Curator’s statement
Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit, but, at times, can feel a little touristy. If you are looking for an insider's guide to the city, then look no further. I have lived here for over three years and curated a list of my favorite things. From where to stay, where to eat and what to do—I've got you covered in my local's guide to Amsterdam.
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Where to stay in Amsterdam
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Things to do in Amsterdam
Museums:
Anne Frank House: A must do.
Van Gogh
Rijksmuseum
Museum van Loon: For a unique look back in time.
NEMO Science Museum: Great for kids and adults who are curious about the world around them.
Activities:
Canal Cruise with a small, local boat company like Those Dam Boat Guys or Captain Dave
Cafe & terrace hop around Jordaan
Shopping in the Negen Straatjes—or "Nine Streets"
Sample local cuisine like bitterballen and local beer like Heineken
Pop into De Drie Fleschjes for a tasting of genever
Picnic in Vondelpark
Visit ARTIS on Saturday nights in summer for live music and animals
Okay to skip:
Floating Flower Market: Instead, opt for weekly markets.
Red Light District: Instead, spend time exploring another neighborhood.
Canal cruises on big tour boats: Instead, opt for a smaller, local company.
Day trips:
Haarlem: A beautiful town nearby with a great vibe and shopping.
Utrecht: A fun canal town nearby.
Zandvoort Beaches: Super cute beach bars and wide sandy beaches.
Zaanse Schans: A historic spot with classic windmills.
Keukenhof Gardens: Visit for tulip season, usually in April.
Places to eat & drink in Amsterdam
Breakfast:
Cafe de Jaren: Go when they open at ten to get a spot on the terrace.
Winkel 43: For famous apple pie.
Kafenion: For Greek breakfast and coffee.
Any Dutch pancake place
Brunch:
Box Sociaal: For tasty options.
Cut Throat Barber Shop: For bottomless brunch.
Dignita: Several locations, plus it's kid friendly.
Lunch:
Pulitzer Garden: On a sunny day.
Effendy or Lebanese Sajeria: For tasty wraps.
Esh pitabar: If you are near Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh.
Rosario: Fresh tacos in Jordaan.
Casual dinner:
Smelt: For amazing fondue.
Bill's Burgers: For a good burger.
Restaurant Max: For a classic rice table.
Restaurant KID: For a good fried chicken sandwich.
Escobar: For fun shared tapas.
Formal dinner:
Night Kitchen: For delicious, healthy plates that will fill you up.
Ikaria Park: For amazing Greek food and outdoor dining.
De Kas: For a super unique Michelin star spot.
Ron Gastrobar: For a fun Michelin star restaurant.
Ate: For a very special dinner.
Mr. Sam: For Asian food.
Ikkoku: For sushi and fresh food.
Drinks:
De Kaasbar: For drinks and a cheese train.
Bar Mokum: Make a reservation.
LuminAir: Make a reservation.
Bar Oldenhof
De Haven van Texel: For the views.
Shiraz wine bar
de Vondeltuin: Located in Vondelpark.
Travel Advisor
Ashley Farlow
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This guide is a part of our ongoing series on travel to Amsterdam. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, 1 Week in Switzerland with Babies, Toddlers & Kids.