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City breaks to Amsterdam are rich in museums and landmarks, cafés and restaurants, all built on a network of picturesque canals.

The city on the water

Thanks to its network of over 150 canals, its beautiful architecture and its wealth of history, Amsterdam is often called the Venice of the North. The city is easy to get around, whether on foot, by bike or on public transport. Wherever you are, you’ll find a bus, tram, metro or ferry to get you where you want to go.

In the historic centre, all the best bits are clustered along the famous canals. There are loads of boutiques, cafés and souvenir shops. Pretty much, no matter where you pick to stay for your holiday to Amsterdam, you won’t be more than a 15-minute walk away from the centre.

Historic and modern

Amsterdam’s a modern, forward-looking capital, famous for its inclusive values – it’s a popular pick for LGBTQ+ travel. Plus, it’s all about the historical attractions, too. The city’s most famous sights include the 17th-century Royal Palace, the residence of the King of the Netherlands, and the Anne Frank House where Anne and her family hid for two years during the Second World War. Rembrandt, Van Gogh and Vermeer all lived and worked here, too, and you can see lots of their work in Amsterdam’s museums.

Best time to go to Amsterdam

Summer weather in Amsterdam hovers around the 17˚C mark, with an average of seven hours of sunshine per day. Temperatures tend to be in the low teens in spring and autumn, and dip down to 3˚C in winter. You might need to pop your coat in your suitcase at this time of year, but the slightly cooler temperatures make it easier to explore the city.

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Key facts

  • Language – Dutch
  • Timezone – GMT +1
  • Currency – EUR:Euro
  • Flight Time – 1 hour 10 minutes from Gatwick
  • Prep for your trip with our Holiday Extras

Top Amsterdam holiday deals

Fletcher Hotel Amsterdam

Amsterdam, Netherlands
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TripAdvisor Rating of 3.5 out of 5 (1550)

Bristol - 2 Nights - Room Only

Based on 2 Adults - 20 July 2025

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Urban Lodge Hotel

Amsterdam, Netherlands
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TripAdvisor Rating of 4 out of 5 (1171)

Bristol - 2 Nights - Room Only

Based on 2 Adults - 20 July 2025

Hotel Artemis Amsterdam

Amsterdam, Netherlands
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TripAdvisor Rating of 4 out of 5 (1908)

Bristol - 2 Nights - Room Only

Based on 2 Adults - 20 July 2025

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Joy Hotel Amsterdam

Amsterdam, Netherlands
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TripAdvisor Rating of 3.5 out of 5 (168)

London Luton - 2 Nights - Room Only

Based on 2 Adults - 21 July 2025

Xo Hotels Blue Tower

Amsterdam, Netherlands
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TripAdvisor Rating of 3.5 out of 5 (2310)

Bristol - 2 Nights - Room Only

Based on 2 Adults - 20 July 2025

Xo Hotels Park West

Amsterdam, Netherlands
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TripAdvisor Rating of 4.5 out of 5 (4976)

Bristol - 2 Nights - Room Only

Based on 2 Adults - 20 July 2025

Xo Hotels Blue Square

Amsterdam, Netherlands
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TripAdvisor Rating of 3.5 out of 5 (2401)

Bristol - 2 Nights - Bed and Breakfast

Based on 2 Adults - 20 July 2025

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Why pick Amsterdam holidays

ARTS AND CULTURE

ARTS AND CULTURE

From the café culture to gorg boutiques and the Van Gogh Museum, everything about this city is aesthetic.
INCLUSIVE QUEEN

INCLUSIVE QUEEN

LGBTQ+ in the 21st century? Try the 19th century babe. That’s when homosexuality was decriminalised in the Netherlands and same-sex marriage has been legal here since 2001.
SUPER SEASONAL

SUPER SEASONAL

Think Christmas markets in winter, golden tree-lined streets in autumn, tulips in spring and paddle-boarding down the canals in summer.
ICONIC NIGHTLIFE

ICONIC NIGHTLIFE

Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein are your go-to areas for bars and clubs. Then, the festival calendar runs all year round here – think Pride, ADE and Mysteryland.

Your guide to Amsterdam

Get to the heart and heritage of Amsterdam at these must-see spots…

  • The Canal Ring (Grachtengordel) – Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed canals are straight off a postcard. Hop on a boat tour to see the city from the water or rent a bike and cruise the cobbled streets like a local.
  • The Rijksmuseum & Van Gogh Museum – Art lovers, just say yes. The Rijksmuseum has Rembrandts and Vermeers for days, while the Van Gogh Museum is a deep dive into the painter’s wild and colourful world.
  • Anne Frank House – Step inside the hidden annexe where Anne Frank wrote her diary. It’s a moving, powerful experience you won’t forget.
  • Royal Palace & Dam Square – Feel the city’s royal roots at this 17th-century palace, right in the centre of town. Snap a pic by the National Monument and watch the street performers do their thing.

Urban jungle, canal twists, rooftop thrills… Amsterdam brings the adventure in its own way.

  • Canal kayaking – See the city from a totally different angle by kayaking through its winding waterways. It’s peaceful, scenic and surprisingly mindful.
  • A’DAM Lookout swing – Europe’s highest swing isn’t for the faint-hearted. You’ll swing out over the edge of a 20-storey building with unreal views of the skyline and river below.
  • Urban zipline (seasonal) – When it’s on, this temporary zipline down the Olympic Stadium is your ultimate city thrill ride.
  • Cycle the countryside – Hop on a bike and head out of the city to find windmills, tulip fields (in spring) and classic Dutch villages like Zaanse Schans.

These cultural gems are at the core of what Amsterdam city breaks are all about.

  • Albert Cuyp Market – This buzzing street market is your go-to for local eats, vintage clothes and Dutch treats like stroopwafels fresh off the grill.
  • Brown cafés – These traditional Dutch pubs are cosy, candlelit and full of history. Order a beer and soak up the gezellig – AKA good vibes.
  • King’s Day, 27th April – The whole country turns orange for this one-day blowout to commemorate King Willem-Alexander’s bday. Think boat parties, open-air DJ sets and spontaneous street raves. It’s Amsterdam at its most chaotic and fun.
  • Ajax Stadium Tour – Football’s a big deal in Amsterdam, and this is where the magic happens. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious, a behind-the-scenes tour of the home of AFC Ajax is a must. Walk through the players’ tunnel, check out the trophy cabinet and snap a pic pitch-side.

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Golden hour on the canals, boutique hotels and candlelit dinners? Amsterdam’s such a romantic holiday pick.

  • Canal strolls and boat rides – Whether you’re cruising at sunset with a glass of wine or walking hand-in-hand across the bridges, the canals are peak couple goals.
  • Chic stays – Amsterdam’s boutique hotels are all about style and comfort. Look out for canal houses-turned-hotels with luxe interiors and rooftop views.
  • Culture and cosy cafés – Hit the museums by day, then share a slice of Dutch apple pie in a hidden courtyard café by night. Or, take a wine and cheese tasting together and call it a date.

Easy to get around, packed with parks and museums – Amsterdam’s a win for all ages.

  • NEMO Science Museum – Hands-on fun for kids (and grown-ups). From giant bubbles to DIY experiments, it’s all about learning through play.
  • Vondelpark – The city’s biggest park is perfect for bike rides, playground stops and lazy picnics. In summer, there’s even a free open-air theatre.
  • Canal cruises – Educational and entertaining – float past famous landmarks while learning fun facts along the way. Some tours are kid-focused with treasure hunts on board.

City break + party energy + culture hit – say less.

  • Nightlife that goes from classy to chaotic – From swanky rooftop bars to wild clubs in old warehouses, there’s a vibe for every night. Head to Leidseplein or Rembrandtplein to kick things off.
  • Canal party boats – BYO booze and tunes, and you’ve got yourself a floating pres on the canals. Perfect for birthday trips or hen and stag dos.
  • Brewery tours and beer hallsThe Heineken Experience is the classic, but smaller craft breweries like Brouwerij ‘t IJ bring the indie vibes in a former bath house, and it’s under a windmill.

Amsterdam slays at supporting LGBTQ+ rights. Check out Gay man and gran – 72 hours in Amsterdam for the ultimate itinerary.

  • Welcoming vibes all round – Amsterdam isn’t just tolerant – it’s proud. The city has been a queer-friendly haven for decades, and it shows in everything from rainbow street crossings to gender-inclusive public spaces.
  • Reguliersdwarsstraat – This legendary nightlife strip is packed with queer bars and clubs, like Soho, Club NYX and Taboo. Whether you’re into drag shows, sweaty dancefloors or cocktails with a view, it’s all here.
  • Pride Amsterdam, late July-early August – One of the world’s most vibrant Pride events, with boat parades along the canals, open-air parties and cultural events across the city. The energy is next level.
  • LGBTQ+ culture – Check out the Homomonument – the world’s first memorial to the LGBTQ+ community – and pop into IHLIA, the city’s LGBTQ+ archive and library inside the Public Library.

Safe, scenic and super easy to navigate – Amsterdam is a solo traveller’s dream.

  • Everything’s close together – Amsterdam is super compact, so you can walk or cycle just about anywhere. You don’t even need to rely on public transport really, so it’s ideal for solo exploring.
  • Hostel and co-living culture – Social stays like The Social Hub are full of fellow solo travellers – perfect for meeting new mates over dinner or drinks.
  • Museums and chill cafés – You can wander at your own pace through world-class museums, then chill out with a book and a flat white in one of the city’s super cosy cafés, or in the park if it’s nice and sunny.
  • Daytrips – Use Amsterdam as your base for exploring the Netherlands. Trains can take you to Utrecht, Haarlem or the windmills of Zaanse Schans in under an hour.

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Think green spaces, city views and chilled afternoons…

  • Vondelpark – The city’s biggest and best-loved park, full of shady trees, open lawns and little cafés. Perfect for a slow morning or picnic stop.
  • Westerpark – A cool mix of nature and culture. Think food trucks, art installations, weekend markets and hipster hangouts.
  • Sarphatipark – Smaller, quieter and ideal for a peaceful hour away from the bustle. Right by the De Pijp area, so you can grab a snack after your stroll.

These green spots are made for active days out.

  • Amsterdamse Bos – A huge woodland just outside the city, with bike paths, canoeing lakes, and even a goat farm where you can pet the animals and eat cheese.
  • Oosterpark – Joggers, dog walkers and football games – this one’s full of local life. There are often live music and food events here in summer.
  • Rembrandtpark – Great for rollerblading, cycling and family fun. There’s also a city farm with goats and pigs.

When in Amsterdam, do as the locals do – ride everywhere.

  • Bike the canal belt – The best way to see the city? By bike. Cruise over pretty bridges, past leaning houses and along the tree-lined canals. It’s easy, scenic and especially magical at sunset.
  • Vondelpark loop – A local fave for a leisurely ride, especially in spring and summer. Bring snacks and stop for a mid-ride coffee at one of the park cafés.
  • Countryside routes – If you want to escape the buzz, pedal out to the Waterland region – all flat landscapes, cute villages and grazing cows. The ferry from Amsterdam North makes it super easy.

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Hearty, homey and perfect for fuelling your city exploring…

  • Stroopwafels – Two thin waffles filled with caramel syrup. Try one hot and gooey from a market stall.
  • Bitterballen – Deep-fried beefy bites served with mustard. The ultimate beer snack.
  • Haring – Raw herring served with pickles and onions – sounds wild, but it’s a proper Dutch classic. If you’re in your pickle era, you’ll love the vinegary freshness.
  • Poffertjes – Mini pancakes dusted with powdered sugar and butter. They’re as cute as they are delicious.
  • Dutch cheese – Gouda, Edam, Leerdammer… whatever your type, there’s a cheese for you. Try a tasting session or hit up a cheese shop for samples.

When in Amsterdam… you have to try these classic drinks.

  • Jenever – A juniper-flavoured spirit that’s basically gin’s older, stronger cousin. Traditionally sipped from a tulip glass.
  • Local craft beer – Amsterdam’s full of independent breweries serving everything from IPAs to saisons (a pale Belgian-style ale). Brouwerij Troost and Oedipus Brewing are top picks.
  • Coffee culture – We’re talking flat whites, pastries and seriously chill interiors – not to be confused with ‘coffeeshops’, which are a whole other thing.
  • Fresh mint tea – You’ll see this on every menu – fresh mint leaves in hot water, often with honey on the side. Total post-walk pick-me-up.

Beyond stroopwafels and cheese, Amsterdam’s food scene is seriously underrated.

  • Indonesian rijsttafel – A must-try culinary legend from Dutch colonial history. It’s a full spread of small, flavour-packed Indonesian dishes – spicy, savoury and super satisfying.
  • Street food at Foodhallen – A hip indoor food market in a converted tram depot. Think dim sum, tacos, bao buns, burgers and local beer under one roof.
  • Surinamese and Caribbean cuisine – Amsterdam’s multicultural roots shine through in its food. Try roti rolls, peanut soup or spicy chicken from a Surinamese takeout spot.
  • Michelin moments – If you want to go all-out, the city’s home to multiple Michelin-starred restaurants like Ciel Bleu and Restaurant 212.

Whether you want DJs, dive bars or a dance-until-sunrise sesh, Amsterdam brings it.

  • Paradiso – A church-turned-concert venue hosting everything from indie gigs to big-name DJs.
  • Pllek – This beachy hangout in North Amsterdam is made from shipping containers and has a chill, artsy vibe – live music, fireside drinks and city views included.
  • Bar Botanique – Insta-worthy interiors, tropical cocktails and a fun crowd – perfect for pre-drinks or a more laidback night out.

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Whether you’re here for the fashion, the finds or the full retail therapy experience – these shopping spots have you covered.

  • De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets) – Picture-perfect and packed with indie boutiques, vintage stores and trendy concept shops. It’s a dreamy place to shop small and local, with a side of canal views.
  • Kalverstraat & Nieuwendijk – This is where to head if you’re after all the big-name brands. From high street staples to flagship stores, this busy shopping strip is right in the city centre.
  • C. Hooftstraat – Think luxury fashion houses like Chanel, Prada and Louis Vuitton. Even if you’re just window shopping, that’s a whole experience in itself.
  • Haarlemmerdijk – A cool, less touristy stretch known for its mix of quirky boutiques, record stores and artisanal food shops. Stop for a snack and browse at your own pace.

Amsterdam holidays are a thrifter’s dream…

  • Waterlooplein Flea Market – Amsterdam’s oldest flea market has everything from vintage jackets and second-hand books to old-school cameras and quirky antiques.
  • IJ-Hallen – One of Europe’s biggest flea markets, held monthly in an old shipyard. There are literally hundreds of stalls selling pre-loved clothes, retro furniture and just plain weird (but brilliant) stuff.
  • Episode – A vintage staple with multiple locations, packed with Levi’s, flannel shirts and all the 90s vibes. Prices are reasonable and the rails are always full.
  • Albert Cuyp Market – More than just food – you’ll also find budget fashion, accessories and all the souvenirs you forgot to buy earlier in your trip.

Pick up something a bit more original than a fridge magnet…

  • Cheese shops – You can’t leave without trying Dutch cheese. Henri Willig and Kaaskamer are great spots for tasty and gift-wrapped wedges of Gouda or Edam.
  • Design and homeware – Amsterdam nails minimalist interiors. Check out shops like Store Without a Home for ceramics, prints and sleek décor pieces.
  • Local treats – Stroopwafels, syrupy poffertjes kits and Dutch licorice make great edible gifts. Or, go for locally roasted coffee beans from small Amsterdam roasteries.
  • Books and art prints – The American Book Center and Mendo are perfect for coffee table books, travel journals and design-y souvenirs you’ll actually want to keep.

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These destinations are all less than an hour away – ideal for a day of exploring with zero stress.

  • Zaanse Schans – A Dutch dream of windmills, clogs and cheese. Just 20 minutes away by train, this open-air museum-style village is full of history.
  • Haarlem – A mini-Amsterdam with cobbled streets, cosy cafés and a chilled-out vibe. Visit the Frans Hals Museum, climb the church tower or shop the cute boutiques.
  • Utrecht – With canals that sit below street level and a buzzing student energy, Utrecht’s cool, creative and totally worth a wander. Grab a terrace table by the water for lunch.
  • Alkmaar – Famous for its traditional cheese market from April to September, but also great for canal cruises and quiet strolls through historic streets.

Escape the city for greenery, windmills and big Dutch skies.

  • Giethoorn – Often called the Venice of the North, this car-free village is all canals, thatched cottages and tiny wooden bridges. Rent a whisper boat and float your way through.
  • Waterland & Marken – Cycle or take the bus to this nearby region of peaceful villages, meadows and lakes. The wooden houses in Marken are seriously cute.
  • National Park Zuid-Kennemerland – A coastal nature reserve just outside Haarlem, with sand dunes, wild ponies and forest trails. Great for hiking, cycling or beach walks.

Want more museums, markets and modern city energy? These spots deliver.

  • The Hague (Den Haag) – Politics meets beach town. Visit the Dutch Parliament, tour world-class museums like the Mauritshuis – hi, Girl with a Pearl Earring – or head to the sea at Scheveningen.
  • Rotterdam – Bold architecture, edgy art and a totally different vibe from Amsterdam. Don’t miss the Cube Houses or the Markthal for food and photos.
  • Delft – Famous for its blue-and-white ceramics and old-world charm. It’s like stepping into a postcard, all canals and church towers.

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The city centre is compact, and walking lets you soak up the charm of the canals, bridges and narrow streets. Plan neighbourhoods by foot – explore the Jordaan, the Nine Streets, or Museumplein at a leisurely pace. Wear comfy shoes and watch out for cyclists when crossing streets – they will ring at you!

Public transport is efficient, clean and covers most of the city, especially if you’re heading further out. Use the GVB (city transport) system. Get a single-use ticket, a day pass or load an OV-chipkaart for multiple rides. Trams are the easiest for tourists in the centre, but metros help if you’re heading to the suburbs or Noord. You can download the GVB app for schedules.

Amsterdam is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world. Locals cycle everywhere, and the city is flat with dedicated bike lanes. Rent a bike from shops like MacBike, Black Bikes or other local rentals. Only rent a bike if you’re confident cycling in busy traffic! Follow the rules, signal turns, and never walk in the bike lanes – seriously bad etiquette.

For late-night trips or when carrying lots of luggage, a taxi or Uber can be the easiest option. Taxis can be pricey and sometimes hard to hail on the street, so it’s usually better to call one or use Uber/Bolt. Most locals don’t use taxis often because public transport and bikes are cheaper and faster.

Canal cruises offer a unique, scenic perspective. Book a classic canal boat tour, evening dinner cruise, or rent a small electric boat. The free ferry from behind Amsterdam Centraal takes you to Amsterdam Noord, which is ideal if you’re on a budget.

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Why we love Amsterdam

“If you’re visiting in summer, a really cute event is ARTIS Summer Nights, held at the ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo every Saturday in June, July and August. The zoo stays open late to host live music performances on the bandstand, and you can BYO booze and picnic. Then, for a treat-yourself dinner, the riverside vibes at Hotel de Goudfazant are immaculate.” – Lily Owen

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Instead of hopping on a canal boat cruise, take to the waters yourself on a paddleboard. SUP SUP CLUB make it super easy, with paddleboards stored in self-service lockers. Book your SUP online and you’ll get sent instructions about how to unlock your board, paddle and waterproof phone case, then you can store any other valuables in your SUP 2 GO locker while you explore.

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For Amsterdam holidays in summer, Vondelpark is a beaut green space for walking, running and cycling – they even have free festivals and open-air theatre performances. Then in winter, you can escape into the Open Space Contemporary Art Museum (OSCAM) for free, too.

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What's on in Amsterdam

Plan your stay around these festivals and events. Or, if you’re already booked, see what’s on while you’re out there. Powered by OccasionGenius

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Amsterdam holiday FAQs

Visitors from most EU countries, the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and many others can enter the Netherlands visa-free for short stays of up to 90 days. Always check the latest entry requirements before you travel.

This information is correct at the time of writing. Please make sure you check the FCDO website for the most up-to-date information.

Amsterdam can be done on a range of budgets. You can find everything from luxury hotels to affordable hostels, fancy restaurants to street food stalls, and free or cheap activities like walking tours, markets and parks. A mid-range traveller might budget €100–150 per day, but you can probably do €60-80 if you’re looking to do it cheaper.

The fastest and most convenient option is the direct train from Schiphol to Amsterdam Centraal, which takes about 15-20 minutes. Taxis are available but more expensive, while shuttle buses and rideshares can be a good shout depending on your luggage and group size.

Amsterdam has many family-friendly museums, like NEMO Science Museum and the Maritime Museum, parks, canal boat rides and bike tours. Many restaurants welcome children, and the city’s compact size makes it easy to navigate with kids.

You can easily avoid coffee shops and the Red Light District if they’re not your scene – they’re just a small part of the city. If you’re curious, both areas are generally safe, well-regulated and tourist-friendly, though visiting at night will usually mean bigger crowds and a rowdier vibe.

Yes! From late March to early May, you can visit the Keukenhof Gardens (about 40 minutes away) or the nearby flower fields. Join an organised tour, rent a bike in the area, or take a train and local bus for a DIY adventure.

Venture beyond the central canal belt! Explore neighbourhoods like De Pijp, Jordaan, or Amsterdam Noord for local cafés, markets and parks. Skip overpriced souvenir shops and seek out independent stores, local breweries and street markets for a more authentic vibe.

Think classic canals, the ‘Dancing Houses’ by the Amstel, cute cafés like Pluk or Polaberry, the Rijksmuseum’s tunnel arches, the A’DAM Lookout swing, and colourful street art in NDSM Wharf. Don’t miss sunrise shots at the canals to beat the crowds.

Amsterdam’s nightlife is super diverse – think everything from buzzy bars and canal-side cocktail spots to legendary clubs that go ‘til sunrise. Whether you’re into live music, rooftop views, or full-on techno raves, there’s a scene and neighbourhood for every vibe.

Amsterdam is like any big city, stay aware of your surroundings and if you’re heading back from a club or party, travel back with your friends or take an Uber or tram. But generally, it is considered a safe city by solo, female and LGBTQ+ travellers.

Amsterdam is super vegan-friendly! Check out Vegan Junk Food Bar, Meatless District, or Mr. & Mrs. Watson for creative plant-based dishes. Many cafés offer oat or soy milk, and there are plenty of vegan bakeries and street food spots, too.

Yes, most cafés, restaurants and public spaces offer free Wi-Fi, and many shops and hotels have reliable connections. For quick and easy mobile data, get an eSIM or local SIM card if your plan doesn’t cover EU roaming – check out our eSIM page for all the deets.

Amsterdam is one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly cities in the world. You’ll find inclusive spaces, bars and events all over, especially around Reguliersdwarsstraat. Pride Amsterdam in summer is huge, but the city is welcoming and safe for LGBTQ+ visitors all year round.

Amsterdam holiday inspiration

Amsterdam travel advice

Good to know

Passports & visas

British citizens don’t need a visa to enter the Netherlands but must have a valid passport. You can check your passport’s valid for the Netherlands using our handy tool. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/netherlands/entry-requirements.

Don’t forget to arrange your travel money and insurance before you go.

Health and safety

Healthcare – Amsterdam has excellent healthcare facilities, with hospitals, clinics and pharmacies (apotheken) easily available. Many pharmacists speak English and can help with minor issues or advice. Travel insurance that covers medical expenses is strongly recommended, as healthcare costs can be high for non-EU visitors.

Water – Good news! Tap water in Amsterdam is among the cleanest and safest in Europe, so you can refill your bottle straight from the tap. Bottled water is obviously widely available, but not necessary.

For the latest health and safety information, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/netherlands/health

Language

Dutch is the official language of the Netherlands, but don’t worry – English is widely spoken in Amsterdam, especially in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants and museums. You’ll also hear plenty of German and French, thanks to the city’s international vibe. In smaller shops or local markets, a few Dutch words can go a long way, and locals generally appreciate the effort.

Basic phrases

Here are some helpful Dutch phrases to use on your trip:
• Hello! How are you? – Hallo! Hoe gaat het?
• Thank you! – Dank je wel!
• Excuse me, do you speak English? – Pardon, spreekt u Engels?
• How much does this cost? – Hoeveel kost dit?

Social norms & etiquette

Tipping – Tipping in Amsterdam is not mandatory but definitely appreciated. In restaurants and cafés, rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% for good service is common. For taxi drivers and tour guides, small tips are welcome if you’re happy with the service, but it’s never obligatory.

Dress code – Amsterdam is very casual and laidback when it comes to fashion. Jeans, trainers and practical clothes work just fine for most outings. If you’re visiting fancy restaurants or the opera, a smart-casual look is a good idea. When visiting churches or religious sites, modest clothing (covered shoulders, no hats) is appreciated, but there are no strict rules.

Money

Currency – Amsterdam uses the Euro (€), making it easy if you’re already travelling through Europe.

Exchange – You’ll find banks, ATMs and currency exchange offices throughout the city, especially in tourist-heavy areas. ATMs generally offer good rates, and credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops.

Mobile payments – Apple Pay, Google Pay and contactless credit/debit cards are commonly accepted, especially by major shops, public transport and restaurants. However, some small local cafés, street vendors or market stalls may prefer cash or debit cards, so it’s smart to carry a bit of cash just in case.

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