique boutiques, and picturesque waterways.

☑️ This day trip to Utrecht from Amsterdam is a fantastic tour option. Check prices and availability by clicking here .

Zaanse Schans

For those seeking natural beauty, a visit to the windmill-dotted countryside of Zaanse Schans is a must. Located just a short bus ride away, Zaanse Schans offers a glimpse into the traditional Dutch way of life with its well-preserved historic windmills, wooden houses, and artisanal craft demonstrations.

☑️ A guided tour like this one will help you get the most out of your day trip. Click here to check pricing and availability.

6. Amsterdam is a Cyclist’s Paradise

If you love cycling, then Amsterdam should definitely be high on your bucket list. Bicycles are the primary mode of transportation in the city and can be easily rented if you are a visitor.

In fact, Amsterdam is renowned as one of the most bike-friendly cities globally, and boasts an extensive network of well-maintained cycling paths, making it incredibly convenient and safe to navigate by bike.

For cyclists, exploring Amsterdam provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the local lifestyle while enjoying the city’s iconic landmarks, charming neighborhoods, and picturesque canals at a leisurely pace.

Furthermore, there are plenty of opportunities to get out of the city to explore the gorgeous countryside either on your own or with a cycling tour .

☑️ Check the pricing and availability of this countryside cycling tour from Amsterdam by clicking here .

7. Amsterdam is Worth Visiting for its Nightlife

Renowned for its eclectic and inclusive party scene, the city offers something for everyone, from bustling bars and cozy pubs to trendy nightclubs and live music venues. The vibrant energy pulsating through Amsterdam’s streets after dark creates an electrifying ambiance, drawing in locals and tourists alike.

Moreover, the city’s relaxed and liberal atmosphere contributes to a lively and inclusive nightlife experience. Visitors can enjoy a drink at one of the many historic brown cafes or opt for a trendy rooftop bar offering stunning views of the city skyline.

Whether you’re seeking a bustling club scene or a more laid-back evening by the canals, Amsterdam’s nightlife exudes a unique charm, ensuring an unforgettable experience for those looking to immerse themselves in the city’s after-dark offerings.

While the famous Red-Light District is the obvious choice for nightlife, other neighborhoods such as Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein also make for great options.

Accessibility in the Red-Light District

Most of the area’s narrow streets and alleys are cobblestoned, which can be difficult to traverse in a wheelchair. However, efforts have been made to improve accessibility in recent years.

Some establishments, like cafes, restaurants, and certain shops, have made accommodations with ramps or accessible entrances, but this is not uniform across the entire district. Additionally, while some adult entertainment venues may be wheelchair accessible, others might not be due to the historic nature of the buildings.

It’s advisable for travelers with accessibility needs to plan ahead, research specific locations, and inquire directly with venues or businesses about their accessibility features before visiting the Red Light District in Amsterdam.

Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting as a Wheelchair User and People with Limited Mobility?

As a wheelchair user myself, I really enjoyed my time in Amsterdam. While no destination offers perfect accessibility for everyone, I found the city to offer a variety of fun experiences that allowed me to immerse myself in its culture.

In the previous section, I tried to add as much information on accessibility as possible so that you can get an idea of the fantastic Amsterdam tourist attractions that are possible with a disability. However, I will also mention some of the possible challenges and barriers to accessibility to help you know what to expect during your visit.

Challenges to Accessibility

During my time in the city, there were two primary obstacles to accessibility that I ran into. The first was cobblestones. Like most older European cities, cobblestones were rampant throughout Amsterdam (although they weren’t nearly as bad as in Bruges Belgium).

The second challenge was that bikes, cars, and other obstacles often blocked the sidewalks which made them difficult to navigate. There were times when I had to use the bike lanes that run alongside many of the sidewalks (which is not optimal either as it’s easy to get run over by cyclists).

I expected both of these to be an issue during my trip and made the best of things often looking far ahead to predict what path would be the best/safest for me to follow. Additionally, this is another reason I enjoyed the canal boat tour as it allowed me to see a lot of Amsterdam without having to worry about these obstacles.

Getting Around Amsterdam with Mobility Problems

In general, Amsterdam is an easily walkable (or rollable) city with a lot of popular sites in a fairly compact area. While you will encounter crowded sidewalks and cobblestones, the sidewalks will have curb cuts.

However, should you want to save some energy (and battery power) you can also opt to use the trams which are located throughout the city. The newer trams will be the most accessible, with a wheelchair icon near the accessible entrance (which is level). In addition, there will be a dedicated wheelchair space on board.

Travel Tip : Get yourself a map of the city. Not only will it show the tram lines and where they go, but it will make navigating the city easier if you decide to opt out of public transportation.

How to Get to Amsterdam

Getting to Amsterdam is relatively straightforward, given its well-connected transportation options. I’ll talk about the three most popular options that visitors choose to arrive to the city. Please note, if you can avoid it, it is not recommended to arrive by car or to drive as parking is problematic.

First and foremost, if you’re traveling from abroad, you’ll want to book a flight to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, which is the main international gateway to the city. Once you arrive at Schiphol, you can easily reach the city center by taking a train from the airport’s railway station.

➡️ Want to save money on your next flight? Check out my tips for finding cheap flights anywhere !

If you’re already in Europe and prefer to travel by train, Amsterdam is well-connected to the European rail network. You can catch a high-speed train or an international train service to Amsterdam Central Station.

The train journey can be a scenic way to arrive in the city, and it’s especially convenient if you’re coming from nearby countries like Belgium, France, or Germany.

Cruise Ship

Lastly, many people stop in Amsterdam as part of a European cruise . The port is located near the train station and allows passengers a day of exploring the city as part of their itinerary.

Sometimes, ships will also dock in the town of Rotterdam, and then excursions and shuttles are available to reach Amsterdam.

This is how I arrived in the city. While my time was limited, it gave me a great taste of what Amsterdam had to offer and I am determined to go back again.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam

There are a wide range of accommodation options in the city that will suit a variety of budgets. There are even wheelchair-accessible hotels in Amsterdam for you to choose from. However, here are my top picks.

➡️ DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Amsterdam Centraal Station

Situated near Amsterdam Central Railway Station, this hotel stands out as one of the city’s most popular hotels. Catering to diverse guests, the hotel ensures accessibility for individuals with disabilities while offering an array of top-notch amenities.

Notably, booking an accessible room at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Amsterdam Centraal Station ensures additional accommodations such as fold-down grab bars, wider doorways, an emergency bathroom pull cord, step-free entrances, and accessible public spaces, including handicap-accessible parking.

Additionally, each guest room at DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Central Station features floor-to-ceiling windows, a flat-screen TV, and complimentary Wi-Fi, accompanied by splendid city views. Additionally, the hotel boasts inviting open-air spaces, including a charming courtyard, perfect for relaxation.

For travelers seeking convenience, the hotel’s location is ideal, with trams and metro stations just a stone’s throw away. Major attractions like Dam Square are within a brief 5-minute reach, while accessibility to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport via train or car takes around 20 minutes.

☑️ Check prices and availability for your travel dates by clicking here .

➡️ Holiday Inn Express Amsterdam – City Hall

The rooms at Holiday Inn Express offer ample space and essential facilities including a closet, flat-screen TV, and towels. Some rooms even offer picturesque city views, adding to the charm of the stay.

Daily housekeeping services ensure a tidy and comfortable environment, while guests can start their day with a continental or vegetarian breakfast provided by the hotel. Moreover, guests will find various dining options nearby, including several restaurants and a sizable grocery store within easy reach of the hotel.

For guests requiring accessibility features, Holiday Inn Express Amsterdam – City Hal l offers a step-free entrance and in-room amenities tailored for convenience. The accessible rooms feature bathrooms equipped with a roll-in shower, raised toilet seat, grab bars, and an emergency pull cord, ensuring a comfortable and safe stay for all guests.

☑️ Check pricing and availability when you choose your room by clicking here .

Amsterdam FAQs

When is amsterdam worth visiting .

Amsterdam is worth visiting whenever you get a chance to go. Each season offers something special for visitors to enjoy. However, the most popular times to visit are in the Spring (when the tulips are blooming) and in the summer.

How Long Should I Spend in Amsterdam?

If you’re on a tight schedule or simply want to get a taste of Amsterdam’s highlights, spending 1-2 days can be sufficient. However, to dive deeper into the city’s rich culture and experience more of its neighborhoods, consider spending 4 days in Amsterdam .

Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting on a Cruise?

Visiting Amsterdam as part of a cruise itinerary will severely limit your time in this incredible city, but it is still worth visiting. Just know that depending on how long your ship is in port (or if you will be traveling from the nearby port of Rotterdam) you will only be able to see a couple of things that the city has to offer.

My ship docked in Rotterdam and I took a ship excursion to visit Amsterdam on my own. Essentially, the excursion provided transportation, a map of the city, and a little bit of narration during the drive. The rest of what I wanted to do or see was up to me and I only had about 4 hours in Amsterdam.

During this time I did a canal cruise to get a general overview and walked to Dam Square and a nearby flower market. I got just enough of a taste of the city to appreciate a little of its beauty and know that I’d like to return someday. When I go back, I’ll make sure to spend more time there.

Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting if You’re Traveling on a Budget?

Absolutely! Amsterdam can be a fantastic destination for travelers on a budget. Amsterdam offers numerous wallet-friendly experiences.

The city boasts an extensive network of cycle paths, making renting a bike an affordable and efficient way to explore its charming streets and iconic landmarks like the Anne Frank House or the Van Gogh Museum. Opting for budget accommodations in hostels or budget hotels scattered across the city can significantly cut down lodging expenses.

Moreover, Amsterdam is brimming with free or low-cost attractions, including the beautiful Vondelpark, lively street markets like Albert Cuyp Markt, and the chance to wander around the city’s neighborhoods, taking in the unique architecture and lively atmosphere without spending a dime.

Overall, with careful planning and smart choices, Amsterdam absolutely deserves a spot on the itinerary of budget-conscious travelers seeking an enriching and culturally diverse experience without breaking the bank.

Do They Speak English in Amsterdam?

English is widely spoken and understood in Amsterdam, and you’ll find that the majority of locals, especially those in the tourism and service industries, speak English fluently. Signs, menus, and transportation information often have English translations alongside Dutch, making it quite convenient for English-speaking visitors to navigate the city.

Would I Go Back to Amsterdam?

Since I only had a day in Amsterdam when I visited, I would absolutely go back to see more of the city. I’d love to visit in the spring to see the famous tulips as well as visit more of the amazing museums the city has to offer.

Final Thoughts on is Amsterdam Worth Visiting

I hope that after reading this post you’ve realized that Amsterdam is worth visiting despite some challenges to accessibility and potentially large crowds. Additionally, this post should have given you some ideas on how to spend your time in the city. Now, all you have to do is plan and enjoy your trip!

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I'm Kristin and I was born with a rare form of Muscular Dystrophy, which impacts my mobility and breathing. Despite this challenge, I have travelled across the United States and abroad and want to share my accessible travel information with others.

The best places to visit in the Netherlands

May 3, 2024 • 7 min read

Contrast days exploring the Netherland's many cultural institutions with outdoorsy pursuits on Texel © Sara Winter / Shutterstock

The Netherlands is a treasure chest of exquisite art-filled cities and towns, canals, windmills and tulip fields, along with shiny-new sustainable urban environments, and glorious natural landscapes, coastlines and islands. While it’s one of Europe’s smaller nations (you can cross the entire country in a handful of hours), choosing where to spend your time takes planning.

These are the best places to begin your explorations.

1. Amsterdam

Best city for culture.

Ribboned by UNESCO-listed 17th-century canals that are lined by tilting gabled buildings that form its central core, the Dutch capital is a cultural jewel.

Amsterdam brims with museums headlined by the national showpiece the Rijksmuseum, neighboring Van Gogh Museum and modern-art Stedelijk Museum, with eye-openers like the Wereldmuseum museum of world cultures, and scores of smaller, specialist gems as niche as piano-player pianolas or sustainable fashion.

Music spanning classical to EDM spills from historic churches, hallowed concert halls (the Concertgebouw has near-perfect acoustics) and legendary venues like Melkweg, as well as open-air spaces such as the stage in the sprawling green Vondelpark.

Planning tip: It’s easy to avoid overtourism and escape the crowds by heading to less-visited neighborhoods. Amsterdam Noord is a fantastic starting point, home to a state-of-the-art film museum, the world’s biggest street-art museum, vast art "breeding ground" in former shipping warehouse NDSM-Loods, and eco-focused cafes and bars, many built from recycled materials. 

Find the ideal neighborhood to base yourself in Amsterdam.

2. Rotterdam

Best city for contemporary architecture.

The Netherlands’ second-biggest city and Europe’s largest port, Rotterdam has triumphed over the adversity of its WWII devastation, transforming into a veritable gallery of contemporary architecture and public art. Standout structures include the Overblaak "forest" of tilted cube-shaped houses (one houses the Kijk-Kubus museum), the soaring, horseshoe-shaped Markthal with original food stalls and restaurants, and the gleaming mirror-ball-like Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen – a world-first open-access art storage facility. Repurposed spaces abound, such as the Schieblock, a mid-century office building converted into creative studios, topped by a harvestable roof terrace.

Planning tip: An exhilarating way to see the shapeshifting cityscape is aboard a water taxi zipping across the harbor. Daredevils can even abseil 100m (328 ft) from Rotterdam’s iconic 1960-opened Euromast observation tower.

Save this guide to the top things to do in Rotterdam.

Best spot for outdoors activities

Basking less than 2 miles off the Dutch coast, the bucolic Wadden Sea island of Texel (pronounced "Tes-sel") is capped by a crimson lighthouse and fringed by sweeping white-sand beaches. With its lush pastures grazed by fluffy sheep (prized for their wool) and dairy cows (producing milk used in local cheeses, chocolate and ice cream, mixed with freshly picked berries), along with rambling forests and nature reserves, Texel is an outdoors paradise. Cycling trails crisscross the island, with activities ranging from horse riding and skydiving. Watersports include sailing and kite-surfing.

Some 10,000 seals swim in the surrounding waters; you can spot them on boat trips or at Ecomare’s seal sanctuary.

Planning tip: Ferries carry foot passengers, cars and bikes from mainland Den Helder to Texel in just 20 minutes. In summer, there’s also a service linking Texel with the Frisian island of Vlieland . 

Best for time-honored streetscapes and artistic traditions

Lovely little Delft , with its web of narrow canals lined by quaint, colorful buildings, seems preserved in another era. Centered on its medieval Markt, one of Europe’s largest market squares (markets still set up here on Thursdays), it’s crowned by the lopsided 14th-century spire of its Oude Kerk (Old Church), and 17th-century-completed Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) – climbing its tower’s 376 spiraling steps provides beautiful views of the town.

A less demanding but equally picturesque impression is across the canal at Hooikade, where 17th-century Deft-born artist Vermeer, painted his famous View of Delft that’s still recognizable today. Vermeer’s life and techniques are covered at the Vermeer Centrum Delft.

The 17th century also saw artisans create an enduring legacy with the production of blue-and-white-painted pottery, known to the world as Delftware. Operating since 1653, Royal Delft has behind-the-scenes tours.

5. Den Haag (The Hague)

Best for regal museums and performing arts.

Stately Den Haag (The Hague) , the Netherlands’ third-largest city, isn’t the capital – that’s Amsterdam – but it is the seat of government and royalty. The glimmering Hofvijver pond relects the Gothic-style Binnenhof (Inner Court), the permanent home of the Dutch parliament (temporarily relocated until renovations that began in 2022 wrap up around 2028). The country’s monarch King Willem-Alexander works from adjacent Noordeinde Palace and lives at nearby palace Huis ten Bosch.

You won’t need a royal invitation to visit the dazzling royal picture gallery the Mauritshuis, hanging such masterpieces as Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring and Fabritius’ The Goldfinch . Former royal residence the Lange Voorhout Palace showcases the mind-bending works of Dutch graphic artist MC Escher. Bringing together organizations including the Royal Conservatoire and modern-dance Nederlands Dans Theater across four halls, 2021-opened performing arts complex Amare is the city’s cultural meeting point.

Planning tip: When the weather warms up, join locals unwinding at laid-back beach bars along the long, sandy strand at Scheveningen.

6. Maastricht

Best for roman relics and revelry  .

In this otherwise-flat country’s hilly southeast, Maastricht upends most visitors’ impressions of the Netherlands. Bordered by Germany and Belgium, its location on the ancient trading route between Cologne and Boulogne-sur-Mer saw the Romans establish a fort to guard the crossing on the Maas (Meuse) river. You can see the site of the original bridge from its replacement, the arched, stone footbridge Sint Servaasbrug, begun in 1280 and the Netherland’s oldest bridge.

Maastricht’s unbuttoned joie de vivre harks back to the 15th century when it was part of the vast Burgundy powerbase, resulting in rich food and flowing wine, beer and merriment. Great places to whet your appetite are the city squares Markt, Vrijthof (overlooked by Romanesque basilica Sint Servaasbasiliek) and Onze Lieve Vrowplein (by Romanesque church, Onze Lieve Vrouwebasiliek).

Planning tip: Carousing peaks during Carnaval, in the lead-up to Shrove Tuesday (February or March), when many businesses otherwise close and costumed parades and parties take over.

Want to attend a festival like Carnaval or King's Day? Here are the best times to g o.

Best spot for history lessons

Whether your historical interest is academia, art or trans-Atlantic history, Leiden is a must-visit. Threaded by canals, it’s home to the Netherlands’ oldest and most illustrious university, gifted to Leiden by Willem the Silent in 1575; its botanical garden, the Hortus Botanicus Leiden, opened in 1590, shelters rare species from all over the world.

Befitting an academic city, Leiden is stuffed with fascinating museums; the flagship Museum De Lakenhal, in a former cloth warehouse, displays works by artists including Rembrandt, who was born in Leiden in 1606. The Pilgrims, religious refugees who had fled England for Amsterdam in 1608, moved to Leiden the following year, raising money to lease the Speedwell to commence their journey to the New World in 1620. The tiny Leiden American Pilgrim Museum charts their story.

Planning tip: Leiden is a jumping-off point for springtime trips through the rainbow-striped tulip fields and Keukenhof Gardens , 10 miles north at Lisse, when some seven million bulbs bloom.

Best place for unique perspectives

Utrecht ’s university was founded in 1636, and this vibrant student city buzzes with independent shops, bars and bakery-cafes.

The city has some singular vantage points. From the top of its Utrecht's medieval landmark, the 112m (367ft) belfry Domtoren, reached by 465 steps, you can see as far as Amsterdam on a clear day. The Domkerk cathedral’s nave was destroyed by a hurricane in 1674 and never rebuilt. Below ground DOMunder guided tours take you to an underground archaeological site covering two millennia of history. Paleis Lofen tours explore the subterranean remains of this residence built by the Holy Roman Emperors around 1020 AD, incorporating Roman remains.

Also unique to Utrecht are its canals. Sluicing through the historic center, the Oudegracht and Nieuwegracht have double-decker towpaths, at both river level, where merchants offloaded goods into kelders (cellars), many of which house cafes and accommodation, and street level above. You can see another side to them from the water by boat, kayak or canoe.

Best for beaches, dunes and wildlife

The grand city of Haarlem – with its Grote Markt (Great Market) square, centuries-old churches (try to catch a Müller organ recital at the Grote Kerk) and impressive ensemble of museums (notably Frans Hals and Teylers) – is a splendid place to visit in itself.

When you’ve had your fill, the city is an ideal base for accessing powdery-soft, white-sand beaches at Zandvoort and Bloemendal aan Zee, via the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park , which teems with wildlife: along with birds and bats, you might spot bison, red foxes and fallow deer, as well as 2016-introduced horned Highland cattle. Kopje van Bloemendaal is the Netherlands’ highest dune, with views of the sea and Amsterdam (the capital is just 20 minutes from Haarlem). 

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• To the West

Amsterdam--Worth It?

Admittedly, the question should be placed in some context, such as how much time, what are the other choices, where else are you going, what do you like, what have you seen before.

But something I have noticed on this forum (and I have gone back about 25 pages) is that (a) there are few threads on Amsterdam and (b) there are several negative posts on the city--people love the Dutch, but some find the city excessively dirty and certainly expensive (though I know this also would apply to many European cities).

So to those who have been to Amsterdam, I simply ask did you like it or dislike it, why, how high does it rank on your list of favorite European cities?

Thanks in advance for your opinions.

I love Amsterdam! The art scene the one of the best in the world, and I'm not even talking about the two big museums (Rijks and Van Gough). The smaller museums like the Hermitage, Tropical Mueseum, Jewish Museum, New/Old churches, the Stedelijk Museum, Amsterdam History Museum, Resistance Museum, and the FOAM photography gallery, have amazing temporary exhibits that change several times a year. I've visited Amsterdam once or twice a year for the past ten years, and these rotating exhibits always make for a new, and fresh experience. Obvsiously in a city where drugs and prostitution are legal, there is going to be seedy element, but it's easily avoided if you don't want to partake. The residential areas with their canals are stunningly beautiful, and tranquil. But one the best features of the city is how compact it is, it's not spread out like London or Paris most all the key sites are with in walking distance or a very short tram ride away. Don't get me wrong I love London and Paris but hopping on and off the metro all day does get tiring and dehumanizing. I also love the overall atmosphere of the city it's not a business center like London- more laid back. People go to Amsterdam to have fun (vacation from your vacation),and its very contagious!

I had my 3rd visit last Nov. Each time I go, I like it more. I stayed 6 days which was probably too many - would have been OK if I'd taken some day trips. It is grungy & that's what most of us need to get past. But the architecture is wonderful as are the people. The more I visit, the more I feel the charm of the city. Also, because they speak English so well, it's an easy city for us. As far as cities, I've only been to London, Edinburgh, Paris & Amsterdam. I like them all but for different reasons. I like Paris & London for the museums & other sights. I liked Amsterdam for the look of it & the quiet charm. Edinburgh I just like for no particular reason. Amsterdam was no more expensive than Paris. I know someone who travels to Europe about a week out of every month & his favorite city is Amsterdam.

The other side. Amsterdam is my least favorite place in Northern Europe. I do think it's a one-time must see and I wouldn't tell anybody not to go there. Having been there, it's at the bottom of my list for a return visit - which is a shame because so many overseas flights pass through Schipol so it's one of the easier cities to visit.

Here are the pluses. Amsterdam was once an important center of international trade and has great history. The Dutch are better foreign language speakers than any other Europeans so you will feel more at home as an English only speaker than almost anywhere else in Europe. The canal design of the city is interesting. The tax structure resulted in some interesting architechture. The number of bikes is interesting and unusual. The Van Gogh museum has paintings you wouldn't recognize as his from different periods in his career. They are very tolerant.

Here are the minuses. It's the dirtiest city in Northern Europe. You would probably have to go as far as Naples to find a dirtier city. The drug culture is pervasive. Used drugs and drug paraphernalia are hard to avoid, whether on the street or in a park. The museums are only okay. The Rijksmuseum isn't worth visiting if you will visit museums in any other major city. Van Gogh painted his most recognizable subjects multiple times so you are likely to see "the same" painting at many different museums. The best Dutch masters paintings seem to be in museums outside of the Netherlands, from Rome to DC. The tourist trade caters (to too large extent) to illicit drugs and sex. If you aren't into that, it's off-putting. They practice extreme tolerance, an example - people who break into a vacant home and set up as squatters have legal rights so the owner can't get them out. Building owners don't want their property to be vacant for even a day for fear of losing their investment.

We just got back from Amsterdam. It was worth about 1 1/2 days. We stayed in Harlaam and took the 20 min train ride into Amdam each day. I would see the sights that you want in Amdam then go to the quieter, cleaner, and smaller Harlaam for Dutch canal beauty and charm.

Admittedly, it was the first stop on our first trip to Europe, so I think that affects our opinion a bit. We liked Amsterdam okay, but I think our trip really showed us that we like the smaller towns better (We also went to Paris and Berlin as our big cities and probably would rank Amsterdam behind Berlin and just a bit ahead of Paris-mostly because of the crowds). My wife really enjoyed the Van Gogh Museum and we both liked the Ann Frank House. Both are not huge museum goers, nor were we there for the sex/drug culture so it had a limited appeal to us, though we did enjoy it.

I would go back, but mostly if it was convenient along our route (For instance to fly into Europe or on the way to Bruges, which we loved!). I'd also seriously consider staying in Harlaam so we could escape the big city bustle when we wanted to.

On a side note, our bed and breakfast host told us to use the library for free internet access as it was brand new. It was an amazing building (right next to the train station) with a great view of town and a wonderful cafeteria on the 7th floor! Definitely worth it to pop in if you are there. We had a wonderful meal there!

I have only been twice. Once as a child for a week.. As a child I thought the canals were interesting, I loved Ann Franks house and seeing windmills and we went on some sort of tour to a little fishing village and a wooden shoe factory and a cheese factory( see a theme, LOL) It was " quaint" .. but not very exciting.

I went back at 23. Did Ann Franks house again, and again found it moving. Visited a coffee house.Walked through red light area, thought that was just too sad. I felt sorry for the girls/woman. I did not feel their "empowerment" . Found Amsterdam rather seedy... too much drug culture , and I don't just mean pot smoking. We only spent 3 days there and left.

Would I go again, possiblily for a day or two, it is a good place to fly into . I wouldn't stay there long though, I just think there are much more interesting and exciting cities,, not that Amsterdam is a hole, its not, its just kind of "ho hum" and a bit seedy( which you can avoid) .

I would say it is worth a visit simply because of the unique nature of the city - the "look" if you will.

I guess maybe I was dazzled by the cool architecture and good museums and friendly English-speaking locals, but I didn't find it very much dirtier than other big cities anywhere else. My sister lives in a transitional neighborhood in Baltimore and it was certainly cleaner than that. I'm also not sure that some of the "dirty" complaints don't really mean "centuries old and well-used."

I walked through Vondelpark every day and I noticed the kids playing with dogs and the young men kicking around a soccer ball more than the syringes under the bushes. Yes, they were there. I just focused on other things. Same with the canals - I wasn't going to swim in them so I just ignored the trash that was floating and thought about how it would have been to live there hundreds of years ago.

I guess I'm just a Pollyanna! I've never been to a European city I didn't find a reason to love, and I'm more focused on enjoying myself than noting any complaints. I don't have time to be negative on vacation! That takes away from my carefully designated "try a local alcoholic beverage" scheduling!

Its my favorite European city, and I can't wait to visit it again! To me its like Venice but so much better. The canals are beautiful and remind me of Venice, lots of cafes where you can sit on a bridge and have a coffee while watching the world go by or just chatting with your friends. After a while in Venice I get tired of small squares and twisty narrow passages, but in Amsterdam there are also larger public spaces and plenty of places to walk. Amsterdam has a nice pedestrian-only mall, cafes to sit and have a coffee or beer, as well as the cultural attractions of a city with a rich heritage and past.

I agree with Pat here. We were there couple years ago for a quick stop before flying out. Its interesting, but seedy with all the tolorance they have. Traveled all over Europe and it was one of my least favorite cities. It is unique, and maybe I didn't give it enough time, but we were not 100% confortable in the city.

Amsterdam isn't my favorite European city either but I agree that if you love museums and stay in Haarlem it's absolutely worth a visit!

Amsterdam is one of my favorite cities in Europe. I go to Europe every summer and seen lots of cities there. I have stayed in both Amsterdam and Harlaam and think I will stay in Harlaam next time I go to that area. Less congested - slower pace - quieter at night - short train ride into Amsterdam. Some people like the opera and some people do not. Same goes for cities both in Europe and here in the US. Happy travels

Amsterdam was beautiful - we stayed there on each end of our trip in June. My husband, daughter, and I enjoyed the architecture and the museums the most. Unlike other locations we visited over our 3.5 week trip, it was not somewhere we were sad to leave nor did we feel very much at home there. It was charming in its way and the canals were lovely but we loved other places in Germany, Austria, Belgium, and Italy much better. It is an easy place to fly into/out of and has something to offer everyone. I personally would never dedicate more than a day or so there and it will never be my destination trip. I would return to see the flowers though because we missed them in June. I hope you have a wonderful trip - you would be hard pressed to go anywhere in Europe and not have a great time!

I stayed in Haarlem and spent one full day in Amsterdam.It was a nice day,Ann Franks,Canel Boat ride and just walking.However I was happy to leave and dont think I would return.

We loved it! We rented an apartment in a canal house and had a wonderful time. Definitely worth a few days!

Amsterdam certainly is not one of my favorite cities in Europe but we enjoyed it. We only stayed two nights and that was not enough time. The food is fabulous! We loved the Ristophel/Indonesian meals. Keukenhof Gardens were wonderful and I think the Anne Frank House was the highlight of the visit. Liked the Riiks museum but not the Van Gogh one. We plan to return to see more of Amsterdam.

My husband and I loved it. It's a compact city -- easy to get around. We loved the Van Gogh museum. We loved the canals. We loved the flowers. We would love to go back. It's easy to take day trips from Amsterdam.

Great thread.

A wide variety of view points and it didn't get nasty.

I'll throw my hat in with the "love it" crowd. If you like cozy, laid-back cities, this is the place! I'm not going to tell you what the others haven't already, but the friendly people, compact size, and history make it a must-see. There's just a certain intangible quality about Amsterdam that makes it equal parts quirky and charming. It's best seen in the late spring to early fall; I've been there in spring for the tulips and it was blustery cold!

Personally, I think the dodginess factor (i.e. prostitution and drugs) is a bit overblown. Just keep your street smarts as you would any other city, and see things for what they are, and it's quite an eye-opening and delightful experience. As an aside, I've heard that the city government is closing up many of the storefront brothels in the near future to cut down on crime in the area.

Regardless, it's a beautiful experience not to be missed. Go!

Amy it could be worse, instead of Amsterdam (or anywhere else in Holland) he could be transferred to France, Germany ect. where speaking English outside of tourists area may be problematic on a day by day basis. The Dutch are great linguists and most everyone, everywhere speaks perfect English. Outside of the UK and Ireland there is no better country for someone who speaks only English to be transferred to.

I vote yes on Amsterdam. If you like to walk it is a beautiful place to walk in. Yes, wonderful museums and lovely canals. The Anne Frank House is an experience everyone should have. Yes, drugs and prostitution are there but avoidable. I have been there in summer and winter and love both times of the year!

Happy Travels! Debi

There is a remote possibilty that my husband's job could move him to Amsterdam, so this thread got my attention. Please someone rave about what a great city it is and that you would move there in a heartbeat!! :) 2 or 3 days are good, how about 2 or 3 years??!

I vote "yes" on the quality and number of responses my initial post received. The responses confirmed the diversity of opinion on Amsterdam though apparently showing a majority were fans of the city. Many thanks for the thoughtful responses.

Enjoy! A couple days before you head into Amsterdam checkout www.amsterdamweekly.nl It will give you a complete listing of everything happening around town-in English.

We were there for 3 1/2 days which was just about right. We loved the architecture, the canals, the museums, and the food. (On one day took a day trip out which was very easy.) I'm glad I got to see Amsterdam, and I would go back but there are other places I want to experience first.

We are definitely going to jump at the chance to move over there if it works out - like I said, the chance is remote. I had not thought about the amount of English speaking people there, that would definitely help with the transition. But I have to say, I have not been to Amsterdam - but was surprised by this thread. I had ideas about what it would be and didn't expect people to put it on the lower end of the spectrum for cities to see in Europe. It's perfect if for nothing else than to be a major hub for us to explore the rest of Europe. Keep your fingers crossed, we may make the move if things go that way. How fun!

Amy, if you can do it then jump at it! This would be the opportunity of a lifetime. Instead of just being a tourist passing thru for a few days, you'd have a chance to make a very liveable city home. As was already pointed out, since everyone speaks English you'll get around easily. And by living on the Continent you'll have the chance to visit tons of places in Europe with a train ride or discount flight.

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Is the Artis Amsterdam Royal Zoo Worth Visiting?

Do you love animals and are curious if you should spend time at the artis royal zoo when you visit amsterdam.

As someone who loves visiting zoos, I was excited to check out ARTIS Zoo in the Dutch capital of Amsterdam, also known as the official name of ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo . After spending several hours there, I can confidently say that it’s an excellent destination for families, friends, and animal lovers. In this blog post, I’ll be sharing an ARTIS Zoo review on my thoughts and what first-time visitors can expect when they visit.

Visiting Artis Royal Zoo was an educational and enjoyable experience. The zoo, which originally opened in 1838 makes it the oldest zoo in the Netherlands and the fifth oldest in the world. It is home to over 750 different animal species.

Artis Zoo’s animal collection ranges from monkeys to Asian elephants to tigers to zebras to sea lions. Visitors can learn about the history of the zoo and see some of the animals up close in natural habitats.

Although it was busy when I visited, it didn’t feel overcrowded and we had enough space to view the animals and read about them. The zoo is spread over 25 acres, and it was easy to move from one area to another comfortably.

🐘 Get tickets online for the Artis Royal Zoo 🐘

Is the Amsterdam Zoo Worth visiting?

Absolutely! Artis Zoo is a must-visit attraction if you are in Amsterdam. It is not just another zoo; it is also an important scientific institution that conducts research and conservation efforts for endangered animal species. As someone who loves animals, I appreciated the efforts made by the zoo to educate visitors on the importance of protecting these creatures.

The exhibits at Artis Zoo were well maintained, and the animals seemed content in their environments. The zoo also has a planetarium, an aquarium, bird house, and a butterfly garden, providing visitors with more than just animal exhibits.

I was particularly impressed by the exciting journey through the world’s first microbe museum, which showcases microorganisms that are invisible to the naked eye.

It’s worth noting that Artis Zoo is committed to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint. They have implemented various measures such as solar panels, energy-efficient lighting, and a strict recycling system. As a visitor, it’s reassuring to know that the zoo is conscious of its impact on the environment.

What Animals Are in the Artis Zoo?

One highlight of the zoo is the impressive butterfly pavilion. The pavilion is filled with different species of butterflies and plants all year round, and it’s fascinating to watch them as they fly around visitors. The butterfly pavilion is also a great spot to cool down from the sun.

Another must-see is the monumental Aquarium, which is one of the oldest aquariums in the world. The Aquarium houses over 300 tropical fish and other species from all over the world and is a fun and interactive experience for both adults and children. It includes a tropical rainforest.

The zoo also has the ARTIS planetarium and several historical buildings, which are also included in the admission price and you don’t need a separate ticket. Lastly, if you’re looking for a bite to eat or drink, there are several cafes with a great selection of foods and drinks scattered around the zoo.

We especially enjoyed the Seal Show that is held a couple of times during each day, the gorilla house, and the big cats. The large male lion was putting on quite a show when we visited.

And for something truly unique check out the microscopic life exhibit at the museum of microbes.

Artis Zoo Visitor Information

Opening hours.

November -February 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

March to October 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

How to get to Artis

ARTIS Zoo Plantage Kerklaan 38-40 1018 CZ Amsterdam

ARTIS Zoo is conveniently located in central Amsterdam, easily accessible by public transport, and provides parking facilities for those coming by car parking fees start at 12.50 Euros (approx $13.50 USD).

Artis Amsterdam Zoo Map

A current map of the Artis Amsterdam Zoo can be found here. This can be downloaded or requested at the entrance upon arrival.

Artis Zoo Reviews

Interested in reading more about what others have to say about their experience at Artis Zoo? Check out ARTIS Zoo reviews from

• Google | 4.5⭐ |
• TripAdvisor | 4.5⭐ |
• Yelp | 4.0⭐ |

TripAdvisor:

This is the second time we have visited Artis Zoo, going 2 years in a row. The zoo is excellent, with many different animals to see laid out in a spacious, well-kept, and easy-to-get-around.

Manged to see and get up close to animals such as, Black Panther, Giraffe, Red Panda, Chimpanzees Gorilla, Zebra and many many more.

The indoor rainforest, Insectarium, and Planetarium are all excellent and very informative. The staff was very friendly and helpful The weather was also great both times we went, which helped. Would 100% recommend it if you are in Amsterdam!! The Clarks from Scotland – TripAdvisor Review

Apparently, ARTIS is one of Europe’s oldest zoos and is unique in that it’s situated in the middle of the city. It was very convenient to walk here as it only took us 20 minutes or so. They have many animals here. The highlight was the elephants. They were walking around and kicking a ball. There is also a play area for kids. My 6-year-old daughter liked playing on it. You probably need at least two visits to appreciate everything here.

Jonathan Lau – Google Review

The Artis Zoo in the Netherlands was a nice experience with a few animal exhibits that really stood out as world class. The most impressive was the elephant exhibit which featured a large and deep pond where I watched an elephant play and swim for 15 minutes. Rarely do you see that type of joyful behavior from elephants in zoos. The whole herd behaved as closely to a wild herd as I’d ever seen in a zoo. Some of the exhibits weren’t as modern and the route to get around the zoo required some backtracking. Definitely a mix of an old historic zoo with more progressive modern exhibits, but you could see and feel that it is headed in the right direction. I look forward to going back next time I’m in Amsterdam!

Sam L. – Yelp Review

Artis Zoo Ticket Prices

Ticket prices for Amsterdam Zoo tickets are 25 Euros (approx $27 USD) for adults and 21 Euros (approx $23 USD) for kids 3-12. Kids under 3 are free.

Artis Royal Zoo is currently included as free admission with the Amsterdam City Card .

Things to do nearby

If you’re planning on spending the whole day at Artis Zoo, there are also plenty of other things to do nearby. The famous Hortus Botanicus botanical garden is just a short walk away and offers a beautiful and tranquil escape from the bustling city center. Additionally, the trendy Oosterpark is located right next to Artis Zoo and is perfect for a picnic or leisurely stroll.

And for those looking to continue their animal-filled day, the Wereldmuseum Amsterdam is also close by and showcases various cultures and their respective ecosystems.

Both the Hortus Botanicus and Wereldmuseum are included as free admission with the Amsterdam City Card.

Places to Stay Nearby

If you’re planning on spending the whole day at Artis Zoo, you may want to consider staying in the surrounding area. Here are some recommendations for places to stay nearby:

• Hotel Plantage – This charming boutique hotel is located in the heart of Amsterdam with comfortable rooms and friendly staff.
• The Lancaster Hotel – Elegant hotel located within walking distance of Artis Zoo and other popular attractions.
• The Student Hotel Amsterdam City – Modern, budget-friendly accommodation with a unique concept that combines student dorms with hotel rooms. Located close to the zoo and public transportation.
• Conscious Hotel The Toren – This eco-friendly boutique hotel is located in a historic building and offers stylish rooms and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city. Overall, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from that are conveniently located near Artis Zoo.

Frequently Ask Questions FAQs – Artis Zoo Amsterdam

Curious about what to expect at Artis Royal Zoo? Take a look at these frequently asked questions to help plan your visit.

On average, visitors spend around 3-4 hours at the zoo. However, this may vary depending on your pace around the zoo grounds and your interest in the different exhibits.

Yes, Artis Zoo has a number of cafes with various food and drink options scattered throughout the park. From quick snacks to sit-down restaurants, you will find something to satisfy your hunger while exploring.

Yes, the seal and bird shows are included in the ticket price. Additional experiences, such as feeding the giraffes or taking a boat tour, may have additional fees.

Yes, Artis Zoo is wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs can also be rented at the park for free on a first-come, first-served basis.

It is not necessary to book your visit to Artis Zoo in advance, but it is recommended during peak season and holidays. This will ensure that you have a spot reserved and can save you time waiting in line at the entrance. Same-day tickets can also be purchased online until 1 hour before closing time.

The Wrap-Up: Amsterdam Artis Zoo Review

The Artis Zoo is a wonderful zoo east of the city near the center of Amsterdam and provides an unforgettable experience. It’s an educational, safe, and organized attraction that is perfect for families with young children to spend a relaxing afternoon.

With its historic roots, Artis Zoo is a fascinating and unique place with a great deal of charm and personality. I hope this review encourages you to add Artis Zoo to your travel itinerary next time you’re in Amsterdam.

Be sure and read about other unique experiences in Amsterdam like the Anne Frank Museum , Canal Cruise , and the NEMO Science Museum .

Related Topics

• Exploring the Charm of Amsterdam through an Amsterdam Canal Cruise
• Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans Windmill and Cheese Tasting Tour Review
• The Pancake Bakery in Amsterdam: An Honest Review
• Is the NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam Worth Visiting?

Floating Chinese Restaurant Amsterdam: Sea Palace Review

• Are the Hortus Botanical Gardens in Amsterdam worth visiting?

Melodie Rush is an avid traveler and a passionate explorer. Born in North Carolina, my journey from road trips with my parents to exploring diverse cultures across five continents has fueled my love for practical and immersive travel. Join me and Gary as we share straightforward insights, must-dos, and travel tips to make your adventures seamless and memorable. Let's explore the world with purpose!

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Cities Near Amsterdam Worth Visiting

Amsterdam is an amazing city and there are so many things to see. Most of articles on this blog, are dedicated to this town, but there are also other cities worth visiting. If you have some extra time I would recommend you to go for a tour around the Netherlands and visit a few places. The Netherlands is a very small country and you can cross it within few hours. Moreover, transport and highways are on the highest level, so you don’t have to worry about it.

Cities Near Amsterdam Worth Visiting are:

• Zaanse Schans

I will describe shorly each and every town on this list and on the end of article I mention the best ways to travel The Netherlands. I am going to share with you some tips and tricks so travelling won’t be a pain in the ass but a great adventure.

I was living in Haarlem for the last 5 years and I am telling you, go there. It’s a lovely town with beautiful architecture, amazing market square, dozens narrow romantic streets and little shops.

What To See in Haarlem?

Haarlem is a medieval city and I often hear that it is the most beautiful city in the whole Netherlands, so if you have only one extra day and you have to choose where to go, this is the place you want to visit.

Market Square Groote Markt

The market square in Haarlem is a good beginning. There is often something happening, events or bazaar. You can get there some fresh, local food, flowers or typical Dutch products. From the market square, there are few cool destinations. I would just follow the direction of Spaarne ( Canal ) and there are always some cool old ships along the waterside. You can also have a break in the restaurant Spaarne 66. Just chill and drink some coffee.

From the market square, there is an easy way to famous Haarlem spots such as Molen Adriaan ( Windmill with a lookout station ) Frans Hals Museum, Beautiful hidden Courtyards, De Jopen Kerk ( It used to be a church and now you can get here some good beer )

I would suggest you to visit Botermarkt , it’s one of the most beautiful parts of the town. From there on you can follow little streets of Haarlem and just get lost. If you walk around this area you find also a lot of little cool shops.

How to Get To Haarlem?

Haarlem is close to Amsterdam and you can get here by train in 18 minutes. For car parking, you pay around 4 euro per hour but there is underground parking just beneath the market square. There you pay a little bit less and it is in the city center. There best way to get to Haarlem is by train or by car. For the train ticket, you pay 9,70 Euro both ways. Car parking costs around 3 Euro per hour.

Utrecht is a medieval town located very close to Amsterdam . The quickest and the easiest way to get there is by train and it takes only 20 minutes. Old town and its canals are astonishing, so just walk around sipping its culture and atmosphere.

What To See in Utrecht?

Utrecht isn’t only the most charming city in The Netherlands but in the whole of Europe. Utrecht in much smaller then Amsterdam and everything seems to be in one place. That’s why it is easy to see this city just in one day. Let’s go straight to the point. What To See in Utrecht?

Among the Most Beautiful Things to See in Utrchet are:

• De Haar Castel
• De Dom Tower
• Sonnenborgh Observatory
• Museum Speelklok

What I like the most is just walking around the city center. It’s a lovely place with huge amount of little cafes. Don’t spend all day long visiting popular places. Just have a rest, relax and enjoy this beautiful place.

How To Get To Utrecht?

As I said before the best Way to get to Utrecht is by Train. Every 15 minutes there is a train that costs aproximately 8 Euro (2nd class). You can also get there direcly from Schiphol and then ticket costs around 9.20 Euro.

If you are coming by car, then you should go for on P+R Parkings. It costs 5 Euros and you get to the city center with public transport.

3. Volendam

Volendam is a famous Dutch town located on the Markermeer Lake. This is a city where you can really feel a Dutch culture. You need half of a day to enjoy Volendam to the fullest.

What To See in Volendam?

• Colorful Wooden Houses
• Old Fishing Boats in the harbor
• The Volendam Museum
• Walk along the harbor have and have some munchies
• Wear traditional Dutch clothes and take a photo. It costs 15 per person and 30 for 4 people.
• Try Poffertjes ( typical Dutch little pancakes ) nad Kibbeling ( very popular in the Netherlands fish dish )
• Go for a boat trip to Market ( 30 minutes tour to nearby village )

How To Get To Volendam?

Volendam is only 25 minutes from Amsterdam by bus. You get there with bus 316 from Amsterdam/CS IJzijde station. This station is located on the back of Amsterdam central station. You have to cross central station all the way to the back and there are signs, so it’s difficult to get lost. One way ticket costs 4,39 Euro. You can also book a tour or travel on you own by car.

Delft is the city in the south of The Netherlands. It’s 45 minutes away from Amsterdam. It is a little lovely town with gorgeous canals and charming old town. It’s located just in between Rotterdam nad Den Haag.

What To See in Delft?

Delft isn’t that much of a touristc town as Amsterdam and definitely it’s worth visiting. Probably at this point you are not surprised when I say get lost and explore city on your own. Just walk along the canals and you will be good 😉 But of course there are many things to see in Delft and I mention some of them below.

• Nieuwe Kerk
• Beestenmarkt
• Wilhelminapark
• Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles
• Molen de Roos
• TU Botanical Garden
• Delft City Hall
• Delft canals
• Markt square
• Canal boat trip

How To Get To Delft?

You can get to Delft by car or by train. A return train ticket costs 28 Euro but you must come back the same day. You can get a ticket in one of the ticket machines on the entrance of the station. Keep in mind that you have to scan a ticket before entering a platform and scan it again when you leave a train station in Delft. Now look for the train to Delft. It is highlighted on the screens.

Alkmaar is a city in the Noord of Holland know for their cheese market and long history. But there is much more to see. Keep on reading to learn more. I recommend you to go for a canal cruise. Canals in Alkmaar are charming.

What To See in Alkmaar?

When you ask someone about Alkmaar, you hear immediately about cheese but this not the only thing you can enjoy in this amazing city. In Alkmaar, there are countless museums, shopping districts, historic monuments, charming cafes, and restaurant.

• Kaarmarkt – cheese market (The best day to visit market is Friday because on this day there is a cheese market)
• Grote kerk – a big church
• Stedelijk Museum Alkmaar
• Het Beatles Museum
• AFAS Stadium
• De Tromp Kaashuis
• De Vlaminck – the best fries in town
• Theater De Vest

How to Get To Alkmaar?

It takes beetwen 34 and 44 minutes to get from Amsterdam to Alkmaar. On a daily basis 90 trains go to Alkmaar so you don’t even have to check a schedule. Just go to the train station and you’ll be good. For Return Ticket you pay 9 Euro.

For long distance tours, you don’t want to go with a taxi. For example, for that short trip from Amstedam to Alkmaar, you pay 100 – 130 Euro. But if you have a car, it takes only 30 minutes to get there and you can find a decent price parking in the city center.

I know I said it before about other places that they are charming. But Naarden is exceptional. Just check Naarden view on google maps, it looks just like a snowflake. This town is built in a start shape and it’s fortified wall measures 135 km.

What To See in Naarden

Naarden is one of the most preserved fortified towns in Europe and it’s an amazing piece of a Dutch History. What to do and see in Naarden?

• The Netherlands Fortress Museum
• Weegschaal museum
• Charming cafes, shops, and attractions (Fine – cozy restaurant in Naarden)
• Explore Fortifications

How to Get To Naarden

The very best way to get to Naarden is by bus. With line 320 you get to your destination in 30 minutes and it cost 5 Euro. First, you have to get from Amsterdam Central to Amsterdam Amstel station. From there you take a bus 320.

7. Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans is a open-air museum where you can enjoy a traditional Dutch culture. If you want to feel a Dutch atmosphere this is a place to go. Especially when you are in Amsterdam. Zaanse Schans is only 40 minutes from a Dutch capital.

What To See in Zaanse Schans

When it is about Zaanse Schans you don’t have to plan what to see. This is an open-air museum and you just go within designated path. But if you have some extra time you can visit also Volendam which is closeby Zaanse Schans.

How to Get To Zaanse Schans

By car , choose a destination: Schansend 7 in Zaandam. For parking, you pay 10 Euro per day, but keep in mind that you can’t pay cash, only card.

With RNet Bus 391 you get to Zaanse Schaans in 40 minutes and it rides every 15 minutes.

If you like cycling , then Zaanse Schans is only 1 hour biking from Amsterdam Central. In Zaanse Schans there is a lot of bicycle parking racks so you don’t have to worry about your bicycle.

8. Zandvoort

Zandvoort is a Dutch famous coastal city. It’s very popular among Dutch people but not only. There is a lot of Germans visiting this town each year. It’s only 30 minutes from Amsterdam. Beach in Zandvoort is long and wide. It’s a paradise for those who like to spend their time in ana active way.

What To See in Zandvoort

Zandvoort is a former fishing village which became a popular tourist destination. Below I mention what to do in Zandvoort:

• Enjoy clean sandy beaches
• Water sports: Kitesurfing, stand-up paddle boarding
• Trek around dunes or rent a bike
• Jutters Mu-ZEE-um
• Zandvoorts Museum for art and history
• Hang out at beach club ( there is more then 30 of them )

How to Get To Zandvoort

There is a great connection between Amsterdam and Zandvoort. By train, you get there in 30 minutes and a one-way ticket costs 6,60 Euro. Zandvoort train station is just near the beach, it’s maybe 5 minutes walk.

Zaandam is very close to Amsterdam and if you have only few hours this is a nice town to see. There are few things you should see but it isn’t definitely whole day destination. Keep on reading to learn about the most interesting things to see in Zaandam.

What To See in Zaandam

As I said before Zaandam isn’t that big, but it is a cool place to visit on your way to Volendam, Zaanse Schaans or if you have few hours left in The Netherlands. Below are some cool thins to see in Zaandam

• City Hall in traditional Dutch house style
• Main street leading to old town
• The Clog Museum
• Go on a Cycling tour

How to Get To Zaandam

The Best Way to Get to Zaandam is by train. It takes only 13 minutes and you pay 3,80 for the ticket. The train departs from the central station.

Day trips from Amsterdam

Above I mention some cities close to Amsterdam worth visiting and here you can read about some cool spots and things to do in The Netherlands. But for these ones, you will need 1 day.

It is a unique spot, quite far from Amsterdam because you need 1,5 hour to get there by car or 2 hours by train. What’s interesting about this town it is totally car-free.

You can explore Giethorn from canals or on your own on a bicycle. It’s one of the most beautiful places in the Netherlands.

Keukenhof Gardens

Keukenhof is one of the biggest gardens in the world. It’s situated in Lisse, on the south of Holland. There is an easy connection from Amsterdam. Approximately 7 million flower bulbs are planted in Keukenhof each year. You can rent a bike, cycle around the park or go for a canal cruise.

Muiderslot Caslte

If you enjoy exploring castels this is a place for you. Muiderslot Castle. It’s not far away from Amsterdam because you need only 40 minutes to get there. It’s in a day tours category because there is a lot of interactive exhibitions such as “knight games”.

If you’ve bought a IAmsterdam card, entrance is free of charge. The Best time to visit Muideslot Castel is in summer when garden blossom.

Cheapest Way To Travel Netherlands

I have to tell you something at the very beggining. The Netherlands is not a cheap country when it comes to travelling. Actually, it is pretty expensive country in general. Accomodation, transport, food, attractions are expensive. But of course there are ways to save some money. I am going to give you some tips and tricks.

Transportation

I always use my OV chipcard. With this card, you get some discount and it’s much cheaper than buying a regular ticket. But when you travel a lot it’s smart to get a day card.

There are 2 kinds of OV. One of them is personal card and you have to apply for it on the website. Link Here . It’s good to get one if you live in The Netherlands. You will get a discount and you won’t ever be bothered about funds on your card. It will automatically charge your card. For example, you can set an automatic charge on 20 Euro and it takes money from a bank account.

Another kind of OV kaart is an anonymous card. Get this one when you visit Amsterdam only for a few days. You can buy anonymous OV Chipkaart on sales devices at a station, operators’ counters, newsagents and supermarkets or at OVshop , the Chipbizz webshop.

Day Card costs approximately 41 Euro and you can use it for any mean of transportation in The Netherlands. This means you can travel anywhere for the 24 hours with this ticket. More information on this website.

You can also get a GVB day card for the area of Amsterdam, Diemen, Duivendrecht, Amstelveen, Schiphol, Weesp and this one costs only 8 Euro. More information on this website.

Group Ticket

You can also get a group ticket on any train station but you can also get it on the internet. On this website, you can buy a group ticket .

Rent a Bike

For me forever the best transport, relax and activity. Of course, if I travel only within the town. You can rent a bicycle in Amsterdam for as little as 9.50 per hour. This is also a cool option, because you are constantly active and there is a feeling of adventure. Read my another article on where to rent a bike in Amsterdam. It’s on the blog www.dutchstylebike.com. Link here.

Traveling by Car

Traveling by Car in The Netherlands is comfortable because there are highways everywhere. But parking fees can kill you. The Best solution is to park your car in P+R parkings.

Rafal Sulowski

I am a creator, blogger, vlogger, always curious mind with endless energy. I love people and having fun. Sport and healthy lifestyle is my passion. Currently living in Amsterdam.

What Language Do They Speak in Amsterdam?

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15 Cities Near Amsterdam: The Best Dutch Cities to Visit

There are so many cities near amsterdam worth visiting here are some of my favorites.

After visiting Amsterdam several times, I realized that the train transportation makes it so easy to visit other cities in the Netherlands. We’re talking like- some cities I’ve visited are within a 15-minute train ride from Centraal Station!

Plus, while traveling through the Netherlands, I have found the locals to be so friendly and welcoming. And the Dutch speak English so well , making it so incredibly easy to visit cities nearby Amsterdam.

Sometimes, you just need to get outside the city of Amsterdam and visit a few locations that are less popular! Based on my time traveling in the Netherlands, I’ve put together this list of the cities close to Amsterdam that are worth visiting, from charming small towns like Volendam to larger cities like Rotterdam. I’ve also included how to get there and the best things to do in each area .

My Picks: Top 3 Amsterdam to Germany Day Trips!

# 1 Pick: Haarlem (Little Amsterdam and WWII History!) #2 Pick: Volendam (Adorable Character & Great Seafood!) #3 Pick: Ghent (In Belgium- the Cutest, Most-Walkable CIty!)

Cities Close to Amsterdam

The following are the best cities near Amsterdam to visit. These are all reachable with a direct train from Amsterdam and take less than a 1.5-hour journey. Perfect for a weekend getaway !

Haarlem is the closest city to Amsterdam, and it is only a 20-minute train ride to get there. The city of Haarlem has a rich history and was once an important port city along the North Sea.

Today, the city has a village-like feel to it and still has much of its medieval architecture including cobblestone streets and gabled houses. I honestly love just walking around Haarlem- it feels like a tiny Amsterdam.

It is also famous for being a central point of the tulip bulb growing trade, and for the many tulip fields that surround the city. It is also well-known for being the location of the “Hiding Place” where Corrie Ten Boom and her family hid during the Holocaust.

Some of the best things to do when visiting Haarlem include taking a canal boat ride , wandering through the Grote Market Square, and visiting the historic Windmill De Adriaan .

Utrecht is the 4th largest city in the Netherlands. It is located south of Amsterdam, and it takes around 30 minutes to get there by train.

Historically, Utrecht was once the most important city in the Netherlands- until it was surpassed by Amsterdam in the Dutch Golden Age. Now, it is known for being a university town and is home to Utrecht University. 

Similar to Amsterdam, Utrecht has a series of canals that run through the city. It also has a historic city center that features one of the most famous landmarks in the Netherlands : the well-preserved Dom Tower, a 14th-century bell tower.

In addition to exploring Utrecht’s historic center, another popular place to visit is Castle De Haar which is the largest castle in the Netherlands.

3. The Hague

The Hague is the capital of the province of South Holland and is the official seat of the government of the Netherlands- even though it isn’t the official capital of the Netherlands. The Hague is easy to reach by train from Amsterdam, and the journey takes 45 minutes.

The Hague has gained the nickname of “City of International Peace and Justice” because it is also where the United Nations International Court of Justice is located.

Some of the best things to do in The Hague include visiting one of the many museums, such as the Mauritshuis or the Escher in Het Paleis.

As The Hague is located on the North Sea, there is also an 11km sandy beach that is perfect for visiting in the summer months.

4. Rotterdam

Rotterdam is the 2nd largest city in the Netherlands and is an important port city. Rotterdam is close to Amsterdam, about a 40-minute train ride away.

Unlike some of the other cities in the Netherlands, Rotterdam is much more modern. This is because the city was basically flattened during WWII and has been completely rebuilt. 

Rotterdam is definitely a popular Dutch city, and it is famous for its innovative modern architecture like the  Erasmusbrug bridge.

Some of the best things to do include taking a boat tour around the famous harbor, visiting the Maritime Museum Rotterdam, or going up the Euromast observation tower for panoramic views.

5. Arnhem (Feels like a smaller, adorable city near Amsterdam)

Arnhem is a smaller city, located on the eastern side of the Netherlands near the German border . It takes around 1 hour to get there from Amsterdam by train, but it is such a worthwhile trip!

Arnhem became famous during WWII as the site of the 1944 Battle of Arnhem, which was one of the largest airborne operations in history.

One of the best things to do here is visit the Arnhem War Museum or the Airbornemuseum , which both focus on WWII and the Battle of Arnhem.  These museums are extremely unique, and one even has an immersive experience in the basement; I enjoyed them a lot! There’s also plenty to do in Arnhem as far as walking around and exploring the city goes. We had a lovely little visit here a few years back, and I would absolutely go again.

⭐ If you’re a history buff, I 10/10 recommend this private WWII walking Tour in Arnhem!

6. Eindhoven

Eindhoven is a city in the southern part of the Netherlands, about a 1 hour and 20-minute train ride from Amsterdam.

The city is a modern technology and design hub and is where Phillips Electronics originated. 

Don’t leave Eindhoven without catching a game at the Phillips Stadium, or walking around the Strijp-S neighborhood which has transformed old Philips factories into trendy bars, restaurants, and shops.

Delft is a city in the South Holland province and is around a 1-hour train ride from Amsterdam.

Delft is famous for its ceramic Delft Blue pottery which dates back to the 16th century. Today, Delft Blue pottery is a popular souvenir and one of the things the Netherlands is known for .

The city of Delft is surrounded by canals, medieval architecture, and historic monuments. Some of the best things to do include visiting Market Square, Old Church, New Church, and the City Hall. Another must-do is to visit the Royal Delft Museum and Factory.

Cities Further From Amsterdam, the Netherlands

These cities are a bit further away, but still close enough to travel to from Amsterdam in less than 2.5 hours.

8. Groningen

Groningen is such an adorable city near Amsterdam. It is the largest city in the northern part of the Netherlands and is around a 2-hour train ride from Amsterdam. 

The city has a great cultural scene with several museums worth visiting such as the Groninger Museum and Northern Maritime Museum. Another must-see location is the Martinitoren, which is the tallest church steeple in the country.

Throughout the year, there are many events and festivals held in the city, at places like the MartiniPlaza arena.

9. Maastricht

Maastricht is a city near Amsterdam that is located in the southeastern region of the country, just on the border of Belgium. It takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes to reach by train from Amsterdam.

 Maastricht is mostly a university city, so there is plenty to do. In addition to its nightlife scene , it has medieval architecture and cobblestone streets that are in line with the old Dutch character.

Things to do here include visiting the 18th-century Sint Pieter Fort, walking through the Maastricht Underground Caves (so cool!), or, my personal favorite, tasting some Dutch beer at Bosch Brewery .

Smaller Cities or Towns Near Amsterdam Worth Visiting

The places below are smaller towns near Amsterdam (technically not cities) that have a lot of Dutch charm and are worth visiting.

10. Volendam

Ugh- I just love Volendam. Volendam is a small town located on Markermeer Lake. It is about a 45-minute journey by bus from Amsterdam, which makes it a great day trip. A trip to Volendam is often tacked on to guided tours of Zaanse Schans or Marken because it is nearby. But it is so different than the other places in the Netherlands you might have experienced.

The town is known for its colorful houses and harbor filled with old fishing boats. Some must-do activities when visiting include taking a walk around the harbor, trying some fresh seafood (it’s everywhere!), and visiting the Volendam Museum.

⭐ This tour is my personal favorite (have done it more than once!) and visits Zaanse Schans, Volendam, Edam, and Marken in just a half day!

Gouda is a town famous for its delicious Gouda Cheese, which is sold around the world. Located south of Amsterdam, Gouda is easy to reach by train in about 1 hour.

Do I even need to say that when visiting Gouda, trying the Gouda cheese is an absolute must-do? Obviously. One of the best places to do this is at the Gouda Cheese Experience , which is a tour that will take you through the history and process of cheese making, as well as a cheese tasting. Gouda also has the world-famous Gouda Cheese Market (just what you wanted- more cheese!). It is such a unique experience to walk through this market- highly recommend!

Leiden is a university town, which is home to the oldest university in the Netherlands. It is an easy day trip from Amsterdam and takes only 35 minutes by train. Leiden is a great option for getting away from some of the hustle and bustle in Amsterdam, but still seeing a town that has so much of the old canal feeling that Amsterdma has.

Leiden was the birthplace of Rembrandt, a famous Dutch Golden Age painter. For those interested in art history, you can even visit the Young Rembrandt Studio Museum.

Other things to do include exploring the canals on a boat ride, visiting the Museum de Lakenhal, or checking out the Hortus Botanicus Leiden, which is the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands.

Cities Near Amsterdam: Countries Other Than the Netherlands

Amsterdam is also located relatively close to other countries such as Belgium. Below, you will find 3 Belgian cities that can be visited as a day trip from Amsterdam.

13. Antwerp

Antwerp is a city in the Flemish region of Belgium. It is located around 1 hour and 20 minutes by train from Amsterdam, making it an easy day trip option.

The city is known for its Diamond District, which houses thousands of diamond traders and has been around for centuries. For those interested in diamonds checking out the DIVA Diamond Museum is a must-do.

Other things to do in Antwerp include seeing the Flemish-style architecture at the Grote Market and visiting the famous Ruben House to check out the Flemish artwork.

14. Brussels

Spoiler Alert: I don’t love Brussels (eek- I said it!) But, nonetheless, Brussels is the capital city of Belgium, so many people want to visit it. There is a direct train to Brussels from Amsterdam, which takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes.

A must-do when visiting Brussels is to visit some of the famous landmarks like the Grand Place, which is the central square. It is surrounded by 17th-century guild houses and the City Hall, and it really is just a magnificent place to take in. It feels epic to stand there. 

Other things to do include visiting the Royal Palace of Brussels or the Parc du Cinquantenaire, and tasting some delicious Belgian food such as Belgium Waffles or Frites. Seriously- eat all of the Belgian waffles you can- ha! But whatever you do, don’t leave Brussels without popping into one of the many chocolatiers around the Grand Place. Chocolate is truly like an art form here, and, look…I’m not even a “chocolate” person…and it was still delicious.

Ghent is one of the cities I most under-estimated in Europe. It is only 2.5 hours by train from Amsterdam, and it is so incredible.  During medieval times, Ghent was an important city-state and today is a university town that has a well-preserved historic center. It was the perfect day trip for me, and we walked around the old streets, visiting random stores and restaurants all day long.

A few of the best things to do are visit the 12th-century Gravensteen Castle (so amazing! There’s tons to see), take a canal tour, or try some of the famous Belgian beers. I also definitely recommend you enter St. Bavos Cathedral and try the Virtual Reality (VR) tour in the basement- it was so informative and a really unique experience that we will remember forever!

FAQ: Cities Near Amsterdam

What cities is amsterdam close to.

Amsterdam is in the western part of the Netherlands, in the Randstad region. Several other cities in this region are near Amsterdam, including Utrecht, The Hague, Haarlem, Leiden, Delft, and Rotterdam.

What countries are close to Amsterdam by train?

Amsterdam is close to several other countries, and it is easy to reach these places by train. The Netherlands borders Belgium and Germany, but France and Luxembourg are also close to Amsterdam by train. From Amsterdam, it takes about 2 hours by train to reach Brussels, hours to reach Cologne, and 3.5 hours to reach Paris.

What town is 20 minutes from Amsterdam?

Haarlem is located only 20 minutes from Amsterdam by train. Haarlem was once a major North Sea trading port, and today it retains its historic, village-like atmosphere. It is also known for its flower-bulb-growing district and for the tulip fields that surround the town.

Wrapping Up: Best Cities Near Amsterdam to Visit

There are so many great cities near Amsterdam that are worth visiting, whether you are looking to experience a modern Dutch city or a quaint historic town. 

Since there are so many cities close to Amsterdam, you can easily base yourself there and take day trips or spend a few nights in one of these other Dutch cities. In fact, I totally recommend you do this to make the most out of your Amsterdam itinerary !

Either way, it is a great idea to head outside of Amsterdam to explore one of these other places to get a better feel for Dutch culture.

Taylor Beal, owner and author of Traverse With Taylor, has been traveling in Europe for more than a decade and helps others explore Europe easily through amazing guides and itineraries. She has adventured through more than 20 countries, searching for the best experiences, must-try foods, and delicious beers! She spends a lot of time in Scotland and Amsterdam, two of her favorite places! Taylor is also a Holocaust educator focused on raising awareness around WWII historical sites.

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10 Famous Places You Should Not Bother Visiting

Posted: December 29, 2023 | Last updated: December 29, 2023

Before narrowing down an itinerary to a vacation destination that’s been on your mind, you should decipher if it’s worth your time to visit in the first place. Some places are too crowded to get a taste of the true vibe. Other places are incredibly noteworthy and intriguing, but they’re far too dangerous to visit for yourself in person.

Some places have been hyped to the extreme by people around the globe — but they’re riddled with crime, bad weather, seasonal closures, or widespread prejudice. Sometimes, it’s best to admire certain locations from a distance.

For your benefit, watch an adventure movie or two before hopping on a plane somewhere new. Seeing details about certain destinations onscreen in a movie may save you from booking the wrong trip. (Click here to discover the 19 best adventure films of all time.)

To compile this list of famous places you shouldn’t bother visiting, 24/7 Tempo consulted several travel websites including Pick Your Trail, The Travel, and Travel Triangle.

There’s much to do in Amsterdam. After all, it’s the capital of the Netherlands. A visit to Amsterdam means you’ll have the chance to lay eyes on the Museum District, which houses the Van Gogh Museum. Anyone who considers themselves to be an art buff likely has great appreciation for this particular travel destination.

Unfortunately, it’s so busy that it might not be worth it to bother. About 20 million tourists touch down in Amsterdam every year, according to some data . It is so overwhelming for locals that officials in the Netherlands have gone out of their way to block advertisements that describe the country as a tourist spot in hopes that the crowds will become more manageable.

Whether you watched “The Cheetah Girls 2” on Disney Channel or not, it’s obvious that Barcelona is considered one of the top tourist destinations ever. The problem here is that there are only 1.6 million people who call themselves residents of Barcelona…and about 30 million tourists head to Barcelona every year, about 10 million of which stay for longer than just a day.

With 15 times more tourists than locals in one place, is a trip to Barcelona really worth it? When there are far more tourists than locals gathered in any place, it takes away from the true vibe of an environment.

Machu Picchu

Plenty of people are attracted to Machu Picchu for the chance to admire gorgeous ancient architecture and stunning views. To be more specific, Machu Picchu is located on top of an Incan mountain in Peru. It’s a citadel that garners attention from people all over the globe.

The recommended daily limit of guests at Machu Picchu is 2,500. Recently, more than 5,000 visitors have been making their way up to Machu Picchu every single day. For this reason, it might be best to skip a vacation in Machu Picchu and choose a less populated spot. (In an effort to recoup tourism revenue lost during the beginning of the year, Peru is raising the daily limit on visitors to Machu Picchu from its previous cap to 5,600 people per day. This measure aims to account for the economic impact to the popular destination from having fewer international travelers over the past few years.)

Mount Everest

The idea of climbing Mount Everest might sound intriguing if you appreciate the great outdoors. That doesn’t mean this is a place that should be added to your list of destinations to visit, though. Mount Everest is actually quite dangerous with terrible statistics backing it up.

Around 1,200 explorers attempt to make their way up the mountain every year, but only half of them make it to the top. Some climbers have died trying to complete the mission. Hypoxia is a fierce threat while climbing Mount Everest, since there are freezing temperatures and low oxygen levels. It’s been estimated that there are over 200 dead bodies scattered around Mount Everest at this point in time.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Visiting the islands of Hawaii isn’t a problem if you know where to spend the majority of your time. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, in particular, isn’t the safest place to go despite how well-known and popular it might be. We already know Hawaii has a reputation for active volcanic activity. The poisonous gases floating through the air at park are way too toxic at times for anyone to safely breathe in. On top of that, there’s often smoky ash filling the air around the park.

Volusia County, Florida

There are plenty of beaches to visit in Florida, so there’s no reason to spend your time visiting Volusia county. Although Florida is known for having some of the most exquisite and wonderful beaches in the United States, there have been more than 330 shark attacks in Volusia County since 1882.

For some perspective, this number beats the number of shark attacks in South Africa. Volusia County is famous for being the “shark attack capital of the world.” For some reason, its reputation hasn’t stopped swimmers and surfers from taking a dip.

Qingdao Huiquan Beach

Qingdao Huiquan Beach is located in Qingdao, China. Checking out the beaches of China might sound like a dreamy adventure, but this particular beach is way too crowded to be much fun for anyone. Around 130,000 people make their way over to Qingdao Huiquan Beach every single day.

Since the beach is so close to the city, the proximity is one of the main reasons it’s so popular. It’s also totally free to visit this beach without any admission fees. People trying to save money while enjoying themselves will typically consider Qingdao Huiquan Beach to be a prime vacation destination. It’s not worth your time if you don’t have enough space to lay a beach towel down.

Oxford Street in London

Spending time in London means you might have a chance to pass to Oxford Street. This is the busiest and most crowded street in the United Kingdom. Since the street is full of so many random people, there’s a chance visitors will get pickpocketed by strangers bumping into them at any given moment.

You have to be highly vigilant and protective of your belongings to make sure you don’t get robbed. Since Oxford Street is bustling with folks on foot from morning tonight, it’s been projected that the street will become entirely pedestrian soon enough. This means there won’t be room for vehicle traffic including buses or taxis anywhere in the area.

Musée du Louvre in Paris, France

The Musée du Louvre in Paris, France has a reputation for being one of the most beautiful and romantic places in the world. Fortunately, there are plenty of places you can visit in Paris that are less crowded and just as beautiful and romantic. The reason this spot is so overpopulated is that some of the most beloved art pieces in the world can be admired while spending time there.

The Mona Lisa, which was painted by Leonardo da Vinci, is housed in the museum. In 2022, 7.8 million visitors went out of their way to reach this destination. Talk about a bustling place to be!

Times Square in New York

Is a trip to New York City complete without walking through Times Square? It might have to be if you’re planning to visit New York soon. Since Time Square is so overcrowded, it can be uncomfortable to get from point A to point B while you’re there. On a daily basis, over 300,000 people trek through Times Square to go shopping, take pictures, and socialize with others.

Time Square is where the ball drops on New Year’s Eve every single year. It’s full of brand-name stores that sell designer products, Broadway shows, and characters in costume for photo opportunities.

Fortunately, New York doesn’t end with Time Square and there are still plenty of different things a visitor can do without dealing with the stress of such a massive crowd. While we’re on the topic of New York, click here to find out about 19 things New York is famous for.

Pope welcomes pilgrims from Amsterdam soon to mark 750th anniversary

Vatican News

Meeting with Dutch pilgrims visiting from Amsterdam on the morning of 4 May, Pope Francis observed how the city's founding and growth are tied to our faith and the Catholic Church. The city of Amsterdam will soon embark on its 750th anniversary year starting on 27 October 2024. The Pope recalled a key moment in the Amsterdam's history going back to the Eucharistic miracle of 1345 that is celebrated to this day with a silent procession and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.  

The Pope met with around fifty participants in the pilgrimage representing the Catholic Foundation for the Promotion of Welfare Work in Amsterdam, the Russell family, and the Rector and Choir of Saint Nicholas Basilica. 

Solidarity for all

Pope Francis praised the multi-faceted outreach they offer in serving Amsterdam's poor, migrants, and those struggling with drug addiction, by working together with the Sisters of Mother Teresa and the Sant'Egidio Community among others.

“Your city is also home to people of many different nationalities, called to live together as brothers and sisters. Its churches, in particular, are places where people from all social and cultural backgrounds can come together. I thank you most heartily for your commitment to making this happen!”

The Pope encouraged them to continue their efforts in their "magnificent city," that with God's blessing and "inspired and sustained by the Eucharist" they may continue to give joyful witness to faith and concrete love and care for neighbour that bears abundant fruit. 

“I ask the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of all, to strengthen you in faith, hope and charity.”

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Who won the 2024 Kentucky Derby? See race results, winner, Mystik Dan, from Derby 150

Louisville is filled with excitement for the 150th Kentucky Derby, and results from the greatest two minutes of sports are in. Mystik Dan, with 16-1 odds, is the 2024 Kentucky Derby winner.

2024 Kentucky Derby Results When is the Kentucky Derby? Everything to know ahead of the Run for the Roses in 2024

Who won the 2024 Kentucky Derby?

Mystik Dan won the 2024 Kentucky Derby, followed by Sierra Leone and Forever Young.

Churchill Downs Race 12 Winner

Mystik Dan won the 150th Kentucky Derby.

Churchill Downs Race 12 Results

Mystik Dan won the 2024 Kentucky Derby, with Sierra Leone in second place and Forever Young in third place.

Who is Mystik Dan?

Mystik Dan, 2024 Kentucky Derby winner, is trained by Kenny McPeek and owned by Lance Gasaway, 4 G Racing (Brent Gasaway) and Daniel Hamby. It's also a first victory for jockey, Brian Hernandez Jr., according to The Courier Journal.

Who owns Mystik Dan?

Mystik Dan is owned by Lance Gasaway, 4 G Racing (Brent Gasaway) and Daniel Hamby.

Who is Mystik Dan's trainer?

2024 Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan is trained by Kenny McPeek. McPeek also won the Kentucky Oaks with Torpedo Anna on Friday, which hasn't occurred since 1952.

What jockey won Derby 150?

Mystik Dan's jockey is Brian Hernandez Jr. His best Derby finish prior to this year's victory was eighth place with McCraken in 2017.

How much is Mystik Dan worth?

Prior to his Derby appearance, Mystik Dan's career earnings were just below $650,000. He earned $3.1 million with his recent victory, as reported by The Courier Journal.

Who was favored to win the 2024 Kentucky Derby?

Headed into the big race, the favored horses were Sierra Leone and Fierceness, as previously reported by The Courier Journal. Other horses to watch were Catching Freedom, Forever Young, Just A Touch and Honor Marie.

Churchill Downs Race 11 Results

Program Trading , trained by Chad Brown, won race 11, followed by Naval Power and Webslinger.

Churchill Downs Race 10 Results

Gun Pilot and trainer Steven M. Asmussen won race ten, with Here Mi Song in second and Zozos in third.

Churchill Downs Race 9 Results

Trikari and trainer H. Graham Motion won race nine, followed by Formidable Man and Lagynos.

Churchill Downs Race 8 Results

With trainer D. Wayne Lukas, Seize the Grey took first place, followed by Nash and Vlahos.

Churchill Downs Race 7 Results

Chili Flag and trainer Chad Brown won race 7, with Coppice in second and Delahaye in third.

Churchill Downs Race 6 Results

Vahva, with trainer Cherie DeVaux, won race six, followed by Alva Starr and Flying Connection.

Churchill Downs Race 5 Results

The winner of race five is Cogburn , with trainer Steven Asmussen. Filo Di Arianna took second with Mischief Magic in third.

Churchill Downs Race 4 Results

In first place was Strong Quality with trainer Mark Casse, followed by Kupuna in second and Five Star General in third.

Churchill Downs Race 3 Results

The first-place winner from the third race on Saturday was Mindframe, with trainer Todd Pletcher, followed by Cornishman and Higgins Boat.

Churchill Downs Race 2 Results

Scylla, trained by William Mott and Kentucky-bred, finished first in the second race on Derby day. In second was Secret Statement followed by Joke Sisi.

Churchill Downs Race 1 Results

Pure Force, trained by Brad Cox and Kentucky-bred, finished first in Saturday's opener at Churchill Downs. Top Gun Rocket took second, followed by Culprit.

• Travel Planning Guide

Should You Visit Rotterdam?

Are you thinking about visiting Rotterdam, Netherlands? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.

• Is Rotterdam Worth Visiting?

Reasons to Visit Rotterdam

• In the Summer?
• In the Autumn?
• In the Winter?
• In the Spring?

What is Rotterdam most famous for?

• What is Rotterdam most known for?

What is the most famous sight in Rotterdam?

• How touristy is Rotterdam?

How long should I spend in Rotterdam?

Is rotterdam worth visiting.

Yes, it's worth visiting this port city for one to three days because of the many great activities. During our first trip to Rotterdam in the fall of 2022, we fell in love with its modern skyline and diverse food halls. We've come back several times since then to experience it even more. Rotterdam is a large port city that has a long running maritime history. It hosts several weekly markets and also has a large international food hall. The city's architecture has mostly been rebuilt since World War II, so you'll find many modern buildings and a modern development style.

Food The city's restaurant scene is diverse. There are ethnic restaurants, vegan restaurants, local restaurants, and some popular chains.

Authenticity Rotterdam has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.

Is Rotterdam worth visiting in the Summer?

Summer is the high season for travel in Rotterdam, so expect more visitors and higher prices. Even though this destination is not very touristy, in the high season it's busier than usual because this is when most visitors come here.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during summer with average temperatures around 17°C (62°F).

The activities of the city are numerous, and this is a great time of year to explore all of them. From family-friendly attractions to romantic getaways, as well as budget-friendly things to do, there's something for everyone. Famous landmarks, museums, tours, and more are all available. You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable port city, especially in the nice weather. You'll find plenty to do during summer, as you'll be able to browse through museums, discover the big city activities, and take advantage of the local nightlife.

Is Rotterdam worth visiting in the Autumn?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Rotterdam. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 11°C (51°F).

During this season it's fun to experience the famous sights and museums and the big city activities.

Is Rotterdam worth visiting in the Winter?

The weather in Rotterdam can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 2°C (36°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

The low season for travel in Rotterdam is during the winter. This destination is not very touristy, so in the low season it can become fairly quiet.

You'll like that you can take public transit easily in the winter, too. You can get around quickly while avoiding bad weather if needed. This is a great time of year to browse the museums, taste delicious cuisine, and grab some drinks at a bar. Also, you can check out the big city activities.

Is Rotterdam worth visiting in the Spring?

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Rotterdam. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

The weather in Rotterdam can be quite cold during spring, and averages around 8°C (46°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

You'll find plenty to do during spring, as you'll be able to find the best deals at the shops, spend time at the museums, and dance the night away.

Rotterdam is most famous for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall. People visit this impressive port city for its great nightlife and shopping. Also, it's known for museums and food. It is often described as modern, trendy, and high energy.

The most popular sight in Rotterdam is The Cube Houses . You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Rotterdam on our travel costs page .

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for The Cube Houses and other attractions here .

How touristy is Rotterdam? Is it a popular port city to visit?

Rotterdam is an off-the-beaten-path port city that many travelers overlook. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• Rotterdam Highlights Private Walking Tour: $168
• Highlights Rotterdam PRIVE bicycle tour: $109
• Hidden Gems Bike Tour Private: $219
• Rotterdam Bicycle Tour with a Bilingual Guide: $28
• Second World War Walking Tour in Rotterdam: $168
• Kinderdijk Photography tour: $219
• Skip the Line: Entrance Ticket to Miniworld Rotterdam: $16
• Running tour with the highlights of Rotterdam: $25

The ideal length of time for a trip to Rotterdam is one to three days. Since Rotterdam has activities such as nightlife and shopping, many visit for up to three days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Rotterdam? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Rotterdam? .

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Five Packers Tryout Candidates Worth Knowing

The son of a former Packers receiver, an All-American and a former draft pick are among those hoping to win a spot on the roster.

• Author: Bill Huber

In this story:

GREEN BAY, Wis. – The Green Bay Packers have 18 tryout players participating in their 2024 rookie camp. They typically sign a player or two from the group.

The big name in this year’s contingent is quarterback Jacob Eason. A fourth-round pick by the Colts in 2020, he threw five passes (with one interception) with the Colts in 2021 and five passes (with one interception) with the Panthers in 2022. He spent the second half of last season on the Giants’ practice squad.

With the young trio of Jordan Love, Sean Clifford and seventh-round pick Michael Pratt on the depth chart, the Packers might not be interested in carrying a fourth arm on the offseason roster.

Here are five other tryout players who are vying for their opportunity to be signed to the 90-man roster.

WR Dimitri Stanley

In four seasons at Colorado and two at Iowa State, Stanley caught 118 passes for 1,379 yards and five touchdowns. He caught 15 passes for 139 yards in 12 games last year as a sixth-year senior. He averaged 8.7 yards per punt return for his career, with most of his action coming while at Colorado.

At pro day, he measured 5-foot-10 7/8 and 188 pounds and ran his 40 in 4.52 seconds.

What does it take to earn a roster spot as a tryout player? Someone who flashes, coach Matt LaFleur said. “We had one guy who had a one-handed grab out there that was pretty impressive,” he added. That was Stanley, who made a slick catch on an out-breaking route.

Stanley is the son of former Packers receiver/returner Walter Stanley.

“I just grew up loving punt return,” Dimitri Stanley said . “It’s just explosive plays. It flips the field. It’s everything that you want in a game; that excitement.”

G Lecitus Smith

Smith was a sixth-round pick by the Cardinals in 2022 who started two games during his rookie season. He was waived by the Cardinals at the end of training camp last year and served stints on practice squads in Houston and Philadelphia.

The Packers have 15 on their offensive line, including three draft picks and two undrafted free agents, so numbers might work against him. But a team’s college scouting report still matters.

CBs Kalon Gervin, Don Callis

The Packers only added one rookie cornerback, Penn State’s Kalen King in the seventh round. So, there’s perhaps an opening to add some depth at a position group with some uncertainty behind Jaire Alexander.

Gervin (5-10 5/8, 192 pounds; 4.45 40) spent three years at Michigan State before finishing with two seasons at Kansas. He had zero career interceptions but broke up four passes during each of the two years with the Jayhawks. In 13 games, he allowed 15-of-24 passing, according to Pro Football Focus. Most of his action came in the slot, where Keisean Nixon is the only player with an abundance of experience.

Callis (5-10 1/4, 14 pounds; 4.42 40) had zero interceptions, one forced fumble and four passes defensed during his lone season at Troy. PFF charged him with 11 completions in 18 targets. He forced five turnovers (three forced fumbles, two interceptions) at East Central (Okla.) in 2022. He has significant slot experience, as well.

P Porter Wilson

The Packers have three kickers and two long snappers under contract. They have only one punter. So, from a pure numbers perspective, it stands to reason the former Duke standout’s got a chance.

Wilson earned some All-American accolades in 2023, when he averaged a school-record and ACC-leading 46.7 yards per punt. He was the only punter in the conference with at least 20 punts of 50-plus yards and 20 inside-the-20 punts. His 54 punts allowed only 56 return yards.

The final practice of rookie camp will be held on Saturday. Organized team activities will begin on May 20.

MarShawn Lloyd at Packers rookie camp.

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All-Star Scouts: Jordan Morgan | Edgerrin Cooper | Javon Bullard | MarShawn Lloyd | Ty’Ron Hopper

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Vietnamese backpacker Joy finds community in the outback town of Birdsville

Joy Nguyệt says arriving in outback Queensland from Vietnam to swarms of flies in an isolated and dusty town was initially terrifying.

"I was a bit worried at that time and I sent a picture to my parents, and they said I cannot stay here," she said.

"They said, 'Where are the people?' There's nothing."

The 29-year-old landed in Birdsville, 1,500 kilometres west of Brisbane, expecting a bustling airport but instead walked straight off the runway and across the road to the local hotel.

But it's been seven months and Joy, or Ánh as she's known back home, has chosen to extend her stay in the small outback town.

Birdsville, with its population of 110, is situated on the edge of the Munga-Thirri Simpson desert and is known for its rolling red sand dunes and events like the Big Red Bash.

But it's the locals and day to day life working at the roadhouse that have Joy hooked.

"I like the life, I like the people," she said.

"You get to know them better than living in a city."

Learning in more ways than one

Joy was working remotely as a recruiter when she felt it was time for a new adventure, and decided to travel to Australia on a working holiday visa. 

She saw a post on a community Facebook page from a previous Vietnamese employer at the town's roadhouse, a one-stop shop for fuel, groceries, and a friendly conversation.

"Every people [sic] in town come to the roadhouse to buy things and I get to know people that way," she said.

True to her name, the locals love her, and some are even teaching her how to drive.

Resident Greg Watkins spends his Sunday afternoons jumping in the car with Joy.

Like many people in town, Mr Watkins wears many hats and refers to himself as an "odd jobs man".

"I thought, 'Well there's no driving instructors out here' and rather than her jumping in a car and driving around vacant country roads, she needs to learn how to drive correctly," he said.

Driving around the streets of Birdsville – or street rather – is quite different to driving in the city.

"We've only got two give way signs in town and no roundabouts.

"I try and create traffic for her while she's driving, and I'll say there's a car on your right."

Mr Watkins says Joy is a quick learner.

"I call her a bit of a sponge, ever since she's got here she's wanted to learn things and takes a lot of things in," he said.

"She's come from a community where there's lots and lots of people, to a town where there's very few.

"She worked right through the summer in 40 degrees, day after day, and didn't complain."

Word of mouth keeps outback businesses staffed

Backpackers like Joy keep the outback turning, particularly in the busy season.

A couple of hundred kilometres away, Windorah has a population of about 100 people and, like Birdsville, can see tens of thousands travel through during the tourist season between April and October.

Marilyn Simpson, the owner of the only pub in town, said they "need the backpackers to be able to function".

"There were some scary times post-COVID when so many people hit the outback and we couldn't do it, we didn't have the staff," she said.

While numbers are "back to normal" now, things are set to change yet again.

From July 1, British backpackers — who make up the largest population of working holiday makers – will no longer have to complete 88 days of regional work, prompting fears of an outback worker shortage.

But Ms Simpson isn't too concerned.

"This year I've got predominantly Italian and Argentinian and that is because of … word of mouth."

Reputation travels fast in the world of backpacking – one worker from last season recommends a friend for the next, until the pub is filled with Argentinian backpackers.

Ms Simpson said she prefers this method rather than hiring through agencies, which she calls a "costly exercise".

"I like meeting them and sharing our culture and sharing their experience," she said.

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