Amsterdam is renowned for its picturesque canals, charming streets, and liberal atmosphere, depending on what you’re heading there for! From stag dos to tulip tourists, it’s the Jekyll and Hyde of Europe, a city with two sides.
I visited Amsterdam for its wholesome appeal: its labyrinth of waterways and canals, and the vibrant tulip season that drenches the city in a sea of bright hues. Tulips decorate bicycle baskets, and the lack of cars gives the city a Disney-like renaissance feel. It’s as if you’ve stepped straight into a fairy tale.
From the indie cafés of Jordaan to the lush greenery of Vondelpark, Amsterdam is truly one of a kind among European cities. Along the canal banks, vibrant barges add to the picturesque scene, while brightly painted bikes proudly lean against the bridges. Everywhere you turn, Stroopwafel treats await, bicycle bells ring, and canalside cafés overflow with visitors.
What do you need to know?
- Getting Around – Amsterdam is a cyclist’s city, with bike rental options available on nearly every corner. The traffic-free roads make it easy and safe to cycle around. Due to its small size, the city is also walkable, taking just about an hour to get from the central station to Vondelpark. For those preferring public transport, Amsterdam has a fantastic tram system that makes getting around incredibly convenient. While Ubers are available, they’re not necessary. You can enjoy discounted rates on public transport, museums, canal cruises, and bike rentals by purchasing the city pass from I Amsterdam City Card.
- Foodie Favourites – Amsterdam boasts one of Europe’s most mouthwatering food scenes, with a diverse array of international restaurants and local delicacies. Among the standout local dishes are Stroopwafel (crispy, caramel waffles), Bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs), Poffertjes and Dutch pancakes, as well as cheeses like Gouda and Edam. Of course, one cannot forget the indulgent Dutch Apple Pie, which has sparked rivalries throughout the city, with multiple bakeries claiming to serve the “best in Amsterdam.”
- Booking Ahead – It can be incredibly difficult to secure a reservation at many of the restaurants and attractions in the city. The Anne Frank Museum, for example, is often fully booked months in advance, and popular restaurants can be fully booked up to a month ahead. For places where reservations aren’t possible, like viral cafés and bakeries, be prepared to wait in line. If you don’t arrive when they open, queues can stretch through the streets, with wait times of up to an hour or even longer.
- Where to Stay – When visiting the city centre, accommodation costs can be quite high, especially during peak seasons. A more affordable alternative is to stay just outside the city in Zaandam, which is only a 10-minute direct train ride into the centre. We stayed at Zaan Hotel Amsterdam, a stunning hotel just a 2-minute walk from the nearest station, offering both convenience and amazing service. I’ve also stayed at the Pestana Amsterdam Riverside for a work trip, which was incredibly luxurious and very conveniently located. I’d happily recommend both; it just depends on your budget and length of stay.
Main Attractions
Anne Frank Museum
Price: From €16
Booking in Advance
It’s highly recommended to book your tickets at least a month in advance of your trip, as they tend to get sold out quickly. Tickets are released every Tuesday at 10am (CEST), so be sure to mark your calendar and secure your spot ahead of time.
About
The Anne Frank House and Museum, which opened in 1960, is a powerful reminder of one of the darkest chapters in history. The museum takes you through the heart-wrenching experiences of Anne Frank, her family, and the others who hid with them during World War II. Today, the house is still filled with postcards, photos, and of course, Anne Frank’s famous diary. What’s incredible is that it’s pretty much stayed the same since the 1940s. You can explore the house, including the ‘Secret Annex,’ where eight people secretly lived behind a door disguised as a bookcase.
Vondelpark
Renting a Bike: €9 for an hour
At the southern tip of the city, Vondelpark stretches across a beautiful 120 acres, with cycling paths and footpaths that make it perfect for renting bikes and taking a leisurely ride. As you glide through, you’ll be captivated by the park’s rose gardens, vibrant tulip beds, towering tree tunnels, and serene water features. It’s the perfect spot to relax, whether you’re enjoying ice cream or local snacks from street vendors, unwinding by the water, having a picnic in the greenery, or checking out one of the charming cafes and restaurants like Kinderkookkafé, De Vondeltuin, or Proeflokaal ‘t Blauwe Theehuis. Vondelpark really offers a lovely escape from the hustle and bustle.
I suggest renting a bike for one hour to fully experience the park. We hired our bikes from A-Bike Rental & Tours – they’re located around the corner from the Maagd van Amsterdam entrance.
Red light district (De Wallen)
The Red Light District is definitely one of the most polarising places in the city. Known for window prostitution, peep shows, and strip clubs, the area really comes alive at night with its signature red lights, giving it its name. For some, it’s an exciting part of the Amsterdam experience, and it’s no surprise that the city has become one of Europe’s top stag do destinations. However, it’s not for everyone. During our visit, after a night of drinks, we wandered through the district but ended up feeling deflated, uncomfortable, and, to be honest, a bit sad. It’s not a place where I felt particularly safe, and I wouldn’t be in a rush to return.
That said, don’t let it put you off completely. The district has a lot of history, and there are some fascinating museums, like the Red Light Secrets Museum (Museum of Prostitution) and the Erotic Museum. I actually enjoyed visiting them during the day when the vibe is less intense. I also really appreciated learning about the area’s history on a canal cruise, which gave me some great insight into how the red curtains came to be and how the district has evolved over time.
Dam square & The Royal Palace
Royal Palace Tour: €12.50 for adults
Dam Square, just a short walk from Amsterdam’s Central Station, is one of the city’s busiest spots. If you’ve been to London, think of it like Piccadilly Circus, and if you know, you know, it’s the kind of place locals tend to steer clear of. Expect a mix of touristy shops, Madame Tussauds, and those restaurants catering mostly to visitors.
But hey, it’s not all bad! The square is home to some of Amsterdam’s most iconic landmarks, like the National Memorial statue and the Royal Palace, which is hard to miss with its grand architecture on the west side. And if you’re craving something sweet, just a short walk away is Tony’s Chocolonely Super Store. Here, you can make your own personalised chocolate bar and load up on all kinds of colourful treats to take home!
Canal Cruise
Alcohol-free: From £17
Bottomless: From £25
A canal cruise is a must when visiting Amsterdam, giving you a unique perspective of the city’s charming waterways. Whether you’re into local cheese tasting cruises or relaxed coffeeshop-inspired tours, there’s an option for every budget and interest. We chose a bottomless tour through Get Your Guide, and it was such a great experience. Sipping on rosé, we explored the city’s history and had some great conversations with our fellow cruisers. It’s the perfect way to get to know Amsterdam while making new connections along the way.
Museums
Amsterdam is home to around 70 museums, all easily accessible with an I Amsterdam City Card. Most of these cultural gems are located in the Museum Square at the southern end of the city, making it easy to explore them alongside the flower market and Vondelpark. Whether you’re into art, history, or other fascinating subjects, you’ll have the chance to dive deep into the city’s rich past. Here are some of the highlights:
- The Van Gogh Museum is a must-see in Amsterdam. It houses an incredible collection of the renowned Dutch painter’s masterpieces, including his iconic self-portraits, captivating landscapes, and beautiful still-life paintings of flowers. The entrance fee is €22 without a pass.
- The Stedelijk Museum (entrance fee: €22.50 without a pass) is a vibrant hub for modern and contemporary art and design in Amsterdam. It features an impressive collection, with works by influential artists like Vincent van Gogh, Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, and Henri Matisse. The museum’s striking architecture also creates a captivating illusion, making the building appear to float when viewed from a distance.
- The Rijksmuseum (entrance fee: €22.50 without a pass) is a must-visit for anyone interested in Dutch art and history. Located in Museum Square, this renowned museum houses an impressive collection of 8,000 works, featuring masterpieces by artists like Van Gogh and Rembrandt. Its close proximity to both the Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum makes it easy to plan a comprehensive visit to all three.
- The Moco Museum offers a unique experience for art lovers, with an entrance fee ranging from €20.95 to €21.95. This independent museum proudly displays an impressive collection of works by artists like Banksy, Jeff Koons, Yayoi Kusama, Andy Warhol, and Damien Hirst, among others. Conveniently located in Museum Square, it’s the perfect stop if you’re not already museum-ed out after visiting the first three, of course!
Markets
Amsterdam is home to a wide range of markets, offering everything from vintage leather goods to repurposed books and vibrant flower stalls. The vintage shopping scene here is so good and affordable, making it one of the best in Europe. If you don’t find something amazing at the markets, the Jordaan district is full of hidden gems in kilo stores (my favourites were Cream & Episode). In spring, the flower market bursts to life with a stunning display of tulips, drawing crowds carrying colourful bouquets through the streets. Here are a few markets you must check out:
- Waterlooplein Market is the oldest flea market in Amsterdam at 130 years old, and is where you can find vintage antiques, leather goods and plenty of accessories. Open Monday-Friday 9:30 – 18:00.
- Noodermarkt is a historic farmers market that has been running since 1618. It takes place twice a week, on Mondays and Saturdays from 9am. While Mondays are dedicated to organic produce, Saturdays offer a diverse range of items, including vintage clothes and antiques.
- IJ Hallen is the largest flea market in Europe and a highly sought-after destination. It offers many items, including vintage bags and clothes, as well as Dutch street food. Though there is an entry fee of €6 for adults, the irresistible prices of the goods inside more than justify this cost. Keep up to date by checking their calendar for upcoming events here.
- The flower market is located on the southern side of the city, easily recognisable by its greenhouse-like structure that stretches along the canal’s edge. The market is open daily, from 09:00 to 17:30 on Monday-Saturday and 11:30 to 17:30 on Sunday.
- Lindengrachtmarkt is a food market in the Jordaan neighbourhood, attracting crowds from 9am every Saturday. Here, you’ll find a variety of local produce, lovely flowers, and tempting sandwiches. The surrounding area is filled with an enticing selection of restaurants and cafes, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a meal after exploring the market. At the heart of it all, a row of lime trees gives the market its distinctive name. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling along the canal for a relaxed lunch, Lindengrachtmarkt promises a delicious foodie experience.
- The Oudemanhuispoort book market is rumoured to have been regularly visited by Vincent Van Gogh. Located in a narrow brick passage, which used to be an almshouse for the elderly, the market is a beautiful, historic, and secluded spot to explore. It’s open daily from 11:30 am to 6:00 pm, making it a convenient stop for both book worms and those interested in Amsterdam’s architectural history.
Coffeeshops
Whether you’re into coffeeshops or not, you can’t really miss them; they’re on nearly every corner in the city. And just to let you know, ‘coffeeshops’ here are licensed cannabis cafés, not your regular cafes. Most people drop by during the day and in the early evenings, and each place has a different vibe – from cozy interiors to flashy neon – there’s something for every mood. Here’s some of the most popular:
- The Bulldog is the most famous coffeeshop in Amsterdam, not least because of its blue swanky exterior, but because it is the oldest in the city. Oh, and Snoop Dog’s been to the Ex-Police station version in the south!
- Boerejogens is one of the classiest and most upscale spots in town. The staff’s distinctive attire, with white shirts and bow ties, sets it apart from other coffeeshops and creates a unique and appealing vibe that attracts a different crowd.
- Abraxas is a place for the whimsical. With a completely unique vibe centred around crystal balls, tarot cards, and the Abraxas raven, it’s one of the most artsy and quirky coffeeshops you’ll find.
Seasonal Specials
Spring is an incredibly special time in the Netherlands. The awakening of tulips and streets lined with orange bunting. The atmosphere during these months is fun, vibrant, and buzzing, making it the perfect time to visit. Here are some key dates to mark in your calendars:
- 20 March to 11 May – The Keukenhof Tulip Gardens are truly mesmerizing. As the world’s largest flower garden, spanning an impressive 32 hectares, this lush green utopia is a must-visit on your Amsterdam itinerary. Stepping stones will take you across the river, leading to lush, grassy hills surrounded by pristine tulip beds, where you’ll find pink barbie cars, ice-cream stands with pinstriped scoopers, and giant clogs to capture a memorable snapshot. It’s a fantastic day out for visitors of all ages, offering ample opportunities for exploration that can easily fill an entire day. We purchased half day tickets via Viator for £36.
- Late March to mid-April – Blossoms bloom in Westerpark and Amsterdamse bos, two of the most popular parks to visit the gorgeous cherry blossoms, as they paint the parks pink with petals. Westerpark is home to aisles and aisles of cherry trees, while Amsterdamse bos has a dedicated garden filled with blossom clouds, equally as beautiful in their own ways! Entry to both parks is free.
- 27 April – King’s Day is held every year to celebrate King Willem Alexander’s birthday, filling the streets and canals with music, carnivals, dancing, and bright orange. The festivities last throughout the day and into the early hours of the following morning, so make sure to rest up the evening before! This lively celebration draws over a million people from around the globe, making it one of the busiest and most vibrant events in the year.
- 5 May – Liberation Day commemorates the end of the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands during World War II. The day begins with a moment of silence and continues with lively celebrations in major cities. in Amsterdam, a live music festival takes place in Westerpark, featuring musicians, street food, silent discos, and more.
Hidden Gens & Quirky Spots
Beyond the city’s main attractions, countless hidden gens are waiting to be discovered throughout the urban landscape. With something unique to uncover around every corner, exploring the city on foot is an absolute must in order to fully appreciate these highlights:
- The Oersoep Tunnel (free) – Created by artists Arno Coenen, Iris Roskam, and Hans van Bentem, this captivating mosaic design paints a picture of the sea, adorned by a dazzling emerald ceiling and intricate golden details. This beautiful passage is like a mermaid’s cave, a mesmerising experience as you walk through. Carefully crafted images within the tunnel illustrate the origins of life on earth from the waters, making it a truly unique spot.
- Jordaan Neighbourhood – Jordaan is a hidden gen awaiting in plain sight and offering a unique charm. With artisan coffee shops, independent wine bars, and trendy sandwich shops, this neighbourhood attracts a hip and laid-back crowd.
- Zaandam district and Zaanse Schans – These are must-visit destinations, easily accessible with just a 10-minute train ride from the city centre. The unique and captivating architecture of Zaandam, characterised by intricate houses stacked upon one another and with vibrant green, white ad red accents. A short journey further at Zaandijk leads to Zaanse Schans, where picturesque windmills, barns, and mills create a stunning waterside backdrop. With various activities and museums to explore, make sure to plan ahead and allow ample time to uncover the treasures of these two hidden gens.
- Febo – As a British tourist, Febo was a fun and quirky novelty. These futuristic fast-food chains are a common sight in the city, easily recognisable by their distinctive sci-fi aesthetic. The self-service concept, serving cheap and tempting food items behind glass, makes for an enjoyable experience once you’ve made your selection. While the food itself may not be noteworthy, visiting Febo is a fun diversion on your trip.
- Begijnhof Courtyard (free) – A charming enclosed space, part of an old beghinage dating back to the 14th Century. The perimeter is lined with neatly arranged Dutch houses, creating a picturesque frame for the lovely central garden. It’s an idyllic, peaceful spot, perfect for leisurely reading or simply taking a moment to peak inside as you stroll by.
- Cafe Hoppe – Founded in 1670, this is one of Amsterdam’s oldest cafes. It remains a popular spot on Friday evenings, with a relaxed atmosphere ideal for enjoying drinks and savouring the acclaimed bitterballen, considered the best in the city. The cafe has even welcomed visits from Queen Beatrix and the renowned Dutch brewing tycoon, Freddy Heineken.
- The Hoxton Hotel Photobooth (€6) – Tucked away in this beautiful canal-side hotel is a charming vintage photo booth. It’s a delightful hidden gen, and we were fortunate enough to capture a few shots before the crowds arrived.
- Boothclub (free) – Similar to the Hoxton, Boothclub is a hidden photo booth spot in the city with red tinted windows resembling a photography dark room. Its modern appeal aims to bring a sense of reality back into a world dominated by distorted digital self-images, offering a fun and unique experience for visitors.
- Hortus Botanicus (€13.50) – The botanical gardens are one of the city’s most enchanting hidden treasures, particularly in the spring when they burst into full bloom. There is a gorgeous glasshouse nestled along the water’s edge and pristine gardens in the surrounding landscape – it’s a lovely little cove, waiting to be explored!
- Nemo Rooftop Terrace (free) – The iconic Nemo Science Museum, with its boat-like shape, is a fantastic family-friendly destination. It boasts a hidden rooftop terrace that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city and canal system.
- Hotel W Rooftop (book ahead) – When the weather is warm, don’t miss the chance to reserve a table for sunset at the Hotel W Rooftop, ideally situated in the heart of the city. This exceptional hotel features a tranquil rooftop bar with stunning views of the city, offering the ideal setting for a cocktail.
- Dancing Houses – These charming, wobbly structures are a delightful sight in the Damrak area of the city. If you choose to go on a canal cruise, you will undoubtedly pass by them, as we did. According to our tour guide, the swampy architectural foundations have caused some of the buildings to lean and tilt to one side, creating the beloved “dancing” effect they are known for and adored.
- Bar Mokum – A well-known yet elusive gen in Amsterdam, renowned for its status as one of the city’s most popular cocktail bars. However, discovering this hidden speakeasy is a challenge due to its intentional camouflage within the surrounding area. Be prepared to embark on an exciting hunt as you seek out this subterranean sanctuary, where you can trial cocktails and enjoy music below the street-line.
- In’t Aepjen Bar – Another highly unassuming spot, appearing tiny and discrete at first glance, you wouldn’t believe what it withholds inside! Situated in one of the oldest parts of Amsterdam, near the Red Light District, this bar has stood the test of time since the 15th Century, originally serving as a seaman’s bar. It’s a lively and characterful spot, well worth a visit!
- Plantage Flamingo Park – This local gen is a well-known hotspot among the residents, especially during the summer, yet remains undiscovered by many tourists. Situated at the rear of the Artis Zoo, Artisplein is a charming and secluded square nestled beside an open-air flamingo enclosure. The square is home to al fresco dining options and the popular Dutch restaurant De Plantage, drawing in locals who gather here on summer evenings to savour the tranquil ambiance of Artisplein and marvel at the graceful flamingos.
- Chenin Chenin – A modern natural wine shop situated in the Jordaan district, with a wide selection of wines, beers, sake, and cider sourced from various regions in Europe. The shop is known for its diverse events, such as pop-up bagel parties and engaging wine masterclasses. For a unique experience in the city, treat yourself to a private tasting session priced at €50 per person.
Worth the Hype?
For all of Amsterdam’s hidden gens, there are hundreds of viral spots that have attracted crowds of tourists from far and wide. Despite the perks of TikTok for city recommendations, this particular phenomenon is not one of them. Consequently, many of the most recommended spots have attracted long queues of visitors, who patiently pile down the streets waiting for their turn. Most of these spots specialise in selling one thing: food. But are they worth the hype? Let’s find out.
CHUN Cafe is a viral Japanese-inspired sandwich shop known for its fluffy brioche toasts packed with fillings like cheesy egg, tofu, garlic shrimp and an irresistible sweet mayo. The cafe also serves sweet matcha’s, including strawberry and blueberry. Prices for a sandwich range between €10.50 and €14.50, and unless you arrive at opening, be prepared for a wait of around an hour. But is it worth it? Absolutely. While I probably wouldn’t revisit, as a first-time visitor, I can confidently say that the wait was justified by the deliciousness of the sandwich. However, Amsterdam is packed with delicious sandwich shops, so if you don’t feel like queuing, here are some other great spots:
- Zero Zero – Popular spot Italian sandwiches, renowned for their sourdough schiacciata (start serving schiacciata at 10am).
- Restaurant Sebastian – Dine-in sandwiches on the pricier side, but incredibly popular. The mortadella & stracciatella is a crowd favourite.
- Caldi e Freddi – Very affordable and popular panini spot, great for a grab and go lunch by the canal. Popular local spot.
- Breadwinner – Hand rolled sourdough bagels in the heart of Jordaan. You’ll be sure to spot it by the herd of people munching on bagels outside!
- Kauffman – This falafel and beer cafe supposedly sells the best falafel sandwich in town, stuffed into a pita bread with crunchy veg and a generous drizzling of sauce! I can’t wait to try this on my next visit.
- Margos – This husband and wife ran cafe specialises in plant based and sustainably sourced products. They’re known for their flaky croissants, vegan cookies and most importantly, fluffy buns!
- Louf Bakery – A beautifully aesthetic bakery, sourcing local products and seasonal ingredients. They specialise in sourdough and have a popular deli selection, complete with sandwiches, focaccia’s and sourdough!
- Flo’s Deli – Plump and tasty fresh-rolled bagels, loaded with meats and cheeses, and served on a delicious bagel – from jalapeño salt to garlic pepper flavoured dough. For a flavoursome bagel or sweet treat, Flo’s is a great option!
Van Stapele is a popular cookie spot that has built an incredible reputation by selling just one type of cookie: dark chocolate dough filled with gooey white chocolate. Despite not being able to try these cookies on my trip, I have received assurance from a trustworthy source who claims that they are definitely worth the hype, so I’ll be sure to put these on the top of my list for my next return! If you’re looking for a less crowded cookie shop, Salvo Bakehouse are renowned for their pistachio cookie, so make sure to check them out.
Van Wonderen is famous for selling some of the most decadent stroopwafels I’ve ever seen, and they’ve become a viral sensation in the city. However, the lines were so long that we simply couldn’t bear the wait, plus you can find stroopwafels on nearly every corner. They may not be as photogenic or Instagram worthy as Van Wonderen’s, but they’re just as delicious. Instead, we stumbled upon a hidden gen: Lanskroon Bakery. This charming vintage style café serves authentic honey syrup waffles with ice cream, easily one of the best things I tasted on the entire trip! The owners are incredibly friendly, and while their waffles may not be as elaborately decorated as Van Wonderen’s, the proof is in the taste, not the photo.
Lourens Bakery is famous for its signature creation, the “crookie,” a hybrid of a cookie and a croissant. It’s a common sight to see visitors strolling through the city with a Lourens bag in hand, filled with an assortment of pastries and treats. While it is one of the pricier bakeries in town, it has earned rave reviews from foodies far and wide. Having tried (and not been impressed by) a “crookie” in Paris before, it was not at the top of my must-try list. Still, like many viral foodie hotspots, Lourens Bakery often has a long and eager queue of customers waiting for a taste! If you’re looking for an alternative bakery in Amsterdam that is worth the hype without the crowds, De Laatste Kruimel is a fantastic spot for baked goods and cakes. Meanwhile, Winkel 43 is famous for its apple pie, a local delicacy and often regarded as one of the best in the city!
Faber Friet is home to Amsterdam’s most famous Dutch street food, loaded fries served in a paper bag. Honestly, I’m gutted we didn’t get the chance to try them, as they look absolutely phenomenal. We could only handle so many queues, so we decided against the hour long wait. Next time, I’ll make it a mission to arrive at the crack of dawn, though I’m not sure how I feel about mayo fries for breakfast. An alternative often raved about as the best in the city is Vlaams Friteshuis Vleminckx, where you can get any sauce imaginable on your fries, from satay to apple sauce. After all, Vleminckx does mean “sauce master”!
Nobuya has become popular for a delicious treat that is less stereotypically Dutch, mochi donuts. I’m not a huge fan of donuts, so we decided to give this one a miss. However, they are highly popular, and many have raved that they’re worth a try. Not to mention the general allure of the wisteria shrouded shop, which is absolutely stunning! Even if you don’t step inside, you definitely have to snap a photo here!
Good Food Guide
The Amsterdam foodie scene is hands down one of the best I’ve experienced during my European city travels. In the charming Jordaan district, a thriving bakery and sandwich culture awaits, with independent artisan shops lining nearly every street corner. Venturing into the southern part of the city, towards the Leidseplein Area, unveils a vibrant mix of restaurants, bars, and nightlife, reminiscent of the lively Soho in London. With an overwhelming number of options, it’s impossible to sample them all, so here’s a curated selection of tried and tested recommendations that come highly recommended:
- Xian Delicious – Chinese cuisine, famous for their spicy chilli hand-pulled noodles, which were incredible. No need to book ahead (€)📍Leidseplein area.
- Linguini – Super intimate, cosy and discrete hidden gen, tucked away in the Jordaan area. The pasta is absolutely delicious, it was plated beautifully and the portions are generous. Highly recommend, but make sure to book ahead! (€€) 📍Jordaan
- Ceppi’s – Italian cuisine, which comes highly recommended, but is incredibly hard to book. Make sure to plan your visit a few weeks in advance. I tried to book two weeks ahead and there was nothing available (€€) 📍Leidseplein Area.
- Moeders -Traditional Dutch food. The restaurant is incredibly fun and vibrant, with quirky picture covered walls. Comes highly recommended and is on my list for next time! (€€) 📍South of Jordaan
- Rosario Cocina Mexicana – Mexican cuisine, tacos and cocktails. A really beautiful restaurant and a great spot if you’re looking to spice things up! Stumbled upon this in Jordaan and I loved the vibe, will definitely be returning (€€€) 📍Jordaan
- Restaurant the Pantry Amsterdam – Traditional Dutch food. One of the most popular spots in the city. Keeping this on my list for next time as we struggled to find authentic Dutch cuisine. Make sure to book ahead (€€) 📍Leidseplein Area.
- Mesiba – Stunning Eastern Mediterranean restaurant, which is such a treasure. Incredibly unassuming from outside, but breathtaking within. Comes highly recommended. (€€) 📍Leidseplein Area.
- Lolo Bar – This is a really cool space, and is reminiscent of the Big Mama style. Hanging canopies and vibrant colour palettes, Lolo is certainly instagram worthy (€€) 📍Dam Square area.
- Gio’s by the River – Italian cuisine with a colourful indoor space and waterfront outdoor seating, highly recommended (€€) 📍Amsterdam North.
- Lagom & Ted’s All Day Brunch – Brunch culture is huge in Amsterdam and you’ll no doubt find a cute spot by chance. Lagom and Ted’s All Day Brunch are two of the most recommended, so make sure to give them a visit! (€-€€) 📍Red Light District & Jordaan
- Pizza Beppe Quattro – Authentic Neapolitan pizza restaurant, the first in the city to be accepted by Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (€€) 📍Multiple Locations
- Have a Roll – Famous for it’s freshly baked cinnamon roll’s, this little bakery generates quite the queue, so make sure to get here early morning! (€) 📍De Pijp area
- De Carrousel Pancake House – One of the most popular spots to try Poffertjes, which are tiny Dutch pancakes sprinkled in sugar and topped with butter, or lathered in molten chocolate. These are delicious and a must-try in Amsterdam! (€) 📍South towards De Pijp area
- Saint Jean – One of the most recommended cafes and bakeries in the city, you will no doubt see this on most TikTok recommendations. It’s a beautiful little spot, but we weren’t able to try it out because of the queue, so get here early! (€€) 📍Jordaan
- Good Beans – One of the top TripAdviser rated spots in Amsterdam. They specialise in coffee and can be found in the lesser touristy part of the city (€) 📍North of Jordaan area
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