· NL

Amsterdam

Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands

Fall in Love with Amsterdam: Canals, Culture, and Captivating Charm Amsterdam, a city woven from canals and brimming with life, offers a unique tapestry of history, art, and vibrant culture. Explore its charming cobbled …

#capital city#tourist destination#canals#museums#bicycles

1/14

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide Reviews

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Amsterdam.

Top Hotels in Amsterdam

Top Flights to Amsterdam

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Amsterdam.

Tours

Visit to Rijksmuseum

Explore the Rijksmuseum, showcasing masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age.

Rijksmuseum Tour

Discover 8,000 objects on display from the Dutch Golden Age, including works by Rembrandt.

Anne Frank House Visit

Visit the secret annex where Anne Frank wrote her diary during World War II.

Bloemenmarkt

Visit the world's only floating flower market for a vibrant display of colors and scents.

Red Light District Walking Tour

Explore the famous Red Light District with a guide to understand its history and culture.

Jordaan District Stroll

Walk through the charming streets of the Jordaan district, known for its narrow lanes and quaint shops.

Visit to Anne Frank House

Explore the Anne Frank House, the biographical museum dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank who hid from Nazi persecution with her family and four other people.

Visit to Van Gogh Museum

Visit the Van Gogh Museum which houses the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh's paintings and drawings in the world.

Visit to the Heineken Experience

Discover the story of how one of the world’s most famous beers is brewed with this interactive experience.

Explore Jordaan Neighborhood

Wander through one of Amsterdam’s most charming neighborhoods, known for its narrow streets, independent art galleries, courtyard gardens, antiques shops, atmospheric bars, and restaurants.

Stedelijk Museum Visit

Explore one of the most prominent museums in Amsterdam, known for its modern and contemporary artworks.

Heineken Experience

Tour the original Heineken brewery to learn about the brewing process and taste some beer.

Evening Canal Cruise

Relax on an evening canal cruise through Amsterdam's enchanting waterways, offering a unique view of the city.

Evening Stroll through the Jordaan District

Explore the beautiful Jordaan District with its narrow lanes, quaint buildings, and lively ambiance. A perfect way to end the day in Amsterdam.

Van Gogh Museum Visit

Explore the world's largest collection of Vincent Van Gogh's paintings and drawings.

Shopping

Albert Cuyp Market

Shop for fresh produce, clothes, and Dutch treats at the largest street market in Amsterdam.

Outdoor

Explore Vondelpark

Spend a leisurely afternoon exploring Vondelpark, the most famous park in Amsterdam, popular not only for local visitors but also for international tourists.

Vondelpark Bike Ride

Rent a bike and explore the beautiful Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s largest city park, filled with sculptures, open-air theatres, and stunning gardens.

Vondelpark Cycling

Enjoy a bike ride through the beautiful Vondelpark, a green oasis in the city.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Amsterdam.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

1459402.0

Languages

Dutch, Dutch, English

Average weather

Amsterdam

Jan

5°0°

Feb

6°0°

Mar

9°2°

Apr

12°4°

May

17°8°

Jun

20°11°

Jul

22°13°

Aug

22°13°

Sep

19°11°

Oct

14°8°

Nov

9°4°

Dec

6°1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Amsterdam.

What people love

Traveling to Amsterdam has several pros, including:

Rich cultural heritage: Amsterdam is known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene. Visitors can explore world-class museums such as the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and Anne Frank House, which provide insights into the city's history and artistic achievements.
Beautiful canals: Amsterdam is famous for its picturesque canals, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Travelers can take boat tours or stroll along the canal-side streets to admire the historic architecture and charming bridges.
Cycling-friendly city: Amsterdam is a bike-friendly city with numerous cycling paths and bike rental options. Exploring the city by bike is a popular and environmentally friendly way to see the sights and experience the local lifestyle.
Diverse culinary scene: Amsterdam offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Dutch cuisine to international flavors. Visitors can enjoy delicious street food, Michelin-starred restaurants, and cozy cafes serving local specialties like stroopwafels and herring.
Progressive and inclusive atmosphere: Amsterdam is known for its liberal attitudes and diverse population. The city is LGBTQ+-friendly and has a reputation for tolerance and open-mindedness, making it a welcoming destination for travelers from all walks of life.
Access to other European destinations: Amsterdam's central location in Europe makes it a convenient hub for exploring other nearby cities and countries. Visitors can easily travel by train or plane to destinations like Paris, Berlin, or Brussels for a multi-city European experience.

Overall, Amsterdam offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities that make it an attractive destination for travelers seeking a memorable and enriching experience.

What to know

There are a few potential cons to traveling to Amsterdam that you may want to consider:

Crowds: Amsterdam is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons. This can lead to crowded attractions, long lines, and difficulty finding accommodations.
Weather: The weather in Amsterdam can be quite unpredictable, with frequent rain and wind. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and pack accordingly.
Bike Traffic: While biking is a popular mode of transport in Amsterdam, it can also pose a challenge for pedestrians navigating the city. Be mindful of bike lanes and traffic while exploring the city.
Tourist Scams: As with any popular tourist destination, there may be individuals looking to take advantage of tourists through scams or pickpocketing. Stay vigilant and be cautious with your belongings.
Expensive: Amsterdam can be quite expensive compared to other European cities, especially in terms of accommodation and dining out. Be prepared for higher prices and budget accordingly.

Overall, while Amsterdam is a beautiful and vibrant city to visit, it's important to be aware of these potential cons to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands and located in the province of Noord-Holland, has a rich and diverse history dating back to the 12th century. Here is a detailed history of Amsterdam:

12th-13th centuries: Amsterdam was founded as a fishing village in the 12th century along the banks of the Amstel River. Its name is derived from a dam built on the river. By the 13th century, it had grown into a trading port.
Late Middle Ages: In the late Middle Ages, Amsterdam became an important trading city, primarily focusing on herring fishing and trade. The city was granted city rights in 1300.
Dutch Golden Age (17th century): This period was the most significant in Amsterdam's history. It became one of the wealthiest cities in the world, with a flourishing economy driven by trade, finance, and art. The Dutch East India Company (VOC) was established in Amsterdam in 1602, making it a major center for global trade. During this time, Amsterdam's iconic canals were built, along with many of the city's historic houses and buildings.
Anne Frank House: The Anne Frank House is a significant landmark in Amsterdam. It is where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II and where she wrote her famous diary. The house is now a museum dedicated to her memory.
World War II: During World War II, Amsterdam was occupied by Nazi Germany. The Jewish population suffered greatly during this time, with many being deported to concentration camps. The city was liberated in 1945.
Post-war era: After the war, Amsterdam experienced rapid growth and modernization. The city became known for its progressive social policies and vibrant cultural scene.
Notable figures: Rembrandt van Rijn, a famous Dutch painter, lived and worked in Amsterdam during the Dutch Golden Age. His works are celebrated and displayed in museums around the world. Anne Frank, the young Jewish girl who wrote a diary while hiding from the Nazis, is also a significant figure associated with Amsterdam.
Landmarks: Amsterdam is famous for its picturesque canals, historic houses, and iconic cultural institutions. Some of the most notable landmarks include the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Royal Palace of Amsterdam, and the Anne Frank House.

Overall, Amsterdam's history is one of trade, prosperity, cultural richness, and resilience in the face of adversity. Today, it remains a vibrant and diverse city with a unique blend of historical charm and modern innovation.

How Amsterdam rates

Aggregated from verified Travafa trips and reviews.

—

No ratings yet — be the first

Things to Do

3.0

Accommodation Quality

3.0

Local Transportation

5.0

Safety

3.0

Scenic Beauty

2.0

Shopping

2.0

Friendliness of People

4.0

Cleanliness

3.0

Value for Money

2.0

Internet Connectivity

3.0

Good for

Friends

100%

Family

Couple

100%

Solo

Pets