the Amsterdam Guide.
Amsterdam is a dream. All the hallmarks of fairy-tale villages are found in its enchanting historic centre: a labyrinth of quaint winding waterways, red-brick bridges, narrow townhouses and cobbled streets.
Dive head-first into the Amsterdam experience with the guidance of our Interactive Map for Amsterdam. Scratch beneath the surface with a clear, visual directory that highlights the best places to eat, chill out, party and uncover the city’s prolific coffeeshop scene.
🧭 Find your bearings.
Intrinsically entwined with the sea, the sophisticated canal system that encircles the historic centre is a staggering feat of engineering. Land and sea rarely have a more harmonious relationship than here, creating a meandering maze of looming baroque buildings and tranquil waterways.
Blend in by opting for the most time-efficient, eco-friendly, and enjoyable method of transport: bicycles! The infatuation that Dutch people have for cycling is well-known, and there are very valid reasons for this. Gliding your way through Amsterdam is a breeze, with any destination within a 20-minute proximity.
Mere minutes from Centraal Station, pre-book your rental with Yellow Bike and you’ll be zipping through the city in no time. Another popular outlet is Discount Bike Rental, which is located just around the corner.
There are two main types of bikes to choose from: pedal bikes and handbrake models. Pedal bikes are manually powered and have no brakes, so if you’re inexperienced with cycling in busy places, shelling out an extra few euros for added security may be a wise investment.
Feeling the wind in your hair as you swiftly steer your way through the city, it becomes easy to understand why the simplicity of everyday life enchants so many.
🚖 Find yourself far from home? No cause for concern; Uber is available everywhere!
In all its grandeur, Amsterdam Centraal will likely be your first port-of-call. This transportation hub is the lifeblood of the city; the terminus for the vast majority of tram lines that span south, east and west. Take advantage of the excellent network and utilise the invaluable GVB website to plan your journey via tram.
North of here, the immense River IJ flows between Central Amsterdam and the thriving cultural borough of Noord. However, it really couldn't be any easier to complete the crossing, with public ferries departing every 5 minutes between Centraal and the ports of Buiksloterweg and NDSM. These ferries run 24 hours a day, with an average duration onboard of around 3-5 minutes. Oh, and best of all, they‘re always free!
🏰 Sights, Culture + Experiences.
Weaving through Amsterdam’s canals is a wonderful way to pass time. On summer afternoons, open-top canal boats navigate the quaint waterways, soaking up blissful sunshine. In the evening, candlelit cruises voyage through a winding network of illuminated archways and jubilant neighbourhoods.
A much-loved green space, the Vondelpark is a fantastic place to take the edge off. In summer, admire weeping willows gracefully gliding atop the water or check out the jam-packed schedule of entertainment at the open-air theatre. Autumn’s arrival beholds the verdant foliage transforming to gorgeous gradient shades of auburn and gold, whilst Christmas markets and mulled wine hearten locals through the cold bite of winter.
Deriving its name from the many breweries that historically aligned the banks of the canal, Brouwersgracht is one of the most picturesque waterways in the city. Nowadays, impeccable townhouses occupy the banks around the canal.
The leafy streets of this peaceful neighbourhood are replete with artisan cafes and laid-back coffeeshops, whilst antiquated boats elegantly glide through the charming archways of countless red-brick bridges.
Home to many renowned museums, Amsterdam will satisfy the itch of culture buffs interested in enriching their knowledge of local history. Firstly, visit Anne Frank House — an emotionally stirring museum in the heart of peaceful Jordaan.
Re-trace the footsteps of the symbolic World War II diarist, who — at just 13 years of age — began to document her family's refuge from Nazi persecution. The tour culminates at an exhibit bringing awareness to victims of persecution and discrimination across the globe. Although sombre, this is an especially humbling experience that should definitely be undertaken.
Dedicated to the history of film-making and the industry surrounding it, the EYE Filmuseum gives reason for movie buffs to rejoice. Constant screenings of eclectic cinematic works showcase films in their final form, whereas rotating exhibitions reveal an in-depth exploration of the artistic process. Choice selections from its vault of 700,000+ photographs and posters present a full-scope of the finest achievements in cinema.
The centrepiece of Museumplein is the Rijksmuseum, harbouring over 1 million artefacts that span from between 1200 to 2000. From this monumental collection, less than 10,000 items are on-show at any given time, with rotating exhibits drawing repeat visits from avid art aficionados. Proudly displaying wonderful Dutch Golden Age masterpieces, the unparalleled collection of original prints includes renowned pieces by Rembrandt and Johannes Vermeer to name a few.
Housing the largest collection of art from the legendary Dutch painter, the Van Gogh Museum sheds light on the unique and cohesive style perfected by this eccentric genius during the sole decade of his career.
A true master of revealing beauty in simplicity, gorgeous pastel shades and often surreal distortions on reality project his colourful vision on to pastoral landscapes, expressive portraits and the shimmering night's sky.
Another cornerstone of Museumplein, Moco Museum (📷) is the newest institution to find a home here. Established in 2016 to represent contemporary and street art, the museum has resonated amongst the ever-expanding population of young creatives, with murals, immersive installations, and daring displays of urban artistry.
Delve into the history of Amsterdam’s most famous pilsner at the Heineken Experience. Housed in the now defunct riverside brewery that served as its primary facility for over 100 years, knowledgable staff escort tours and re-count the brewing procedure. The tour rounds off at a panoramic rooftop bar, where you can spend your beer tokens to enjoy fresh Heineken with a view.
Occupying a rugged old shipyard, the cultural centre of NDSM has reclaimed deteriorating warehouses and hangars. The result? A vibrant incubator for cutting-edge artists, fun-loving locals and alternative thinkers, where people from all walks of life converge and collaborate towards common goals. During summer, NDSM is over-flowing with exciting events and festivals, as well as the additional allure of outdoor bars and Europe’s largest flea market.
Providing locals with an endless treasure trove to wade through, IJ Hallen is a vast pop-up market operating Saturday and Sunday on a 3 weekly basis. Always bustling, the market welcomes an eager crowd to browse its 500 stalls, which spill out to surround the periphery of this monumental building during summer, allowing bargain hunters to bask in the sunshine.
🎟️ Action-packed sightseeing schedule? Condense your plans with the Iamsterdam City Card for unrestricted 24 hour access to all major sights, public transport and bicycle rental.
💃🏽 Nightlife.
In a constant state of evolution, Amsterdam’s nightlife scene is invigorating and diverse, ingenious and resourceful. At the cutting edge of cultural trends, after-hours experiences run the gauntlet from transcendental techno sets in industrial hangars to glitzy futuristic cabaret clubs.
In the heart of NDSM, Pllek (📷) is a staple venue that has earned a reputation as one of the coolest hangouts in Amsterdam. Fortified by shipping containers, diners enjoy organic dishes inside, with views across the River IJ from its wall-to-wall glass windows. A man-made sandy beach is constructed here for summer, creating the illusion of escaping to a seaside resort far from the city.
To kick-start the month — every month — Pllek organises an extravagant live concert. Intentionally eclectic, the shows incorporate music from across the world in an effort to unite people from all backgrounds through art and expression.
A shining example of maximising space, Noorderlicht Café comprises only of a ramshackle greenhouse and outdoor tables. If everything looks a bit sporadic and incohesive, that's precisely the point.
Mis-matched decor and mood-lighting adorn the interior of this greenhouse, much of which has been salvaged from streets and landfills across Amsterdam. During periods of pleasant weather, this venue is a magical place to unwind and allow the hours to pass by.
Amsterdam's creative community have reclaimed the derelict dockyards upon which Roest is founded, transforming the space beyond recognition. Its interior is spacious, emphasised further by its minimalist design. Cosy leather couches and overhanging neon signs make for a welcoming hangout, although the party often spills out into its courtyard.
A menu spanning vast varieties of brews from across Europe, beer enthusiasts will be astounded by In de Wildeman. Passionate bartenders display an immense devotion to the beverages they stock, and effortlessly relay their expert knowledge to answer queries of novices and connoisseurs alike. With a strict no-music policy, this is Amsterdam's closest equivalent to a veritable beer temple. No distractions, no-frills and no disappointments.
The new way isn't always necessarily the best way when it comes to creating a palpable ambience — and BR020 is a hip music bar proving just that. In the age of Spotify, this place foregoes convenience in favour of the classic combo of turntables and vinyl records. The attentive bartender balances his serving duties whilst simultaneously conducting the spinning of wax, keeping the tunes flowing all night.
Step inside classy cocktail bar Rosalia’s Menagerie and be wowed by the expertise on show. Artisan cocktails are crafted with reverence, using organic ingredients to elevate and enhance the wide palate of flavours found in their drinks cabinet. Despite the ritzy, speak-easy vibe, you’ll find staff exceptionally chatty and approachable. Don't be shy to admit if you're out your depth — they've heard it all before!
Living up to its name, polished cocktail bar NJOY is a bastion of pure joy for mixology enthusiasts. Devising blissful infusions from a cabinet of wondrous spirits, staff share their fervour for their artistry through upmarket cocktails with implicit themes.
At the cutting edge of Amsterdam's underground scene, De Marktkantine (📷) is an esoteric spot shared amongst hip locals and travelling devotees of dance music. Owing to its pivotal role in the rave revolution of the 90s, the venue already had a solid reputation when re-opened in 2014. Since then, it would be fair to say the project has been a resounding success, hosting thousands of clubbers weekly.
Another epicentre of dance culture during the early 90s, the cavernous industrial hangar at Warehouse Elementenstraat used to welcome underground titans to headline illicit raves. In spite of its pivotal role in changing cultural trends, the venue lived an ephemeral life, ceasing to exist in 1993.
Eventually, with a retrospective infatuation for the mystique around the movement, the space was unearthed by a collective of die-hard EDM producers and promoters.
A new iteration of the venue was unveiled in 2012 and has become as prevalent as ever. Hosting world-class DJs and emergent Dutch artists, Warehouse flaunts its mind-blowing sound system and dazzling light fixtures to adoring crowds.
Deeply rooted in counter-culture through the 60s and 70s, current-day Paradiso is a prime venue hosting stream-lined concerts from world-class artists. Formerly squatted by the peace-loving hippie movement throughout the Summer of Love in 1967, swift action was then taken to forcibly vacate the inhabitants.
Shortly after, sufficient moves were made to legitimise the space as a cultural centre, with the expansive main room undergoing renovations in an attempt to tame the cavernous echo. Successfully restrained, Paradiso flexes its incredible sound-system on jam-packed club nights.
A stone’s throw from the grand opulence of Amsterdam’s Centraal Station, the trendy club of Bitterzoet is a must-visit for music lovers in town. This dimly lit chamber adorned with stained glass windows hosts eclectic DJs spinning rock, reggae, funk, hip-hop and more.
🚬 Coffeeshops.
Drastically ahead of the curve, an incredibly relaxed approach to cannabis has romanticised the city’s copious coffeeshops to enthusiasts across the globe. When all is said and done, coffeeshop culture is something that should be embraced by all who are open to the experience. Many places offer tasty food to cater to the insatiable hunger of guests, and brew legit coffee to accompany your pick-me-up.
One of the most enduring is Abraxas, a staple coffeeshop noted for its varied selection and reasonable prices. This two-storey townhouse has a cosy, rustic vibe with seating upstairs, creamy coffees and constant flow of music.
Somewhat isolated, the hip coffeeshop of La Tertulia (📷) is located in the peaceful Jordaan district. Inside, leafy decor and free-flowing natural light pass through this spacious home, making this the perfect spot to relax on a hazy day.
Set in a dark wooded interior, Tweede Kamer is a refined option more reminiscent of a polished brown café than your average coffeeshop. After a genuine welcome from smiling faces behind the counter, the decadent decor, quality product and seriously standout hot drinks ensure the constant flow of nothing but mellow vibes.
For maximum relaxation, Lost in Amsterdam is unparalleled in its attentive service and sultry atmosphere. As you step in off the street outside, you will be greeted by one of the chatty staff members, who will escort you to a table in the upstairs mezzanine or down below in the snug subterranean hideout.
Brass shisha pipes are available for rent, convenient for sharing with friends around one of the tightly-knit tables, each one surrounded by comfy fabric sofas. If you plan on settling down here, table servers will inform you that you have to buy a drink as the place doesn't sell any cannabis products directly.
Not a typical café, there’s a certain organised insanity to the frenzied graffiti strewn across every corner and crevasse of Hill Street Blues (📷). Manifesting the seedy allure of nearby De Wallen, its whereabouts combined with former coffeeshop status have gained notoriety as a mystical and edgy place.
Although no longer a licensed vendor of cannabis, smokers are encouraged to bring their own to enjoy in the lounge area. Descend a rickety wooden staircase to the smoking area, where natural light pours in from its wide waterfront window. Grab yourself a beer or coffee from upstairs and sink into one of the tattered leather sofas.
🧀 A whirlwind for the tastebuds.
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to splash out to sustain yourself in Amsterdam. Often, you can find gratifying food that is both cheap and filling. Numerous hot-plate carousels are dotted throughout the city, each containing tasty Dutch comfort food dispensed in vending machine style. Simply pop Euros in the slot and you’ll be savouring some deep-fried Edam bitterballen in no time.
For over 60 years, unassuming side-street vendor Vlaams (📷) has been whipping up yummy Belgian fries for ravenous devotees of 'Amsterdam's finest friterie'. Brave the winding queues and be rewarded with a staple checkered cone, filled to the brim with fluffy potato fries topped with a helping of your chosen sauce.
Roughly 20 independent vendors vie for the attention of hungry patrons at Foodhallen — an expansive culinary market. A competitive hotbed, vendors are engaged in a fierce, never-ending competition to whip up delicious food that stands out from the crowd. Whether in the mood for Vietnamese chicken, wood-fired pizzas, vegan-friendly snacks or pistachio gelato, Foodhallen is a safe bet.
Esteemed artisan cookie bakery Van Stapele fires up its ovens early in the morning every day. Once the batch has been perfected, the public descends en mass to get their hands on these delicious cookies before it's too late. When the treats have been devoured, Van Stapele quietly closes its doors until the next day, with a small sign proudly displaying the time at which the last cookie flew off the shelf.
Home to Amsterdam's most venerated apple pie, Winkel 43 holds iconic status amongst the countless cafés in the city. Served with a helping of rich whipped cream, permeate the sugar-coated chunky crust to scoop up a spoonful of freshly sliced apple, lathered in gooey pie filling. Although there is insurmountable hype behind this particular menu item, there’s more on offer. Sample some of their warming soups, tasty sandwiches and Dutch snacks such as bitterballen and croquettes.
Kick-start your day on a high note at Quartier Putain — an artsy café on the doorstep of De Wallen's Old Church. Emanating an eccentric vibe, withered black and white tiles deck the ground floor, whilst a jukebox stocked with vintage 7" singles is found in the upstairs cubbyhole. The grub here is great too, held in high regard amongst locals as one of the best value brunch spots in town. Choice cuts from the menu include avocado toast, divine home-made apple pie and buttery croissants with jam.
Succulent free-range rotisserie chicken is the speciality of Van 't Spit, an unpretentious spot which has received rave reviews after an initial restaurant opened doors in bustling West Amsterdam.
Fixated on perfecting their forte, the menu intentionally does not offer side dishes to accompany the main event. However, whole or half chicken plates are coupled with freshly baked bread, fries or applesauce.
Venture across the IJ River to Noord, where a cavernous shed on the banks of the river has been transformed into a trendy restaurant with funky decor.
In contrast to the unvarnished metal walls and pillars that prop up the venue, Hotel de Goudfazant (📷) showcases vintage cars, chandeliers and classy plates of French-inspired cuisine with a local twist.
Tucked out of sight down a leafy lane, Kapitein Zeppos (📷) is an adorable Mediterranean restaurant which is a treat for all of the senses. Founders Bob and Claire are earnest in their endeavour to contribute to the local community with a joyous and convivial hangout spot.
A colourful candlelit conservatory and strip of dangling fluorescent bulbs create the perfect ambience for a romantic dinner. Outside, a row of tables invite customers to dine in the lane shrouded by greenery.
Hundreds of motherly portraits densely decorate all four walls of Moeders, casting vigilant eyes down upon diners. Generous portions of down-home Dutch cooking are guaranteed to hit the spot, with traditional favourites including prime cuts of beef or sausage paired with creamy potato mash and grilled vegetables.
A collection of charming heirlooms and keepsakes heighten the homey atmosphere; old-fashioned lampshades emit a warming glow and colourful ceramic teapots distribute lovingly brewed tea to wash down home-baked apple pie.
Bringing the flavours of Mexico to trendy De Pjip, the food at Chiapas Taco Cartel is criminally good. Attracting a sociable crowd, this buzzing hangout entices you to stay long after clearing your plate, with refreshing Mexican cerveza and craft cocktails. Swanky studded couches in rainbow colours and a patchy paint job are adorned by a portrait of Frida Khalo; her presence is noted as a loving nod to the culture behind the cuisine.
High-end eco-conscious eatery De Kas occupies a grandiose garden conservatory. Focus is given to Mediterranean cuisine with the essence of fine dining — curated by the inventive chef at its helm. Dedication to freshness and versatility is so profound that the menu rotates on a daily basis to correspond with the fresh ingredients they have. There is a strong element of sustainability too, as most ingredients are sourced from private plots and an on-site herb garden.
☕️ Cafés.
A rite of passage, locals rouse themselves from the morning fog with a warming cup of joe, bracing for the day ahead. Attention to fair-trade ideals has ushered in the age of conscious coffee consumption, with independent roasters directly sourcing coffee beans from credible suppliers.
Popular amongst locals, places that carry the colloquial label ‘brown cafés’ are indicative of cosy, confined living rooms that double as delightfully antiquated watering holes.
Inhabiting one of the most emblematic buildings along the picturesque Brouwersgracht, Het Papeneiland (📷) is a storied brown café by the canalside. The rustic wooden interior begets a local crowd, with unabashed simplicity the reason behind its charm. Natural light beams through from wall-to-wall windows as a cast-iron fireplace juts out from a scant backdrop of vintage Delft blue tiles.
Tucked inside an isolated wing of De Oude Kerk, De Koffieschenkerij is a quaint hideaway welcoming guests to relax in the cosy darkened wood interior, where coffee and delightful sweet treats are served with a warming smile. A true haven in the heart of De Wallen, this intimate café provides refuge, calm and contemplation amidst Amsterdam's liveliest district.
Birthed from one man's passionate pursuit of the perfect cup of java, Bocca Coffee is a sustainable roastery devoted to transparency in its supply chain and nurturing close relations with chosen coffee farmers. During an inspirational visit to Ethiopia, Dutch native Menno stumbled across an idyllic coffee farm beset on a hillside.
Astounded by the vibrancy of the flavours and touched by the kindness of the people he met, Menno returned to introduce these aromas to coffee connoisseurs closer to home. Years on, Bocca has become a local institution, serving up truly delicious coffee with a unique, unrivalled taste.
Doing their part to oppose the pitfalls of mass-market coffee farming, White Label uses ethical sources to obtain fairtrade coffee. Snug beanbags and mis-matching tables create a homey ambience, perfect for cooling off in, or spending hours laptop labouring. As its name implies, the café is run by avid music fans, with decidedly eclectic record sleeves hanging on the walls, indicative of the artists on rotation.
Hugging the canalside, ‘t Smalle is a traditional brown café, cosy inside and romantic outside. With roots dating back to the latter half of the 18th century, the building was initially the site of a distillery known for the production of a regional Dutch gin. As you step inside, you may feel suspended in time. Weathered floor tiles deck the floor beneath your feet, dark shades of oak encapsulate you from all angles and stocky brass candle-holders illuminate your path.
A genuine oddity full of quirks and charm, Latei is a funky place shared between young and old, locals and not-so-locals, the eccentrics and the straight-laced. Alongside food and coffee, this multi-faceted café has a mesmerising concept: all items within are up for sale. Customers browse racks of vintage clothing, books and vinyl, or walk away with the paintings on the wall.
A distinct skew-whiff canal house, Café de Sluyswacht stands detached from any other, nestled by the side of a 'lock' in the canal. Formerly the home of the 'lockmaster' — a person entrusted with making sure the canal was secured — the endearing lop-sided structure has become a cherished community café.
🏡 Feel at home.
Health-conscious haven Hearth is obscured behind a sea of stalls on bustling Albert Cuypstraat, making it all to easy too overlook. Veggies and vegans flock here for delectable deli-style food, becoming a beloved community spot hosting sporadic exhibits and live concerts from local artists, alongside selling clothing made from renewable materials.
Crate-diggers and coffee connoisseurs converge at Black Gold, an urban utopia shared between music lovers and café crawlers alike. Organic coffee beans are obtained from a single source via the likeminded White Label Roastery in West Amsterdam. Curated stacks of vinyl contain tight funky grooves, visceral techno, hidden African gems and classic 90s hip-hop. You’ll stand shoulder-to-shoulder with collectors and DJs as everyone flicks through, delving deeper into their musical odyssey.
Discreetly hidden away, enlightened music fans take refuge at Zwart Goud — a dance music temple showcasing subgenres underneath the umbrella of house, techno and revisionist disco. From hardcore industrial breaks to wavy ambient synth and balmy Balearic beats, it’s all here!
In this shadowy subterranean basement, the ambience captures the essence of the label’s signature sound. Booming bass and hypnotic grooves resonate throughout from the in-store audio system, echoing a gritty urban vibe, a physical embodiment of the sounds laced within each slab of wax.
Emerging from a squat that occupied the former Dutch Film Academy, OT301 is a thriving hub for Amsterdam’s creative and artistic community. Hosting an eclectic schedule of live bands and DJs, the run-down aesthetic of this venue enhances its clandestine club nights.
Truly in its element when cacophonous parties are in full-swing, OT301 inhabits a more placid space during the day. An on-site kitchen serves up health-conscious vegan meals alongside a theatre, screening Saturday Morning Cartoons at 7am for party-goers who refuse to call it quits.
An invigorating new addition to Amsterdam's ever-expanding list of venues with character, De School is a glowing example of ingenuity from the younger generation. On-site facilities cater to the everyday needs of its youthful devotees, boasting an airy fitness centre, café with plant-based menu and a programme of rotating art exhibits. A vital component is the fantastic nightclub housed inside a former bike storage shed, with an agenda placing emphasis on promoting local artists, performing until 5am and beyond.
A haven for vintage virtuosos, there is a truly special discovery awaiting every person who combs through the inventory of Concrete Matter. Concealing a sweeping selection of vintage attire, timeworn trinkets and obscure oddities with enigmatic charm, the warm-hearted owners have a keen eye for selecting products of high quality and character. In this enchanting treasure trove, weathered military flight jackets are contrasted by authentic floral Hawaiian shirts — traced back to the islands themselves — and madcap relics such as switchblade shaving razors made from Japanese steel.
Embodying the essence of Amsterdam's cool counter-culture, Skatecafe is a haven for the hip-crowd. Skaters are encouraged to bring along their boards to tear up the indoor halfpipe, conveniently placed in front of its on-site restaurant. As well as being a great place to whittle away the hours, Skatecafe occasionally hosts live music and club nights, attractive to a similarly alternative crowd.
✂️ Need a trim? Urge to hit the gym? Date night at the movies? Easy; the Lifestyle Map has your back!
🎒 Side Trips.
Delve into Dutch history by paying visit to the idyllic fishing communities along the coast. In contrast to the modernity of Amsterdam, these peaceful towns are laid-back and abide by strict tradition.
Thirty minutes north of Amsterdam, the charming open-air museum at Zaanse Schans is an immersive time capsule. The cluster of historic farmhouses, windmills and quaint timber bridges found here date back to the 17th century, offering a captivating insight to rural life Holland.
Windmills are emblematic symbols of Dutch heritage, and the mills here are among the best examples in the Netherlands. One famous example is the old Poelenburg Sawmill, a lofty wooden mill with an eye-catching bright green facade.
The De Huisman spice mill circulates enticing aromas using traditional millstones, with freshly ground spice mixes being sold on-site. Neighbouring De Bonte Hen is famed for its unprecedented luck, having survived direct hits from several bolts of lightning since its initial construction back in 1693.
A collection of small, colourful wooden houses and close-knit streets form the whimsical village of Marken, cut-off from the mainland during a fabled storm in the 13th century. This isolation resulted in the preservation of a distinct culture, independent from even those in the immediate vicinity.
Across the harbour, far larger Volendam is a cultural hub where charismatic locals roam around in a lovingly maintained period dress. Old-fashioned wooden footwear — known as 'clogs' — are worn daily, and the seafront promenade is aligned by countless vendors peddling the local delicacy of smoked eel.
Too often overlooked, Utrecht is a city steeped in history, with cobbled streets and zig-zagging canals branching out from the monumental centrepiece of Domkerk. Until the dawn of the Dutch Golden Age, this was the national centre of trade and commerce, pivotal in solidifying local culture and industry.
Nowadays, Utrecht is vibrant, teeming with excellent restaurants, exciting nightlife, and cultural centres. Home to a highly prestigious university, the current day demographics of the city are diverse, with students from across the globe creating a harmonious and youthful vibe.
The imposing presence of Dom Tower is best viewed from Zadelstraat — a pedestrian street with fantastic shopping. The belfry of this Gothic monolith is currently under renovation, with a temporary crow's nest established 100m above ground, where a sweeping panorama can be admired.
Merely 15 minutes by train from Central Amsterdam, venture out to Haarlem, a magical labyrinth of cobbled streets, tranquil leafy courtyards and colourful gabled townhouses. Embodying an authentic historical charm whilst also being firmly rooted in modern culture with trendy craft beer breweries, cosy cafes, and esteemed art museums. Explore the Gouden Straatjes, a series of quaint boulevards lined with trendy designer and vintage clothing boutiques, bohemian chic homeware stores and family-run luncheonettes serving fish and chips.
Open to the public seasonally, a visit to the nearby flower garden of Keukenhof is absolutely essential. Covering just under 80 acres of land, this is the largest garden of its kind on Earth. Millions of bulbs are planted, tended to, and immaculately maintained throughout the year, with meticulous attention and care given to every corner of the park. The delicate nurturing from veteran botanists ensures elegant fields of blossoming tulips, daffodils and roses year-on-year.
💤 Accommodation.
Sophisticated and stylish boutique hotels are in vogue, offering idyllic getaways in re-purposed tram depots and adjoining canal houses, whereas numerous hostels await for more sociable stays.
On the fringes of burgeoning Dapperbuurt, global hostel chain Generator has transformed a disused wing of the University of Amsterdam into a downright opulent hostel. The cavernous lecture hall that once housed zoological students has been revamped to serve as a relaxed common space, maintaining the original layout of wooden benches.
Blessed with an abundance of natural light in a lush, verdant setting, this hostel is a great choice for those looking to have a sociable stay or — likewise — a quiet retreat.
Polished and modern, ClinkNoord is a huge multi-storey hostel, housed within a former dairy factory at the heart of Amsterdam’s most thriving district. The inherited space has been tastefully converted to boast a bright and spacious interior whilst preserving an element of industrial flair
Deliberately isolated from the centre of town, there is an overwhelming sense of calm and tranquility present at Zoku. Feel truly at home here, whether mingling with fellow guests in laid-back living areas or drifting away on a hammock (📷) in the leafy rooftop garden.
When it comes to laying down your head after an intensive day of exploring, Zoku shines brightest. Airy and spacious lofts are the standard, welcoming guests with comfy beds, a separate lounge area and kitchenette.
An absolute haven for creatives and alternative thinkers, it‘s impossible to over-emphasise how vibrant and important Volkshotel is to the young people of Amsterdam. Spread across its 5 floors, you can find 15 music studios, 2 nightclubs and 4 dance studios alongside food and drink.
Standard rooms are categorised by size, from compact double rooms to XL digs with multiple beds. On the flip-side, so-called ’special rooms’ are immaculately designed with individual themes. After a day of exploring, soak up the festive atmosphere by enjoying a drink in the basement bar, or slow down the pace by ascending to the scenic roof terrace for a cleansing stint in the on-site Finnish sauna.
Bestowed with the title of the best hotel in the Netherlands more than once, those seeking extravagance need look no further than Conservatorium Hotel. A landmark building on the doorstep of Museumplein, renowned Italian architect Piero Lissoni overseen the renovation of this iconic property in 2008.
Now exhibiting a seamless blend of modernity and historic charm, sporadic splashes of colour are sparingly peppered throughout, accentuating the gradient shades of grey and brown in its classical decor. The lobby comprises of a huge, high-ceiling atrium, encapsulated in glass and beholding a ritzy cocktail bar with plush couches to lounge upon.
