Amsterdam

Amsterdam has four distinct seasons, so the best time to visit depends on your preferences:

• March–May (Spring): Best for blooming tulips, mild temperatures, and fewer crowds.
• June–August (Summer): Ideal for warm weather, outdoor festivals, and lively canals.
• September–November (Fall): Great for fewer tourists, cozy cafés, and autumn scenery.
• December–February (Winter): Best for Christmas markets, light festivals, and fewer crowds.

• Rijksmuseum – Home to masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Dutch Golden Age artists.
• Anne Frank House – A moving museum showcasing the life of Anne Frank and World War II history.
• Van Gogh Museum – A must-visit for art lovers, featuring the works of Vincent van Gogh.
• Jordaan Neighborhood – A charming area filled with cafés, boutiques, and canals.
• The Heineken Experience – A fun interactive brewery tour and beer tasting.
• Vondelpark – Amsterdam’s largest park, perfect for biking, picnicking, and relaxing.
• Amsterdam Canal Cruise – A scenic way to explore the city’s UNESCO-listed canals.
• Bloemenmarkt (Floating Flower Market) – The world’s only floating flower market, famous for tulips.
• Albert Cuyp Market – Amsterdam’s largest street market, offering local food and souvenirs.
• Zaanse Schans – A charming village with traditional windmills and Dutch heritage experiences.

• Stroopwafels – Thin waffle cookies with caramel syrup in the middle.
• Bitterballen – Crispy, deep-fried meatballs served with mustard.
• Haring (Dutch Herring) – A raw fish delicacy, best eaten with onions and pickles.
• Poffertjes – Mini fluffy pancakes topped with powdered sugar and butter.
• Patat (Dutch Fries) – Thick-cut fries served with mayonnaise, curry sauce, or satay peanut sauce.
• Kibbeling – Deep-fried battered fish, often served with garlic sauce.
• Gouda & Edam Cheese – Famous Dutch cheeses found in markets and shops around the city.
• Oliebollen – Dutch doughnuts enjoyed during the winter season.
• Speculaas Cookies – Spiced shortbread cookies, popular around the holidays.
• Dutch Jenever (Gin) – A traditional spirit and predecessor to modern gin.

• Flights: Arrive at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), one of Europe’s busiest hubs.
• Trams & Metro: The best way to navigate the city efficiently.
• Bicycles: Amsterdam is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world—renting a bike is a great way to explore.
• Ferries: Free ferries connect Amsterdam Central Station with the north of the city.
• Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps: Available, but biking and public transport are usually faster.
• Canal Boats: A relaxing way to see the city from the water.

• For U.S. travelers: No visa required for stays up to 90 days, but a valid passport is necessary.
• For international travelers: Check Schengen visa requirements based on nationality.
• EU Travelers: Can enter freely with a valid national ID or passport.

• Currency: Euro (€ EUR).
• Credit cards are widely accepted, but some shops prefer debit cards or cash.
• ATMs are available throughout the city, offering good exchange rates.
• Currency exchange is available at the airport and city center exchange offices.

• Dutch is the official language.
• English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
• Learning basic Dutch phrases like “Dank je” (Thank you) is appreciated.

• Cyclists have the right of way – Always check for bikes before crossing streets.
• Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory – 5–10% is common at restaurants.
• Be mindful of noise in residential areas – Locals value peace and quiet.
• Amsterdam is casual – Smart-casual attire is fine for most places.
• Respect coffee shop etiquette – Cannabis is legal in coffee shops, but there are rules.
• Don’t walk in the bike lanes – They are strictly for cyclists!

• Restaurants: 5–10% tip is standard, but some places include a service charge.
• Bars & Cafés: Rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated.
• Hotels: €1–2 per bag for bellhops, €2–5 per night for housekeeping.
• Taxis: Tipping is not required, but rounding up is polite.
• Tour Guides & Excursions: €5–10 per person for excellent service.

• For peak season (March–May, September–October): Book 6–12 months in advance for hotels and flights.
• For off-season travel (November–February): Booking a few weeks ahead is usually fine.
• For Anne Frank House & Van Gogh Museum: Book tickets online at least a few weeks in advance.

• No COVID-19 test is required for entry, but check for updates before traveling.
• Some museums require timed entry tickets—book in advance.
• Public transport requires an OV-chipkaart (rechargeable travel card).

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