Amsterdam city breaks

Ahh Amsterdam, does it get more iconic? On the one hand it’s all tulips, townhouses, canalside cycling and pile-‘em-high pancakes in cosy cafés. Then on the other, you can delve into a hip world of vintage boutiques, cutting-edge dining, cool coffee shops and an after-dark scene that’s in a league of its own. But let’s not forget the heaps of history and amazing art in between. Swing by Museumplein to check out Rembrandts and more at the Rijksmuseum, not to mention the many masterpieces at the Van Gogh Museum. Anne Frank’s House gives a sobering peek into the past, while families can get in on the action at the city’s wide-open parks and fun-packed zoo. Stroopwafels, wheels of cheese and mayo-topped fries are all on the menu too!

Things to do in Amsterdam

Canals lined with culture

Just two metres above sea level, the Dutch capital is a picturesque labyrinth of Gothic buildings and canals just waiting to be explored. Book a cruise around the waterways to get a different perspective of the city or do as the locals do and cycle along the canals yourself!

A trip back in time

Soak up the history of a time gone by as you meander the maze of this city. With over 100 museums to choose from, following in the footsteps of Amsterdam’s famous is as easy as can be. Whether you’re a fan of film or inspired by science, this is the place to learn about it!

Neon-lit nightlife

The Netherlands knows how to have a good time. In this city you’ve got everything from craft breweries to bass-filled super clubs. Leidseplein is the heart of it all, with more pubs and bars than you can shake a pint at. Love beer? Head to the Heineken Experience for a tour and tasting.

Amstel Botel Hotel

Amsterdam City, Amsterdam

Our rating

Based on 2314 reviews

Complimentary ferry connection to Centraal Station
Floating hotel
4km from De Wallen
Located in the trendy NDSM Shipyard
Great for stag and hens

Estherea Hotel Amsterdam

Amsterdam City, Amsterdam

Our rating

Based on 4793 reviews

Great for friends and couples
Beautiful, historic building
150m from the nearest tram stop
500m from Dam Square
800m from Anne Frank House

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Albert Cuyp Market

Amsterdam

Try some traditional Dutch street food, like delicious, caramel-filled stroopwafel at the Albert Cuyp Market, a vibrant daily street market, in multicultural De Pijp. Look behind the stalls filled with fresh...

Amsterdam Museum

Amsterdam

Visit the Amsterdam Museum, located in the old city orphanage, to discover the interesting history of this vibrant, historic city. The huge exhibition follows a timeline from the Middles Ages to the present...

Anne Frank House

Amsterdam

A moving but must-see experience is a visit to Anne Frank House. It’s hard to imagine what life was like hiding from the Nazis in the family’s Secret Annex but the collection of audio clips, photographs and...

Language

Dutch

Currency

Euro

Time difference

+1hr

Cost of a beer

£4 / €4.50

24-hour public transport pass

£29.50 / €33.10

Three course meal

£53 / €59.40

Sightseeing

Amsterdam is bursting at the seams with magnificent museums, amazing architecture and historical gems. Head to Dam Square in the hub of the city and you’ll be spoilt with 360° views of the sights on offer. Feeling cultural? Why not spend the day ticking the top attractions off your to-see list.

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Eating and drinking

Did someone say pancakes? Whether you enjoy them stacked and drizzled or rolled and filled, Amsterdam’s got these sweet treats covered. Prefer something savoury? Taking global inspiration, street food staples here range from chips drenched in satay sauce and fish goujons to falafel wraps and nasi goreng.

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Shopping

Along the canals, you’ll find lots of quirky shops selling everything from books and antiques to vintage clothes. But if you’re after colourful souvenirs, visit Dam Square and pick up cute gifts like decorated wooden clogs. Those after a high-street hit should make a beeline for Kalverstraat, where you’ll find the likes of Urban Outfitters and Zara.

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Getting around

Amsterdam is famed for being very flat, making bike hire a joyful way to see the sights. There’s also an excellent tram and metro system, and you can take advantage of special chipkaarts (chip cards) for timed travel. One of the best ways to get around on an Amsterdam city break, however, is of course by foot.