Amsterdam, Netherlands

I love Amsterdam. Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and is one of the most populous cities in the country. I've found Amsterdam to be a lovely and welcoming city with people from many walks of life, in fact; it's known to be one of the world's most multicultural cities.

Most people who live in Amsterdam speak at least 2-3 languages (with English as one of them) which makes traveling there as an English-only speaking American much easier. From the different types of people, to the delicious food to the history and the relaxed/laid back culture—Amsterdam truly has so much to offer.

Where to stay

I've visited Amsterdam multiple times in the last few years and since my dad lives there. He used to live across the street from Museumplein [myˌzeːjɵmˈplɛin], the neighborhood which is home to three major museums: the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum as well as the concert hall Concertgebouw. His new place located closer to De 9 Straatjes (The 9 Streets).

If I wasn’t staying with my dad, I’d recommend searching Airbnb or Booking.com to find a place to stay. The neighborhoods which have been suggested to me are: De Jordaan, De Pijp, Oude West, and the Canal Belt.

If you’re up for it, I’d also recommend looking into staying at a hostel. And there are many hostel options in Amsterdam. I’ve stayed at Ecomama before and had an excellent experience. They are in a centrally located spot which makes it easy to visit various neighborhoods. They are also located right next to a grocery store, which is convenient for longer-term travelers. I booked my stay using Hostelworld.

Getting around

Rent a bike
This is one of the most popular forms of transportation in Amsterdam, the city is very bike-able. And anyway, it’s just what you do here! It’s also important to know to stay off your phone while riding your bike. Yes, even if you just need to use the map. I’ve heard there is an expensive fee if someone catches you.

Get a chip card
If you fly into the Schiphol airport I’d recommend buying a chip card and taking the tram into the city. Buying the card is super straightforward at the airport. Find the kiosk at the airport and ask the supervisor if you have any questions about where you need to go. Always tap on and tap off when using the trams.

Uber around
I also used Uber a few times while here and I was great; super easy. Some places in Amsterdam are quite far away for walking, especially at night, and if you’re going out late, you may not want to take your bike.

Go for a walk
Amsterdam is super walkable! In my most recent trip to Amsterdam I found myself walking around mostly because I wanted to check out all of interesting scenery and architecture. Amsterdam is nothing like California, so I find it everything so interesting.

Where to eat & drink

Dignita Voldelpark or Dignita Hoftuin
Go here for breakfast and brunch. I’ve been to both locations during two separate trips. They have such cute spaces and seriously amazing food.

Little Collins
You must go here for breakfast / brunch. It’s a cozy little spot. If there is a wait, just stick it out because it’s totally worth it. Oh and try to get a spot at the bar, you can really see where the magic happens then.

Cafes and workspaces

Matcha Mafia
Of course I found a matcha place in Amsterdam! This place was so cute and had so many options for drinks. You can also watch your matcha being made by the bar and if you want to stay to hangout they have a nice lounge area upstairs.

Coffee & Coconuts
I’ve visited Coffee & Coconuts multiple times and have always had a great time. The food is healthy and so good. I like this restaurant / cafe too because they have free wifi and an open area downstairs which is great for working. They can get kind of busy but the wait is definitely worth it.

Must Do’s

There’s lots to do in Amsterdam — it is a city after all. Below is a list of some of my favorite things to do!

Rent a bike
You’ve got to rent a bike! It’s not just a means for getting around but also super fun and it’s what you do in the Netherlands. There’s lots of places to rent bikes just make sure you learn about the rules of the road before taking your first ride.

Rent a boat on the canal
During the warmer months you can rent a boat and take it for a ride on the canals. Bring your own everything and make a day of it!

Visit the museums
There are many great museums to check out while visiting Amsterdam. While visiting my favorites where the Stedelijk and the Moco Museum. I have yet to visit the Rijksmuseum and Anne Frank House although they are high on my list for my next trip!

Pianobar Maxim
Looking for something fun to do in the evening? Pianobar Maxim will not disappoint. Each night a new pianist comes out and performs your favorite songs by request.

Coffee shops are not coffee shops
Weed is legal in Amsterdam and people go to Amsterdam for the experience of smoking inside one of their local coffee shops. Coffee shops don’t actually sell coffee, they actual sell weed. Strange, I know. So, if you want to go for coffee, find yourself a good cafe and if you want to smoke some weed find yourself a coffee shop.

Lifetimes In: Amsterdam was last updated in February 2022