Top 10 picks of Amsterdam from our concierge
Take a canal boat tour (private or organized)
Amsterdam’s 165 canals were created in the 17th century to improve the city’s transportation system. Today this UNESCO World Heritage Site defines Amsterdam’s landscape and is the best way to explore the city. The canal boat tours offer unparalleled views of centuries-old architecture, charming canal houses and monuments.
Visit Amsterdam’s Museum Quarter
Amsterdam’s Museum Quarter is an easy, scenic stroll from the hotel, and internationally renowned for the world’s most famous museums, high-end shopping and fancy restaurants. Discover works of art within the hushed halls of the Rijksmuseum, or wander along the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh’s artwork at the Van Gogh Museum.
Food tour through De Pijp area
Being situated in the cosmopolitan De Pijp neighbourhood, you are within a split second in the middle of the lively district with its colourful mix of cuisines, terraces and cafes. Your guide will give you a taste of the truly Dutch delicacies and authentic international delights while wandering along the 260 stands of the Albert Cuyp Market.
Discover quirky shops and wonderful eateries at the Negen Straatjes
Located in the heart of the city’s historical canal district, this area of nine picturesque streets was constructed in the 17th century. After 400 years the Negen Straatjes (Nine Streets) is the trendiest shopping area with vintage stores, boutiques, hidden cafes and art galleries.
Visit windmill village Zaanse Schans and fisherman’s village Volendam
Within a 30-minute drive you will arrive at the residential area at the Zaanse Schans in which the 18th and 19th centuries are brought back to life. It offers a perfectly preserved glimpse into The Netherlands’ industrial past with its traditional houses, windmills, warehouses and workshops. You should certainly visit the cheese factory. From Zaanse Schans it is only a 20-minute drive away from the fisherman’s village Volendam. Stroll down the harbor strip De Dijk and make sure you enjoy some freshly caught fish.
Walking tours through Amsterdam (private or organized)
Explore the hidden gems of the city while wandering along the canals. During the Amsterdam Old Town walking you will discover Begijnhof, one of the oldest courtyards in Amsterdam and originally used as a community for religious women. Here you will also find Houten Huys (wooden house), one of the oldest wooden houses of Amsterdam. As a striking contrast to this old Catholic neighbourhood, you will pass by the Red Light District, which is located around the Old Church and is the oldest area of the city. During the Rembrandt walking tour you will pass by the most important places tied to his life and career while learning more about his life and art.
Visit artis
In the midst of the city of Amsterdam you will find a great diversity of plants and animals. Stroll around in Artis, the oldest zoo of The Netherlands, and discover all 900 animals.
Discover Amsterdam-North
Directly across the water – the IJ – behind the Central Station, urban renewal meets nature’s best in Amsterdam-North. Visit the A’Dam Lookout for a panoramic view and try Europe’s highest swing, or fly like a bird and soar over the must-see locations at This Is Holland. Next door you will find the EYE film museum, the place to enjoy the best of cinematic history, often in newly restored versions.
Visit Jewish cultural quarter
Amsterdam has historically been the centre of the Dutch Jewish community. During a walking tour you can explore modern Jewish life as well as the pre-war Jewish community. You will start at the Jewish Amsterdam Historical Museum, which is the former Ashkenazy synagogue complex. From here you will pass by great facades, buildings and monuments, such as Waterlooplein, the Auschwitz Monument and Gassan Diamonds on Uilenburgerstraat.
Explore Zeedijk
Zeedijk is a street in the old centre of Amsterdam. It was constructed as a sea wall or dike to protect Amsterdam from the water of the IJ. Until the construction of the Herengracht at the beginning of the 17th century wealthy regents and merchants lived here. After their departure, the Zeestraat and surrounding streets became an entertainment area for sailors. This was reduced by municipal action and nowadays it forms the heart of Amsterdam’s Chinatown.