Clayton and I just got back from a quick three-day trip to Amsterdam, and I only wish we’d had more time to explore this captivating city! There is so much to see and do—we barely made a dent in all that it has to offer! Amsterdam is one of the most aesthetically pleasing cities I’ve ever visited. The canals, the boats, the charming buildings, the effortlessly stylish people, the shops, the cafes –it all feels like something out of a storybook. Every street corner draws you in with its beauty, and I found myself constantly amazed by how picturesque it all is.
Amsterdam has so much to offer: world-class art museums, scenic streets that invite you to wander, incredible shopping (with both new and vintage gems), and a fantastic food scene! I loved it so much I wanted to put together an Amsterdam Travel Guide for you, in case Amsterdam is on your travel bucket list!
Amsterdam’s food scene is vibrant, diverse, and ever-evolving, drawing from both international influences and rich Dutch traditions. You can try classic treats like bitterballen, stroopwafels, and herring alongside global flavors like Indonesian rijsttafel and Surinamese street food, reflecting the city’s multicultural roots. The city has also embraced sustainable dining, with innovative plant-based and organic options popping up everywhere! Whether you’re after a cozy canal-side café or a Michelin-starred dining experience, Amsterdam has something to satisfy every taste. I’ve listed a few of the places we tried, largely thanks to recommendations from all of you (thank you!)
Where to Eat & Drink
Bars:
Lunch & Dinner Spots:
- Fabel Friet Runstraat–For amazing French fries!
- Umamiby Han Amsterdam–Ramen
- Bhatti Pasal Klinkers–Indonesian
- Café Garçon–French cuisine
- Café George–French
- Restaurant de Belhamel–French
- Sampurna–The most highly recommended Indonesian spot
- Broodje Bert
- Branie
- Restaurant Europa
- Rijks – fine dining
- Café-Restaurant Amsterdam
- Ron Gastrobar
- Domenica
- Café Parlotte
- Zoldering
- Blue Pepper
- Ikaria Park
- Kaasbar Amsterdam
- Manneken Pis Damrak
- La Trattoria Di Donna Sofia – Italian
- Lombardo’s
- Albert Cuyp Market – A foodie market where you can sample all sorts of bites
- The Lebanese Sajeria – Casual Lebanese
- Little Collins
- Casa di David – Italian
- Café Loetje
- Choux
- Seafood Bar and Grill – Get the seafood tower!
- The Pantry – Dutch food
- De Kas – Michelin-star restaurant with a greenhouse garden
- BAK Restaurant
- Nazka – Peruvian cuisine
- Café De Klepel
Sweet Treats & Coffee Shops
- Van Stapele Koekmakerij – They make a one-of-a-kind cookie, and it’s legendary!
- Lourens
- Café Baskets
- BunBun
- Upstairs Pancakehouse – For pancakes
- Winkel 43 – Don’t miss their apple pie!
- De Carrousel Pannenkoeken – more pancakes!
- Hans Egstorph – Stroopwafels
Things to Do & See
- Anne Frank House – A poignant museum located in the former hiding place of Anne Frank and her family during WWII. Experience her life story and the impact of her diary on the world.
- Van Gogh Museum – Home to the world’s largest collect of Vincent Van Gogh’s paintings, showcasing his vibrant and expressive works along with insight into his life and artistic journey.
- Royal Palace Amsterdam – An architectural marvel and one of the three royal palaces in the Netherlands. Originally built as a city hall, it’s now a grand symbol of Dutch history and royalty.
- STRAAT Museum – A unique museum dedicated to street art and graffiti, showcasing large-scale works by international urban artists in a former shipyard setting.
- Mike’s Bike Tours Amsterdam – A popular way to explore the city like a local. These guided tours offer insights into Amsterdam’s history
- AFAS Live – A premier concert venue known for its excellent acoustics and hosting major international artists and events
- Rijksmuseum – Amsterdam’s grand museum with masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
- Moco Museum – Contemporary art museum featuring works by Banksy, Kusama, and other modern artists.
- Stedelijk Museum – Museum of modern and contemporary art and design.
- NEMO Science Center – An interactive science museum that’s great for families.
- Heineken Experience – A tour through the historic brewery with tastings.
- Vondelpark – Amsterdam’s most famous park, perfect for a scenic stroll or picnic.
- Bloemenmarkt – The world’s only floating flower market, known for tulip bulbs and souvenirs.
- Rembrandt House Museum – The former home and studio of the artist Rembrandt van Rijn.
- A’DAM Lookout – An observation deck with panoramic views of the city and a thrilling, “Over the Edge” swing.
- Amsterdam Museum – Learn about the history of Amsterdam through engaging exhibits.
I know there are countless other wonderful spots we missed, so if you have favorites, please share them in the comments for others to add to their lists! You can also save my Google Maps so you can find restaurants, things to do, and more depending on what part of town you are in.
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