Amsterdam Do’s and Don’ts: Plan Your Perfect Itinerary

Amsterdam and I got off to a rocky start. My first trip? Meh. I left feeling a little unimpressed. Fast forward a decade, and the city swept me off my feet. So what was the difference? Partly, the city itself had transformed with a now-thriving food scene and cute local shops adding to its charm. But more importantly, I discovered that what you do in Amsterdam can dramatically shape your experience. So, to save you from a “meh” moment, here’s my take on what to skip and what’s absolutely worth your time in this endlessly fascinating city.

Amsterdam Do’s: What Not to Miss

If you want to fall head-over-heels for Amsterdam, these are the experiences you simply can’t miss:

Explore the 9 Streets

Tucked near the Anne Frank House, this neighborhood is Amsterdam at its most picturesque. Wander through cobblestone streets lined with quirky boutiques and vintage stores, and don’t forget to grab at least a few Van Stapele double-stuffed cookies—they are chocolatey perfection.

Take a Canal Cruise

Amsterdam’s canals are iconic for a reason. Gliding through the waterways gives you a unique perspective on the city’s charm and offers a welcome break from all the walking you’re bound to do during your visit. There are endless boat tours to choose from, but we went with Those Dam Boat Guys and had a great time. Don’t forget to grab an alcoholic beverage to sip on during your journey!

Visit the Anne Frank House

No trip to Amsterdam is complete without visiting this deeply moving and historic site. Remember to book your tickets in advance and try to go early in the morning on a weekday to avoid long lines. It’s a small museum and it’s nice to be able to experience it without the distraction of a crowd.

Get Lost in Jordaan

This neighborhood is like stepping into a postcard. Its narrow streets and charming courtyards are full of hidden gems. Brouwersgracht, often hailed as Amsterdam’s most beautiful canal, offers breathtaking views and endless photo ops. Food tasting tours here are a crowd favorite, combining delicious bites with an immersive dive into the area’s history.

Bike the Countryside

Escape the city buzz by biking through Amsterdam’s serene countryside. Take the free ferry to Amsterdam-Noord, then follow Route 9 to explore dike villages, lush grasslands, and the charming island of Marken. It’s quintessentially Dutch.

Take a Quick Trip to Haarlem

Just 15 minutes by train, Haarlem offers cozy restaurants, historic cobblestone streets, and well-preserved medieval architecture. We spent a lovely afternoon sharing a bottle of wine and people watching at a café in Grote Markt, the city’s central market square.

Browse De Looier Antiques Market

If you love treasure hunting, this indoor antiques market is a dream. You never know what quirky or unique item you might find. Amsterdam is famous for its rainy days so it’s a good option in less-than-ideal weather.

Amsterdam Don’ts: What to Skip

Even the most magical cities have a few overrated or tricky spots. Here’s what to skip—or approach with caution—while in Amsterdam:

Bike in the City Center

Amsterdam’s bike culture is legendary, but the city center can be chaotic for visitors. Between the swarms of locals, tourists, and confusing traffic rules, cycling here can quickly turn stressful. On my first trip to the city, I ended up crashing while trying to bike while holding an open umbrella—a testament to the overconfidence you have in your 20s. Stick to biking in the countryside or less hectic neighborhoods if you’re not a seasoned cyclist.

Visit Keukenhof Gardens (Unless It’s Peak Season)

While the tulip fields are undeniably stunning, Keukenhof is only worth the journey during peak blooming season (usually mid-April). Otherwise, you might find yourself staring at nice, but unremarkable greenery instead of vibrant flowers. Plus, it’s a trek to get there from central Amsterdam.

Stroll Through Vondelpark

I might get flak for this one because Vondelpark is a nice park. However, it doesn’t offer anything you haven’t seen before. If you’re choosing between Vondelpark and something else on the “do” list above, skip it! With that said, if you have ample time, it’s a great park for a leisurely walk.

Spend Time in the Red Light District

While it’s one of Amsterdam’s most infamous areas, the Red Light District feels more like a commercialized attraction than a meaningful cultural experience. The area’s historical significance is overshadowed by rowdy crowds and tacky shops. It’s worth a visit, but don’t spend significant time there.

Shop at Bloemenmarkt

What sounds like a dreamy floating flower market is, unfortunately, more of a tourist trap these days. Most of the "flower stalls" sell bulbs and souvenirs rather than fresh blooms. For a more authentic experience, visit a local spot like Albert Cuyp Market.

Eat at Restaurants in Dam Square

Dam Square is Amsterdam’s buzzing hub, but its restaurants are often overpriced and underwhelming, catering mostly to tourists. For a better meal, venture a little further to neighborhoods like the 9 Streets or De Pijp.

So, there you have it—my ultimate guide to experiencing the best and skipping the rest in Amsterdam. With the right itinerary, this city will quickly become one of your favorites. Safe travels and happy exploring!

WELCOME

Hey there! I’m Kolby, the adventurer behind Tallentire Travels! This site was born from my endless love of exploring the world. My mission? To bring you the best travel tips for every destination. Learn More