Explore Art, History and Food: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Museums

• Van Gogh Museum: Discover the vibrant world of Vincent Van Gogh at the iconic Van Gogh Museum on Museumplein. Admire his famous works like "Sunflowers" and "The Bedroom" in a serene setting.
  
  Pro tip: Visit in the early morning to avoid large crowds, and consider booking a tour.
  
  Important to note: While the Van Gogh museum is the preeminent home of most of Van Gogh’s works, "The Starry Night" lives at the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

• Rijksmuseum: Immerse yourself in Dutch art and history at the grand Rijksmuseum. Marvel at Rembrandt's "The Night Watch" and Vermeer's "The Milkmaid," and enjoy a peaceful moment in the museum gardens.
  
  Pro tip: Explore the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh museum on the same day. Not only are they very close to each other (with a plethora of food trucks in between on the Museumplein), but Van Gogh himself also found inspiration in the very same halls of the Rijksmuseum that you will wander.

• Anne Frank House: Step into history at the Anne Frank House, where Anne’s diary comes to life against the backdrop of the Secret Annex. Explore poignant exhibits and personal artifacts.
  
  Pro tip: Tickets must be booked significantly in advance. Tickets become available every Tuesday at 10 am CET for a visit six weeks later and are only available directly on the museum’s website, not through third parties.

• Heineken Experience: Embark on a journey through Amsterdam's brewing history at the Heineken Brewery. Enjoy interactive exhibits, beer tasting and a lesson in pouring the perfect pint.

Shopping

• Noordemarkt
  Browse antiques, organic foods and local crafts at the charming Noordemarkt in the Jordaan district, open on Mondays and Saturdays.

• The Nine Streets
  Shop for unique fashion finds and Dutch design in the picturesque Nine Streets in the Jordaan, home to luxury brands, boutique shops and trendy cafes.

• Albert Cuyp Markt
  Experience Amsterdam's largest street market at Albert Cuyp Markt. Discover everything from fresh produce to souvenirs and sample local treats like stroopwafels and herring.

Pro tip: Bring cash as some vendors might not accept cards.

Canal cruises

• Captain Jack: Enjoy a personalized canal cruise aboard a small boat with Captain Jack. Take in UNESCO-protected sights like the Rijksmuseum and Anne Frank House while enjoying commentary and refreshments.

• Miss G’s Brunch Boat: Relax on Miss G’s Brunch Boat as you glide through Amsterdam’s scenic canals. Enjoy a 90-minute cruise with flowing drinks and lively beats.

Day trips

• Keukenhof Tulip Gardens is only open from March to May each year. Every year, more than seven million flower bulbs of 800 different varieties are planted by hand in the autumn to flower in spring. The gardens offer a truly unique and unforgettable experience for everyone.

Pro tip: Rent a bike from the garden to explore the surrounding countryside and tulip fields for a quintessential Netherlands experience.

• The Zaanse Schans is a unique part of the Netherlands, full of monumental houses, mills, barns and workshops where people practice traditional crafts. Take a bike or boat ride, browse the shops and eat Dutch pancakes at the pancake restaurant. A day out at the Zaanse Schans in North Holland is fun and educational.
  

Zomerrestaurant Vuurtoreneiland

For a truly unique dining experience, Zomerrestaurant Vuurtoreneiland is a must. Set on Lighthouse Island in Markermeer, reachable only by boat, this unique dining experience offers seasonal cuisine enjoyed in a transparent summer restaurant or a cozy winter setting with fireplaces and blankets. Savor a table d'hôte menu featuring regional ingredients cooked over open flames, all amidst the island's rugged landscape, historic fort and Amsterdam's only lighthouse.

• Pro tip: Don’t watch "The Menu" before going.

Gartine

Escape to Gartine, a hidden gem in Amsterdam's city center, for a quiet and delicious breakfast, lunch or high tea. Enjoy dishes made with fresh produce from their own kitchen garden.

• Pro tip: Due to the small size, reservations are a must and can only be made by phone.

De Plantage

Dine amidst lush greenery at Café-Restaurant de Plantage, located in the heart of the Artis Zoo and botanical garden. Delight in a menu celebrating seasonal flavors and local produce.

De Kas

Experience farm-to-table dining at De Kas, housed in a stunning glass greenhouse within Frankendael Park. Enjoy dishes prepared with seasonal vegetables and herbs sourced directly from their nursery.

• Pro tip: Reservations should be made three months in advance.

Sampurna

Indonesian food is tremendously popular in the Netherlands, and you’ll find many great Indonesian restaurants throughout the country. Taste authentic Indonesian cuisine at Sampurna. Enjoy traditional rijsttafels and a la carte dishes crafted with seasonal ingredients and family recipes.

Wynand Fockink

Experience the essence of Amsterdam at Wynand Fockink gin distillery. Nestled in the heart of the city, it embodies centuries of distilling tradition. Uncover the art of Dutch gin-making and savor meticulously crafted gins, each infused with local botanicals and heritage.