15 Traveling to Amsterdam Tips: Your Epic Family Adventure in the Canal City!

Amsterdam is a beautiful city and dream destination that captures the hearts of travelers with its picturesque canals, vibrant culture, and unique charm. As one of Europe’s most visited cities, this Dutch gem offers something for everyone.

Planning ahead with solid tips, including a walking tour, makes all the difference between a good trip and an absolutely amazing Amsterdam adventure that you’ll be talking about for years.

Getting ready for your first Amsterdam trip can feel overwhelming with so many options and potential pitfalls. The city’s compact size makes it super walkable, but there are still many things to know before you go.

From figuring out the best time to visit those popular events and attractions like the Anne Frank house to understanding how to navigate the infamous unpredictable Dutch weather, we’re here to help you avoid rookie mistakes and make unforgettable memories.

1) Rock the canals with a scenic boat tour.

Amsterdam’s canals and windmills are basically the city’s superstar features! We absolutely recommend making a canal cruise your first activity when arriving in this gorgeous Dutch city.

A boat tour gives you the perfect intro to Amsterdam’s layout and helps you get your bearings. Plus, it’s super relaxing after a long flight or train ride!

The one-hour canal experience is totally intimate and offers top-notch service. Each cruise has its own skipper and an English-speaking guide who’ll share all the juicy details about the city.

We’ve found that smaller boat tours with around 14 people give you the coziest experience. The peaceful morning cruises are magical – the water is calm and you’ll see the city wake up!

For the best experience, we recommend booking ahead online. Many boats offer comfortable cushioned seats and even blankets for those chillier days – how thoughtful is that?

Prices typically range from €15-25 depending on the boat and time. We think it’s totally worth splurging a little for this unforgettable Amsterdam highlight!

2) Don’t skip the Anne Frank House for those deep feels.

OMG friends, the Anne Frank House is honestly one of the most powerful places we’ve ever visited in Amsterdam. It’s the actual house where Anne and her family hid during World War II, and it hits you right in the feels!

You absolutely need to book tickets far in advance for this one. Seriously, they sell out super fast! Tickets are usually released about 6 weeks ahead of time, so mark your calendars.

Don’t panic if tickets seem sold out though! We’ve learned that some tickets are released on the same day of your visit. Just be ready to grab them online quickly!

We totally recommend re-reading Anne’s diary before you visit. It makes the whole experience so much more meaningful when you can connect with her story beforehand.

The museum itself is small but incredibly moving. We were literally fighting back tears seeing the actual bookcase that hid their secret annex. It’s one of those places that stays with you forever.

Make sure to arrive a bit early for your time slot. There’s usually a line, and you don’t want to miss your window!

3) Tick off the Van Gogh Museum from your artsy bucket list.

Calling all art lovers! The Van Gogh Museum with its stunning paintings is an absolute must-visit when you’re in Amsterdam. We can’t stress enough how amazing it is to see those famous Sunflowers and Almond Blossoms up close and personal!

Here’s a super important tip: this place is crazy popular! You’ll want to get your tickets online at least two weeks before your trip. Trust us on this one – the museum sells out many days in advance, and nobody wants that disappointed “we can’t get in” moment.

Don’t let the crowds scare you away! Even though the Van Gogh Museum is one of the most popular attractions in the city, it’s totally worth braving the lines to see Vincent’s masterpieces.

We recommend setting aside at least 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the experience. The vibrant colors, the emotional brushstrokes – it’s like stepping inside the mind of a genius (a troubled one, but still a genius!).

When you’re done, grab a coffee at the museum café and soak in all that artistic inspiration. Your Instagram will thank you, and your artsy bucket list will have one more fabulous checkmark!

4) Get lost, on purpose, in the Jordaan district.

Okay besties, let’s talk about one of our absolute favorite Amsterdam experiences!

We love to just wander around here with no real plan. That’s right – put away Google Maps and just see where your feet take you! Some of our best Amsterdam memories happened when we weren’t looking for them.

As you explore, you’ll notice the gorgeous canal views and cute little bridges that are totally Instagram-worthy. The architecture is so dreamy you’ll want to move in immediately!

The Jordaan lets you experience life in the city as a local, even though it’s not far from the center. It’s the perfect escape from the tourist crowds!

Stop at random cafes when you get tired. Pop into little art galleries when they catch your eye. Chat with shopkeepers in the quirky boutiques. This neighborhood has such a friendly vibe!

Trust us, getting “lost” in the Jordaan is the best way to discover hidden gems that guidebooks don’t tell you about. Just bring comfy shoes – your feet will thank you later!

5) Rent a bike because Amsterdam is basically cycle city!

Amsterdam and bikes go together like peanut butter and jelly! We absolutely LOVE that this gorgeous city has more bikes than people. It’s literally the perfect way to explore like a local.

Renting a bike in Amsterdam is super easy and SO worth it! There are tons of rental shops scattered throughout the city where you can grab wheels for your adventure. Prices are usually reasonable, and many places offer daily or weekly rates.

Just a heads up for our fellow Americans – cycling in Amsterdam is no joke! The bike lanes can get CRAZY busy, so if you’re not confident on two wheels, maybe practice a bit first. The bike traffic volume might be intimidating, but don’t let that stop you!

We recommend checking if your accommodation offers bike rentals – many hotels, hostels, and even Airbnbs do! This can save you time and sometimes money too.

For the best experience, get your bike rental booked ahead of time, especially if you’re visiting during peak tourist season. Trust us, you’ll feel like a true Amsterdammer zipping through those charming canal-lined streets!

6) Coffee shops aren’t just about coffee, if you catch my drift.

Here’s something we need to clear up right away: in Amsterdam, “coffee shops” have a whole different meaning! When locals talk about getting coffee, they go to “cafes” – not coffee shops.

Coffee shops in Amsterdam are actually places where you can legally purchase and consume cannabis products. Surprise! This is often confusing for first-time visitors who just want their caffeine fix.

Some popular spots include The Greenhouse, Green Place, and Barney’s. These places have menus that offer various cannabis products rather than fancy lattes.

If you’re not into the green scene, no worries! Amsterdam has so many other amazing things to do. We love that you can explore museums, canals, and amazing food spots instead.

Just remember this simple rule: need actual coffee? Head to a cafe. Looking for the special Amsterdam experience? Coffee shops are your destination. We wouldn’t want you getting a surprise when you just wanted your morning brew!

7) Pre-book those museum tickets—trust me on this one.

Amsterdam’s museums are absolutely amazing, but they can get super crowded!

We learned this the hard way when we showed up at the Anne Frank House without tickets and couldn’t get in.

The Anne Frank House only offers admittance by prior timeslot booking, so don’t make our mistake!

Those tickets open for sale and disappear quickly, so mark your calendar to grab them.

The Van Gogh Museum is another hot spot where lines can get crazy long.

If you’re bringing kids, though, we’ve heard the Nemo museum might be more fun for them than Van Gogh.

Want a pro tip? Book those “free” city walking tours too!

They’re super entertaining and only cost whatever tip you want to give. We had such a blast learning about Amsterdam’s quirky history this way.

Planning ahead saves so much precious vacation time that would otherwise be spent standing in lines.

Trust us, your future self will thank you!

8) Day trip alert: Head over to the Keukenhof Gardens in spring.

OMG, flower lovers, we’ve got the ultimate day trip for you!

If you’re visiting Amsterdam during the summer between late March and mid-May, you absolutely CANNOT miss the breathtaking Keukenhof Gardens. It’s basically the Disney World of flowers!

The gardens are a short trip from Amsterdam, and let us tell you – they’re worth every minute of travel time.

We recommend getting there early in the morning to beat the crowds and have those picture-perfect moments before everyone else arrives.

Getting there is super easy! The Keukenhof Shuttle Bus runs directly from Amsterdam city center to the gardens.

No stress, no fuss – just hop on and prepare for flower heaven!

Plan to spend at least half a day wandering through millions (yes, MILLIONS!) of tulips, daffodils, and other gorgeous blooms.

The photo ops are endless, and your Instagram will thank you!

Pro tip: check the weather before you go. A sunny day makes those colors pop even more!

We always tell our friends to plan their visit strategically to get the best lighting for photos and to avoid the biggest crowds.

9) Stroll through the Bloemenmarkt for your tulip fix.

Ladies, you haven’t truly experienced Amsterdam until you’ve visited the famous Bloemenmarkt!

This isn’t just any flower market – it’s the world’s only floating flower market sitting prettily on the Singel canal since 1862!

We absolutely love wandering through this colorful wonderland!

The market is bursting with gorgeous tulips and other flowers that’ll make your Instagram feed pop. It’s basically a flower-lover’s dream come true!

The atmosphere is super lively, and the vendors are usually friendly and helpful.

We’ve found it’s a perfect spot to grab some unique souvenirs for the folks back home. Who wouldn’t love receiving authentic Dutch tulip bulbs?

Beyond just looking at pretty flowers, the Bloemenmarkt gives you that authentic Amsterdam experience.

The stalls are actually floating on houseboats, which is just so Amsterdam!

Just a quick tip – it can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season.

We recommend going earlier in the day if possible! And yes, many vendors can mail bulbs home for you if you’re worried about customs issues!

10) The Red Light District: interesting history tour, anyone?

Let’s talk about Amsterdam’s famous Red Light District! This historic area has an intriguing past that’s worth exploring on your trip.

We highly recommend joining a walking tour with a local guide who can give you the real scoop.

These tours typically last about 1.5 hours and happen after dark when the area comes alive.

A good guide will share both the historical background and current practices in the neighborhood.

You’ll learn fascinating facts about how this unique area developed and operates today.

Safety-wise, we’ve found the district is generally fine for tourists, but please remember one super important rule: never take photos of the workers! It’s disrespectful and could get you in trouble.

Many tours operate on a tip-based system, making them affordable for all budgets.

You’ll learn about local laws and gain cultural insights you’d miss walking through on your own.

11) Budget for those croquettes and stroopwafels. YUM!

Let’s talk food, friends! Amsterdam’s tasty treats are a MUST when visiting, but they can add up if you’re not careful with your spending.

Those crispy, gooey croquettes are like little pockets of heaven, and we can’t get enough of them!

Budget around €3-5 per croquette at stands throughout the city.

OMG, the stroopwafels though! These caramel-filled waffle cookies are life-changing and make for the cutest Amsterdam travel photos.

Fresh ones from markets cost about €2-3 each and are SO worth it!

We recommend setting aside around $15-30 per meal at mid-range spots.

That might seem like a lot, but trust us – Dutch food is worth every penny!

For budget-friendly options, check out the Maoz falafel stands in the tourist areas or grab prepared foods from Marqt markets scattered throughout the city.

Don’t forget to try herring and cod while you’re there! The Netherlands has so much more to offer than just the famous treats you see online!

12) Ferry it to Amsterdam North for street art vibes

Ready for a super fun side trip that most tourists skip? We absolutely love hopping on the free ferry to Amsterdam Noord! Yes, you read that right – FREE!

The ferries leave from behind Amsterdam Centraal Station and take just a few minutes to cross the water.

It’s honestly one of our favorite little Amsterdam adventures with the coolest views of the city skyline.

Once you arrive in Noord, you’ll find a totally different vibe than central Amsterdam.

This area is like the city’s hipster paradise with amazing street art and museums dedicated to urban creativity.

We recommend checking out Pllek, this super cute spot right on the waterfront that even has an actual sandy beach! How cool is that? Perfect for grabbing a drink and soaking up those artsy vibes.

The NDSM Wharf area is especially amazing – it’s a former shipyard turned creative hub.

We love wandering around and snapping photos of the incredible murals and installations that pop up everywhere.

Pack your camera and comfortable shoes! This little adventure gives you a peek at where locals hang out and shows a totally different side of Amsterdam that most visitors never see.

13) Rock the Royal Palace if you’re into that regal history.

Looking for a slice of royal Dutch history? The Royal Palace in Amsterdam is totally worth the visit! It’s not as heavily promoted as other attractions, but trust us – it’s a hidden gem.

The building’s history is fascinating, and we’re all about those royal vibes. Did you know it was originally built as a city hall in the 17th century? Yeah, it only became a palace later!

When you visit, we definitely recommend taking the free audio tour to guide you through.

It’s super informative and will give you all the juicy historical details.

Inside, you’ll find stunning marble floors, impressive artwork, and some seriously lavish rooms. The grandeur is real, mamas! It’s like stepping into a royal fairytale for a hot minute.

The Palace is centrally located on Dam Square, so it’s super easy to pop in during your Amsterdam adventures.

We think it’s perfect if you’re into history without the massive crowds you might find at other Amsterdam attractions.

14) Don’t expect 24/7 craziness like NYC; it’s chill time here.

Amsterdam has a totally different vibe than New York City. While NYC is known for never sleeping, Amsterdam definitely enjoys its beauty rest!

We found that Amsterdam moves at a much more relaxed pace. The city gets quiet after about 10 PM on weeknights, with many restaurants closing earlier than you might expect.

Unlike the constant buzz of New York, Amsterdam gives you permission to slow down. You’ll see locals enjoying long coffee breaks or finding clarity and calmness in beautiful parks.

We love how Amsterdam encourages you to actually relax on vacation! The canals offer peaceful places to sit and watch the world go by. No one’s rushing here.

The Dutch value their work-life balance, and after spending time here, we totally get it! You’ll adjust to the slower rhythm quickly and might even bring this chill mindset home with you.

So pack your comfy shoes, leave the FOMO behind, and prepare to embrace Amsterdam’s more laid-back atmosphere. Trust us, it’s a refreshing change from big city intensity!

15) Get the I amsterdam City Card for all the touristy perks

We absolutely love a good deal when traveling, and the I amsterdam City Card is one of our favorite money-saving tricks for exploring this gorgeous city!

This magical little card gives you free entry to more than 70 museums and attractions across Amsterdam. No more digging for cash at every museum entrance – just flash that card and waltz right in!

But wait, there’s more! You’ll also get unlimited access to public transportation throughout the city. Trams, buses – all yours to hop on and off as much as your little tourist heart desires.

One of our favorite perks? The card includes a free canal cruise! There’s nothing quite like seeing Amsterdam from the water, and now you can do it without spending extra euros.

You can even score discounts at many restaurants across the city. More money for stroopwafels, am I right?

With savings of up to 40-50% on individual ticket prices, we think it’s totally worth grabbing one of these cards if you’re planning to hit up multiple attractions. Your wallet will thank you!

Navigating Amsterdam’s Transportation

Getting around Amsterdam is a breeze once you know your options! We’ve explored this charming city extensively and found the perfect ways to navigate its picturesque canals and narrow streets.

Biking Like a Local

Bikes rule Amsterdam! With over 400 km of bike paths, cycling is the most popular way to get around. We absolutely love feeling like locals as we pedal through the city’s charming streets.

First-timers should definitely rent bikes from reputable shops (€10-15 per day). Don’t forget to practice the hand signals before hitting the busy bike lanes!

Be careful with those tram tracks – they’re total bike tire traps! We learned this the hard way, so cross them at wide angles when possible.

Remember to lock your bike properly with two locks – one through the frame and another through the wheel. Bike theft is no joke here!

Pro tip: Download the “Fietsroute” app to find the best cycling routes. It’s been our lifesaver for avoiding the super crowded tourist areas!

Mastering Public Transit

When our feet get tired from walking (or biking), Amsterdam’s public transit system comes to the rescue! Trams are the main way to travel within the city, and we’ve come to love their efficiency.

Grab an OV-Chipkaart for the best deal – it works on trams, buses, and the metro. We recommend the anonymous card (€7.50) that you can load with credit at stations.

The metro reaches all parts of the city and is super fast for longer trips. For a scenic experience, hop on tram #2 – it passes many major attractions!

Don’t forget about the free ferries behind Central Station! They’re perfect for exploring Amsterdam Noord, and the views of the city skyline from the water are absolutely Instagram-worthy.

Night buses operate after midnight when regular service ends. We’ve used these countless times after enjoying Amsterdam’s nightlife!

Cultural Do’s and Don’ts

Amsterdam has some unique cultural expectations that might surprise first-time visitors in just a few hours . We’ve learned these the hard way and want to save you from those awkward moments!

Respecting the Locals

Don’t walk in the bike lanes! This is probably the quickest way to annoy locals in Amsterdam. Those red paths are sacred territory for cyclists, and they won’t hesitate to ring their bells at you if you’re in the way.

Keep your voice down when in public spaces. Americans (sorry, friends!) are often spotted by their loud conversations. We’ve noticed the Dutch appreciate a more moderate volume, especially on public transport.

Don’t take photos of sex workers in the Red Light District. This is both disrespectful and actually prohibited! The same goes for cannabis cafés – not everyone wants to be in your vacation slideshow.

Try learning a few Dutch phrases. While most Amsterdammers speak perfect English, they’ll absolutely light up if you attempt even a simple “dank je wel” (thank you).

Understanding Tipping Etiquette

Tipping in Amsterdam isn’t like back home! The Dutch don’t expect the 15-20% tips we’re used to in North America. Service charges are typically included in your bill already.

For good service at restaurants, rounding up the bill or adding 5-10% is perfectly acceptable. Your server will be genuinely appreciative rather than offended.

In taxis, a small tip of €1-2 is nice but not required. For tour guides, €5-10 depending on the length and quality of the tour is appropriate.

At bars and cafés, we’ve found that leaving small change or rounding up is common practice. Don’t feel pressured to leave more just because that’s what you do at home!