Amsterdam is a city that has something to offer for everyone, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Visitors can enjoy the city’s coffee shops and vibrant nightlife, as well as explore the world-renowned museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum. The famous Red Light District offers adult entertainment and a vibrant nightlife, but visitors can also explore the picturesque Dutch countryside, visit the famous windmills at Zaanse Schans, or take a bike ride along the scenic canals. With plenty of things to do and accommodation options to choose from, Amsterdam is a perfect destination for a city break.
- Hotel or Hostel
- Things to do in Amsterdam
- The Coffee Shops
- Red Light District
- Museums
- Things to visit outside Amsterdam
Hotel or Hostel in Amsterdam
When planning a city break to Amsterdam, one of the biggest decisions to make is where to stay. Two popular options are hostels and hotels. While they both offer a place to sleep, there are some key differences to consider.
Hostels are often a more budget-friendly option, with shared dormitories and communal spaces. They are a great choice for solo travelers or groups on a tight budget. Hostels in Amsterdam often have a lively social scene, with organized events and opportunities to meet other travelers.
Hotels, on the other hand, generally offer more privacy and comfort, with private rooms and amenities such as room service and housekeeping. They are a better option for those seeking a more luxurious and comfortable stay, or for families and couples looking for a more intimate experience.
In Amsterdam, there are plenty of options for both hostels and hotels. Some of the best hostels in the city include The Flying Pig Downtown and the Generator, while popular hotels include the Pulitzer Amsterdam and the Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam.
Ultimately, the choice between a hostel and a hotel depends on personal preferences and budget. While hostels are generally cheaper, they may not offer the same level of comfort and privacy as a hotel. Consider your priorities and budget before making a decision, and enjoy your stay in Amsterdam!
These are cheap and good hotels in Amsterdam
Things to do in Amsterdam City Trip
A’dam Lookout Observation Deck
The A’dam Lookout Observation Deck on the A’DAM Tower in Amsterdam provides a spectacular 360-degree view of the city and its surroundings. From this vantage point, visitors can see the famous landmarks, historic canals, and the sea on clear days.
Adventurous visitors can also enjoy the “Over The Edge” swing, located on the top floor of the tower, which swings out over the edge of the building, providing a unique sensation of height. The swing is designed to be safe and comfortable, with sturdy safety belts holding you in place. Moon Amsterdam, the restaurant on the 19th floor, offers delicious food and an incredible view of the city.
Its revolving platform allows diners to enjoy a panoramic view while enjoying international dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients. Moon Amsterdam is a must-try for a unique and unforgettable experience in Amsterdam.
Dutch Cheese Tasting
Henri Willig, a family-owned business that has been producing some of the best cheese in the Netherlands for over 40 years, offers a unique Dutch cheese tasting experience. During the 45-minute cheese tasting experience, you’ll have the opportunity to sample 5 different types of traditional Dutch cheese, accompanied by two selected drinks of your choice.
The cheese is made from the milk of happy cows grazing on the lush green pastures of the Dutch countryside and carefully crafted by Henri Willig’s team of expert cheesemakers. Visitors from all over the world flock to Henri Willig to sample their dairy products and learn more about the cheese-making process.
Johan Cruyff Arena
The stadium of Ajax is not just for watching games. Visitors can take a tour of the stadium and explore the Ajax Museum to learn about the club’s history and see their trophies. The tour includes a visit to the dressing rooms and walking through the tunnel to the pitch.
For an exclusive experience, visitors can take a VIP tour, which includes access to the dressing room, boardroom, and a skybox with breathtaking views of the pitch. The stadium also boasts impressive technology, including a high-tech lighting system and an energy storage system that uses recycled batteries. A visit to the Johan Cruyff Arena is a must for any football fan when they’re on a city break in Amsterdam.
The Coffee Shops
Amsterdam is well known for its coffee shops, which sell small quantities of cannabis for personal use. It is legal to buy and use cannabis in licensed weed shops in Amsterdam, but only in small quantities. The sale of cannabis outside of these shops is illegal, as is possession of large quantities of cannabis. Smoking cannabis in public spaces is also illegal and can result in a fine.
Coffee shops in Amsterdam have a relaxed atmosphere dure your city trip, offering comfortable seating, music, and a range of snacks and drinks, making them a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Some coffee shops have outdoor seating areas, which can be particularly appealing on a sunny day. It’s important to understand the rules and regulations around cannabis use in the Netherlands, as they can differ from those in other countries. Of course one of the reasons to go to Amsterdam for a city break is to smoke some weed.
Red Light District
The Red Light District in Amsterdam is one of the city’s most famous and controversial areas the visit at your city break. Located in the oldest part of the city, the district is known for its narrow streets, canals, and red-lit windows that advertise the services of sex workers. Although prostitution is legal in the Netherlands, the Red Light District still has a reputation for being a seedy and dangerous place. However, the district is also a popular destination for tourists who are curious about Amsterdam’s liberal attitudes towards sex and drugs.
Aside from the sex workers and coffee shops, the Red Light District is also home to several interesting museums, such as the Sexmuseum Amsterdam and the Red Light Secrets Museum of Prostitution. These museums offer visitors a glimpse into the world of prostitution and the history of the area.
Despite its reputation, the Red Light District is also home to many locals, businesses, and cultural landmarks. The district is full of charming cafes, restaurants, and shops, and is home to the famous Oude Kerk, Amsterdam’s oldest church. However, it’s important to remember that the Red Light District is a working neighborhood, and visitors should be respectful of the sex workers and their clients. Taking photos of them is strictly forbidden, and visitors should not engage in any illegal activities.
In summary, the Red Light District may not be for everyone, but it is certainly a unique and fascinating part of Amsterdam’s history and culture. Whether you’re curious about the world of sex work or simply want to explore one of Amsterdam’s oldest neighborhoods, a visit to the Red Light District is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Museums in Amsterdam
The Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is a popular tourist attraction, showcasing 8,000 objects spanning 800 years of Dutch history and art, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh. The museum offers guided tours and is located in the heart of Amsterdam, near other popular attractions.
Admission is €21, and children under 18 get in for free, making it a great family outing. Additionally, visitors can purchase an Amsterdam City Pass for €65, which provides access to many top attractions across multiple cities and includes a free canal cruise.
Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam showcases over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 700 letters from Vincent van Gogh, as well as his collection of Japanese prints and a library with over 23,000 titles.
The museum celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2023 with various exhibitions, including “Choosing Vincent,” where visitors can learn about Van Gogh’s family’s influence on his work, “Van Gogh in Auvers,” featuring the masterpieces Van Gogh painted in the last months of his life, and “Van Gogh on the Seine,” which displays Van Gogh’s works created alongside other artists.
Admission costs €20, while visitors under 18 years old can enter for free.
Heineken Experience
<d
Heineken Experience is a museum dedicated to the famous beer brand, located in the old brewery on Stadhouderskade in Amsterdam. The museum showcases the history of Heineken, from its beginnings as a small brewery to becoming a hugely successful company worldwide. Visitors can explore the old brewery, see exhibitions, learn how the beer is brewed and how to tap it, and even make their own beer and design their own bottle.
The museum is an interactive experience where visitors can use all their senses. Tickets include entrance to the museum and two free drinks. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Nemo Science Museum
NEMO Science Museum is an interactive museum located in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano, the building resembles a ship and is one of the most distinctive landmarks in the city. Inside, visitors can explore five floors of hands-on exhibits that focus on science, technology, and engineering. From building robots to conducting experiments, there is something for all ages to enjoy. NEMO is a popular destination for families and school groups, as it provides an engaging and fun way to learn about scientific principles. The museum also offers breathtaking views of Amsterdam from its rooftop terrace, making it a must-visit attraction for both locals and tourists alike.
Things to visit outside Amsterdam during your city trip
Keukenhof
Keukenhof, located in Lisse near Amsterdam, is a flower park open from late March to mid-May that features more than 7 million tulips, hyacinths, and other flowers in a stunning display of colors. In addition to offering a chance to learn about the history of tulip cultivation and the Keukenhof castle garden, the park provides a peaceful environment to relax and enjoy nature. It’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance to ensure entry on the day of your visit. Keukenhof is a must-see for anyone interested in flowers and Dutch culture, offering a unique opportunity to witness one of the most colorful displays in the world.
Zaanse Schans
Zaanse Schans is an open-air museum in North Holland, offering visitors a glimpse into Dutch history from the 18th and 19th centuries. The museum has historical buildings, windmills, houses, and farms, all from the Zaan region and beyond. The windmills produce various products like paint, snuff, mustard, and oil, providing insight into old crafts and technologies. The Zaans Museum has exhibitions about the region’s history and an impressive collection of paintings, photos, and artifacts. The museum is located on the banks of the Zaan, offering stunning views and walking routes. It is a unique and fascinating museum worth a visit from Amsterdam.