Amsterdam blends centuries-old canals and gabled facades with a rebellious creative spirit. Whether you’re wandering the Jordaan, cruising the water by self-drive boat, or diving into a museum dedicated to microbes or fluorescent light, there’s something intriguing around every corner.

This city isn’t just about the postcard views—it’s about seeing how locals live, eat, commute, and celebrate their quirks.

• Boaty Boat Rental – Steer your own canal boat and see the city from the water at your own pace. Pack a picnic!
• Refugee Boat Tour – A powerful, human-centered experience. All guides are former refugees; all boats once carried people across the Mediterranean.
• Free Alternative Tour – Dig into the city’s local culture: cycling, street art, coffee shops, and the lesser-known side of the Jordaan.
• NDSM Wharf – A former shipyard turned creative hub, with urban beaches, artist studios, festivals, and even a crane hotel.
• Waterlooplein Market – Vintage treasures and quirky finds at one of Amsterdam’s oldest flea markets (open six days a week).

From Dutch Masters to glowing light art and everything in between:

• Rijksmuseum (Dutch Masters)
• Nederlands Scheepvaartmuseum (shipping)
• Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder (hidden Church)
• Van Gogh Museum
• Anne Frank Huis
• Straat Museum - Cool street art museum located on the NDSM wharf
• NDSM Wharf - An industrial shipyard has been transformed into a vibrant cultural and artist space, filled with everything from urban beaches to a hotel in a crane.
• Museum Rembrandthuis - Rembrandt’s House
• Our Lord in the Attic Museum (Former Hidden Catholic Church)
• Willet-Holthuysen Museum
• Tulip Museum
• The Houseboat Museum
• KattenKabinet (The Cat Cabinet) - Weird museum dedicated to cats
• Electric Ladyland - a museum dedicated to fluorescent light and art that glows
• Micropia - this “zoo” is home to all sorts of microbes and bacteria. 
• Torture Museum - dedicated to showcasing the punishments prisoners faced throughout the city’s history.
• De Poezenboot (The Cat Boat) - The Cat Boat is actually an animal sanctuary located on a boat in the canal.
• Museum Vrolik - This museum isn’t for everyone as it is home to one of the largest collections of human (and animal) deformities

• Brouwerij ’t IJ – Independent brewery in a windmill, serving bold, organic brews.
• Hill Street Blues – Basement bar with chill vibes and canal views; marijuana-friendly.
• Lindengracht Market – Browse this Saturday market and grab a bite in the Jordaan’s cozy maze of cafés and indie galleries.
• Dappermarkt & Oosterpark – A mix of global flavors and green space. Try Turkish pastries, Surinamese dishes, and sip mint tea in the park.

Amsterdam is built for movement—by foot, bike, tram, or boat. The city is compact, walkable, and beautifully connected by public transport.

• Public Transit: Use the OV-chipkaart or OVpay app to access trams, metro, buses, and ferries. Tap in and out on every ride. The GVB (city transit) covers most local routes.
• Bikes: Renting a bike is an iconic (and efficient) way to get around—but be ready for fast-paced bike traffic and strict etiquette. Always stay in bike lanes and signal your turns.
• Walking: Many of Amsterdam’s best neighborhoods (like Jordaan or De Pijp) are best explored on foot.
• Ferries: Free ferries run between Amsterdam Centraal and the NDSM Wharf. No ticket required.
• Taxis & Rideshare: Taxis are expensive; use Uber or Bolt instead. For short rides, electric tuk-tuks and bike taxis are fun alternatives.
• Canal Transport: For something special, book a water taxi or hop-on-hop-off canal cruise—both give a totally different view of the city.

✨ Pro Tip: Download the NS app for up-to-date transit schedules across the Netherlands. If you're riding often, a multi-day GVB pass can save money and hassle.

• Transit: Use an OV-chipkaart or the OV app for seamless access to trams, metros, buses, and trains. Always check in and check out.
• Public Restrooms: They aren’t free—keep small coins handy.
• Tipping: Not necessary. Wages are fair, and service is included.
• Accommodations: Beds are often two twins pushed together. Expect smaller spaces overall.
• Money: US debit cards may not work. Visa and Mastercard (credit, not debit) are most widely accepted.
• Power: Pack an EU adapter for your devices.
• Data: Buy a global pass for your phone—monthly passes are cheaper and more reliable than daily roaming.
• Liquor: Spirits are expensive. Bring your favorites duty-free, or buy from a liquor store. Beer is cheap and excellent.
• Cheese & Flower Bulbs: Must be certified for international transport. Look for vendors that ship with proper paperwork.
• Train Travel: Bring snacks, wine, or even a burger! No security lines, and way more relaxed than flying.
• Pack Light: Trains and cobblestones don’t love giant suitcases. Stick with a carry-on (max size: 9x22x14 inches) and a good backpack.

✈️ Need help planning your Amsterdam adventure? From boutique canal hotels to personalized museum passes and immersive walking tours, I’ve got you covered. Let's craft a travel experience that fits you.