Amsterdam, with its canals, bicycles, and vibrant culture, is a city that captivates visitors. However, beyond the iconic images lies a unique and sometimes quirky reality. Here are some insider tips to help you navigate the city like a local.
- **Embrace the Tram System:** Purchase a tram pass at Amsterdam Centraal Station and explore the city with ease. While you might initially misdirect yourself, the frequent tram service makes navigating the city a breeze.
- **Skip the Pre-Rolled Joints:** Instead of purchasing overpriced pre-rolled joints, invest in a bag of your preferred strain and learn to roll your own. This not only saves you money but also allows you to experiment with different strains and enjoy the process.
- **Go in Summer:** Forget the romanticised images of winter in Amsterdam. While charming, the cold and rainy weather can dampen your spirits. Embrace the vibrant energy of summer with sunshine, blooming flowers, and a plethora of outdoor activities.
- **Be Super Alert:** Amsterdam’s traffic can be chaotic, with mopeds weaving through pedestrians and cars seemingly oblivious to the rules of the road. Be alert and exercise caution when navigating the city’s streets.
- **Explore Beyond the Tourist Traps:** While the city centre offers plenty to see, venture beyond the crowded tourist areas. Explore the charming neighbourhoods further afield, discover hidden gems, and enjoy a more authentic Amsterdam experience.
- **Embrace the Unexpected:** Getting lost in Amsterdam can be a rewarding experience. Wander down unfamiliar streets, stumble upon hidden canals, and discover unique shops and cafes.
- **Don’t Expect Warm Welcomes from Every Local:** Amsterdammers can sometimes appear aloof or even unfriendly. This may simply be a cultural difference, but don’t let it deter you from enjoying your visit.
- **Meat Lovers Beware:** While Amsterdam offers a variety of culinary experiences, meat lovers might find themselves disappointed. The city leans heavily towards vegetarian and vegan options, with meat dishes often limited and expensive.
- **Skip the Sex Museum:** The infamous sex museum is largely a tourist trap. Avoid the crowds and the underwhelming experience.
- **Embrace the Red Light District:** While not everyone’s cup of tea, the Red Light District is a unique and fascinating part of Amsterdam. Take a respectful stroll through the area and observe the unique atmosphere.
- **Relax in the Parks:** Amsterdam boasts numerous beautiful parks and squares. Take time to relax amidst the greenery, enjoy the tranquillity, and soak in the city’s atmosphere.
- **Embrace the “Pissoirs”:** Amsterdam’s unique public urinals, known as “pissoirs,” offer a convenient and hygienic alternative to searching for public restrooms.
- **Embrace the Unexpected:** Amsterdam is a city of surprises. Be open to unexpected encounters, embrace the quirks, and allow yourself to be captivated by the city’s unique charm.
I could go on forever, but discovering the bonkers (yet genius) way this beautiful Dutch city functions is half the fun of being here! I’d advise visiting for more than a weekend though, as many of my friends fail to see Amsterdam’s charm in such a short period of time. Leave questions in the comments and I’ll answer what I can, but every time I visit I feel like I’m learning this city from scratch!
