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Amsterdam

Canal-side bikes, brown cafes & weekend markets

Browse Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include Blijburg aan Zee, Sunday Market Amsterdam and Rijksmuseum. Food lovers should not miss Moeders and La Perla. Below you will find 45 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Amsterdam at a glance

  • Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
  • Best time to visit: spring and autumn
  • Highlights: Blijburg aan Zee and Sunday Market Amsterdam
  • Where to stay: Keizersgracht and Eastern Docklands
  • Local picks: 45 hand-chosen recommendations
  • Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Local tips for Amsterdam

Stories and neighbourhood know-how from our local guides.

Where to stay in Amsterdam

Compare live hotel prices and availability on the map. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Westergasfabriek

Sunday Market Amsterdam

On the first Sunday of the month the old Westergasfabriek gasworks turns into a hip market of food, art, fashion and design – free tastings of Greek wine, Lebanese falafel and Spanish ham alongside second-hand clothes and handmade crafts. It feels like a little town-within-the-city, and it’s the place for a truly one-off souvenir.
★ 4.3
$
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Keizersgracht

The Dylan Amsterdam

An intimate five-star hidden behind a canal-house facade on the Keizersgracht, arranged around a serene courtyard with a Michelin-pedigree restaurant. Discreet, romantic luxury in the heart of the ring.
★ 4.7
$$$
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Herengracht

The Hoxton, Amsterdam

The design-led Hoxton spread across five canal houses on the Herengracht, with a lively lobby-restaurant and that easy hang-out feel. A stylish, central base right on the water.
★ 4.6
$$
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Jordaan

The Jordaan

Amsterdam’s most charming quarter – narrow canals, leaning gables, brown cafes and courtyard gardens, plus the city’s densest cluster of local restaurants. Made for an aimless wander.
★ 4.7
$
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Canal Belt

The Nine Streets (De 9 Straatjes)

A grid of nine pretty little streets crisscrossing the canals, packed with independent boutiques, vintage shops, design stores and cosy cafes. The nicest area in the centre for a browse.
★ 4.6
$
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Museum Quarter

Van Gogh Museum

The world’s largest collection of Van Gogh’s work, tracing his short, turbulent career from peasant scenes to the blazing late canvases. Tickets are timed and online-only – book well ahead.
★ 4.7
$$
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Museum Quarter

Vondelpark

The city’s beloved green heart just behind the museums – ponds, lawns and cycle paths where all of Amsterdam comes to jog, picnic and hang out. Free open-air performances in summer.
★ 4.7
$
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Jordaan

Winkel 43

A corner cafe on the Noordermarkt famous across the city for one thing above all: towering slices of warm Dutch apple pie with a mountain of whipped cream. Come on a Saturday market morning.
★ 4.5
$
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Day trip

Zaanse Schans Windmills Day Trip

A short hop from the city to a postcard village of working windmills, wooden houses and cheese and clog workshops on the Zaan river. Guided half-day trips handle the transport.
★ 4.6
$$
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Before you go

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Book your trip to Amsterdam

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Amsterdam travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Amsterdam?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Amsterdam at a relaxed pace. See our Amsterdam itinerary guide for a day-by-day plan.

Where is the best area to stay in Amsterdam?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit. Our where to stay in Amsterdam guide breaks down the best neighbourhoods.

What are the best things to do in Amsterdam?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay.

What is the best time to visit Amsterdam?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Amsterdam is worth visiting year-round.

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