Amsterdam for beginners: 10x tips for a great city break

Discover Amsterdam with these 10 handy tips for a great city break. Learn how to make the most of your visit to the nation’s capital, including exploring famous landmarks and experiencing vibrant city life. Whether you are interested in culture, history, or just want to have fun, Amsterdam has something for everyone.

1. Take a boat tour of Amsterdam’s canals

Discover Amsterdam’s famous canals in a unique way by taking a boat tour. During the summer months, there are plenty of opportunities to rent a boat in Amsterdam and explore the city from the water. With Boat Outings, you have the option of booking a boat tour, including the option of renting a private boat. In addition, Boat Outings also offers a host of food, drink and party packages.

2. Walk through the most famous neighborhoods

Amsterdam is full of very famous neighborhoods that are definitely worth visiting. You get a good idea of the city as you walk through its streets. This way you get a taste of the atmosphere of each neighborhood. The city combines canal houses with history. These are the most famous neighborhoods you should not miss:

• Grachtengordel – This neighborhood is known for its distinctive downtown with canal houses. It is the heart of Amsterdam where history meets modern times.
• The Jordaan – Known as an authentic working-class neighborhood, where you can taste the real Amsterdam atmosphere. The Jordaan is rich in culture, cozy cafes and quaint stores.
• De Pijp – A lively neighborhood known for the Albert Cuyp market and a diverse mix of cultures. Here you will find trendy restaurants and bars, perfect for those who love city life.
• Oud-Zuid – An upscale neighborhood with upscale stores, museums and beautiful architecture. Old South is where you can enjoy peace and beauty in the busy city.
• Oud-West – A dynamic neighborhood known for its fun markets, trendy cafes and creative vibe. Oud-West is a place where you can find everything Amsterdam has to offer.
• The Red Light District – World-famous for the Red Light District, but there is more than that. This neighborhood has a unique atmosphere with historic buildings, narrow streets and great history.

3. Eating Dutch herring at a herring stand

When visiting our capital city, don’t miss visiting a herring stand. Eating herring is a true Dutch tradition that gives you a taste of Dutch culture. Herring is a silvery fish found in the North Atlantic and North Sea. This fish is often eaten raw, such as in the form of Hollandse Nieuwe.

4. Visit the mills

Visiting windmills is one of the things Holland is known for. It is a unique experience for everyone to see how these structures have played an important role in Dutch history for centuries. In addition to admiring their size and architecture, the mills also offer stunning views of the landscape.

5. Explore art at different museums

Explore works of art in various museums during your visit to Amsterdam. Find out why these museums are a must-see:

• Rijksmuseum: Discover masterpieces by Dutch artists such as Rembrandt and Vermeer. The museum offers in-depth insight into the rich history and culture of the Netherlands.
• Van Gogh Museum: Admire the world’s largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh. Here you will discover the passion and talent of this famous Dutch artist.
• Anne Frank House: Step inside the history of Anne Frank and her family during World War II. This impressive museum reminds us of the value of tolerance and freedom, and demonstrates the importance of keeping history alive.

6. Come face to face with exotic animals at Artis zoo

Artis zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the world and is located in the middle of the city. It is a unique experience to come face to face with exotic animals while still being able to see city life around you. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day out while learning about nature and endangered species conservation.

7. Visit the Heineken Experience

A visit to the Heineken Experience is a must for beer lovers. Heineken, one of the world’s best-known beer brands, opens its doors for a behind-the-scenes look at the brewery. During this experience, which lasts about half a day, you will gain insight into the production process and history of this world-famous beer brand. It is a unique opportunity to learn more about the beer industry and Heineken’s global impact.

8. Enjoy stunning views from the A’dam Tower

Enjoy stunning views of Amsterdam from the A’dam Tower. This tower offers a panoramic view of the city, allowing you to see all of Amsterdam’s highlights from above. But that’s not all, the A’dam Tower also has Europe’s tallest swing, taking you to new heights both literally and figuratively.

9. Dive into nature at the Vondelpark

Located in Amsterdam-Zuid, is the Vondelpark. Amsterdam’s most famous park. You can hike or bike and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The park is perfect for a day out with friends or family. Picnicking in the middle of greenery is also a possibility, thanks to the grassy areas. Vondelpark offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, while remaining in the heart of Amsterdam.

10. Rent a bike and cruise through Amsterdam

Discover Amsterdam in a unique way by renting a bike and exploring the city. Do keep in mind the crowds and traffic, especially since the city is popular among tourists and the streets are often lively. Along the way, you can stop for a drink at one of the many terraces along the canals, giving you a true Amsterdam experience.

What should you consider as a beginner in Amsterdam?

As a beginner in Amsterdam, it’s smart to make frequent use of the well-regulated public transportation system. The Amsterdam City Pass gives you access to the extensive network of streetcars, buses and subways, making it easy to travel and explore all the city’s attractions. If you are wondering what to do in Amsterdam: there are lots of fun activities so there is something for everyone.