Last updated: July 2026.

Where to shop in Amsterdam: the main areas

Amsterdam’s best shopping is compact and walkable, clustered in and around the 17th-century canal ring. In short:

• Boutiques, vintage & concept stores — the Nine Streets (De 9 Straatjes) and Haarlemmerstraat/Haarlemmerdijk.
• High-street chains — Kalverstraat and its continuation Nieuwendijk, from Dam Square to Muntplein.
• Luxury & designer — P.C. Hooftstraat in the Museum Quarter.
• Antiques & art — the Spiegelkwartier around Nieuwe Spiegelstraat.
• Markets & local food — the Albert Cuypmarkt in De Pijp and the Jordaan’s Saturday markets.

Most of these are within a 15–20 minute walk of one another. Our map of Amsterdam helps you place them.

De 9 Straatjes (The Nine Streets): Amsterdam’s boutique heart

If you only shop in one area, make it the Nine Streets. This is a grid of nine small, pretty streets woven through the canal belt just behind the Royal Palace, in the area framed by the Singel, Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht canals. (Guides often lump it in with the Jordaan; strictly it sits in the historic canal district next to the Jordaan, which begins west of the Prinsengracht.)

The nine streets are Reestraat, Hartenstraat, Gasthuismolensteeg, Berenstraat, Wolvenstraat, Oude Spiegelstraat, Runstraat, Huidenstraat and Wijde Heisteeg — three sets of three, each crossing the three main canals. Packed into them are some 200-plus independent shops, galleries and cafés: designer boutiques, one-off concept stores, gift shops and one of Europe’s best concentrations of vintage clothing (names to look for include Laura Dols, Episode and Zipper). You will not find many chains here — that is exactly the point.

Our tip: treat it as a wander rather than a mission. Duck down each little street, stop for coffee or apple pie on a canal corner, and browse as you go — it is as much about the setting as the shopping.

Kalverstraat & the high street

For familiar high-street names, head to Kalverstraat, the busiest shopping street in the Netherlands. This pedestrian stretch runs from Dam Square south to Muntplein (its northern continuation, Nieuwendijk, adds more of the same). Here you will find the usual chains — H&M, Zara, Pull&Bear, UNIQLO and the like — along with the grand De Bijenkorf department store on Dam Square, an Apple Store and plenty of shoe and cosmetics shops. It is efficient and central, if not especially charming; expect crowds, particularly at weekends. Just off Dam Square, the Magna Plaza shopping centre fills a spectacular former main post office with dozens of shops under one monumental roof.

P.C. Hooftstraat: luxury shopping

Amsterdam’s designer flagship street is P.C. Hooftstraat, in leafy Oud-Zuid a short walk from the Rijksmuseum and Vondelpark. This is the home of the big luxury houses — Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Ralph Lauren and Mulberry among them — with more high-end and Dutch designer labels spilling onto the neighbouring Van Baerlestraat and Cornelis Schuytstraat. Even if you are only window-shopping, it makes a pleasant loop with a museum visit.

Haarlemmerstraat, Utrechtsestraat & other local streets

For a more local, less touristy feel, seek out:

• Haarlemmerstraat & Haarlemmerdijk — one long street running west from near Central Station, repeatedly voted a favourite by locals for its independent labels, vintage, interiors and specialty food shops.
• Utrechtsestraat — a canal-belt street from Rembrandtplein lined with concept stores, boutiques, delis and record shops.
• Leidsestraat — a busy central street of mid-to-upscale fashion and shoe brands linking Koningsplein to Leidseplein.
• Spiegelkwartier (Nieuwe Spiegelstraat) — Amsterdam’s antiques and fine-art quarter, running toward the Rijksmuseum, with 70-plus antique shops and galleries.

Amsterdam’s markets

Markets are half the fun of shopping in Amsterdam:

• Albert Cuypmarkt (De Pijp) — the country’s largest street market, with around 260 stalls of fresh produce, cheese, fish, clothing and souvenirs, plus freshly baked stroopwafels. Roughly Monday to Saturday, daytime; closed Sunday.
• Waterlooplein flea market (city centre) — Amsterdam’s iconic flea market for second-hand and vintage clothing, records, books and curios. Monday to Saturday.
• Bloemenmarkt (on the Singel) — the famous “floating” flower market, open daily, selling flowers, plants, seeds and tulip bulbs (see the take-it-home notes below before buying bulbs).
• Jordaan markets — the Saturday Noordermarkt (organic farmers’ market) and Lindengracht general market, plus the Monday Westermarkt for fabrics and textiles.

What to buy in Amsterdam

The most rewarding souvenirs are the ones you can actually use or eat:

• Dutch cheese — aged Gouda and Edam; vacuum-packed wheels travel well within the EU and to the US (check limits for other countries).
• Stroopwafels — the classic edible gift, freshest from a market stall rather than the airport.
• Delftware (Delft Blue) — hand-painted blue-and-white ceramics; genuine pieces carry a maker’s hallmark, so check before you pay premium prices for what may be a printed imitation.
• Tulip bulbs — a national symbol, sold at the Bloemenmarkt. Buy only sealed, clearly certified export-ready bulbs, and check your own country’s rules first: many destinations (including the UK post-Brexit and the US and Canada) require phytosanitary certification, and uncertified bulbs can be confiscated at the border.
• Dutch design & vintage — homeware and one-off pieces from the concept stores of the Nine Streets and Haarlemmerdijk.
• Jenever — the Dutch juniper spirit that gave us gin; buy from a specialist shop (and pack it in your checked luggage if you are flying).

Shopping hours & paying: what to expect

A few practical realities for first-timers (hours vary by shop, so treat these as typical rather than guaranteed):

• Tuesday to Saturday: most shops open around 10:00 and close about 18:00.
• Monday: many shops open late — often not before 11:00 or noon, and a few smaller independents stay closed all day.
• Thursday: late-night shopping (koopavond) in the centre, with shops open until around 21:00.
• Sunday: Sunday shopping is normal in the centre — most high-street and central shops open, typically from around midday until 17:00 or 18:00, though smaller boutiques may close.
• Paying: the Netherlands is very card- and contactless-friendly, but there is a local quirk — some shops and market stalls are card-only (they take no cash), while a few older or smaller spots are cash-only, and not every place takes non-European credit cards. Carry a little cash for the markets just in case.

Tax-free shopping & VAT refunds (2026)

This is where many international visitors leave money on the table. If you live outside the EU — which now includes UK residents after Brexit — you can reclaim the Dutch VAT of 21% on goods you take home unused. After the refund operator’s fees you typically get back around 11–15% of the price. The essentials:

• Who qualifies: non-EU residents aged 18+ (holding an EU residence permit disqualifies you). Goods must leave the EU unused, generally within three months.
• Minimum spend: around €50 per shop, per day — ask the shop for a tax-free form and have your passport ready.
• New for 2026 — it is fully digital. The Netherlands has moved to a paperless system: the shop issues a digital tax-free form, and you validate it before departure using the free “NL Customs VAT” app (there is also a Customs desk at Schiphol, in Departure Hall 3, as a backup). The refund is paid to your card or bank account, or in cash at the airport for a higher fee.

Tax rules change and the digital system is new, so confirm the current process on the official Dutch Customs and Schiphol websites before you rely on it. For more on budgeting your trip, see our guide to money and costs in Amsterdam.

Best area by what you want to buy

Plan the rest of your day

Shopping in Amsterdam pairs naturally with the rest of the centre — the Nine Streets flow straight into the canals and the Jordaan, while the markets sit among some of the city’s best food. For more ideas, see our round-up of the best things to do in Amsterdam.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Amsterdam known for shopping?

Amsterdam is known for independent boutiques, vintage and concept stores and antiques rather than just chains — best seen in the canal-district Nine Streets. It also has a mainstream high street (Kalverstraat), a luxury street (P.C. Hooftstraat) and famous markets like the Albert Cuypmarkt. Typical buys include Dutch cheese, stroopwafels, Delft Blue pottery, tulip bulbs and jenever.

What are the Nine Streets in Amsterdam?

De 9 Straatjes (“the Nine Streets”) are nine small connecting streets in Amsterdam’s 17th-century canal belt, set among the Singel, Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht canals behind the Royal Palace. They are packed with more than 200 independent boutiques, vintage shops, galleries and cafés. The nine are Reestraat, Hartenstraat, Gasthuismolensteeg, Berenstraat, Wolvenstraat, Oude Spiegelstraat, Runstraat, Huidenstraat and Wijde Heisteeg.

Where is the best shopping in Amsterdam?

It depends what you want: the Nine Streets for boutiques and vintage, Kalverstraat for high-street chains, P.C. Hooftstraat for luxury designers, the Spiegelkwartier for antiques and art, and Haarlemmerstraat or the Albert Cuypmarkt for local and food shopping. Most areas are within walking distance in and around the canal ring.

Can tourists claim tax back on shopping in Amsterdam?

Yes. Non-EU residents, including UK visitors post-Brexit, can reclaim the 21% Dutch VAT on goods taken home unused, with a minimum spend of about €50 per shop per day. From 2026 the process is fully digital: the shop issues a digital tax-free form and you validate it via the free “NL Customs VAT” app (or the Customs desk in Schiphol Departure Hall 3) before you leave. After fees you typically get back around 11–15% of the price.

Are shops in Amsterdam open on Sundays?

Yes. Sunday shopping is normal in central Amsterdam, with most high-street and central shops open from around midday until 17:00 or 18:00. Smaller independent boutiques may close, and on Mondays many shops open late (often not before 11:00 or noon).

The post Shopping in Amsterdam: The Complete Guide to Where to Shop appeared first on Tours in Amsterdam.

This is our honest 2026 guide: the real prices, exactly what is and is not covered, how the card works, the simple maths to check whether it suits your trip, and how it compares with the alternatives.

Last updated: July 2026.

What is the I amsterdam City Card?

The I amsterdam City Card is the city’s official tourist pass, run by Amsterdam’s own tourism board. The standard version — now branded “Total Experience” — bundles four things into one card for a set time window:

• free entry to over 70 museums and attractions;
• unlimited GVB public transport (trams, metro, city buses and ferries);
• one free canal cruise;
• one free 24-hour bike rental, plus around 25% off a range of partner attractions.

It comes as either a physical contactless card or a digital card in the official app. In May 2026 a second option also appeared — an Explorer (Special Edition) card, where you choose a fixed number of attractions (3, 5 or 7) at a lower price, but with no public transport included. Most of this guide is about the standard Total Experience card, which is what people usually mean by “the I amsterdam City Card.”

I amsterdam City Card prices in 2026

At the time of writing, the standard Total Experience card is priced at roughly the following, with a single price for adults and children alike:

The longer the card, the cheaper each day becomes — which is why the 72- to 120-hour cards are usually the easiest to justify. The newer Explorer option starts from around €44 for three attractions. Prices change regularly, so check the current figure before you buy.

What’s included with the I amsterdam City Card?

Here is what you actually get:

Free public transport (GVB)

Unlimited travel on Amsterdam’s GVB network — trams, metro, city buses, ferries and even night buses — for the full validity of your card. Note the limits: it does not cover NS trains, so the train between Amsterdam Central Station and Schiphol Airport is not included, nor are regional buses. A standalone GVB pass alone would cost roughly €10 for 24 hours up to €34 for 120 hours, so this is a big chunk of the card’s value.

Free entry to 70+ museums and attractions

The headline benefit. Big names included free (normal entry in brackets) are:

• Rijksmuseum (~€25) — the single most valuable inclusion; see our Rijksmuseum guide;
• Moco Museum, H’ART Museum (the former Hermitage) and the Stedelijk Museum of modern art;
• Rembrandt House Museum and Museum Van Loon;
• NEMO Science Museum, ARTIS (the Royal Zoo and Micropia) and Hortus Botanicus;
• A’DAM Lookout and This is Holland — both usually free with the card, though it is worth confirming.

A free canal cruise and a free bike

You also get one free canal cruise (worth around €16 — the classic way to see the city, and a highlight in its own right) and one free 24-hour bike rental. On top of that there are discounts of roughly 25% at a range of partner attractions and restaurants.

The free list leans towards art and history — the Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk, Moco and H’ART for art; the Rembrandt House, Museum Van Loon, the Amsterdam Museum and the Dutch Resistance Museum for history — but there is plenty for families and science fans too, from NEMO and ARTIS to Micropia and Hortus Botanicus. Just outside the centre it also covers spots like the A’DAM Lookout and This is Holland in Amsterdam-Noord. The exact line-up shifts from year to year, so if there is one museum you are counting on, check it against the official list before you buy rather than assuming.

What’s NOT included — the gotchas

This is the part that catches people out, and it is where an honest guide earns its keep. Before you buy, know that these are not covered:

• Van Gogh Museum — not included at all. It was dropped from the card back in 2022 and is still out in 2026: no free entry and no discount. Since it is one of the busiest museums in the city and sells timed tickets that book up days ahead, reserve your Van Gogh Museum tickets separately and early.
• Anne Frank House — not included. It has its own timed online tickets that sell out weeks in advance and must be booked directly on the official Anne Frank House website.
• Heineken Experience, Madame Tussauds and Body Worlds — discount only (around 25% off), not free.

If your Amsterdam wish list is essentially Van Gogh plus Anne Frank plus a couple of other things, the card will almost certainly lose you money — you would be better off booking those two separately and paying as you go.

Is the I amsterdam City Card worth it?

It comes down to simple maths. A major Amsterdam museum averages around €22 to enter, the free canal cruise is worth about €16, the 24-hour bike about €15, and the transport €10–€34 depending on duration. So roughly:

The card is worth it if you are an active sightseer who will visit around two or more paid museums a day, you will use the trams and metro, and you want the free cruise and bike thrown in. On the 72- to 120-hour cards, the fixed extras alone cover a big share of the cost, so you only need a handful of museums on top to come out ahead.

It is not worth it if your must-sees are the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House (both excluded), you prefer to walk the compact centre rather than ride, you sightsee slowly at about one thing a day, or you are travelling with young children (who are often free or cheap at museums anyway).

A worked example: does it actually pay off?

Numbers beat vibes, so here are two realistic trips at roughly 2026 prices. Individual entry fees change, so treat these as ballpark rather than gospel.

The active sightseer (72-hour card, about €115). Imagine you see the Rijksmuseum (~€23), take the free canal cruise (~€17) and visit the Moco Museum (~€22) on day one; NEMO (~€18) and the A’DAM Lookout (~€16.50) on day two; and the Rembrandt House (~€18) plus ARTIS (~€25) on day three, riding the trams throughout and taking the free bike out for an afternoon. Paying separately, that is roughly €140 in entries plus about €25 for three days of transport — call it €165 — before you count the bike. Against a card at around €115, you are up roughly €50, and the more you see, the further ahead you get.

The slow traveller (skip it). Now say your Amsterdam is really about the Van Gogh Museum (~€22) and the Anne Frank House (~€16), both excluded, plus one relaxed museum and a lot of aimless walking. A 24-hour card at around €67 would need you to cram three included, paid attractions into one day just to break even, which is nobody’s idea of a good holiday. Here, paying as you go is cheaper and calmer.

The pattern is simple: the card rewards pace and museums, and punishes a Van Gogh-and-Anne-Frank itinerary. Do this quick sum against your own shortlist before you buy, and you will know within a minute whether it is for you.

Which I amsterdam City Card duration should you choose?

Match the card to the shape of your trip rather than just your total nights:

• A single busy day (24 hours): only worth it if you will blitz three or more included attractions plus transport in one go. For most people the 24-hour card is the hardest one to make pay.
• A weekend (48–72 hours): the sweet spot for a first city break. A 72-hour card gives you three unhurried days and usually breaks even with room to spare.
• Four to five days (96–120 hours): the best per-day value by far, and the fixed extras — cruise, bike and transport — already claw back a big share of the cost before you enter a single museum. Ideal if you are mixing museums with slow mornings.

One thing that trips people up: the clock runs in real hours from first use, not calendar days, so a card does not have to line up neatly with your nights in the city. If you plan to spend a day out of town — say a day trip from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans or Leiden — you can buy a shorter card and simply not activate it on the day you are away, rather than paying for hours you will not use.

How to get the most value from your City Card

Once you have decided to buy, a little planning turns a decent deal into a clearly good one:

• Front-load the expensive stuff. Line up your priciest included museums — Rijksmuseum, ARTIS, the big art museums — inside the card window, and save the free or cheap sights for the days it is not active.
• Activate it on a museum-heavy morning, not the evening you land. Every hour counts, so start the clock when the sightseeing genuinely begins.
• Actually use the cruise and the bike. They are worth around €30 together and are easy to forget; build them into your plan rather than treating them as afterthoughts.
• Pre-book the timeslot sights. A few popular attractions still want a free reservation even with the card, so sort those the day before to avoid a wasted trip.

How to use the I amsterdam City Card

A few practical points that save confusion on the day:

• Card or app: you can use a physical contactless card or the digital version in the official I amsterdam City Card app, which shows a QR code.
• On public transport, check in AND check out. Tap the card (or scan the app’s QR code) on the GVB reader when you board and again when you get off, every single trip. Forget to check out and the system can flag it.
• The clock starts on first use, not at purchase, and then runs continuously. A 48-hour card first used at 5pm on Friday runs until 5pm on Sunday — it is 48 real hours, not two calendar days, so activate it when your sightseeing actually begins.
• Some attractions still need a timeslot. Most sites let you walk in with the card, but a few popular ones (and the Rijksmuseum at busy times) ask you to reserve a free slot online in advance — check each one the day before.
• Children need their own card to be covered for transport and paid attractions. Since many museums are already free or cheap for under-18s, it is worth doing the maths for kids separately — a family can sometimes skip the cards for the little ones and still come out ahead.

Where to buy the I amsterdam City Card

You can buy the card online in advance (the simplest option, and the digital app version means no queue at all), or collect a physical card in the city — the main pick-up point is the I amsterdam Store at the back of Amsterdam Central Station. Buying ahead online also lets you compare the current price and pick the right duration before you arrive.

I amsterdam City Card vs the alternatives

It is not the only pass in town. In short:

One neat trick for Van Gogh fans: the Museumkaart covers the Van Gogh Museum where the I amsterdam City Card does not, so heavy museum-goers sometimes weigh that up instead. For a general first trip, though, the I amsterdam City Card’s bundled transport and cruise usually make it the more convenient choice.

The other real contender is the Go City Amsterdam Pass, which comes in two flavours: an all-inclusive pass (unlimited attractions in a set window, closer to the City Card) and an explorer-style pass (a fixed number of attractions). It leans more towards paid experiences and tours — think Heineken Experience, a hop-on-hop-off boat, food tours — and less towards the museum-plus-transport bundle. If your ideal Amsterdam is big-ticket experiences rather than a museum crawl, price a Go City pass against the City Card for your exact shortlist. If it is classic museums plus getting around, the City Card is usually the simpler win. Whichever you lean towards, the honest move is the same: list the handful of things you will genuinely do, add up the door prices, and only buy a pass if it beats that total by enough to matter.

The verdict

For an active first-time visitor packing in museums, trams, a canal cruise and a bike ride, the I amsterdam City Card is genuinely good value — the longer cards especially. Just go in with your eyes open: book the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House separately, do the quick maths against the things you actually plan to do, and pick the duration that matches your pace. For more on budgeting the rest of your trip, see our guide to money and costs in Amsterdam.

Quick checklist — buy it if you can tick most of these:

• You will visit around two or more included, paid museums or attractions per day.
• You will use the trams, metro or buses rather than only walking.
• You want the free canal cruise and bike, and will actually use them.
• Your must-see list is not dominated by the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House, which are excluded.
• You are looking at a 72-hour card or longer, where the per-day price drops and the bundled extras cover much of the cost.

Tick three or more and the card almost certainly saves you money and hassle. Tick one or none and you are better off buying tickets as you go — and pre-booking the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House on their own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the I amsterdam City Card worth it?

It is if you are an active sightseer visiting roughly two or more paid museums or attractions a day and using the trams. With free entry to over 70 sites plus a canal cruise, a 24-hour bike rental and unlimited GVB transport, most visitors break even quickly on the 72- to 120-hour cards. It is poor value if your main targets are the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House (neither is included), if you walk everywhere, or if you sightsee slowly.

What does the I amsterdam City Card include?

Free entry to over 70 museums and attractions — including the Rijksmuseum, Moco, H’ART, Stedelijk, Rembrandt House, NEMO and ARTIS — plus unlimited GVB public transport (tram, metro, bus and ferry, but not NS trains or the airport train), one free canal cruise and one 24-hour bike rental. You also get around 25% off partner attractions such as the Heineken Experience and Madame Tussauds.

How much is the I amsterdam City Card in 2026?

The standard Total Experience card costs roughly €67 (24h), €94 (48h), €115 (72h), €130 (96h) and €140 (120h), at one price for adults and children. A newer Explorer option lets you pick 3, 5 or 7 attractions from around €44, but it does not include public transport. Always confirm the current price on the official iamsterdam.com site before buying.

Which museums are free with the I amsterdam City Card?

Big names included free are the Rijksmuseum, Moco Museum, H’ART Museum, Stedelijk Museum, Rembrandt House, Museum Van Loon, NEMO and ARTIS (Micropia and the zoo), among more than 70 in total. The Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House are not included and must be booked separately.

Is the Van Gogh Museum included in the I amsterdam City Card?

No. The Van Gogh Museum was removed from the card in 2022 and is still not included in 2026 — you get neither free entry nor a discount. Because it is one of Amsterdam’s most popular museums and sells timed tickets that book up, reserve a Van Gogh ticket separately and in advance.

Does the I amsterdam City Card cover the airport train?

No. The card gives unlimited travel on Amsterdam’s GVB network — trams, metro, city buses, ferries and night buses — but not NS trains. The train between Schiphol Airport and the city centre is run by NS, so you need to buy that ticket separately.

Does the I amsterdam City Card include the Rijksmuseum?

Yes. The Rijksmuseum is included free and is the single most valuable inclusion on the card, at around €23 to enter on its own. At busy times you may still need to reserve a free timeslot online in advance, even with the card, so check before you go.

Can you use the I amsterdam City Card on trams and the metro?

Yes. The card includes unlimited travel on the whole GVB network — trams, metro, city buses, ferries and night buses — for its validity. Remember to tap in when you board and tap out when you get off, every trip. It does not cover NS trains or the Schiphol airport train.

I amsterdam City Card or Museumkaart — which is better?

They suit different trips. The I amsterdam City Card bundles transport, a canal cruise and a bike with about 70 attractions over a short window, which suits an active short break. The Museumkaart is cheaper over a year and covers 400-plus museums nationwide, including the Van Gogh Museum, but comes with no transport or attractions. Heavy museum-goers on a longer or repeat trip often prefer the Museumkaart; first-timers on a city break usually get more from the City Card.

Is the I amsterdam City Card worth it for a 2-day trip?

It can be. A 48-hour card at around €94 pays off if you visit roughly two included museums a day and use the trams, especially once you add the free cruise and bike. If two days is all you have and your list is topped by the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House, both excluded, you will usually do better paying as you go.

Do children need their own I amsterdam City Card?

Yes, if you want them covered for GVB transport and for the paid attractions on the card, each child needs their own. But many Amsterdam museums are already free or heavily discounted for under-18s, so it often works out cheaper to skip the card for younger kids and pay their (small) entries directly. Do a quick sum for the children separately from the adults.

Where can I buy the I amsterdam City Card?

The easiest option is to buy online in advance, especially the digital app version, which means no queue at all and lets you compare durations before you arrive. If you prefer a physical card, the main pick-up point is the I amsterdam Store at the back of Amsterdam Central Station. Rather than counting on finding a seller the moment you land, it is simpler to buy ahead online and activate the card when your sightseeing begins.

The post I amsterdam City Card: Is It Worth It in 2026? appeared first on Tours in Amsterdam.

This guide covers the whole journey end to end: every way to cross, real distances and driving times, what it actually costs, the documents you need after Brexit, where to park without overpaying, and — honestly — whether bringing a car is worth it at all.

Last updated: July 2026.

Is it worth driving to Amsterdam?

Here is the honest answer before the detail: a car is brilliant for reaching the Netherlands and for day trips into the countryside, but it is a liability inside Amsterdam itself.

The city centre is one of the most expensive and difficult places to park in the country, the canal streets are narrow and mostly one-way, and trams and cyclists have priority everywhere. If your trip is only Amsterdam, a flight or the train plus public transport is usually cheaper and far less stressful. But if you want to explore tulip fields, windmills and villages like Giethoorn that are awkward to reach by train — or you simply prefer your own car and the boot space — driving can make real sense. The trick is to park on the edge of the city and switch to public transport for the centre.

Getting to Amsterdam by car from the UK

Every road route from the UK starts with crossing the water. You have three broad choices, and the right one depends on where you live and how much of the drive you want to do yourself.

1. Eurotunnel LeShuttle — the fastest crossing

LeShuttle carries your car on a train from Folkestone to Calais in about 35 minutes, with up to 53 departures a day. Fares start from around £69 for a car on a short-stay return, though flexible and peak tickets cost more — prices move constantly, so check live rates for your dates. LeShuttle only runs to Calais; from there you drive on through Belgium and into the Netherlands.

2. A short Dover ferry

If you prefer a ferry, Dover to Calais takes about 90 minutes with P&O, DFDS or Irish Ferries, and Dover to Dunkirk about 110 minutes with DFDS. Dunkirk actually leaves you around 40 minutes closer to Amsterdam than Calais. As with the tunnel, you then drive the rest of the way through Belgium.

3. A direct North Sea ferry — skip the France and Belgium drive

The most relaxed option is to put the car on a ferry that lands you in the Netherlands, avoiding the long drive through France and Belgium altogether. There are three, and an overnight sailing doubles as your travel and a night’s sleep:

These crossings are longer and often a little pricier than the tunnel, but you wake up an hour or so from the city instead of spending a day at the wheel. Newcastle to IJmuiden lands closest of all, right on Amsterdam’s doorstep.

Distances, driving times and tolls

If you cross via the tunnel or a Dover ferry and drive on, here is what the road ahead looks like:

Tolls are simpler than many people fear. France charges tolls (péage) on most of its motorways, paid per kilometre by card at the barriers. But once you cross into Belgium and then the Netherlands, there are no road tolls for cars at all — you only pay for fuel. (A couple of minor Dutch toll tunnels exist, but neither is on the normal route from Calais.)

What it costs to drive from the UK

As a rough guide, driving from London to Amsterdam via the Eurotunnel works out at around £140–£200 one way, before food or an overnight stop:

• LeShuttle crossing: from about £69, more at peak times or on flexible tickets;
• Fuel, London to Amsterdam: roughly £53 one way;
• French motorway tolls: roughly £15–£25.

Direct North Sea ferries usually cost more per crossing but save a full day of driving and a tank of fuel. Every fare is dynamic, so treat these as ballpark figures and check live prices for your travel dates. Once you arrive, our guide to money and daily costs in Amsterdam helps you budget the rest of the trip.

What you need to drive in the Netherlands

Since Brexit, a few things are worth getting right before you set off:

• A “UK” identifier on the rear of the car — either a UK sticker or a number plate that already shows “UK” with the flag. Old “GB” stickers are no longer valid.
• Headlamp deflectors if your car is right-hand drive (unless it has adaptive or flat-beam headlights), so you do not dazzle oncoming traffic. You drive on the right in the Netherlands.
• Your full UK driving licence, passport, V5C logbook and proof of insurance. Check your policy includes EU cover and extend breakdown cover to the continent. You do not need a green card or an International Driving Permit for a short visit.
• A warning triangle is sensible, and a hi-vis vest is worth carrying — the Netherlands does not enforce them for cars the way France and Belgium do, but they are cheap peace of mind.
• Dutch limits: 50 km/h in towns, 80 on rural roads and 100–130 on motorways. The drink-drive limit is lower than the UK’s, phones must be hands-free, and cyclists have priority — give them a wide berth.

Driving in Amsterdam: what to expect

Central Amsterdam was laid out in the 17th century, long before cars, and it shows. Around 80% of city roads have a 30 km/h limit, many canal streets are narrow and one-way, trams always have priority, and cyclists stream across junctions from every direction. Parking is scarce, expensive and strictly enforced — if you are towed, retrieving your car costs around €452.

There is also an environmental zone to know about, though it worries visitors more than it needs to. In short: driving in the centre is slow, stressful and costly, and every official guide — including the city’s own — steers visitors towards parking on the edge instead.

The environmental and zero-emission zones: do they affect me?

Amsterdam has two overlapping schemes, but most tourists are unaffected:

• Low-emission zone (milieuzone): within the A10 ring road, diesel cars and vans must be emission class Euro 5 or newer (very roughly 2011 onwards). Petrol cars are not restricted, so a petrol car or a modern hire car is fine — only an older diesel could be barred from the ring.
• Zero-emission zone: since January 2025 a smaller inner zone (the S100 ring) has been going emission-free, but it targets commercial vehicles — vans, lorries and new mopeds — not private cars. It does not stop ordinary tourists driving a petrol or hire car.

In practice, unless you are arriving in an older diesel, neither zone should affect your visit. Rules and dates do change, so if you drive a diesel it is worth checking the city’s official low-emission-zone page before you travel.

Where to park in Amsterdam (park smart)

This is where a little planning saves a lot of money. Street parking in the centre costs around €7.50 an hour — rising to about €8 from mid-2026 — which puts it among the most expensive in Europe, and a full day in a central garage can run to €80 or more. Paying to park a car you will not use while you are on foot or on a boat makes little sense.

The smart alternative is Park + Ride (P+R): leave the car at a car park on the edge of the city and take a GVB tram or metro straight into the centre.

How Park + Ride works

• Park at one of the P+R sites — P+R ArenA (by the Johan Cruijff ArenA), RAI, Sloterdijk, Zeeburg, Bos en Lommer or Noord, among others.
• Buy the discounted P+R transport ticket from the machine at the car park — you have to buy it there to get the cheap rate.
• The rate is roughly €6 for 24 hours if you arrive off-peak (after 10:00 on weekdays, or any time at the weekend), and about €13 for the first 24 hours at peak, then €6 a day after that. The price usually includes public transport into the centre for one or two people; larger groups pay a little more.

It is dramatically cheaper than parking in town and drops you into the centre in 15–20 minutes, often close to Amsterdam Central Station. Prices and conditions change, so confirm the current rate on the city’s P+R page.

Using your car for day trips

If you have brought a car, its real value is not in the city — it is in reaching the places that are awkward by train. Here is where the car genuinely helps, and where it does not:

The pattern is clear: the car earns its keep for rural, hard-to-reach spots like Giethoorn, Kinderdijk and the Keukenhof tulip gardens (open spring only — roughly 19 March to 10 May in 2026), while the well-connected cities, and even the windmills at Zaanse Schans, are quicker and easier by train. For more ideas, see our guide to the best day trips from Amsterdam.

Once you are parked, make the most of Amsterdam

With the car safely at a P+R, the city is yours on foot, by tram or by boat. If you are planning your days, our round-up of the best things to do in Amsterdam and our map of the city’s neighbourhoods are good starting points. And once you have swapped four wheels for the tram, a canal cruise is the classic way to see the centre from the water — no parking required.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to drive to Amsterdam from the UK?

As a rough guide, around £140–£200 one way via the Eurotunnel: roughly £69–£120 for the LeShuttle crossing, about £53 of fuel, and modest French motorway tolls. There are no car tolls in Belgium or the Netherlands, so beyond France you only pay for fuel. Direct North Sea ferries cost more per crossing but save a day’s driving. Fares change constantly, so check live prices for your dates.

Is it a good idea to drive in Amsterdam?

Generally, no. Central Amsterdam is one of the most expensive and difficult places to park in the Netherlands — around €7.50 an hour on the street — with narrow one-way canal streets, 30 km/h limits, and priority for trams and cyclists. The better approach is to park at a Park + Ride on the edge (from about €6 for 24 hours, including transport into town) and take the tram or metro in.

Can I take my car to Amsterdam from the UK?

Yes. You can drive on via the Eurotunnel or a short Dover ferry and continue through France and Belgium — about 3.5 hours from Calais — or put the car on a direct ferry from Newcastle, Harwich or Hull. You will need a “UK” identifier on the car, headlamp deflectors if it is right-hand drive, and your licence, V5C and EU-valid insurance; no green card or international permit is needed for a short visit.

Is Amsterdam accessible by car?

Yes. Amsterdam sits on the Dutch motorway network via the A10 ring road and is an easy drive from the Channel ports, with no road tolls in the Netherlands. Getting to the city is simple; driving inside the historic centre is not, so most visitors park on the outskirts and switch to public transport.

What is the quickest way to get to Amsterdam by car from the UK?

The fastest crossing is the Eurotunnel LeShuttle from Folkestone to Calais (about 35 minutes), then roughly 3.5 hours’ drive through Belgium into the Netherlands — around 6.5 hours of moving time from London, or 8–10 hours realistically once you add check-in, traffic and breaks.

The post Amsterdam by Car: Routes, Parking and Whether It Is Worth It appeared first on Tours in Amsterdam.

Bus or boat? The one thing to know first

Here is the detail that catches people out: in Amsterdam, the hop-on hop-off buses cannot drive through the historic centre — the canal streets are too narrow. So the buses loop the outer ring, linking the bigger museums and districts, while the boats do the job in the middle, gliding along the canals past the sights you actually came to see.

In short: if you only pick one and you want the classic centre, choose the boat. If you want to reach everything including the outer museums, get the combo.

Bus vs boat vs combo, compared

The hop-on hop-off boat

The canal boats have around 19 stops and take roughly two hours for a full loop. They pass close to the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum, the Heineken Experience and more, with an on-board audio guide and free WiFi. This is the scenic, quintessentially-Amsterdam option — you see the city the way it was built to be seen, from the water.

The hop-on hop-off bus

The red buses have about 10–11 stops and complete a loop in a little over an hour. Because they skirt the centre, they are most useful for reaching the Rijksmuseum and Museum Quarter, the Heineken Experience and areas a longer walk from the middle. On their own the buses miss the prettiest part of the city, which is why most people pair them with the boat.

Prices & how to book

Passes come as 24-hour or 48-hour, and you can hop on and off as often as you like within that window. The bus + boat combo is the popular pick and the best value per day. Booking online gives you a mobile ticket and usually a small saving:

• Bus + boat combo ticket — best value, covers everything
• Boat-only ticket — for the canals and centre
• Bus-only ticket — for the outer sights

Is hop-on hop-off worth it in Amsterdam?

It is genuinely useful if you have limited time, are travelling with kids or older relatives, or simply want to cover a lot without walking. The audio guide adds context, and the boat is a lovely way to orient yourself on day one.

Be honest with yourself, though: Amsterdam’s centre is compact and very walkable. If you plan to stroll it anyway, a single canal cruise might give you the same water-level magic for less. Weigh it against the rest of your things to do in Amsterdam.

Tips before you board

• Pick 48 hours if you’re staying more than a day — the daily cost drops sharply.
• Start with the boat on your first morning to get your bearings.
• Check the last departure — boats and buses stop in the early evening, earlier than you’d think.
• Both have free WiFi and audio guides in multiple languages.
• Stops cluster near Centraal — an easy place to join. See them on our map of Amsterdam.

Frequently asked questions

The post Hop-on Hop-off Amsterdam: Bus vs Boat, Tickets & Which to Choose appeared first on Tours in Amsterdam.

What is a brown café (bruin café)?

A brown café is Amsterdam’s version of the neighbourhood pub: dark wooden walls, worn counters, low lighting and a pace built for staying put. The name comes from those interiors — and from the brown patina that decades of tobacco smoke left on the walls before the smoking ban. They are smoke-free now, but the warm, lived-in look remains.

What really defines them is gezelligheid — an untranslatable Dutch word for cosy, convivial warmth. A good brown café is where you settle in with a beer, a plate of bitterballen and a conversation, and lose an afternoon without noticing. Think of it as what the pub is to Londoners, only Dutch.

The best brown cafés in Amsterdam

We have leaned toward the genuinely old and genuinely local. Here are ten of the best, at a glance:

Café Hoppe — the central classic

On the Spui since 1670 and still packed most evenings, Hoppe began life as a distillery and never dropped the jenever-house swagger. The front bar is standing-room, sawdust-and-barrels traditional; in summer the crowd spills onto the square. It is central and touristy, but it earns it.

Café ‘t Smalle — the postcard

A former jenever distillery from 1786 on the Egelantiersgracht in the Jordaan canals, ‘t Smalle has the loveliest little waterside terrace in the city. Come mid-afternoon on a sunny day and you will understand why the Dutch invented a word for this feeling.

In ‘t Aepjen — the medieval one

On the Zeedijk, in one of only two surviving wooden houses in Amsterdam (the timber frame dates to around 1475), In ‘t Aepjen was a sailors’ tavern where, legend has it, broke seamen paid their tab in monkeys — hence the name, “in the monkeys”. Low beams, candlelight, centuries of stories.

Wynand Fockink — for the jenever

Tucked down an alley behind Dam Square, this 1679 tasting house is the place to take jenever seriously. There is no seating — you stand at the bar among the bottles — and the tradition is to lean down and take the first sip of your brim-full glass without lifting it. A proper Amsterdam rite of passage.

What to drink: jenever, beer & the kopstootje

Two things belong in your hand in a brown café: Dutch beer (a small glass, with a two-finger head — don’t fight it) and jenever, the juniper spirit that is the ancestor of English gin. Jenever comes jong (young, clean) or oud (old, malty and smooth); ask the bartender to point you to a good one.

Order both together and you have a kopstootje — literally a “little head-butt” — a shot of jenever served brim-full beside a small beer. Bow to the glass for that first sip, chase it with the beer, and you are drinking like a local. It pairs perfectly with an evening built around our guide to things to do in Amsterdam.

What to eat

Brown cafés are for drinking and snacking, not dining. Expect a short list of classics: bitterballen (crispy beef-ragout balls with mustard), cubes of aged Dutch cheese, ossenworst, nuts and olives. For the full rundown, see our guide to must-eat Amsterdam snacks and our list of Dutch snacks to try. If it’s a proper beer education you’re after, the Heineken Experience is a short walk south.

Which brown café is right for you?

Brown café etiquette & tips

• Don’t expect table service everywhere — in smaller cafés you order at the bar.
• Tipping is light — round up or leave a little change for good service; it isn’t obligatory.
• Carry a bit of cash. Most take cards now, but a few tiny old places still prefer coins.
• Step one street off the square. The cafés right on Dam or Leidseplein are the touristy ones — the real gems are a block away in the side streets.
• A brown café is not a “coffeeshop”. In Amsterdam a coffeeshop sells cannabis; a brown café is a traditional pub. Very different rooms.

Where the brown cafés cluster

Two areas hold most of the best ones: the Jordaan, with its narrow canals and village feel, and the old centre around the Spui and Zeedijk. You can happily walk a little brown-café crawl between them in an evening — see exactly where they sit on our map of Amsterdam, which marks these bars alongside the city’s other highlights.

Frequently asked questions

The post The Best Brown Cafés in Amsterdam: A Local’s Guide to Bruin Cafés appeared first on Tours in Amsterdam.

If you’re looking for things to do in Amsterdam, you’ve come to the right place. This city is packed full of activities and adventures waiting for you to explore.

From sightseeing and touring the city’s centuries-old architecture, to indulging in its renowned nightlife and cannabis culture, Amsterdam has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

Amsterdam is the perfect place for a city trip. Some tourists may flock to Amsterdam for its image of a sex and drug city, but there are many other reasons to visit Amsterdam.

The symbol of the Dutch capital is the canal belt, but you will also find many museums about the history of the city and about great artists. Many of them are included free with the I amsterdam City Card. For example, pay a visit to the Anne Frank House or the Rembrandt House and don’t forget the highest swing in Europe!

1 | Canal cruise

When you think of Amsterdam, you probably immediately think of the canal belt. The canals of Amsterdam are everywhere and you certainly don’t have to look for them.

The canals were built about 400 years ago and immediately became the main symbol of the city. They have even been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1999. You really can’t skip them.

Take a nice walk along the canals or rent a bicycle to explore them. Or why not join a cruise on the Amsterdam canals? You can watch the city glide by from the water and sail under the most beautiful bridges in the city.

Booking tickets for a canal cruise costs € 15 and during a 75-minute canal cruise you can see the most beautiful places in Amsterdam.

2 | Dam Square

Dam Square (a.k.a. De Dam) is the heart of Amsterdam and the city also owes its name to the place. On the square is the Royal Palace, the Nieuwe Kerk and the National Monument where, among other things, the Second World War is commemorated.

Visiting Amsterdam without going to Dam Square is not a good idea. Visit the Royal Palace on Dam Square, where you can admire the marble Burgzaal and works of art from the Golden Age

3 | Anne Frank House

Before the Second World War, the Frank family fled to the Netherlands to avoid the Jewish persecution in Germany. Once in the Netherlands, however, they couldn’t escape it either and had to hide in the secret annex of the building where Otto Frank lived. During that period, his daughter Anne kept a diary, in which she described life in the Secret Annex.

The Frank family was eventually betrayed and most of the family members died in one of the German camps. Later Anne’s diary was published and the secret annex was converted into a museum. During a visit to the Anne Frank House you will learn more about the family and about the hidden Jewish life during the war.

You can only buy your tickets for the Anne Frank House via the official website (this is one of the most visited museums in the Netherlands).

4 | Red Light District

Amsterdam is known everywhere for its ‘red light district‘, also known as the De Wallen. It is therefore a place that you should definitely visit as a visitor. See the window brothels, sex shows, coffee shops and world’s first condom shop. Do this especially when it is already dark, because then the area turns completely red due to all the neon lights.

Got some more time? Then visit Amsterdam Red Light District in daytime & nighttime. There’s a huge difference.

In the daytime is peaceful and laidback. Attractions like De Oude Kerk, Our Lord in The Attic and Europe’s biggest temple are open.

At night it is lively and bustling. See the red light windows or visit a sex show.

Red Light District Tour

Learn everything about Amsterdam’s oldest neighbourhood with fun & informative Red Light District tour. Download the Amsterdam app that offers a 2-hour audio tour. Hear stories from 22 different experts. Prostitutes, police officers, historians, residents and sociologists can be heard.

This cool app guides you through the Red Light District with a virtual guide, GPS and a handy map. Learn all about the famous Red Light District. From home or in Amsterdam.

Ban

Must know: Nowadays guided tours (with real tour guides) are not allowed in the Red Light District anymore. The city has recently banned them. The only way to take a Red Light District tour is through the audio tour above.

5 | Casa Rosso

If you are in the Red Light District, it might be a tempting idea to visit the world famous Casa Rosso? This is an erotic theater in the Red Light District of Amsterdam. Casa Rosso has erotic live shows every night.

How about a striptease show, soft SM or the famous Banana Show? Settle down in the comfortable chairs of the lounge and enjoy this titillating theatre. This sex show in Amsterdam is open every day from 7 pm to 2 am.

6 | Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is the largest museum in the Netherlands and also has the most extensive art collection in the country. During your visit to the Rijksmuseum, you will pass works by the greatest artists in the Netherlands, including Rembrandt van Rijn and Johannes Vermeer.

Also discover major works by other well-known artists. For example, there is a separate wing dedicated to Asian art.

The Rijksmuseum also has an impressive collection of Delft Blue and wooden doll houses. Don’t forget to visit the most famous work in the museum, Rembrandt’s Night Watch.

7 | Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is located near the Rijksmuseum on the other side of the Museumplein, alongside the Stedelijk Museum of modern art. It regularly sells out, so it is worth booking Van Gogh Museum tickets in advance. As the name suggests, this museum is completely dedicated to the painter Vincent van Gogh. You will find a large collection of more than 200 paintings here, but also etchings and more than 500 drawings are on display.

You will also find letters that Vincent wrote to his brother Theo, other important objects from his life and works by painter friends who inspired or were inspired by Van Gogh.

8 | The Rembrandt House

In the Jodenbreestraat is a beautiful old mansion with red shutters. That is the Rembrandt House, where Rembrandt lived between 1639 and 1658. The museum has been completely redesigned as it would have looked in the painter’s time, with furniture and objects by Rembrandt himself. In addition, you can admire many of his works of art here and there is also an exhibition of works by new painting talents.

You can also see a demonstration in Rembrandt’s studio on how to make your own paint from pigment and oil.

9 | EYE Amsterdam

The EYE Amsterdam is a striking white building on the IJ, opposite Amsterdam Central Station. In the EYE Amsterdam you will find the film museum of the city where you can dive into the world of film.

There are exhibitions about film history and about making a film itself, which are regularly supplemented with temporary exhibitions about big names from the film world.

You can also simply watch a film in the EYE. You won’t see major Hollywood blockbusters on the bill, but you will see lesser-known arthouse films.

10 | Vondelpark

If you long for peace and quiet during your visit to Amsterdam, the Vondelpark is the place to be. Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s city park and has been a national monument since 1996. In the warm summer days, many people come to play sports, have a picnic, barbecue or relax in the sun.

Be sure to visit the Vondelpark Open Air Theater during the summer months and buy a drink in the Vondelpark Pavilion VondelCS. Concerts, theater and dance performances are then performed in the park.

Would you like to explore the park in a different way? How about an organized bike ride along the alleys and secrets of Amsterdam? You cycle through the Vondelpark, but you also pass the nicest places in Amsterdam, where tourists would otherwise never come.

11 | Ajax Stadium: Johan Cruijff ArenA with guide

Feel the beating heart of Ajax during a 75-minute tour through the Johan Cruijff ArenA. The enthusiastic guide tells you everything about the stadium and about Ajax, and takes you to the dugout, the field and other parts that are normally closed.

Even if you are not necessarily for Ajax, but you like everything related to football, visiting the stadium is a great activity. Book your stadium tour online with a guide for €15.

12 | The Old Church

The Oude Kerk was built in the fourteenth century in honor of Saint Nicholas, making it the oldest standing building in Amsterdam. The brick Gothic building was built and rebuilt over five centuries.

Inside you will find many graves of famous Dutch people such as the naval hero Jacob van Heemskerck and the first wife of the painter Rembrandt. There are also three organs in the church.

Until 1578 it was a Catholic church that bore the name St. Nicholas Church. After that, the building was handed over to the Protestants and the name changed.

Although you can rent this church for parties and events, it also still fulfills the function of a Protestant church. The church can be visited for a little fee.

13 | Amsterdam Stock Exchange

Experience world’s first stock exchange in Amsterdam. It were the Dutch who invented stocks after all. It’s located at the Red Light District, just minutes away from Amsterdam Central Station.

On the Beursplein, the most remarkable objects serve as gas lanterns. From here you also have a good view of the tower of the stock exchange, the Beurs van Berlage. There is the inscription “Beidt uw tijd”, on the other side of the tower it says “Duur uw uur”. These texts want to encourage investors to be careful, to take their time, and then act.

This building has not been used as a stock exchange since the end of the last century. It is now an event hall with offices. Both temporary exhibitions and performances are on the bill here. The building cannot be visited except for organized tours. The tower can be climbed during the tour.

14 The Concert Building (Concertgebouw)

The Amsterdam Concertgebouw was built in 1883 according to the design of architect Adolf Leonard van Gendt. The new building quickly became a much-loved monument to the people of Amsterdam.

The building has three halls where about 800 concerts are held annually. It is one of the most visited concert halls for classical music.

15 | The A’DAM Tower

The A’DAM Tower is the place to go for a beautiful panoramic view of the city. On the Lookout on the roof you will also find a bar where you can get a drink. Those who are not afraid of heights can also sit on the highest swing in Europe. At a height of 100 meters you can swing above the city.

The name of the tower refers on the one hand to the name of the city, but is also an abbreviation for Amsterdam Dance and Music. The tower is the creative play corner of the city. The A’dam Music School and an event company are located in the tower, among others.

16 | He Hua Temple

The Chinese FGS He Hua Temple (pronounced “gguh ggwaa”) – meaning lotus flower in Chinese – is the largest Buddhist temple in Europe. It’s located on the Zeedijk street in Amsterdam’s Red Light District.

The temple is built in the traditional Chinese palace style. The entire structure is composed of different symbols: the entrance gate represents the gate to the monasteries in the mountains, the stairs in Buddhism lead you step by step to the highest you can reach, and the dragons on the roof must fight the evil spirits. scare off. You can visit the temple and get a guided tour.

If you are into Chinese cuisine, then you are in the right place here at one of the many Asian restaurants in the area, picking up a souvenir is also not really possible in one of the many shops.

17 | Magna Plaza Amsterdam

The Magna Plaza is a lesser-known monument of the city and is hidden behind the Palace on Dam Square. The building once served as a post office, but today it is a luxury shopping center comparable to the Galeries Lafayette in Paris and Harrods in London.

Like many other monuments in the city, the Magna Plaza is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List and is therefore definitely worth a visit.

18 | Our Lord In The Attic

At the end of the 16th century it was forbidden for Catholics to hold worship services. As a result, worship services were secretly held in mansions, such as at Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder, where a church was built in the attic.

Other parts of the house were used for visitors and conversations with the priest. The building at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 40 is now a museum and gives you an interesting look at life in the 16th century.

19 | Madame Tussauds Amsterdam

You probably don’t have to introduce Madame Tussauds. In Amsterdam they stand out because of their ideal location on Dam Square, the most central place in the city. The branch is also one of the best in Madame Tussauds.

Of course you can see famous stars as if they were standing next to you in person. You can have your picture taken with Anne Frank, Van Gogh or James Bond. But Madame Tussauds also stands for a unique experience that undergoes a thorough change every year.

Recently Vladimir Putin has been removed from the Madame Tussauds museum in Amsterdam. Disappointed? Probably not!

20 | Westerkerk

The 17th century Westerkerk towers above all the buildings and can be easily recognized by the imperial crown on the 87 meter high tower. It was placed in honor of Maximilian of Austria.

Rembrandt was buried in this Protestant church, but his grave is no longer known. Once again it is noticeable that small shops have been built against the facade. As if they are chicks, hiding with their mother.

21 | Amsterdam Begijnhof

The Begijnhof was founded in the 14th century and is located in the heart of the city. When you enter you will see a wooden house on the left that is said to date from the 15th century. Most of the houses you see are 17th and 18th century. They have been thoroughly restored and may only be inhabited by women.

Although there have been no beguines for 40 years, there are still no men living within the walls. This oasis of silence and greenery has a beautiful English church. This church has been located in the former Beguinage Church since the 17th century, which the beguines had to give to the English.

Right opposite the entrance you can see the Catholic chapel, which had to compensate for the loss of the Beguinage Church.

22 | Coffee Shops in Amsterdam

Whoever says Amsterdam also quickly says weed and coffee shops. Although the city council has already imposed stricter rules for buying joints and weed, there are currently still about 110 coffee shops in Amsterdam.

Since the smoking ban has come into effect in the catering industry, it is of course strange that you go to a coffee shop but actually have to go to a separate room to smoke a joint.

Are you curious what a coffee shop looks like, just walk in, buying or consuming is not mandatory. The most famous coffeeshop in Amsterdam is probably The Bulldog. It has been around since 1975.

23 | Heineken Experience

Heineken is one of the 3 largest brewers in the world. The green bottles with a red star on them are available almost everywhere. The Heineken Experience is an interactive exhibition in which you can learn everything about the Dutch beer brand, but you can also get started brewing beer yourself.

24 | Foodhallen Amsterdam

If you are in Amsterdam and would like to experiment with culinary delights, then you should definitely pay a visit to the Foodhallen. In the covered food market in the Oud-West district (Bellamyplein), you can enjoy a drink or a snack at one of the 30 stalls. Culinary start-ups like to surprise you here.

25 | Rembrandt Square

The Rembrandtplein is well equipped with restaurants, terraces and other entertainment venues, e.g. the Escape (nightclub) and De Kroon (café-restaurant, beautiful old interior!). This makes it one of the most famous entertainment areas in Amsterdam, and the ideal place to take a rest!

In the square is a statue of its namesake, Rembrandt, the oldest surviving statue in the city. A bronze arrangement of his most famous painting, The Night Watch, is sometimes there, sometimes not. You must be lucky. At number 47 you will see the former Amsterdamse Bank, now Booking.com, built by Berlage. There is also a water feature with a rock fountain.

26 | Tuschinski

Tuschinski is now part of the Pathé cinemas and has 6 screens. There are regular Dutch premieres with red carpet and paparazzi. The building is named after its founder Abraham Tuschinski who had it built according to his taste and insight.

The style is a mixture of Jugendstil, Art Deco and Amsterdam School. The entire interior up to and including the lamps, carpets, wall coverings, wall and ceiling paintings are part of the total concept. In addition to film, variety numbers were initially also staged.

It is one of the most beautiful movie theaters in Europe.

27 | The Golden Bend

Between Leidsestraat and Vijzelstraat you can find the Golden Bend, here you will find the most expensive and exclusive houses of the Herengracht. The wealthiest Amsterdammers have lived here since the 17th century.

The grounds that became available after the so-called Fourth Explanation of Amsterdam in the 17th century were larger than in other places in Amsterdam. Small city palaces were then built here, which radiate pure luxury and wealth both inside and out.

At Herengracht 466 you will find the house of mayor Joan Geelvinck. This house was sold in 1769 for 250,000 guilders (now about 15 million euros). You can admire this part of Amsterdam during a cruise on the canals.

28 | De Jordaan

The Jordaan district is located in the center of Amsterdam near the Prinsengracht. Here you will find many nice shops, typical Dutch bars and trendy restaurants. Stop by at the Noordermarkt and browse through the nice stuff. You can also visit the Houseboat Museum or the Cheese Museum in the Jordaan.

The name Jordaan goes back to the early 1700s where Jordaan is used for the first time. The Jordaan meant the Prinsengracht. Others argue that the name comes from the French migrants who lived there at the time, and the corruption of the word “jardin”.

29 | Nine Streets Amsterdam

The Nine Streets are – how could it be otherwise – nine streets in the Jordaan where shopping is central. There are all kinds of nice boutiques, flagship stores of major brands, eateries, cafes, pop-up stores…. It is a lively crowd. A Dutch-language film was also shot a few years ago: Hartenstraat, named after one of the streets.

The area is located between the Prinsengracht and Singel. Many of the street names are reminiscent of the merchants and craftsmen who used to live and work there, specializing in trading and processing the hides of roe deer, deer, wolves, bears…

Take the time to stroll between the shops and eateries and to take it all in, to shop and/or to eat something.

30 | De Waag

The Waag used to be a city gate on the water. Together with the Munttoren, this is the only remaining city gate of Amsterdam. However, this function fell away when the city wall was demolished at the beginning of the 17th century.

The building then took on all kinds of other functions, including function as a “weighing house”, a building where goods were weighed, and also housed the guilds. You cannot visit the property. Part of it is rented out as a restaurant (In de Waag) and another part to the Waag Society (art and science institute).

31 | Amsterdam Swing

Go to the north of the city, take the free ferry and experience Europe’s tallest swing. Take a ride and see the beautiful skyline of Amsterdam. You won’t regret this. It’s located on top of the A’dam Tower.

32 | Hash, Hemp & Marihuana Museum

Become a cannabis expert and visit this unique attraction in the Red Light District. The audio-tour inside really good and interesting. Book Hash Marihuana & Hemp Museum tickets today.

Conclusion

So there you have it, our list of the best things to do in Amsterdam. We could go on and on but we don’t want to spoil all the fun. If you want to experience everything Amsterdam has to offer, be sure to add at least a few of these highlights to your itinerary.

Other Fun Things To Do?

More Amsterdam experiences worth booking

A few more bookable highlights if you have time to spare:

• NEMO Science Museum — Amsterdam’s big hands-on science museum in the striking green ship-shaped building near Centraal, with a free rooftop terrace and great for families. Book NEMO tickets →
• This is Holland — a 5D flight-ride experience that soars you over the Dutch landscape, in Amsterdam Noord right by the A’DAM Lookout. Book This is Holland →
• WONDR Experience — a huge, playful indoor world of interactive art and illusions built for photos. Book WONDR →
• Sip & Paint at NDSM — a relaxed painting workshop with a drink in hand at the creative NDSM wharf, no experience needed. Book Sip & Paint →

More museums, attractions & day trips

A few more of our favourite spots and easy escapes, each with its own full guide:

• Photo & illusion museums — strike a pose at the Upside Down Museum, bend your brain at the Museum of Illusions, or go all-in at WONDR Amsterdam.
• Something different — brave the Torture Museum on the Singel, meet the animals at ARTIS Royal Zoo, or warm up (ironically) at the Icebar.
• Serious art — catch a major rotating exhibition at the H’ART Museum (formerly the Hermitage) on the Amstel.
• More museums & areas — dive into maritime history and climb a VOC ship at Het Scheepvaartmuseum, meet the microbes at Micropia, gawp at the oddities of Ripley’s, or cross the IJ to creative Amsterdam Noord.
• More art & the unmissable — book ahead for the Anne Frank House, step into immersive digital art at NXT Museum, or see the CoBrA movement at the Cobra Museum in Amstelveen.
• Easy day trips — take the train to Rotterdam, the canal city of Leiden, or The Hague — or browse all our best day trips from Amsterdam.

And if you know of other great things that we missed, please share them in the comments below. We would love to hear from you! Finally, if you are looking for an amazing travel experience, book a trip to Amsterdam and let us show you around. You won’t regret it!

Is Amsterdam a walkable city?

One of the best things about Amsterdam is that it is a very walkable city. Most of the attractions are located within walking distance of each other, and the city is also very flat, which makes it easy to get around on foot. In addition, there are a number of walking and cycling paths that criss-cross the city, making it easy to explore without having to worry about traffic. Amsterdam also has a number of large parks, such as Vondelpark and Sarphatipark, which are perfect for a leisurely stroll on a sunny day. So whether you’re looking to sightsee or just get some fresh air, Amsterdam is definitely a great choice for a walking holiday.

What do I need to take to Amsterdam?

• First, Amsterdam is known for its canals, so be sure to pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes.
• You’ll also want to pack some layers, as the weather can be cool and rainy. Our month-by-month weather guide shows what to pack.
• An umbrella or raincoat is recommended during the low season (November – March)
• In addition, Amsterdam is home to many museums and art galleries, so you might want to pack a notebook to jot down your impressions.
• And finally, don’t forget to bring your camera! Amsterdam is full of photo-worthy sights, from historic buildings to picturesque canals.

ALSO DISCOVER:

Amsterdam Hotel Tips: Where To Stay Without Overpaying?

10 Sex Shows in Amsterdam

Top 5 Sex Dating Sites in Amsterdam

Plan your trip with our 2 days in Amsterdam and 3-day Amsterdam itineraries, the best day trips from Amsterdam, and the Heineken Experience, the XtraCold Icebar and a hop-on hop-off tour.

More Amsterdam attractions worth pre-booking: NEMO Science Museum and the Embassy of the Free Mind.

The post Top Things To Do in Amsterdam & Must See Attractions in 2026 appeared first on Tours in Amsterdam.

What currency does Amsterdam use?

Amsterdam uses the euro (€), like the rest of the Netherlands. The country switched from the Dutch guilder to the euro in 2002. Notes come in €5, €10, €20, €50, €100 and up; coins run from 1 cent to €2, though most shops round cash totals to the nearest 5 cents. There is no separate “Amsterdam money” — if you have euros from elsewhere in Europe, they work here. The euro (currency code EUR) is shared across the eurozone, so cash from France, Germany, Spain and other members is all valid in the Netherlands.

Card or cash in Amsterdam?

The Netherlands is one of the most cashless countries in Europe. Contactless cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay are accepted almost everywhere — shops, restaurants, trams, museums and supermarkets. You can comfortably spend most of a trip without touching cash.

That said, carrying €20–€50 in small notes and coins is sensible for the handful of places that are cash-only or have a card minimum.

The card quirk that catches visitors out

One thing surprises a lot of travellers: American Express is poorly accepted in the Netherlands. High-end hotels and some restaurants take it, but many shops, cafes and supermarkets do not — so do not rely on Amex as your only card. Visa and Mastercard (credit and debit) are widely accepted. A small number of Dutch supermarkets still favour local debit cards, but for visitors a contactless Visa or Mastercard covers nearly everything.

When you still need cash

• Street markets — many stalls at the Albert Cuyp and other Amsterdam street markets prefer cash.
• Public toilets — often charge around €0.50, sometimes coins only.
• Tips — staff usually appreciate a cash tip.
• Small cafes and snack bars — a few independents are still cash-only or set a card minimum.

ATMs and getting cash

Look for the bright yellow Geldmaat machines — these are the official, bank-neutral ATMs in the Netherlands and charge standard rates. Some machines add a €2–€4 fee for foreign cards, and your home bank may add its own.

Two money-saving rules: avoid the standalone Euronet ATMs in tourist areas, which give poor rates, and when any machine or card terminal offers to charge you “in your home currency,” always decline and choose euros. Letting the machine convert (dynamic currency conversion) costs you several percent every time. There are ATMs at Schiphol Airport and around Centraal station if you want a little cash on arrival.

Tipping in Amsterdam

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory — service is already included in the price by law. For good service, rounding up or leaving about 5–10% in a restaurant is normal and generous. In cafes and bars, people often just round up to the nearest euro. For taxis, round up the fare. There is no need to tip if the service was poor.

What things cost in Amsterdam

A rough guide to typical prices so you can budget:

• Coffee: €3–€4
• Beer in a bar: €5–€7
• Casual lunch: €12–€18
• Dinner for one (mid-range, no drinks): €25–€40
• Major museum ticket: €20–€25
• Canal cruise: from around €18–€25
• Single tram/metro journey: a few euro, tapped with a card

If museums are high on your list, buying ahead can save money and time — see our Amsterdam museum tickets page. To keep costs down overall, tap water is free and safe to drink, many of the best sights (the canals, markets and parks) cost nothing, and a city pass can pay off if you plan to visit several museums. Plan your spending around our things to do in Amsterdam and pick accommodation with our Amsterdam hotel tips.

Frequently asked questions

The post Money in Amsterdam: Currency, Cards, Tipping and Costs appeared first on Tours in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam’s climate in a nutshell

Amsterdam has a mild maritime climate. Summers are warm rather than hot and winters are cool rather than freezing — average temperatures run from around 3°C in January to about 17–18°C in July and August, according to long-term climate data from the Dutch meteorological institute (KNMI). The catch is the rain and wind: showers are spread fairly evenly across the year, and it is the wind off the North Sea, more than the cold, that you feel. Pack for changeable days and you will be fine in any month.

Amsterdam weather by month

Average high and low temperatures and typical wet days for each month (rounded climate normals):

Season by season

Spring (March–May)

The city wakes up. March is still chilly, but by late April and May the terraces fill and the parks turn green. This is tulip season — the fields outside the city and the Keukenhof tulip gardens peak from mid-April to early May. Out of season, the year-round Amsterdam Tulip Museum tells the flower’s story instead. April is also one of the drier months, which helps.

Summer (June–August)

The warmest and busiest time, with long days — daylight stretches to around 16 hours in June. Expect highs near 22°C, the occasional hot spell, and the occasional summer downpour. The canals, parks and outdoor cafes are at their best, but so are the crowds and the prices.

Autumn (September–November)

September often holds onto summer warmth with fewer crowds, making it one of the nicest months to visit. From October the leaves turn, the rain picks up and the days shorten quickly. Bring layers and a waterproof.

Winter (December–February)

Cold, grey and short on daylight — but atmospheric. December brings festive lights, the Amsterdam Light Festival along the canals and seasonal Christmas markets in the region. Snow is rare and the canals seldom freeze hard enough to skate, despite the postcards. It is the quietest and often cheapest season to come.

When is the best time to visit Amsterdam?

• For tulips and fewer crowds: mid-April to mid-May.
• For the warmest weather: June to August — but book ahead and expect crowds.
• For mild weather and value: September to early October.
• For festive atmosphere: December, with lights and markets.

In short, late spring and early autumn give you the best balance of decent weather, lighter crowds and lower prices.

What to pack for Amsterdam

Whatever the month, pack in layers and plan for rain. A few essentials:

• A waterproof jacket with a hood — far better than an umbrella, which the wind tends to destroy.
• Comfortable, water-resistant shoes for the cobbles.
• Layers you can add or remove as showers come and go.
• In winter, a warm coat, scarf and gloves; in summer, sunglasses and a light jumper for the evenings.

Before you head out each day, it is worth a quick forecast check — we round up the handiest Amsterdam weather forecast apps to help.

Rainy day? No problem

Amsterdam is built for grey weather — it has more world-class museums per square kilometre than almost anywhere. If the rain sets in, duck into the Rijksmuseum or take a covered canal cruise. For more ideas in any weather, see our things to do in Amsterdam, and if the forecast is good, line up a day trip from the city.

Frequently asked questions

The post Amsterdam Weather by Month: When to Visit and What to Pack appeared first on Tours in Amsterdam.

Interactive map of Amsterdam: attractions, food, bars, toilets, hidden gems, the Red Light District & LGBTQ+ spots

Use the map below to find the city’s main attractions, the best friet and food spots, classic brown cafés and bars, public toilets, hidden gems, the Red Light District highlights, and a separate LGBTQ+ layer. Toggle the categories with the panel at the top right, and click any pin to open directions in Google Maps. The full list of every place is underneath.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Pins are approximate — tap “Open in Google Maps” for exact directions.

Top attractions

• Rijksmuseum — the Dutch masters and the famous library. Guide
• Van Gogh Museum — the world’s largest Van Gogh collection. Tickets
• Anne Frank House — the canal-house hiding place (book well ahead).
• Dam Square & Royal Palace — the historic heart of the city.
• Heineken Experience — the old brewery, now an interactive tour. Guide
• A’DAM Lookout — rooftop views and a swing over the edge, in Noord.
• Vondelpark, Moco Museum, NEMO Science Museum , the Bloemenmarkt floating flower market and the Amsterdam Tulip Museum.

Best food & friet (including Fabel Friet)

• Fabel Friet (Runstraat 1) — fresh hand-cut fries with truffle mayo, in the Nine Streets.
• Vleminckx de Sausmeester (Voetboogstraat 33) — the city’s most famous Flemish fries, going since 1957.
• Winkel 43 (Noordermarkt) — the legendary Dutch apple pie.
• Foodhallen — indoor street-food hall in Oud-West.
• Albert Cuyp Market — fresh stroopwafels and snacks along the stalls. Guide
• The Pancake Bakery, Café de Klos (ribs), Moeders (homestyle Dutch), Stubbe’s Haring (herring) and a wall-of-croquettes FEBO.

For more on what to eat, see our guides to must-eat Amsterdam snacks and the famous stroopwafels of Amsterdam.

Bars & brown cafés

• Wynand Fockink — a 1679 jenever tasting room behind Dam Square.
• Café de Dokter — the smallest bar in the city.
• Café ‘t Smalle — a postcard-perfect canal-side brown café in the Jordaan.
• Brouwerij ‘t IJ — craft brewery at the foot of the De Gooyer windmill.
• In ‘t Aepjen (a 16th-century wooden house), Café Hoppe, Café Papeneiland and waterfront Hannekes Boom.

Red Light District (De Wallen)

• Oude Kerk — the city’s oldest building, right in the middle of the district.
• Moulin Rouge (Oudezijds Achterburgwal 5-7) — the famous erotic theatre. Tickets
• Casa Rosso — the best-known erotic theatre on the canal. Tickets
• Red Light Secrets — the Museum of Prostitution, set in a former brothel. Tickets
• Hash, Marihuana & Hemp Museum and the quirky Condomerie (the world’s first condom shop).

First time in the area? Read our full Red Light District guide for the rules, opening times and what to expect.

Public toilets

Public toilets are limited in Amsterdam, and many charge around €0.50. Your most reliable options are at Amsterdam Centraal, around Dam Square and Leidseplein, in department stores such as De Bijenkorf, inside museums, and at Vondelpark and the Albert Cuyp market. There are also free street urinals (the green krul) dotted around the centre. In the Red Light District, the novelty Sexy Loo (about €2.50) has themed cubicles, and there are public toilets at Nieuwmarkt. The map marks the handiest spots.

Hidden gems

• Begijnhof — a hidden medieval courtyard moments from the busy Spui.
• Our Lord in the Attic — a secret church built in the top of a canal house.
• Electric Ladyland — a tiny museum of fluorescent art in the Jordaan.
• De Poezenboot — a floating cat sanctuary on the Singel.
• KattenKabinet, the Hortus Botanicus, the free Civic Guards Gallery, the Nine Streets and the photogenic Brouwersgracht.

LGBTQ+ highlights

Amsterdam is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cities in the world — the Netherlands was the first country to legalise same-sex marriage, in 2001. The highlights:

• Homomonument — the world’s first memorial to persecuted LGBTQ people, by the Westerkerk.
• Pink Point — the LGBTQ information and souvenir kiosk beside the Homomonument.
• Reguliersdwarsstraat — the heart of the gay nightlife scene, with bars such as Taboo and Club Church close by.
• Café ‘t Mandje (Zeedijk) — one of the oldest gay bars in the world, open since 1927.
• Prik and The Eagle — long-running favourites in the centre and old town.

The city’s Pride season peaks with the world-famous Canal Parade each August.

The shape of the city: how to read the map

Start with one landmark: Amsterdam Centraal station. It sits at the top of the old centre, facing the water, and almost everything you want to see fans out south of it in a series of half-rings.

Those rings are the famous canals of Amsterdam — Singel, Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht — curving around the medieval core like growth rings on a tree. Once you picture Centraal at the top and the canals curving away from it, the map clicks into place. If you can find the station, you can find your way home.

The main neighbourhoods of Amsterdam

The city is officially split into seven districts, but as a visitor you will spend nearly all your time in a handful of central neighbourhoods:

• Old Centre (Centrum) — the oldest part of the city, with Dam Square, the busy Damrak shopping street and the Red Light District around the Oude Kerk. Lively, central and walkable from the station.
• Canal Belt (Grachtengordel) — the UNESCO-listed 17th-century canal ring, lined with gabled merchant houses. This is the postcard Amsterdam and the prettiest area to wander.
• Jordaan — narrow streets and small canals just west of the centre, full of cafes, galleries and the Anne Frank House on its eastern edge. Quieter and very photogenic.
• Museum Quarter (Oud-Zuid) — upmarket and green, home to the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum and Vondelpark.
• De Pijp — a buzzing, food-focused neighbourhood south of the centre, built around the Albert Cuyp market.
• Amsterdam-Noord — across the IJ waterway behind Centraal, reached by a free ferry. Industrial-turned-creative, with the A’DAM Lookout tower and the EYE film museum.
• Oost & Plantage — east of the centre, with the zoo, the botanical garden, a working windmill and the Maritime Museum.

Where the main attractions sit on the map

Most first-time visitors are surprised how close everything is — the central sights are mostly within a 20 to 30 minute walk of each other. Here is the rough lay of the land:

• By Centraal & the old centre: Dam Square, the Royal Palace, the Red Light District, Chinatown.
• In the canal belt: the Anne Frank House, the Nine Streets shopping area, countless canal-side cafes.
• In the Museum Quarter: the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, the Moco and Vondelpark.
• In De Pijp: the Albert Cuyp market and the Heineken Experience.

For a ready-made route through these, see our one day in Amsterdam itinerary, or the 2-day and 3-day versions if you have longer. A full list of options is in our guide to things to do in Amsterdam.

Best areas to stay

Where you base yourself shapes your whole trip. As a quick guide: the Canal Belt and Jordaan are the prettiest and most central; the Old Centre is the most convenient but can be noisy; the Museum Quarter and De Pijp are calmer and good value while still close in. We cover specific picks in our Amsterdam hotel tips and our list of central Amsterdam hotels.

How to get around Amsterdam

• On foot — the centre is small and walking is the best way to see it. Just stay off the red bike lanes.
• Tram, metro & bus — run by GVB. Tap in and out with a contactless bank card or phone; there is no need to buy a separate ticket for short trips.
• Ferry — free passenger ferries cross the IJ to Amsterdam-Noord from behind Centraal.
• Bike — the local way to travel. Rentals are everywhere, but the traffic moves fast, so it suits confident cyclists.
• From the airport — trains run from Schiphol to Centraal in about 15 to 20 minutes.

Getting a paper or offline map

Phone signal is good across the city, so an offline Google Map of the centre is usually all you need. If you prefer paper, the official I amsterdam site offers a free downloadable city map, and any tourist information point near Centraal can hand you one. Pin Centraal station and your hotel before you set off and you will not get lost.

Beyond the city map: day trips

Some of the Netherlands’ best sights sit just off the Amsterdam map — the windmills of Zaanse Schans, the tulip fields, and historic towns like Haarlem and Utrecht, all reachable by a short train ride. See our guide to the best day trips from Amsterdam to plan one.

Frequently asked questions

The post Map of Amsterdam: Neighbourhoods, Attractions and How to Get Around appeared first on Tours in Amsterdam.

What is a stroopwafel?

A stroopwafel is two thin, crisp waffle layers pressed together with a layer of caramel syrup in the middle. The name translates literally as “syrup waffle” (stroop means syrup), but it is closer to a chewy cookie than to a fluffy Belgian waffle. Each one is roughly the width of a coffee cup, which is not an accident — more on that below.

The syrup is the whole point. It is a thick caramel of sugar, butter and cinnamon that stays soft at room temperature, so a good stroopwafel is crisp at the edges and sticky in the centre.

How stroopwafels are made

A ball of stiff, buttery dough goes into a hot iron and is pressed thin until golden and patterned. While the disc is still warm and soft, the baker slices it in half horizontally, spreads warm caramel syrup across one side, and presses the two halves back together. That is the whole craft: the dough, the iron and the syrup.

When you buy one fresh from a market stall you watch this happen in front of you, which is why a just-made stroopwafel tastes nothing like the cellophane-wrapped kind.

Where do stroopwafels come from?

Here is the fact that surprises most visitors: the stroopwafel was not invented in Amsterdam. It comes from Gouda, the cheese town about an hour south. The treat is usually credited to a Gouda baker, Gerard Kamphuisen, in the early 1800s, who is said to have made the first ones from bakery offcuts and spiced syrup. The recipe spread across the country and is now sold all over the Netherlands.

How to eat a stroopwafel like the Dutch

There is a trick locals use, and it is the reason a stroopwafel is sized to match a mug. Rest the waffle on top of a hot cup of coffee or tea for a minute or two. The steam warms the caramel, the whole thing softens, and the syrup turns gooey. Then eat it before it slides off. Try it once and the packaged ones will never feel the same.

Where to eat the best stroopwafels in Amsterdam

For the real, fresh-pressed experience, skip the souvenir tins and head to one of these:

• Albert Cuyp Market — the most famous fresh stroopwafels in the city are made to order at the stalls on this long market street in De Pijp. Eat one warm on the spot. It is also one of the best street markets in Amsterdam for snacking your way along.
• Lanskroon (Singel 385) — a long-running family bakery near the centre, known for classic stroopwafels with a choice of honey or coffee caramel and no gimmicky toppings.
• Hans Egstorf (Spuistraat) — one of the oldest stroopwafel makers in town, baking them the traditional way for well over a century.
• Melly’s Stroopwafels — set into the wall of De Nieuwe Kerk on Dam Square, with waffles toasted on site and a row of toppings if you want them.
• Van Wonderen — the photogenic, heavily-topped chocolate-and-sprinkles version near Kalverstraat. Less traditional, very camera-friendly.

Fresh, packaged, or as a gift?

If you want to eat one now, buy it fresh and warm from a market or bakery. If you want to take stroopwafels home, the tins and bags from supermarkets like Albert Heijn are cheap, travel well and make easy gifts — just do not expect the soft-centre magic of a fresh one. For something in between, several bakeries sell boxed waffles baked that day.

Stroopwafels are only the start of Dutch street food. Pair them with the savoury classics in our guide to must-eat Amsterdam snacks and our list of five Dutch snacks to try, or fold a tasting walk into your things to do in Amsterdam. If you would rather taste with a guide, you can book a Dutch cheese tasting near the old centre and make an afternoon of it.

Frequently asked questions

The post Stroopwafels: What They Are and Where to Find the Best in Amsterdam appeared first on Tours in Amsterdam.