Amsterdam, Netherlands: Your Ultimate Guide to the City of Canals
Getting There from the UK
Getting to Amsterdam is a breeze. Direct flights from the UK take around 1 hour 15 minutes to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. If you’re feeling eco-friendly, you can hop on the Eurostar from London St Pancras, arriving at Amsterdam Centraal in just under 4 hours.
From the Airport to the City
- Schiphol Airport: The NS Dutch Railways train takes you from Schiphol to Amsterdam Centraal Station in about 15-20 minutes. There are also direct buses, but the train is faster and cheaper.
Taxis are available but will take about 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Hotels
Whether you’re looking to stay on a canal or close to the action, Amsterdam has a range of fantastic options:
- Luxury:
- Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam – A posh option located on the iconic Herengracht Canal, with elegant rooms and a serene garden.
- The Dylan – A chic boutique hotel combining historic charm and modern luxury, also along the canals.
- Mid-Range:
- Pulitzer Amsterdam – A stylish hotel with a mix of contemporary and traditional Dutch design, spread across 25 canal houses.
- Kimpton De Witt – Centrally located with a quirky, artsy vibe and complimentary bike rentals.
- Budget:
- Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark – A modern hostel in a prime location near Vondelpark.
- Hotel Not Hotel – This quirky spot offers unique rooms (like a tram car!) at an affordable price.
Restaurants
Amsterdam’s food scene is as diverse as its neighborhoods, with a mix of local specialties and international flavours.
- Renowned:
- De Kas – Dine in a stunning greenhouse at this farm-to-table restaurant that grows its own produce.
- Local Specialties:
- Moeders – Perfect for traditional Dutch comfort food like stamppot (potato mash with sausage).
- The Pantry – Another great spot for hearty Dutch classics, from bitterballen to pannenkoeken (Dutch pancakes).
- Easy Going:
- Foodhallen – A bustling indoor food market with a variety of food stalls offering everything from sushi to burgers.
- Café de Reiger – A laid-back spot serving delicious Dutch and European cuisine.
- Vegan/Veggie:
- Vegan Junk Food Bar – Fun, colourful, and offering a completely plant-based take on fast food.
- Street Food: Don’t miss grabbing a stroopwafel from one of the many street vendors or a portion of haring (raw herring) if you’re feeling adventurous!
Sights
Amsterdam has no shortage of beautiful sights and fascinating attractions:
- Rijksmuseum – Home to Dutch masterpieces, including Rembrandt’s The Night Watch.
- Van Gogh Museum – Dive into the world of one of the Netherlands’ most famous artists.
- Anne Frank House – A moving and historic must-see.
- The Jordaan – Wander through this picturesque neighborhood full of boutiques, cafés, and galleries.
- Vondelpark – Amsterdam’s largest park, perfect for a bike ride or a relaxing stroll.
- Canal Cruise – Take to the water for the best views of the city’s famous canals and gabled houses.
- Albert Cuyp Market – A bustling street market offering everything from fresh produce to quirky souvenirs.
Insider Tip
Insider Tip: Avoid the crowded tourist spots by exploring NDSM Wharf—an up-and-coming neighbourhood with street art, quirky cafés, and flea markets. Take the free ferry from behind Amsterdam Centraal and enjoy a less touristy side of the city.
