30 Aug Amsterdam City Guide
I have to confess that I love nothing more than grabbing my bag and visit the coolest hotspots in town. As I already have shared some of my favourite places with you I felt that it was a good time to give you this list of where you must go, sleep, eat, drink and shop. But first, when you should visit Amsterdam?
When visit Amsterdam?
Dutch weather is crazily unpredictable and seasons seem to have ceased to exist here in Amsterdam! However, if you like outdoor parties, plan your visit around the 27th of April or the beginning of August as the famous Kingsday celebrations and the Gay Parade festivities take place in town. Moreover, we have a lot of cool music festivals in summertime. But Amsterdam is also really attractive in winter with all the little lights on the canals.
Where to go in Amsterdam?
Jump on a bike if you want to experience Amsterdam to the max. But, be careful as there are a lot of trams – and taxis that won’t stop. A boat ride through the canals is also a great recommendation as well as a walk through the Vondelpark. If you want to visit a museum I would suggest Rijksmuseum and the Tassenmuseum will enrich your stay as well. Finally, don’t miss out on the Red Light District. Once you’re there, head to Brouwerij de Prael for a special beer.
Where to eat?
Ask me for a place to have lunch, dinner, drinks, a date, a family meal, a catch up with friends or a meeting with colleagues,I answer: Lion Noir. In summer you can have dinner in the beautiful garden, while in winter you can enjoy the cosy living room. If you like gin and mussels, you have to go to Mossel & Gin! For a simple but lovely Italian bite I would recommend Ponte Arcari, Panini and Mata Hari. Start you day with eggs and a funky mix of Brazil and New Zealand at Bakers & Roasters. And if you like a fancy dinner, go to Sinne.
Source: Hotel 717
Where to sleep?
Amsterdam is an amazing city and popular for good reason. Unfortunately, this means that the hotels are super expensive. Airbnb is a really good option where you can find some amazing houses with rooftops or even houseboats. Another reasonable option is The Hoxton – it’s a really cool spot. If you want something special and more personal, go for Hotel 717 on the Prinsengracht. It’s a 19th century building but with every modern convenience imaginable. And at the historic centre of Amsterdam, you will find Hotel Droog, a place where you can come for a drink, a bite to eat, fashion, a stroll in the garden, or even a bed for the night.
Where to shop?
If you’ve got a few euros in your pocket, head to high-end department store, De Bijenkorf. But we also have lots of cool concept stores, such as Les Deux Freres (great men’s clothes), Pick & Spend and Anna + Nina. The Utrechtsestraat is also a very good place to spend your money & don’t forget to go to Gesponnen Suiker.
Where to go for drinks in Amsterdam?
Waterkant makes sure you can feel the tropical vibes in the middle of the Dam. Cafe Brandon is one of the oldest bars in Amsterdam and despite the fact that it can smell odd, I love the atmosphere in that tiny place. It’s popular with the locals – and anyone else who enjoys a cool, crisp G&T. NJOY & Door 74 are famous for their cocktails. For coffee I suggest CoffeeConcepts or De Wasserette.
Enjoy your stay in Amsterdam!
P.s. You might also like Bag around on Lowlands Festival & His side of the story!
