Amsterdam

Canal-side bikes, brown cafes & weekend markets

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Amsterdam is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include Blijburg aan Zee, Sunday Market Amsterdam and Rijksmuseum. Food lovers should not miss Moeders and La Perla. Below you will find 45 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Amsterdam at a glance

Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
Best time to visit: spring and autumn
Highlights: Blijburg aan Zee and Sunday Market Amsterdam
Where to stay: Keizersgracht and Eastern Docklands
Local picks: 45 hand-chosen recommendations
Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Local tips for Amsterdam

Stories and neighbourhood know-how from our local guides.

Local tipsWhere to Stay in Amsterdam: Best Neighborhoods for First-TimersWhere to stay in Amsterdam? A local guide to the best neighbourhoods, from the central Canal Belt and charming Jordaan…

Local tips3 Days in Amsterdam: The Perfect ItineraryA local's perfect 3-day Amsterdam itinerary: canals and the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, plus De…

Where to stay in Amsterdam

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De Pijp

Bakers & Roasters

A sunny De Pijp brunch spot with a Kiwi-Brazilian streak – fluffy pancakes, big breakfast plates and strong coffee. No bookings, so expect a weekend queue that’s worth it.

★ 4.5

Canal Belt

Cafe de Klos

A snug, wood-panelled bar-restaurant near the canals famous for enormous racks of sticky spare ribs at fair prices. No reservations and always packed – arrive early and hungry.

★ 4.5

Oud-West

Foodhallen

A buzzy indoor food hall in a converted tram depot in Oud-West – dozens of stalls from dim sum to bitterballen around a central bar. Great for groups who can never agree on one cuisine.

★ 4.4

Jordaan

Gifu

Refined Japanese comfort food in the Jordaan – deeply savoury ramen and perfectly grilled izakaya skewers that draw locals and in-the-know visitors for the craft and authenticity.

★ 4.6

De Pijp

Ikkoku

A sleek, minimalist counter hidden behind a matcha tea bar in De Pijp, with seating around the open kitchen. A quietly excellent, in-the-know spot for Japanese small plates and tea.

★ 4.5

Jordaan

La Perla

A cult Jordaan pizzeria turning out blistered, thin-crust Neapolitan pies from imported Italian ingredients. Grab a slice-of-life seat by the canal – locals swear by it.

★ 4.6

Jordaan

Moeders

A cosy Jordaan institution serving hearty traditional Dutch home cooking – stamppot, hutspot, split-pea soup – amid walls of family photos and mismatched plates donated by diners. Book ahead; it’s tiny and beloved.

★ 4.5

Jordaan

Winkel 43

A corner cafe on the Noordermarkt famous across the city for one thing above all: towering slices of warm Dutch apple pie with a mountain of whipped cream. Come on a Saturday market morning.

★ 4.5

Before you go

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Book your trip to Amsterdam

Find the best hotels and book tours and experiences, all in one place.

Find hotels in Amsterdam Book tours and experiences

Amsterdam travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Amsterdam?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Amsterdam at a relaxed pace. See our Amsterdam itinerary guide for a day-by-day plan.

Where is the best area to stay in Amsterdam?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit. Our where to stay in Amsterdam guide breaks down the best neighbourhoods.

What are the best things to do in Amsterdam?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay.

What is the best time to visit Amsterdam?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Amsterdam is worth visiting year-round.