Beginners Guide To Amsterdam
Updated: Jun 13, 2020
Amsterdam...Largely considered as one of the culture capitals of the world, there are no shortage of things to do here. From roaming around the vibrant and colourful streets, to setting sail through the picturesque canals, and indulging in some Dutch delicacies, there is something for every one.
If there is one thing to remember, however, it is that Amsterdam, and indeed Holland, is quite expensive. Most people find that public transport is expensive, at around 4-6 euros for a tram ticket! No wonder bikes are so common here! If you were like me when I first visited Amsterdam, and had no idea where to even start, take a look at this beginners guide to to help you start in the right direction. Should you have any questions about Amsterdam after reading, please do reach out to me and let's chat!
What to bring:
Amsterdam (and the Netherlands in general) is more on the cooler side no matter what time of the year, so chances are you’ll be needing a jacket or two during your stay. Fall or Spring clothes are usually a good choice, with a winter coat for the colder months. If you're visiting in the summer, a pair or two of jeans wouldn't go amiss either.
Transportation:
Schiphol Airport to the city:
If you are staying in a hotel in the city, they usually organize shuttles for an affordable fee.
Uber, Lyft or taxi (around 39€)
Public transportation:
Train (5.40€ or 8.40€ in first class and it takes around 20 minutes to reach the downtown area), tickets can be purchased in the automated machines at the station or on ticket desks. Station is located one floor below the airport.
Bus: 5€ and it takes 35 minutes. Leaves every 15 minutes from Schiphol Plaza, just outside the main station hall.
In the city:
Public transport in Amsterdam consists of a tram, bus and metro, however most locals use bikes as their main way of transportation, as it has become known to be one of most bicycle-friendly cities in the world. There are about 1 million bikes in the city, and, interestingly, an average of 25,000 of those end up in the canals!
Where to stay:
Amsterdam has options for all tastes and budgets, with hostel prices starting at 19€. Many well-known chain hotels such as Holiday Inn, Radisson Blu, Marriott, NH, Sheraton, Doubletree by Hilton can be found in Amsterdam. At the end of the day, it all comes down to which area you want to stay in, as there are hundreds of hotels throughout the whole city to suit all budgets, so I suggest checking a map and decide based on your preferred location. Some suggestions are:
Hotels
Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Zaandam - Just 12 minutes by train to the Amsterdam Centraal is the city of Zaandam. This funky looking hotel represents the traditional housing seen in Zaan, and is a great option for those who don't mind staying a bit out of town to reduce accommodation costs.
Freeland Hotel - Right in the heart of Amsterdam, 200 metres from Leidseplein, and encompasses a traditional Dutch façade.
Canal Hotel - Again, great location, but it does come with a price. It is close to many of the sights, and a 1 minute walk to the ferry stop, should you be unable to walk. Breakfast is included in the nightly price and is a fusion of traditional Dutch and contemporary decor.
Hostels:
What to eat:
Chips and Mayo: They are very popular in Holland. It was hands down the best mayo I have ever tasted, and needless to say that fries are always a good choice, so the combination was a no-brainer.
Bitterballen: One bite and you’re hooked on this snack. They are deep-fried and crispy breaded balls with a tender, savoury filling. Traditionally made with beef, they can also be prepared with chicken, veal or even with mushrooms, for those who prefer a vegetarian option.
Kastengels : Dutch fusion of andIndonesian cheese cookie in the shape of a stick. It is served in most bars and goes well drinks.
Hagelslag: This was my absolute favourite. The Dutch eat it for breakfast, and it is made of bread with butter and sugar sprinkles. I recommend trying the Vruchten Hagel flavour...you might end up bringing a few too many boxes home!
Stroopwafels: If you stop for a coffee, don’t forget to buy a stroopwafel box and eat with them. Tasty tip: cover the coffee mug with one stroopwafel. The steam from the hot coffee will melt the caramel inside it and make it even more delicious!
Gouda cheese: Holland’s most famous cheese, is used in many Dutch dishes. I’d suggest having Gouda cubes with a beer for an authentic Dutch experience.
Appelflappen: Dutch apple pie. I’m a huge fan of apple pies, so this was, and is, one of my favourite dishes. Made with tender, buttery, flaked pastry, and filled with fresh apples, sweet currants and raisins, this apple turnover is a wonderful start to exploring the rich and varied history of Dutch baked goods.
Where To Eat:
Vlaams Frieshuis Vleminckx - An unassuming shop front but don't let this deter you. Probably the best chips and mayo in town, right next to Bloemenmarkt. You could almost call it an institution.
Par Hasard - Located in Ceintuurbaan and Douwes Dekkerstraat, Par Hasard is one of the city's favourite chip and mayo where you can relax, sip on a fresh Dutch beer, munch on some extra crispy fries, and watch life in Amsterdam go by. You can also try many other traditional Dutch snacks as well!
Winkel 43 - The most well known Bitterballen place in Amsterdam. Specialising in Dutch goodies, you can't go wrong here, just look at the image below and tell me that doesn't make you hungry!
FEBO - As soon as you walk in here, you'll notice the space-age layout, and unusual way to obtain your Bitterballen's, or any other Dutch delicacy, for that matter. It is basically a large vending machine which dispenses your chosen food after receiving the money in to a machine. It is a novel way to get some great tasting Bitterballen, and in my books, is definitely a must. There are a chain of them throughout the city so I'm sure you'll come across one.
Sotto Pizza - There are really no shortage of pizzerias in Amsterdam, but one stands out from the rest. Sotto Pizza uses the freshest gourmet ingredients and it pays dividends, it is delicious! And, it is budget-friendly as well!
Meatless District - As the name suggests, this eatery is meatless, so, well, vegetarian. For anyone who knows Dutch cuisine, it is hard to escape eating meat, but this boutique restaurant/cafe has taken tradition and fused it in to a contemporarily crafted, deliciously tasty, and hearty meal. Open for lunch, dinner, and brekky on the weekends!
Where to drink:
Bar Broker: A bar that prices its drinks around the stock market, close to the shopping street and other bars and restaurants.
Brouwerij ‘t IJ: Iconic brewery that was built in an old bath house in the largest windmill in Amsterdam.
De Druif - All I need to say about this bar is that is has been around for 400 years. They're obviously doing something right.
SkyLounge Amsterdam - This is your spot for sweeping views over Amsterdam. Sure, it is a tourist hotspot as it is within the DoubleTree by Hilton, but just enjoy the views and you'll soon forget about the others.
Alex & Pinard - If wine is your thing, Alex & Pinard is your destination. Located in the Dappermarkt in the east of the city, it is a very chic place to have a few glasses of wijn (and no, before you say anything, that isn't a typo, it is how the Dutch say 'wine').
What to do/see:
Anne Frank Museum - Be prepared to wait in line and book in advance. It is very interesting and quite an emotional experience, and worth the effort of booking online and waiting in line. Especially because you can see where Anne and her family lived and what activities they did during the War (the door to their house was hidden behind a wardrobe!).
Dam Square -The Royal Palace and Amsterdam's main square
Heineken Experience: I didn’t go in, but are a beer enthusiast I’d say definitely check it out. Tickets start at 35 euros.
Van Gogh Museum: Three floors and each one is about a part of his very interesting life. I'll let you discover the rest for yourself.
Rijksmuseum - A museum exhibiting some of Europe's most prized artwork.
Vondelpark - Amsterdam's main park, and a great way to spend an afternoon. It also houses an open-air theatre!
Jordaan District - A district with many chic bars and restaurants, as well as shopping in the Noordermarkt.
A'dam Lookout - If you want even better views than the SkyLounge, head to the A'dam Lookout. Eat, drink, and be merry whilst looking out on to one of the best views in Europe. You'll also love this attraction if your a thrill-seeker, there is a swing which rockets from side to side high over the city!
Final Thoughts
Amsterdam is such a wonderful city, albeit not a destination for a sunshine getaway. Instead, it is chock-full of culture and hip districts that will wow you at every corner. I would spend at least 3 days here, or more if your budget allows, so that you can enjoy everything this city has to offer. Just make sure to come prepared clothing and budget wise, and you will be good to go!
If you have any tips or suggestions you would like me to share, please do send me a message and let's have a chat!
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