Amsterdam has something for everyone. A lively party scene and a rich history make Amsterdam the perfect destination for any demographic. The city itself is a beautiful onion of many layers with a system of canals that provide locals and tourists alike the opportunity to see the city the best way: on a boat!

You’ll ideally spend at least 3 or 4 days when you visit Amsterdam, and preferably a week or more if you hope to see all of the top attractions and also experience the local side of the city.

Amsterdam City Guide

~Advice~

 

It is very common knowledge that marijuana is legal in Amsterdam. Don’t ask for a coffee shop if you’re looking for coffee…ask for a cafe! Ask for a coffee shop and you’re going to get a giggle and directions to a marijuana dispensary. It is also important to note that you’ll likely be approached by multiple street drug dealers. In these situations the best response is a simple, “No thank you.” If you wish to enjoy the legal drugs the city has to offer, visit a coffee shop or a smart shop. Buying from a street dealer is not only illegal but also extremely dangerous.

 

~Where to stay~

 

The city center is ideally where you want to be when you visit Amsterdam. If you’re outside of it at all you’ll want to make sure you have a bicycle.

AirBnb is an awesome option and provides a number of affordable apartments in the center, but if you’re looking for a hotel, try one of our suggestions:

· Seven One Seven

· Amstel Hotel

· Movenpick Hotel City Center

· The Toren

· Hampshire American

· Banks Mansion

· Ambassade Hotel

· Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam

~Must sees~

· Van Gough Museum

· Rijksmuseum

· Anne Frank house

· Heineken Factory/Museum

· I Am Amsterdam sign

· Amsterdam Arena

~Where to eat~

Regardless of where you choose to dine, you must be sure to try our favorite Dutch treat, stroopwafels! In regard to restaurants, try one (or all) of the following:

· De Kas

· Beddingtons

· Rijks

· Omelegg

~Nightlife~

Amsterdam is the dance capital of the world and with that comes a load of night clubs. Regardless of what you do or where you go, always remember to party safe. Local favorites include:

· Jimmy Woo

· AIR Amsterdam

· Chicago Social Club

· Escape

· Paradiso

· Club closure

· Akhnation

~Amsterdam Dance Event~

Every October Amsterdam hosts the largest dance conference in the world; the Amsterdam Dance Event. A staggering 300,000 – 400,000 people visit Amsterdam to attend the conference and enjoy a week full of some of the most insane parties Amsterdam has to offer. Every venue has a calendar full of electronic music events throughout the week that cater to any sub-genre preference of electronic music. The Amsterdam Music Festival at the Amsterdam Arena is one of the highlights of ADE and is the platform for announcing the new #1 DJ in the world each year at the DJ Mag party. If you plan to be in Amsterdam in October, make plans to attend ADE and/or AMF. You’ll be sure to have a ton of fun!

 

~Getting around~

Amsterdam’s unique city layout make for somewhat unorthodox modes of transportation. Of course, you can drive cars, but you’ll also enjoy bicycles and boat rides on the canals. If you have a bit of a trek, take an Uber black car as it will be more efficient and more affordable than a taxi.

This should pretty much cover you for a trip ranging from a few days to a week in Amsterdam. If you find yourself having seen too many attractions, just ride your bike around town. Some of our favorite experiences from Amsterdam were simple bike rides exploring the city!