Planning a weekend trip to Amsterdam? This vibrant city offers a rich blend of history, culture, and modernity that can make your getaway unforgettable. But to make the most out of your limited time, a bit of planning goes a long way. Here are five essential tips to ensure you enjoy an authentic and hassle-free Amsterdam experience.
Arrange Your Airport Transportation in Advance
When you arrive at Schiphol Airport, you might feel a bit overwhelmed. Avoid the stress of navigating public transport options or hailing a taxi by arranging your transportation in advance. Pre-booking your airport transfer will save you time and make your arrival much smoother. Amsterdam offers several transport options, including trains, buses, and private shuttles, to get you from the airport to the city center or your hotel.
For a comprehensive overview of your options, check out this Amsterdam Airport transportation guide, where you’ll find everything you need to make the best choice for your travel style and budget. Arranging transportation ahead of time ensures that you can start exploring the city without delays or worries.
Book a Hotel in an Authentic Neighborhood
Staying in the heart of Amsterdam can be tempting, but the city center, while convenient, tends to be crowded and highly touristy. To get a real taste of Amsterdam life, consider booking a hotel in one of the city’s more authentic neighborhoods. Areas like the Jordaan, Oud-West, Westerpark, Oud-Zuid, or Oosterparkbuurt provide a quieter, more laid-back experience while still offering easy access to major attractions.
Each neighborhood has its unique charm. The Jordaan is known for its picturesque canals and cozy cafes, while Oud-Zuid is home to the city’s best museums. In Westerpark, you’ll find creative hubs and trendy eateries, and in Oud-West, a mix of vintage shops and hip restaurants. By staying outside the central hustle, you’ll enjoy a more authentic perspective of Amsterdam, with plenty of local dining options and shops nearby.
Take a Canal Cruise
Amsterdam is famous for its intricate canal system, and one of the best ways to experience the city is by taking a canal cruise. A boat tour allows you to see Amsterdam’s charming canal houses, historic bridges, and iconic landmarks from a unique perspective. Whether you opt for a romantic evening cruise, a daytime hop-on-hop-off boat, or an educational guided tour, a canal cruise is a must-do activity on your itinerary.
For a great selection of canal tours tailored to different interests, check out this Amsterdam canal tour guide. A canal cruise provides a relaxing yet fascinating way to see the city and learn more about its rich history and architecture.
Savor Indonesian or Surinamese Cuisine
One of the unexpected culinary highlights of Amsterdam is its incredible Indonesian and Surinamese food scene. These cuisines, a legacy of the Netherlands’ colonial past, have become integral to Dutch culinary culture. Indonesian rijsttafel (rice table) and Surinamese dishes are both rich in flavor and often quite spicy, offering a unique and memorable dining experience.
Indonesian food is characterized by its use of aromatic spices and ingredients like coconut milk, while Surinamese cuisine blends influences from African, Indian, and Indonesian food traditions. Try classic Indonesian dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice) and rendang (spicy beef stew), or Surinamese specialties such as roti (flatbread with curry) and bami (stir-fried noodles). You can find these culinary gems throughout the city, with many authentic restaurants located in areas like De Pijp and the Jordaan.
Take a Free Ferry to Amsterdam-Noord
If you want to explore Amsterdam beyond its main tourist attractions, hop on a free ferry to Amsterdam-Noord. The city is expanding in this area, which has developed a reputation for its creative, gritty vibe. You’ll find cutting-edge architecture, street art, and a vibrant arts scene here.
Two must-visit spots in Amsterdam-Noord are the NDSM Wharf, a former shipyard turned cultural hotspot with artist studios and cafes, and the EYE Film Institute, which showcases international films and cinematic history. The ferries depart from behind Amsterdam Central Station, and best of all, they’re free, making it an easy and budget-friendly way to discover this dynamic part of the city.
Visit a Local Market
To experience authentic Amsterdam culture, head to one of the city’s local markets. Amsterdam’s markets are lively places where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. You’ll also get to sample quintessentially Dutch treats like herring, stroopwafels (syrup waffles), and a variety of cheeses.
The Albert Cuyp Market in De Pijp is one of the city’s most famous markets, while the Dappermarkt offers a diverse range of foods and products. For a more local feel, try the Noordermarkt in the Jordaan, where you can browse vintage items and organic produce. Visiting a market is not only a fun way to sample Dutch snacks but also a great way to interact with locals and pick up unique souvenirs.
Make the Most of Your Amsterdam Adventure
Amsterdam is a city that rewards exploration, whether you’re wandering its historic neighborhoods, sampling diverse cuisines, or cruising along its famous canals. With these tips, you’ll experience the best of Amsterdam beyond the typical tourist trail. By arranging your transportation, choosing a neighborhood that reflects local life, embracing Dutch-Indonesian culture, venturing to Amsterdam-Noord, and exploring a local market, you’ll have an unforgettable weekend in this charming city.
Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to bring back memories that will last a lifetime!
