Millions of travellers from all over the world visit Amsterdam every year, and these key Amsterdam travel tips can help you become one of them in no time. Amsterdam is often considered one of the world’s most multicultural cities, and English is widely spoken here so it’s easy to get around. The city itself is also quite compact, making it perfect for exploring on foot or by bicycle. And despite its rambunctious nightlife, Amsterdam is actually a very safe city overall. If you’re planning a trip here soon, be sure to check out this additional Amsterdam travel advice beforehand.
Currency
The currency in the Netherlands is the euro (€), which replaced the Dutch guilder (NLG) at a rate of 10.2025 to one euro on 1 January 2002. Although credit cards are widely accepted in Amsterdam, many shops will only accept Netherland bank cards or cash. Before you depart, it’s a good idea to exchange small amounts of money at your local bank since airport or city centre money changers will almost certainly have unfavorable exchange rates. Pay attention to pickpockets if you’re carrying cash.
Amsterdam food
Amsterdam boasts a range of food from traditional Dutch to international flavors. Make sure you try at least one filling meal and some local snacks like poffertjes, stroopwafels, and bitterballen while you’re here. You’ll have no trouble finding the perfect place to eat with the city’s diverse dining scene that features options like fine-dining restaurants, pubs, bars, and street stalls.
Tipping in Amsterdam
Do you? Isn’t it the case that in many European nations, tipping is not always necessary and may even be undesired? That being said, according to conventional practice, you should round up your bill to the nearest whole euro or leave a few euros extra. If you feel like you’ve received excellent service that’s worth a few more euros, don’t be scared to give a larger gratuity.
Language in Amsterdam
Although you could benefit from learning a few key phrases in Dutch (after all, it is the official language of the Netherlands), most residents in Amsterdam are already fluent in English. So don’t worry if your grasp of Dutch is limited. However, if you’re feeling ambitious, pick up a phrase book and give it a go! Veel geluk!
Amsterdam Airport
If you’re visiting Amsterdam, flying into the city’s primary airport—Amsterdam Airport Schiphol—is easy. The 20-30 minute car journey from the airport to downtown is simple and straightforward, though taking the train is an equally popular option for reaching the city center from Schiphol. Despite having only one main passenger terminal, this international hub sees over 50 million travelers each year.
Amsterdam food and drink
You won’t be disappointed when it comes to food and drink in Amsterdam. There are countless places to choose from depending on your mood, whether you’re looking for a cozy pub, a cute cafe, or a canal-side terrace bar to enjoy some drinks in the afternoon sun. And with so many different restaurants catering to all kinds of budgets and preferences – from vegetarian and vegan options to Indian, Italian, modern Dutch cuisine, and more – there’s truly something for everyone.
Bars and nightlife
Amsterdam is known for its vibrant and thrilling nightlife, with wild clubs, bars, live music and performances galore. The noisiest night-time hubs include Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein. However, if your ideal night out consists of a more low-key atmosphere , head to one Amsterdam’s many charming candlelit ‘brown cafes’ (folksy pubs) for a drink: Cafe ‘t Smalle is a favorite spot among locals.
Where to find the best coffee in Amsterdam?
If you’re ever in Amsterdam and wondering where to get a good cup of coffee, don’t worry- there are plenty of places serving quality brews. You might be surprised to find that some of the best cups can be found in the Red Light District! Blauwe Theehuis, located in popular Vondelpark, is the perfect place to end a stroll through the park grounds. Just be warned: coffee shops here don’t always serve what they advertise, so you may need to keep looking past those signs.
Food precincts
You’ll find some of Amsterdam’s best restaurants in the popular Jordaan district, a great choice for traditional and cozy dining. Or, if you’re looking to experience old Dutch cuisine, this is definitely the place to be! If you’re visiting during the warmer months, make your way over to De Pijp for patio dining and incredible views. And finally, foodies will love Rembrandtplein with its three Michelin-starred restaurants nearby.
Food markets
De Foodhallen is a popular culinary hotspot in Amsterdam. It has De Foodhallen, an indoor market with a mouthwatering selection of street food from all over the world. There are foods from hand-rolled sushi and Spanish tapas to Italian wood-fired pizzas, and you may also select from one of the neighboring food markets: Saturday’s market at Noordermarkt offers fresh local produce, while Albert Cuyp Market in De Pijp serves up real stroopwafels.
What does Amsterdam look like in the summer?
The weather in Amsterdam during the summer generally consists of sunlight, humidity, and occasional rain showers. However, this varies depending on location within the city. If you venture outside of the busier areas near the center, you’ll find more opportunity to relax in peace and take advantage of all that sunshine. As for what to wear: think light t-shirts, shorts or skirts, summer dresses–anything appropriate for basking in warm weather. And don’t forget an umbrella or light rain jacket!
What is the weather like in Amsterdam during the fall?
Amsterdam is less crowded and cheaper to visit in autumn, when you can enjoy traditional Dutch cuisine like pea soup. The city’s museums have shorter lines, making it easy to get a decent look at the world-famous artifacts on display. You may still encounter some warm days during which you can explore Amsterdam by bicycle or relax with a beer next to one of the canal-side terraces.What to wear: Plan ahead by packing layers that you can add or remove as needed throughout your stay; temperatures in Amsterdam vary widely even within Autumn months. And don’t forget an extra coat—it’s always better be safe than sorry!
What is the weather like in Amsterdam during the winter?
During the winter months, Amsterdam is one of the most cost-effective excursions. Even though it’s cold then, the city makes for a fantastic vacation. Ice skate, indulge in traditional Dutch winter foods, or relax with a cup of hot chocolate in a cozy pub. Snow usually falls during January and February – the area’s coldest months when temperatures average from 0 to 5°C. Appropriate attire: Layers and warm clothing are required. Don’t forget: A waterproof coat and windproof hat will also be useful.
The weather in Amsterdam during spring is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10-15 degrees Celsius. There is often a cool breeze and some days can be quite rainy.
Springtime is considered to be the most lovely and beautiful time to visit Amsterdam. Aside from tulip season, you’ll enjoy the area’s finest weather (April is the driest month), and less tourists. Soak up some sun in the park or sip a beer from a canal-side terrace bar while wearing layers that you can add or remove as required. Don’t forget your hat .
