AMSTERDAM: Complete Guide
AMSTERDAM: Complete Guide
MAGGIE | ONWARDS TRAVEL
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150 vetted hotels, under-the-radar restaurants, beautiful bars, can’t-miss museums, tours, and yes — even the must-see tourist spots that are well worth a visit. This guide has it all — and I am so happy to share it with you.
It has been 7 years since I first step foot in this special city. Now, Amsterdam is truly a second home. In honor of the occasion, I am proud to present this ultimate guide to my beloved ‘Dam, filled 100% with places that I have experienced and enjoyed firsthand. There are some real Easter Eggs in here: discount codes, personal tidbits, etc.. Think of it at a glimpse into my personal Amsterdam diary.
Thinking about traveling to Amsterdam? As a Fora travel advisor, when you book your trip with me, you’ll enjoy FREE VIP PERKS as seen under the hotel section. I also curate custom itineraries based on individual interests. Schedule a free consultation call at any time to learn more — and let’s make your trip a reality.
ONWARDS,
- Maggie
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BREWERIES
My first summer in Amsterdam was my “oh, this tastes really good” beer awakening — so let’s start here. For a more in depth look at some of my favorite breweries, check out my Amsterdam Beer Tour — https://www.foratravel.com/guides/3VAB5E/beer-tour-amsterdam-maggie-danielli-pecorino.
Cheers.
Oedipus Brewing
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A personal favorite. The colorful home to locally-famed Thai Thai (Spiced Tripel) & Mannen Liefde (Saison) brews found at many bars throughout the country.
The taproom is in the process of relocating (sad), but keep an eye out for the beer. You’ll recognize it from the colorful bottle designs. They’re everywhere.
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Brewed by Women BAR
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Gebrouwen door Vrouwen is a 100% women-led team headed by two Amsterdam sisters, standing out in an industry dominated by men. Love to see it.
Adorable taproom. Unique and tasty beers.
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Brouwerij 't IJ
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One of Holland’s most famous breweries housed inside a giant windmill. Great charcuterie for snacking and canal-side outdoor seating for the views.
A can’t miss.
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Brouwerij Poesiat & Kater
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Honestly such a cute spot. Chill and welcoming vibes. And good beer, duh.
Great outdoor area and food options. Board games!
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Brouwerij Asperius BV
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Family-run bar/restaurant with easy drinking home-brews and a selection of other local options. A cozy, down to earth introduction to Amsterdam bar/cafe culture.
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Brouwerij en Proeflokaal Breugem
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Tasting room/brewery/workshop and presentations spaces. Events: comedy, vinyl nights, etc..
Part of a social enterprise company, De Prael stands by their inclusivity: as much as possible, they offer employment to those with occupational disabilities or those finding it difficult to secure a job elsewhere. Love it.
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Mikkeller at Morebeer
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Intimate taproom housing an extensive range of beloved Mikkeller / WarPigs beers out of Copenhagen. Local options also available.
Crazy bottle selection.
Vegetarian/Vegan food options available.
Stop on the “MOREBEER TOUR” including Arendsnest, The Beer Temple, and Craft & Draft. (Drink 1 beer at each bar in 1 day and keep the receipt to receive a free t-shirt at Craft & Draft — funny.)
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Brouwerij Troost Westergas
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One of several well-loved Troost locations. I like this one as it’s in Westerpark.
Tons of options, both food and drink. Can’t go wrong.
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Lowlander Botanical Bar & Restaurant
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Beautiful plant-filled space featuring beer brewed with botanicals (to “maximize taste and minimize waste”) — but also regular beers & cocktails as well. Full menu.
Bonus: river views and huge outdoor space with loads of seating. Great for a group of friends.
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Homeland Brewery Amsterdam
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Located in the old Navy Yard with a beautiful view of the harbor.
Homeland offers a variety of brews not likely to be found at your typical bar (bourbon barrel aged quad bock, anyone?)
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Two Chefs Taproom
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Two Chefs is responsible for some of the most creative, diverse brews in town, and for that we are thankful. Their sours win big, imo. Nothing wrong with a good Funky Falcon either.
They also have a full menu, so you can turn your beer-needs into a dinner date if need be. Also host to football watch parties & other events.
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BARS
Vice Versa
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One of my most frequented spots, largely due to their super fun weekly roster of English comedy shows (sketch, improv, and standup). Great cocktails. Better people!
DISCOUNT: use the code word “Choocky” and say Maggie sent you for 15% off one tap pour.
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Café Gollem
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Local vibes, resident cat, insane Belgian beer selection both tap and bottled. (Don’t be afraid to give our friends in Belgium some love while you’re in the Netherlands.)
Gollem has a few locations throughout the city, so keep an eye out.
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Waterkant
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Hidden behind a gas station and underneath a parking garage, this old classic never really gets old.
Beautiful canalside spot with outdoor picnic tables. Perfect for long summer days or sunsets. They also serve tasty Dutch/Surinamese bites.
They also host events/DJs on the weekends. Always great parties. Welcoming & inclusive.
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Café Soundgarden
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One of my favorite dives! Cold, cheap beer. Simple selection. Cute backyard patio overlooking the canal. Great for pregaming with pals.
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Saloon
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Gezellig little spot very central near Leidseplein, yet out of the tourist rush. Food is solid!
Mostly chill and good for grabbing a beer with a buddy, but can get rowdy on weekends.
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Proeflokaal Arendsnest
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Amsterdam beerhall legend serving 52 beers on draft and more than 100 in bottles/cans — all from Holland.
TIP: enjoy the bustle of the surrounding Jordaan area, and if you’re in the neighborhood on a Saturday or Monday, walk a few blocks to Noorderkerk for the famous Noordermarkt.
Stop on the “MOREBEER TOUR” including Mikkeller, The Beer Temple, and Craft & Draft. (Drink 1 beer at each bar in 1 day and keep the receipt to receive a free t-shirt at Craft & Draft — funny.)
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Craft & Draft
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Cozy neighborhood beer bar with a huge variety of local & global options. 40 taps. More than 60 bottles/cans. Something for everyone.
Final stop of the “MOREBEER TOUR” including Arendsnest, The Beer Temple, and Mikkeller. (Drink 1 beer at each bar in 1 day and keep the receipt to receive a free t-shirt — funny.)
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Café Bax
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Cozy little bar with a great variety of tap options and solid bar snacks.
Adorable cat is a good drinking companion.
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Flying Dutchmen Cocktails
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One of the most well-known cocktail bars in the city. Staff is truly great at whipping up something fun for ya. Very knowledgeable. Go for a night cap or to (try) impressing someone.
Book in advance to avoid a wait.
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Pulitzer's Bar
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Another reservation-recommended cocktail joint, attached to the Pulitzer Hotel.
For me, this is a dress up and take yourself out for a bev/award type of spot, for when you’ve had a long week, or just want to feel fancy.
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Belushi's
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Belushi’s is the bar attached to St. Christopher’s Hostel, which means young, drunk tourists. Hear me out: they have a buy 1, get 1 free well drink special every single day of the week. If you’re ever feeling overly social and need to blow off some steam, this is your spot. I’ve had some laughs in this place.
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De Nieuwe Anita
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Dive-y ol’ vibes, with a perfectly imperfect performance space in the back. Frequent host to live music & comedy nights.
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CLUBS
Electronic music. This is Amsterdam. Club vibes will differ re: who is playing, who is hosting. Do your research. Read the door policy. And for the love of God, dance.
(If your idea of a fun club environment is being sardined in between drunk Dutch frat boys and other similar creatures, stick to the club-like places near Leidseplein and you will be pleased!)
Lofi
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Indoor/outdoor event space. Huge patio for dancing, the other half with picnic tables for chilling. Two main rooms indoors. Different space vibes allow for different types of programming. Kind of unbeatable when the sun is out.
Multiple bars. Fair prices. Great hot food options for those long events.
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Club Raum
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Newly opened in Spring 2024 after a long, delayed wait. Queer-centric space. Super safe — and sweaty. The way clubs like this should be, imo.
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BRET
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Affectionately known as the big red block in Sloterdijk. Known for its afters, plants, and abundance of daylight. The place to dance away your Sunday Scaries.
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RADION Amsterdam
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The club for getting lost and sweating/dancing your heart out under the veil of darkness. I’ve been quite a few times and still can never quite keep track of where I am.
Soundsystem is maxed. Some people love it, some say it’s too loud. Either way, bring earplugs.
Cafe is nice for getting off your feet. Only con is the small outdoor area.
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Shelter Amsterdam
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Very mainstream compared to the others on the list = a questionable crowd. Maybe one of the few places I would not go alone.
However, amazing sound and lots of toilets. Would go for a good line up.
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Paradiso
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Paradiso is housed inside an old church, making it one of the more unique music venues around. Host to a wide variety of acts, not just techno. Cool to check out at least once.
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Thuishaven Festivalterrein
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Large venue. Big headliner names in electronic music. Slightly younger crowd.
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Radio Radio
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More of a bar with DJs than a club. Small. Good for more lowkey nights. Still gets good names once in a while! Pizza is okay.
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Garage Noord
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Haven’t made it up to GN yet, but will report back by the end of the month. I’m overdue.
Smaller, intimate vibes. Diverse programming (more than just techno!)
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And: a moment of silence for De School, 2016-2024. We miss you.
TO EAT (CASUAL)
Hollands Hap Hmm Restaurant
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Traditional Dutch food is not exactly a culinary miracle, but this place does the staples right. Small, cozy, feels like someone’s grandma is cooking for you.
No reservations. Get there at 4:30 for a table. Larger than a group of 4 probably won’t work.
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Dignita Hoftuin
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Great brunch concept. Part of the Not For Sale social business model, an organization offering training programs through social enterprise efforts and support to marginalized groups. Proceeds go here.
And their Benedicts are on hash browns. Win-win.
There are a couple locations, but go to Hoftuin for a beautifully-lit, green atmosphere.
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Winkel 43
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Famous apple pie. I’ve eaten this slice of greatness dozens of times by now, and it truly never gets old.
Don’t go on weekends. And don’t forget the slagroom (whipped cream).
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Blin Queen. Specialty pancakes & more
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Eastern European-influenced specialty pancake shop by day, cozy wine bar (with a noice happy hour) by night. Love this spot.
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Restaurant & Pizzeria Lucca Due
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Really, really good Neapolitan-style pizza. Hefty pasta selection as well. Lovely courtyard for mild evenings.
Reservations recommended.
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Tacos & Tequila
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Solid sit-down Mexican place. Tacos that don’t make me angry — but I do think I could find better, tbd. Veggie options. Great margarita flavors.
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Foodhallen
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Famous indoor food market featuring restaurant vendors from throughout the city. Everything from burgers to Indian to oysters to cakes and beyond.
Take a post-feast stroll around the surrounding Hallen complex for some local shopping.
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Zero Zero
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Takeaway foccacia sandwiches. So effing fresh and delicious. Could eat these every day.
Try the San Daniele.
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Kaasbar Amsterdam
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The famous cheese conveyor belt place. Avoid if you are lactose intolerant. Otherwise, go immediately.
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SOJU Bar
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Korean friend chicken with loads of sauce options. Sweet & spicy was banging. Large pieces of chicken.
Soju cocktails sound delish. Lively vibes.
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Bar MiMi
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The most gezellig little bistro serving up rotating food specials. Even great to just grab a beer. Hidden off the main drag. So so cute.
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Greenwoods Keizersgracht
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Top-tier brunch. Huge portions. Coffee refillls. I love the Veggie Breakfast.
Several locations. Expect a wait at peak hours.
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The Pancake Bakery
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Favorite traditional Dutch pancake spot. Grab a table upstairs for cozy breakfast vibes.
Expect a wait on weekends.
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Pont Neuf Buiksloterweg
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Favorite frites stand in the city. I came here often during my first fateful summer in town, so I’m biased.
Always hot and fresh. Favorite pindasaus.
(You do not need to wait in line at Fabel Friet. I promise.)
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Cora broodjes & delicatessen - Prinsengracht
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Tasty baguette sammies to-go. Perfect for a park picnic. Great variety of fillings.
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Billy Thai's Restaurant
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Super random, small & inconspicuous place that happens to make my mom and I’s favorite Pad Thai… ever.
My go-to recovery day delivery option.
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GialloArancio
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Casual homemade pasta joint. Super chill, intimate. Like going to someone’s house for dinner. Small menu is always a good sign.
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Haring & Zo
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You’re not allowed to leave the Netherlands without trying fresh, raw herring. If the idea of that makes you gag, I’d ask you to give it a try — with onions and pickles on a piece of bread… it’s actually heel lekker.
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BAKERIES/CAFES
Fort Negen
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Best chocolate croissants I’ve ever had. Not a joke.
Small array of pastries and breads baked fresh every morning. Everything is good. You can’t go wrong.
They went viral for their ice cream-filled croissants, but I think that’s disrespectful to the croissant.
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Ulmus Bakery
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Had a lovely cinnamon bun here. Light and fluffy. Bread looks great. Coffee is banging. Pretty plates.
The open format kitchen creates a welcoming, neighborly vibe. Lots of dogs.
Not much seating,
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Salvo
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Italian baked goods. Some seriously creative bomboloni (think: cherry jam, lemon curd & meringue…) Famous for their fancy croissants, namely the pistachio (nice, not too sweet.)
Expect a wait on weekends.
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Bakkerij Wolf
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Perfect for a pick-me-up snack while shopping in the 9 Straatjes. Dine-in also availabile. Focaccia sandwiches look amazing.
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Chocolaterie Pompadour
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My mom’s favorite bakery. French. Outrageously good quiche. Insane cakes/tartlettes. Very cute, small seating area.
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Petit Gateau
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Mini tarts! Many flavors! All delicious. Park picnic or dinner party vibes.
I like the chocolate raspberry and yuzu meringue.
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Back to Black
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Adorable cafe perfect for working with a cappuccino. Lots of natural light and comfy seats.
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Have A Roll
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Vegan cinnamon rolls (in a variety of flavors) baked fresh throughout the day. Light and fluffy. Could eat several.
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Breadwinner
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If you’re hungover and need a bagel, this is your spot. They are so-called “NYC Sourdough-style” which frankly, not sure what that means, but it is a good description. They’re smaller and more dense than your average New York bagel, but tasty. I appreciated the distribution of everything seasoning.
They do creative sandwiches, and reportedly good pastrami. Will return to try.
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white label coffee
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One of my go-to spots to work in summer 2017. Just really, really good coffee.
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Rudi’s Original Stroopwafels Albert Cuyp Markt Amsterdam
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Freshly made stroopwafel at Albert Cuypmarket. As a rule of thumb: any street vendor making stroop is going to be fresh and pretty good.
Warning: Do not go to the oh-so popular van Wonderen. Overpriced and bad bad bad.
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TO EAT (FANCY)
Vinkeles
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One of my favorite fine-dining experiences to date. 2 Michelin star beauty inside The Dylan hotel. Beautiful flavors. Kind staff. Not stuff. Very literal chef’s kiss.
Reservations required — far in advance.
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Secret Garden
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Beautiful space, great for a cute pic, and friendly service! Peruvian influence — seafood focus. Desserts can be skipped.
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Blue Amsterdam
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Haven’t eaten here since 2017, so need to check in on the food. Think comfort food: sandwiches, burgers, salads.
But either way, awesome views. Go grab a drink and a snack and bask in the beauty.
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De Kas
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Gorgeous vegetarian pre-fixe menu dining in a large greenhouse, most ingredients grown on-site. Unique and delicious.
Reservations required.
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d'Vijff Vlieghen
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For a uniquely Dutch experience, head here for some so-called “elevated Dutch cuisine”. Definitely an adventurous meal, definitely not for vegetarians. The interior is almost like a museum/old house, so be sure to trip around in between courses.
Reservations required.
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Men Impossible
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Affordable (60 euro) six course veggie pre-fixe with choice of ramen. So unique. Japanese with a twist. Sake pairing. Craft beers.
Reservations recommended.
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Amstel Afternoon Tea
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Gorgeous high tea in a gorgeous room along the Amstel. For a special occassion or just for feeling cute and fancy.
Weekends only. Reservations required. 60-80 euro/pp.
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HOTELS
I’ve had the pleasure of visiting a number of properties in Amsterdam, and not only are the solid selections many — the staff has always lovely. Thinking about booking a hotel in Amsterdam? As a Fora travel advisor, booking a hotel through me means you’ll enjoy FREE VIP PERKS including but not limited to:
- Daily breakfast for 2
- Resort credit (value dependent on property)
- Room upgrades (subject to availability)
- Early check-in / late check-out (whenever possible)
- Free bike rentals
Email me or schedule a free consultation call to learn more.
[Read about a few of my favorites here: https://www.foratravel.com/trip-reports/3CKETP/the-best-hotels-in-amsterdam-maggie-pecorino]
The Dylan
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Boutique, quiet luxury. Being inside The Dylan makes you feel instantly at home — but with 1st class service and amenities. Super chill and super nice. Not pretentious. Love this place.
As Max, the lovely sales manager, put it: “This is not a seen and be seen hotel.” It’s a place for privacy and seclusion.
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The Hoxton, Amsterdam
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Perfect location in Jordaan neighborhood / 9 Streets — the best shopping in town, near all major sites. Guests describe a hip, modern vibe.
Every room is unique, showcasing the old quirkiness of canal houses, but with 21st century amenities.
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Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam
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Want to feel royal af? Grand is indeed the word to describe The Grand.
One of only six Sofitel Legend properties, AKA a historically significant building. Protected historical site, so none of the architecture can change. Still fully modern, renovated in 2021. Two on-site restaurants. One casual bistro, one French-fusion fine dining.
Best for: history buffs, anyone looking for convenient access to all parts of the city.
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Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam
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The height of elegance and class built from six canal houses on a quiet stretch of UNESCO-protected Herengracht — historically the wealthiest part of the canal ring. Don’t miss the Peacock Alley High Tea, and Vault Bar, a speakeasy-esque spot made out of a bank vault in the basement.
Best for: a special occasion, anyone looking for refined luxury & top-notch service.
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Pulitzer Amsterdam
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One of my top choices. Quiet luxury. A+ service and amenities in a very welcoming, homey environment. The suites are individually themed/designed, some have private entrances.
Made up of 25 canal houses but feels tiny!
Great food and cocktail bar (see under bars) and an ideal location in the 9 Straatjes.
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Hotel The Craftsmen
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As the name suggests, this boutique property was built as an ode to Dutch craftsmenship. Art & history pervade. Cozy, modern.
Cute little to-go coffee bar downstairs.
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Pestana Amsterdam Riverside
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Elegant (and wheelchair accessible — rare in this town!) Portuguese-influenced property on the Amstel. Perfect for a quiet stay outside of the touristy fray, right on the edge de Pijp near lots of fun restaurants & shops. Lofty, airy, minimalist.
Best for: families/large groups, repeat visitors looking to be away the hustle & bustle.
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Kimpton De Witt
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Oh, the Kimpton. I’ve spent far too much time in this lobby, and if you’re reading this, you deserve to know why:
Complimentary wine hour every day from 4-5.
It’s for guests… but I once was a guest here, so!
Other highlights: great buffet breakfast (included when you book with me), vibey cocktail bar perfect for a nightcap, 5-minute walk from Centraal & across the street from the tram.
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InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam, an IHG Hotel
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When you think Intercontinental, you may think corporate — not so here.
This is a very beautiful, old property and you can tell when you walk in. High ceilings. Beautiful natural light with views of the Amstel on every turn.
Set to be renovated end of 2024.
Don’t miss the Amstel High Tea. The main room itself is a treat.
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The July - Boat & Co
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Apart-hotel style lodgings in the western harbour district. Really cool alternative for repeat visitors or anyone looking for something a lil different. (I’d personally love to live here.) Apartment-style living but with access to communal spaces, gym, etc..
Pretty canal views. Fun, colorful design. Seriously the apartments look so cute and I want one.
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Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht - A Concept by Hyatt
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Design-centric property. No detail is left unnoticed. Playful. Colorful. Great option for art-lovers. Perfect location!
Bonus: bomb breakfast buffet, with open-concept kitchen.
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De L'Europe
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Opened in 1896. One of the most famous hotels in… Europe? Probably.
Classy & classic. Center of the action.
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HOSTELS
Hotels in Amsterdam can be expensive — especially in Tulip Season and summer. Save hundreds — give hostels a chance.
Stayokay Hostel Amsterdam Vondelpark
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If my Amsterdam story begins anywhere, it begins here.
My first week in town was spent in a dorm with peers/friends. The place was actually kind of crap — but I don’t think a single one of us even noticed, let alone cared. Luckily, it has since undergone a truly wonderful makeover. I still grab a beer at the bar from time to time when I’m feeling nostalgic.
TLDR; great quiet location just outside a direct gate to Vondelpark. Expensive in high season, but nice.
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BUNK Hotel Amsterdam
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Once a church located in Noord, now a super fun, well-designed, budget-friendly stay.
Highlights are the large outdoor terrace area and array of events — drag bingo, music, crochet & painting classes, and more.
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Hostelle - women only hostel
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Amsterdam’s only women-only hostel! Love this for solo travellers looking for some extra safety/privacy. (I’m used to sharing rooms with random men — others are not.)
Looks a bit far from the center, but only a 15 minute metro from Centraal. No sweat.
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Ecomama
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My pick if I were hostel-ing right now. Sustainability & community focused. €5 from every booking via their website is donated to Mensen Maken Amsterdam, a non-profit dedicated to green initiatives throughout the city.
Collection of books & vinyl. On-site cafe AND full guest kitchen — a rare combo. Lovely, quiet location in Oost, walkable to the center.
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The Flying Pig Downtown Hostel
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The tried & true home of young backpackers looking to party. Definitely a specific vibe. For example, Maggie two years ago would have loved this. Maggie now? Maybe for one night. Maybe.
Several locations throughout the city.
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Train Lodge
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This is a gimmick and I am 100% here for it. Converted sleeper train turned hostel — sign me up. Located next to Sloterdijk (main bus terminal, large train station) — excellent location for travelers.
Have considered staying here for one night just to see firsthand even though I have a home.
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MUSEUMS (BIG & SMALL)
The city of museums has something for everyone. Hit the classics on your first visit, but be sure to dive deeper the next time around.
Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam
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Personal favorite. Mostly modern (1950–) but with some great older stuff as well. Super diverse exhibitions in a beautiful space. They have a Marina Abramović exhibition up now which, for me, cool.
Could easily spend 4-5 hours here.
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Van Gogh Museum
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Objectively one of the best museums in the world. Even non-art lovers will be moved.
One of the only museums I’d strongly recommend getting the audio guide. It’s just so 😢🫠🤧
Buy tickets well in advance.
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Rijksmuseum
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Also objectively one of the best museums in the world, lol. Home to many classics, Dutch masters, etc.. Hard to see the whole thing even in several visits.
Tip: the gardens & the library are free!
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Embassy of the Free Mind
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Fan of witchcraft & the occult? This one’s for you. An old library-type space with books on everything from herbology, to demons, to old “medicine” and more.
Also, a great place to work. On-site cafe & garden. Hidden gem for real.
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Rembrandt House Museum
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The literal home of everything Rembrandt. A must for art history-lovers.
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Anne Frank House
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An obvious must-visit for first timers.
Book FAR in advance. Aim for a weekday morning for the least crowds.
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Nxt Museum
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An intersection of art and technology. “New media art.” Large scale, multi-sensory exhibitions meant to have guests questioning what is “next” in the future of art & media.
Great option for your fintech friend who wants to do something creative.
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Fabrique des Lumières
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Trippy, immersive light installations. Fun idea for a date… or post-coffeeshop… or both? 👀
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Jewish Museum
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A must-visit in my book. Educational and moving.
Ticket includes entrance to the Portuguese Synagogue across the way. Also nearby is the Holocaust Monomuent, outdoors and open to the public.
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Eye Film Museum
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Film-buff heaven. Rotating exhibitions, often featuring different directors.
Full program of screenings, festivals, talks, and more. Be sure to check the website for a schedule.
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SHOPPING
Rule of thumb: the Negen Straatjes (Nine Streets) neighborhood is known to be the city’s best collection of shops. Even as someone who doesn’t consider herself a shopper, I concur.
By Popular Demand
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Funny, cute trinkets. Perfect place to pick up some souvenirs for those people you have no idea what to get.
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The Book Exchange - Used English-language Books
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Enormous second-hand English bookshop located just off Dam Square.
They also buy!
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Things I Like Things I Love
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Home goods, clothing & the like. Good gift wrapping makes for good gifts (… right?)
Several locations.
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New Amsterdam Surf Association
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This place is blowing up. Some cool pieces, but mostly for men (not that an oversized tee matters much either way).
Please do not shop here if you don’t surf. I’m sorry. I had to say it.
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THRIFTING
IJ Hallen
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Reportedly Europe’s “largest flea market” — and I’d believe it. Absolutely enormous. Every kind of thrifting you could imagine.
Happens once or twice a month. 5 euro entry ticket is required!
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Vintage Island
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Love this one. Super fair prices. Cheap sunglasses. Crazy selection of cowboy boots if you find yourself needing a pair.
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Noordermarkt
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One of the classic outdoor markets. Saturdays (and smaller on Mondays). Some cool clothing/jewelery, but also produce, baked goods, hot food, and more.
Some haggling is allowed, but we’re not in Central America, so take it easy.
Remember to bring a bag!
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Rumors Vintage & Design
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5-minute walk from Centraal on a busy street, so a little more expensive. But great!
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Ragtime Vintage
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This place is an absolute trip. Mostly costume & period pieces. A costume designer’s dream.
Hilarious just to look around, or get ahead on Halloween.
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COMEDY/THEATRE/EVENTS
Mezrab
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One of a kind place. Events range from comedy, to storytelling, to random AF open-mics. A community space run by volunteers. Not to mention pretty river views.
Oh, and they serve really good soup. Only soup.
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Labyrinth Cocktail Soul Food & Poetry Bar
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Open mic Mondays & more. Poetry-focused. Yummy tapas-style plates as well.
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Vondelpark Openluchttheater
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Free performances every Friday evening in Vondelpark throughout the summer! Dance! Vocalists! Circus stuff!
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Boom Chicago
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Popular mainstream comedy. Not in a bad way! If you’re looking for a “proper” comedy show — not comedy in the back of a bar vibes — Boom is for you.
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Melkweg
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Milk factory turned multi-venue music space. Homebase for some big names, welcoming to small. Something for everyone! Check the lineup and grab tix in advance.
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Internationaal Theater Amsterdam
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Melkweg’s older, theatrical neighbor in the heart of Leidseplein. All different types of theatre programming. Beautiful space.
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Rialto
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Really pretty 1920s art deco movie house showing international films. Great idea for a rainy, chilly night.
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Amsterdam Bostheater
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Open air venue presenting theatre, film, live music and more! First come first serve seats. Grand summer activity.
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COFFEESHOPS
Skip The Bulldog and check out one of these instead. I promise.
Coffeeshop 137
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Central, well-priced, good quality.
(First on the list because it’s where I would go after class with my friends — and to this day.)
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Coffeeshop La Tertulia
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Lovely plant-filled cafe vibes. Actually a place to hang out and have a coffee, read a book, etc.. Run by a mother/daughter duo.
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SITES, TOURS & OTHER ATTRACTIONS
Black Bikes | Bike Rental at Leidseplein in Amsterdam
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This is where I would rent bikes before I got my own. Many locations to pick up/drop off. Never had any issues with bikes or staff — reliable options and fairly priced.
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Those Dam Boat Guys
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My canal cruise of choice. Smaller boats (max ~10 people). BYOB & 💨 — you still get your general history, just with a splash more fun. A more social vibe than the larger companies.
Use my code “ONWARDS” at checkout for 10% off your tour!
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Pure Boats Amsterdam
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Another small canal cruise option, a bit “nicer”. Fun options like tours with appeltaart & coffee, or bubbly. Bomb charcuterie spreads.
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Begijnhof
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Quiet escape in the city center: a 600-year old community for catholic women serving those in need & a women-only residence to this day.
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Buitenzwembad Marineterrein - Outdoor canal swimming
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Popular swimming area with clean-water initiatives. It’s safe! The entire city flocks here on warm days. It’s a vibe.
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NDSM
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A free 10-minute ferry from Centraal brings you to Amsterdam’s rapidly developing, industrial north. Cool street art. Fun thrift shops. Gentrification galore.
Used to be more under-the-radar, gritty, etc.. Still worth a visit as it’s quite different from the rest of town.
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Het Amsterdamse Bos
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Literally a forest in the city. It’s massive. Lakes, canals, cafes, event venues, & a farm.
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A'DAM Tower
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The large, square tower seen from Centraal. The one with the swing over the edge. Good photo op and views, obviously.
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Hortus Botanicus
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Botanical gardens! Great for a relaxing day. Open some nights during summer, too. Picnic?
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Sauna Deco
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Horrible weather? Horrible hangover? This beautiful oasis is your answer.
Different types of saunas. Plunge pool. Chill areas. Infrared rooms. Vibes,
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DAY TRIPS
The Netherlands is small (the more you know…). The trains are quick and affordable. Take advantage! (I could list literally every single town in the country, but use this as a start.)
Zaanse Schans
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When you see photos of a bunch of windmills and colorful, odd-shaped houses — that is Zaanse Schans. For a very Dutch day, book the tour below. It includes a stop at a clog factory, and a cheese tasting.
https://www.viator.com/tours/Amsterdam/Zaanse-Schans-Excursion-from-Amsterdam/d525-7258P4?pid=P00058688&uid=U00467775&mcid=58086¤cy=USD
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Zandvoort Beach
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A quick ride from Centraal is… an actual beach! For those rare hot & sunny days.
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Nationaal Park Veluwezoom
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A bit of a journey, but a beautiful one. Known as ‘the Posbank’ or Purple Hills due to a large section of the park turning deep purple around late August.
Horseback riding and bike rentals available. Great city escape.
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Utrecht
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Less than 30 minutes south of Amsterdam by train is the oh so charming Utrecht. Smaller, quieter… cuter? Lovely for a day trip.
Rent a water bike. Yes, a water bike.
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Scheveningen
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Den Haag’s beach, ~30 minute tram from the train station. Apparently, you can surf here. Haven’t made it down yet, because it’s never been sunny for a full day. But I will report back.
Reporting back: literally a Dutch surf town! Grab breakfast at Papan and chill on the wide, sandy beach. Besides that it’s just a small town. Hang out in Den Haag instead.
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's-Hertogenbosch
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Need a break from the crowds? Take the train one hour south to this quickly lil city filled with art & sculpture inspired by artist Hieronymus Bosch.
And don’t forget to grab a Bossche Bol, a massive chocolate-covered cream puff.
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Keukenhof
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If you’re lucky enough to be traveling to the Netherlands during Tulip Season, Keukenhof is a must. Legendary tulip gardens. Very beautiful.
Tip: go early in the morning on a weekday to avoid crowds! Many tour/transportation types available. Contact me for more info.
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* * *
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
MAGGIE | ONWARDS TRAVEL
Available for hire
I’m Maggie: lover of the ocean, craft beer, and Google Maps.
I am a certified travel advisor with the amazing company Fora, where custom itinerary building and destination research is my specialty. I hope to use Thatch to reach likeminded travelers and share my knowledge in a fun, accessible format. My passion lies in people and human connection — this is why I travel.
My goal: make travel available to everyone in a way that transcends your Instagram discover page. While social media can be a wonderful tool for education and research, it is impersonal. I aim to use my interpersonal skills developed over years working as an actor to create truly unique travel memories that will surpass anything AI or search engine generated.
Schedule your free consultation, shoot me an email, or DM me @maggiedanielli on Instagram — and let’s plan that next trip together.
ONWARDS,
— Maggie
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