culture
Ceramics Workshop at Studio Pansa
Get your hands dirty and learn the basics of wheel throwing in a beautiful, light-filled studio. It’s a great way to meet locals and create something tangible to take home.
Amsterdam Travel Guide
Amsterdam is a captivating blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy, defined by its iconic 17th-century canal ring and world-class museums. This bicycle-friendly capital seamlessly marries a relaxed, progressive atmosphere with a rich artistic heritage that continues to inspire visitors from around the globe.
About Amsterdam
Founded as a small fishing village in the late 12th century, Amsterdam rose to prominence during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century, becoming the world's most important center for trade and finance. The city's unique layout, characterized by its concentric canal network, was engineered during this period to facilitate commerce and manage water levels, earning it the nickname 'Venice of the North.' Throughout the centuries, Amsterdam has remained a beacon of tolerance and innovation, surviving the hardships of World War II—most notably documented in the life of Anne Frank—to emerge as a resilient, multicultural hub. Today, its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserving the architectural legacy of its merchant past while serving as a bustling, contemporary European capital.
Amsterdam’s culture is deeply rooted in the concept of 'gezelligheid,' a uniquely Dutch term that defies direct translation but encompasses a sense of cozy, convivial togetherness. The city is a haven for art lovers, boasting an unparalleled concentration of masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh, while its modern scene thrives with experimental galleries and a cutting-edge electronic music culture. The culinary landscape is equally diverse, ranging from traditional 'brown cafes' serving hearty Dutch snacks like bitterballen and stroopwafels to a sophisticated international dining scene influenced by the Netherlands' colonial history. _Don't be surprised to find that the best Indonesian food in Europe is often tucked away in a cozy Amsterdam neighborhood._
Practical info
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Language
Dutch
Time zone
Central European Time (CET) / Central European Summer Time (CEST)
Climate
Temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool, damp winters; rain is possible throughout the year.
Quick facts
- Amsterdam is built on more than 11 million wooden poles that prevent the city from sinking into the marshy ground.
- There are more bicycles in Amsterdam than there are residents, with over 800,000 bikes estimated to be in the city.
- The city has more canals than Venice and more bridges than Paris, totaling over 1,500 bridges.
- Amsterdam's famous canal houses are intentionally narrow because, in the 17th century, taxes were based on the width of the building's facade.
- The city is home to the world's only floating flower market, the Bloemenmarkt.
Top things to do in Amsterdam
The 15 attractions, museums, viewpoints, and experiences travelers visit most.
culture
Fabrique des Lumières
This is an incredible immersive digital art experience. They project massive, moving art pieces onto the walls of a former gas factory, set to music—it's totally mesmerizing.
landmarks
De Hallen Amsterdam
Housed in a converted tram depot, this is a fantastic spot for food, shopping, and entertainment. The Foodhallen inside is perfect for trying a bit of everything from various…
music
De Nieuwe Anita
A cozy, eclectic cafe and theater that hosts everything from live music and poetry slams to cabaret nights. It's a true hidden gem and a great place to experience the local arts…
nightlife
Redlight Records
A tiny, curated record store tucked away above a bar in the Red Light District. It's a paradise for crate diggers looking for deep cuts in soul, disco, and experimental music.
shopping
IJ-Hallen
If you love vintage shopping, this is your mecca. It's the largest flea market in Europe and is held once a month in a massive industrial warehouse in Amsterdam Noord.
shopping
Waterlooplein Market
The oldest flea market in Amsterdam. It's a bit of a treasure hunt—you'll find everything from vintage clothes and old books to random bric-a-brac. It's definitely a bit…
nightlife
Rum Tasting at Rum Barrel
Forget the standard beer crawl and dive into the complex world of artisanal rums at this cozy, niche spot in the East. The staff are incredibly passionate and will guide you…
adventure
Electric Boat Rental with Mokumboot
Skip the crowded canal cruises and captain your own electric boat for a few hours. It’s the best way to see the city from the water at your own pace, and you can bring your own…
shopping
Vintage Hunting at Jutka & Riska
Forget the big chains; this is where the city's fashion-forward crowd finds their unique pieces. The curation is impeccable, mixing high-end vintage with their own reworked…
adventure
Evening Kayak Tour of the Grachtengordel
See the canal ring from the water level at sunset when the bridges start to light up. It’s a much more intimate and quiet way to experience the city's architecture compared to…
nature
Westergas
A former gasworks that's been transformed into a vibrant cultural park. It's home to cafes, restaurants, galleries, and regular markets—a great place to spend a day.
music
Comedy at Boom Chicago
For a night of sharp, English-language improv and sketch comedy, this is the place to be. They are masters of satire, often poking fun at Dutch culture and current events in a…
wellness
Sound Healing at The Conscious Club
Unplug completely with a sound bath session that uses gongs and singing bowls to help you reset. It’s a deeply relaxing experience that feels like a necessary antidote to the…
nightlife
Natural Wine Tasting at Glouglou
This is the place to be if you want to explore the world of natural, biodynamic wines in a relaxed, unpretentious setting. The staff are experts who love to explain the 'why'…
Plan a trip to Amsterdam
Pick a length and we'll lay out the days — walkable routing, restaurants, opening hours included.
Frequently asked questions
What currency is used in Amsterdam?
The currency in Amsterdam, Netherlands is Euro (EUR).
What language is spoken in Amsterdam?
Dutch is the primary language spoken in Amsterdam.
What's the weather like in Amsterdam?
Temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool, damp winters; rain is possible throughout the year.
How many days do you need in Amsterdam?
Most travelers spend 2–5 days in Amsterdam. With 52+ attractions and 0+ noteworthy restaurants, three days hits the highlights, while five lets you dig into neighborhoods and day trips. Use the Periplo iPhone app to lay out a day-by-day plan.
What are the must-see things to do in Amsterdam?
Top picks include Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, Vondelpark, Royal Palace of Amsterdam.
Plan Amsterdam in your pocket
Open the Periplo iPhone app for a day-by-day itinerary, offline maps, and live event picks tuned to your taste.
Download on the App Store