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Amsterdam Travel: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Amsterdam Top 10
Take a canal tour of Amsterdam and see the city by boat. Canal cruises take visitors past some of the monumental architecture and top tourist attractions that Amsterdam offers.
Dutch Greetings & Goodbyes
If you speak English, you won't need to know much (if any) Dutch to visit Amsterdam. But these greetings, goodbyes and polite words will show your hosts that you appreciate their language, and their ability to communicate with you in yours.
See the Tulips near Amsterdam
This guide tells you all you need to know about how and when to see the spring blooming bulbs and tulips near Amsterdam.
Coffeeshop Dos and Don'ts
Amsterdam Coffeeshop Dos and Don'ts, Amsterdam Coffeeshop Etiquette, Amsterdam Coffeeshop Tips
Best Amsterdam Shopping Areas
These are the top shopping areas in Amsterdam, where you'll find everything from luxury labels and fine antiques to quirky vintage clothes and trendy home accessories.
Airport to and from Amsterdam
What's the best way to get to central Amsterdam from Schiphol Airport? Should you take the train, a taxi or a shuttle? Find out all the options here.
June in Amsterdam
Find weather information, packing tips, event highlights and much more about visiting Amsterdam in June.
48 Hours in Amsterdam
A 48-hour tour of Amsterdam's top attractions -- landmarks, museums, monuments, parks, restaurants and squares -- that packs the city into a two-day itinerary.
Please & Thank You
While there's little practical need to amp up your Dutch before your Amsterdam trip, a few simple words
10 Coffeeshop Tips
These tips for customer satisfaction and safety will help you make the most of Amsterdam's, and the Netherlands', cannabis coffeeshops.
Top 3 Amsterdam Coffeeshops
Whether you want to join plenty of other tourists in the Red Light District, or you're looking for a place off the beaten path, this list of the Best Amsterdam Coffeeshops will help you find a smoking spot to suit your style.
May in Amsterdam
Find weather information, packing tips, event highlights and much more about visiting Amsterdam in May.
The Netherlands or Holland?
If you're unsure if Amsterdam is in the Netherlands or Holland, here's your answer.
When to Visit Amsterdam
Planning a trip to Amsterdam but not sure when to go? Use this seasonal guide to help you decide. Find highlights of certain times of year, including many of Amsterdam's most popular events and festivals.
Amsterdam's Best Markets
Amsterdam's markets are some of Europe's most popular -- and most varied. This list represents the best markets in Amsterdam, where you'll find everything from flowers, fruits and vegetables, to antique books, modern art and second-hand clothes.
Why Orange for the Dutch?
Ever wonder why the color orange is associated with the Netherlands, although the country's flag bears red, white and blue? Find out here.
July in Amsterdam
Find weather information, event highlights and much more about visiting Amsterdam in July.
Day Trip to Zaanse Schans
The Zaanse Schans is an ideal day trip from Amsterdam that lets visitors discover traditional Dutch crafts and culture; see a wooden shoe workshop, cheese farm and more on a day trip to Zaanse Schans.
How to Get to the Keukenhof
Find out the most efficient way to get to the Keukenhof Gardens near Amsterdam to see the tulips and other bulb flowers this part of the world is so famous for.
Amsterdam for Kids
People who assume Amsterdam isn't an appropriate place for children don't know the city very well. There are plenty of fun and educational things to do with kids in Amsterdam, from letting them cook their own meals to exploring the canals and museums.
Best Indonesian Food in AMS
What today is Indonesia was a Dutch colony for more than 300 years. One of the results of that is a tasty one: plenty of delicious Indonesian restaurants throughout the Netherlands. Choose from my picks of the Best Indonesian Restaurants in Amsterdam, which range from fine dining to fast to-go options.
Five-star Amsterdam Hotels
While there is some debate about which Amsterdam hotels are truly worthy of a five-star rating, there's no doubt about these. Find the top luxury hotels in Amsterdam with this list.
Tipping in Amsterdam
Learn when and how much to tip service providers like restaurant workers, taxi drivers and hotel employees in Amsterdam.
Keukenhof 2013
Tourists who want to visit Keukenhof in 2013 can find practical information and other details on the tulip fields' 64th season here.
August in Amsterdam
Find weather information, event highlights and much more about visiting Amsterdam in August.
Foods to Try in Amsterdam
Amsterdam offers a buffet of typical foods that define the city and its inhabitants. Visitors should be open to trying as many of these tastes as they can, from sweet treats and salty frites to traditional Dutch fish and imported spicy dishes.
Best Pancake Restaurants
Pancakes and their little cousins, poffertjes, are a popular and typically Dutch meal that tourists in Amsterdam should sample at least once; here's a list of the best pancake restaurants in town.
Best Vintage Clothing Stores
If you're a lover of vintage clothes and accessories, check out this list of the best vintage clothing stores in Amsterdam. Whether you're looking for an authentic 1950s dress or a treasured pair of gently used Manolos, you're bound to find secondhand treasures at these shops.
Weed Pass
: Are Tourists Still Allowed at Cannabis Coffeeshops? : In short, yes. Ever since I reported back in
Dutch Tourist Visa
Find out whether you need a tourist visa to visit the Netherlands, and the process to obtain one.
Amsterdam the Dutch Capital?
Perhaps you know the answer, but many people don't -- and for good reason. Find out the role of both Dutch cities.
September in Amsterdam
Find weather information, event highlights and much more about visiting Amsterdam in September.
Amsterdam for Free
Use this list to find free things to do in Amsterdam. There are plenty of free Amsterdam attractions and experiences that can add value to your visit!
Best Inexpensive Dutch Gifts
If you're on a budget, these are the best gifts to buy for people back home while on your trip to Amsterdam and the Netherlands. Your friends and family will surely appreciate them, and you'll appreciate the fact that you didn't spend a fortune.
October in Amsterdam
Find weather information, event highlights and much more about visiting Amsterdam in October.
Anne Frank House Visitor Tips
Find information and helpful tips about visiting Amsterdam's Anne Frank House.
What Is the I amsterdam Card?
I amsterdam Card Basics: The I am sterdam Card is a visitor discount card that offers free access to
Amsterdam Bike Rental Shops
All the Amsterdam bike rental shops below offer discounts for groups or additional rental days, as well
Rijksmuseum Visitor's Guide
Rijksmuseum Overview: The Rijksmuseum (literally, "national museum") features one of Europe's top collections
Barney's Coffeeshop
Barney's Coffeeshop, on the cannabis-filled Haarlemmerstraat, has hands-down some of the best weed and hash in Amsterdam -- with a laid-back atmosphere and decent coffee to boot.
Is Amsterdam Safe?
How safe is Amsterdam? What areas of Amsterdam should tourists avoid?
Things to Do on a Rainy Day
This list of things to do in Amsterdam on a rainy day proves there's plenty to enjoy in the city during wet weather.
Amsterdam Red Light District
The Amsterdam Red Light District has earned a world-famous reputation, which intrigues most visitors enough to pay a visit. Find out what to expect in this area -- some sights might surprise you.
Good Cheap Eats in Amsterdam
Eating on a budget doesn't have to mean eating bad food. In Amsterdam there are plenty of places offering
Top 3 Museums in Amsterdam
Amsterdam visitors should try to make it to at least one or two of these popular museums. See why these historic and artistic attractions make up the top three museums in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam's 'Nine Streets'
Find out why the 'Nine Streets' area of Amsterdam is one of my favorite places to spend a day (and night).
Day Trip to Kinderdijk
Kinderdijk, located 15 miles east of Rotterdam, is a UNESCO-listed site that boasts 19 pristinely preserved windmills.
1) Vondelpark - Best Overall Park
Use this visual guide of the Top 5 Amsterdam Parks to find respite from the city bustle, perfect picnic spots, space to run and hours of people-watching. Especially in sunny or warm weather, Amsterdam's best parks turn into outdoor living and dining rooms for locals and visitors alike, while performers, musicians and kids add to the entertainment value.
Museum Quarter Neighborhood
First-time travelers to Amsterdam may not think to venture beyond the Museumplein's boundaries when visiting the nearby Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. But if they did, they'd find the many other highlights of the posh area these sites occupy: the Museum Quarter. Use this neighborhood guide to discover one of Amsterdam's most prestigious (and safest) central neighborhoods, home to high-end shopping, the city's biggest park, plenty of accommodations and some of Amsterdam's best restaurants.
Top 10 Bike Safety Tips
Riding a bike in Amsterdam is a quintessentially Dutch experience. But every visitor on two wheels should know these rules of the road. Read these Top 10 Tips for Bike Safety in Amsterdam to keep you and your bike safe.
Pictures from Keukenhof Gardens near Amsterdam - Famous Tulip and Flower Gardens
Have a peek at the fairytale-like colors and plantings at the famous Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse, Holland. The gardens are only about an hour from Amsterdam.
Romantic Amsterdam
Looking for romantic things to do in Amsterdam? How about taking a private canal cruise?
December in Amsterdam
Find weather information, packing tips, event highlights and much more about visiting Amsterdam in December.
Amsterdam for Cannabis Smokers
I've never seen any statistics on worldwide cannabis tourism, but I'm confident that Amsterdam attracts
Tourist Discount Cards
These Amsterdam tourist discount cards can save visitors a bundle on museums and attractions and more.
Amsterdam Canal Cruise Types
A canal cruise through the watery ways of Amsterdam is a must for any visitor. Find out which kind of canal cruise is for you.
Amsterdam Brown Cafés
: What are brown cafés? : Bruine ("brown") cafés are to Amsterdam what pubs are to London. That is, they
Best of Dam Square
The best attractions on Dam Square, often one of the first places visitors to Amsterdam encounter. These top spots make Dam Square the best place to kick off your Amsterdam experience.
Day Trip to Alkmaar
Alkmaar has more to offer than just cheese: from its monumental Grote Kerk (Great Church) to the Netherlands' only Beatles museum.
Top Amsterdam Summer Festivals
Summer in Amsterdam means the calendar is full of festivals. From classical music performed on the canals to a circus-like celebration in a park, these summer festivals are among the highlights of the season in Amsterdam.
Day Trip to Nijmegen
More than 2000 years of history attract tourists to Nijmegen, the most populous city in the eastern province of Gelderland.
Amsterdam Web Cams
These outdoor web cams offer views onto various spots in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
Dutch Currency
Do you know what the official currency of the Netherlands is? Hint: it's not the guilder!
Children & Families
Who said that Amsterdam's not a kid-friendly destination? Here are even more activities for children and families in Amsterdam.
November in Amsterdam
Find weather information, packing tips, event highlights and much more about visiting Amsterdam in November.
Red Light District Tour
I'd recommend this tour for those who wish to learn about the history of the Amsterdam Red Light District and the prostitution industry here. You'll even get the chance to step inside a Red Light window.
Best Bakeries in Amsterdam
My top choices for the best bakeries and pastry shops in Amsterdam.
Children's Stores in Amsterdam
Whether you're looking for cool kids' clothes or educational toys, these Amsterdam children's stores offer shopping fun for parents and little ones alike.
Day Trip to Leiden
Leiden calls itself the "city of discoveries", a reference to the centuries of scientific achievements
Day Trip to Haarlem
Handsome 17th-century architecture, secluded courtyards to explore, and a number of fine museums make Haarlem a superb day trip – one that's only 20km from Amsterdam.
Best Amsterdam Canal Cruise
When you arrive in Amsterdam there's no doubt some of the first things you'll see are the enormous, glass-topped
Day Trip to Delft
Delft, just an hour by train from Amsterdam, is a city that positively exudes old Dutch charm. Synonymous
Good Eats near Rijksmuseum
From a delicious sandwich shop to a locals' place with the city's best steak, find good restaurants near the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam.
Netherlands Airports
Summaries of and transportation information for all five civilian airports in the Netherlands: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, Eindhoven Airport, etc.
Best Surinamese Restaurants
Thanks to the 300,000 Surinamese who call the Netherlands home, Amsterdam has a wide variety of delicious Surinamese cuisine.
Live Music Venues in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a hotspot for live music, from classical to rock, world to jazz. And the venues for live music in Amsterdam are just as varied. These are my top picks.
Vondelpark Visitors' Guide
With activities both indoors and outdoors, any day of the year is a fine day for a stroll in the Vondelpark, Amsterdam's most beloved public park.
Van Gogh Museum Guide
Find information and helpful tips about visiting the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, including opening hours, when to go and how to avoid crowds and lines.
Seafood for Sale at Amsterdam's Albert Cuyp Market
See a picture of Amsterdam's Albert Cuyp Market, the city's biggest open-air market.
What Is Queen's Day?
Learn about the most celebrated and perhaps the most anticipated holiday of the Dutch calendar: Queen's Day.
Day Trip to Gouda
The namesake of the ubiquitous Dutch cheese, the city of Gouda is famous for its traditional crafts - cheese, syrup waffles, candles and pipes - historic architecture and more.
April in Amsterdam
Find weather information, packing tips, event highlights and much more about visiting Amsterdam in April.
Biggest Tourist Mistakes
Be an informed traveler on your trip to Amsterdam. Learn what most visitors do that you shouldn't!
Best Authentic Dutch Cuisine
Traditional Dutch cuisine consists of hearty comfort food to warm one's bones in the northerly climate; here are some of the best restaurants and cafes to sample this cuisine in Amsterdam.
Heineken Experience
Find visitor information about the Heineken Experience in Amsterdam, housed in the former Heineken Brewery.
Walking Tour of Western Canals
Tour Basics Starting point: Torensluis bridge, just north of Raadhuisstraat on the Singel canal. Tram
Best Restaurants in Chinatown
Amsterdam Chinatown, the oldest "Chinatown" in mainland Europe, is actually a multicultural pastiche
Dutch National Holidays
Consult this list of official holidays in the Netherlands before planning your trip to Amsterdam.
Guide to The Hague
The Hague has an enviable concentration of first-rate restaurants and cafes, not to mention some of the best Indonesian eateries in the country.
What Is Rijsttafel?
: What Is Rijsttafel? : Rijsttafel (translation: "rice table"), pronounced RICE-taffle, is a medley of
Dampkring
This classic Amsterdam coffeeshop has satisfied customers since 1993 with its superior menu, helpful service, and a unique ambiance.
Door 74 Cocktail Bar
A swanky cocktail bar that's purposely hard to find, Door 74 recalls a time when ladies and gentlemen sipped spirits in a chic, civilized setting.
Best Chocolatiers
Unbeknownst to some, Amsterdam is a superb destination for chocolate lovers; these four chocolatiers prove it.
De Wallen
Introduction to De Wallen (De Walletjes), Amsterdam's famous red-light district.
Vleminckx Sausmeesters
Popularly considered to have the best French fries in town, Vleminckx Sausmeesters delivers a product that's vastly superior to that of your typical fast food chain.
Rows of Flowers at Amsterdam's Bloemenmarkt
See pictures of the Bloemenmarkt, a floating flower market in Amsterdam.
De Pijp Neighborhood
A former working-class area just south of the main canal belt, De Pijp neighborhood in Amsterdam has a multi-cultural vibe, the city's biggest outdoor market and a selection of dining options that covers the globe.
Day Trip to Marken
The former island of Marken, now a peninsula, is famous for the distinctive folk practices it developed over the centuries, isolated from the the Dutch mainland.
Guide to Day Trips
These cities and towns, each one a tourist destination in itself, make for splendid day trips that will broaden your horizons of the Netherlands.
Top Reasons to Visit Amsterdam
If you're planning a European trip, first read this list of reasons to include Amsterdam on your journey. You might be surprised by a few!
3) Beatrixpark - Cleanest Park
Use this visual guide of the Top 5 Amsterdam Parks to find respite from the city bustle, perfect picnic spots, space to run and hours of people-watching. Especially in sunny or warm weather, Amsterdam's best parks turn into outdoor living and dining rooms for locals and visitors alike, while performers, musicians and kids add to the entertainment value.
2) Museumplein - Most Convenient Park
Use this visual guide of the Top 5 Amsterdam Parks to find respite from the city bustle, perfect picnic spots, space to run and hours of people-watching. Especially in sunny or warm weather, Amsterdam's best parks turn into outdoor living and dining rooms for locals and visitors alike, while performers, musicians and kids add to the entertainment value.
Buddha, Elvis and Marilyn Monroe at the Waterlooplein Market
See a picture of Amsterdam's Waterlooplein Flea Market, one of the city's most popular outdoor markets.
Public Transit 101
Tram, bus, metro, ferry, train - Amsterdam has no less than five different modes of public transit just
Public Transportation Planner
Use this journey planner to get around Amsterdam and the Netherlands with ease.
Best Dutch Food & Drink Gifts
If you're a "foodie" or have someone on your gift list who is, these Dutch food and drink gifts are sure
4) Sarphatipark - Best Park near a Market
Use this visual guide of the Top 5 Amsterdam Parks to find respite from the city bustle, perfect picnic spots, space to run and hours of people-watching. Especially in sunny or warm weather, Amsterdam's best parks turn into outdoor living and dining rooms for locals and visitors alike, while performers, musicians and kids add to the entertainment value.
50 More Things to Do
Need more ideas for how to occupy your time in Amsterdam? Here's another 50 attractions and activities, from parks and cultural centers to day-trip destinations.
Museums for Everybody
With institutions devoted to art, history, science, fashion, architecture, popular vices and more, Amsterdam has a museum for everyone.
Amsterdam Transport Ticket
Find out how the the All-in-One Amsterdam Transportation Ticket can make getting to, from and around Amsterdam much easier.
Amsterdam XXX
Ever wonder why Amsterdam is filled with triple x's (xxx)? The letters are actually crosses from the city's coat of arms.
Post Offices in Amsterdam
Find information and addresses for postal service points - the Dutch alternative to post offices - in Amsterdam.
Tips for Navigating Amsterdam
These quick tips for navigating Amsterdam will separate you from the visitors staring blankly at their upside-down maps.
5) Oosterpark - Most Culturally Diverse Park
Use this visual guide of the Top 5 Amsterdam Parks to find respite from the city bustle, perfect picnic spots, space to run and hours of people-watching. Especially in sunny or warm weather, Amsterdam's best parks turn into outdoor living and dining rooms for locals and visitors alike, while performers, musicians and kids add to the entertainment value.
January in Amsterdam
Find weather information, packing tips, event highlights and much more about visiting Amsterdam in January.
January and July Sale Time!
Find out about the two best months for finding steals and deals in Amsterdam's best shopping areas.
Best Small Canals in Amsterdam
As you wander around Amsterdam -- whether by bike, boat or foot -- you're bound to lose yourself in the
Royal Palace in Amsterdam
Find all you need to know about visiting the Royal Palace on Amsterdam's Dam Square. The Queen of the Netherlands doesn't live there, but this is her official home away from home in the city.
Amsterdam in Winter
Find information about weather, festivals, events and things to do during winter in Amsterdam.
Volendam Tourism
The town of Volendam, in North Holland, has bewitched artists like Picasso and Renoir with the old-time beauty of its architecture and lakeside ambiance.
Best Hostels in Amsterdam
Six classic Amsterdam backpackers' hostels, from the heart of the city center to a lakeside retreat.
Restaurant Review: Cafe Loetje
Restaurant review of Café Loetje in Amsterdam's Museum Quarter (Oud Zuid) area. Dine with locals on the tastiest steak in the city, without breaking the bank.
Free Wireless in Amsterdam?
Find out where you can find free wireless Internet access in Amsterdam.
Vintage Bags at Amsterdam's Noordermarkt Flea Market
See a picture of Amsterdam's Noordermarkt Flea Market, a popular open-air market in the Jordaan neighborhood.
Best Clubs for Non-Clubbers
For those of you who bristle at the thought of clubbing, don't rule out a visit to one of these Amsterdam clubs during your time here. Whether for the live music, unique location or unorthodox interior décor, these clubs break the mold. Remember, these are still clubs, so dress accordingly.
Eastern Canals Walking Tour
Calmer than the Western and Central Canal Belt areas, this eastern stretch offers some of Amsterdam's most idyllic views, small but impressive museums and excellent shopping and dining. Discover Amsterdam's Eastern Canal Belt with this walking tour.
'Museum Night' in Amsterdam
Museumnacht Overview: When: First Saturday in November (annually), from about 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. ( 2011
Amsterdam for Beer Lovers
You don't have to go to neighboring Belgium to find great beer; there's plenty in Amsterdam! Find a local brewery, tasting pubs and unique beer shops in Amsterdam.
Urban Beaches in Amsterdam
Every summer these urban spaces in Amsterdam turn into sandy city beaches. Find out where you can evoke a seaside spirit on your visit here.
Amsterdam in Spring
Find out what to expect on a visit to Amsterdam in the spring, including information on weather and events for March, April and May.
February in Amsterdam
Find weather information, packing tips, event highlights and much more about visiting Amsterdam in February.
Tulip and Flower Plantings just Inside Entrance to Keukenhof
Have a peek at the fairytale-like colors and plantings at the famous Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse, Holland. The gardens are only about an hour from Amsterdam.
Amsterdam by Month
A round-up of what to expect from each month in Amsterdam, so that each individual traveler can determine the best time of the year to visit Amsterdam.
Restaurants Not in a Guidebook
While there are some decent restaurant suggestions in popular Amsterdam guidebooks, the ones on this
Rembrandtplein
Where to eat and drink on Rembrandtplein (Rembrandt Square) - cafes, restaurants and other eateries on or near the popular Amsterdam square.
Bachelor Party in Amsterdam
Groups of guys hazing a groom are a common sight in this city. Here are some ideas to make your bachelor party in Amsterdam an uncommon one.
Yellow Narcissus and 'Grape' Hyacinth Flowers at Keukenhof Gardens
Have a peek at the fairytale-like colors and plantings at the famous Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse, Holland. The gardens are only about an hour from Amsterdam.
Tulips Frame a Boat and Reflected Trees in a Pond at Keukenhof Gardens
Have a peek at the fairytale-like colors and plantings at the famous Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse, Holland. The gardens are only about an hour from Amsterdam.
Day Trip to Scheveningen
Scheveningen is a district of The Hague and the Netherlands' most popular beach resort.
March in Amsterdam
Find weather information, packing tips, event highlights and much more about visiting Amsterdam in March.
Sloten Windmill
The Sloten Windmill (Molen van Sloten) in Amsterdam West is the only Amsterdam windmill open to the public.
See Bloemendaal Beach/Dunes
Use this visual guide to learn about an easy day trip from Amsterdam to Bloemendaal aan Zee, a beach on the North Sea with a wide expanse of sand dunes.
Amsterdam in Summer
Find out what to expect on a visit to Amsterdam in the summer, including information on weather and events for June, July and August.
VVV Amsterdam
Amsterdam's chief tourist information center should be one of your first stops in town; here's where to find it.
Amsterdam World War II Museums
Occupied by Nazi Germany from 1940 to 1945, the Netherlands was on the forefront of World War II. As such, these Amsterdam museums chronicle the ways in which the city and the country dealt with the war, its atrocities and its end.
Amsterdam's Spui Art Market
See a picture of Amsterdam's Spui Art Market, an open-air gallery featuring the work of up to 25 artists at a time.
Best International Day Trips
The Netherlands' small size makes it an ideal hub for day and weekend trips to international cities like those listed here.
The Netherlands for Flower Lovers
The top spots in the Netherlands (chiefly North and South Holland) for tulip and bulb flower fans, from Keukenhof, to the wider Bollenstreek, to country-wide flower parades.
Food Review: Burger Meester
When I walked into Burger Meester last night and the server at the counter said, "Shannon, you're back!"
Photo Gallery: Visual Tour of Amsterdam's Top 5 Parks
Use this visual guide of the Top 5 Amsterdam Parks to find respite from the city bustle, perfect picnic spots, space to run and hours of people-watching. Especially in sunny or warm weather, Amsterdam's best parks turn into outdoor living and dining rooms for locals and visitors alike, while performers, musicians and kids add to the entertainment value.

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