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AMSTERDAM ON A DIME
JORDAAN & NOORDERMARKT
Experience the old-world charm of Jordaan, a neighborhood steeped in history and character, hailed as one of Amsterdam’s most enchanting areas. Stroll through the narrow streets flanked by charming buildings and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of this former working-class quarter. Today, it boasts an alluring mix of independent art galleries, trendy bars, quaint restaurants, antique shops, and courtyard gardens. Don’t miss out on the bustling Noordermarkt, which takes place every Monday and Saturday in one of Amsterdam’s most picturesque squares near the Noorderkerk. And, treat yourself to a slice of the best Dutch apple pie in town at Cafe Winkel 43.
VONDELPARK
Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s largest green space, and one of the city’s most popular attractions for locals and visitors alike. Located just minutes from busy areas like the Leidseplein and Museumplein, this 47-hectare park offers plenty of space to walk, relax, or enjoy a coffee at one of its cafés. Plus, in case you brought your furry friend along this trip, they are welcome to join, making it the perfect place for a scenic stroll together.
VINTAGE SHOPPING
Who says shopping has to cost a lot? If you don’t want to spend too much but still feel like going on a little shopping spree, go vintage. You not only pay a fraction of the retail price, but it’s also better for the environment. Here are some options:
IJhallen (every three weeks at NDSM-wharff)
Bij Ons Vintage (has several locations in Amsterdam)
The Zipper (has several locations in Amsterdam)
We Are Vintage (has several locations in Amsterdam)
THE MOUSE MANSION
If you are in Amsterdam and looking for something unique, The Mouse Mansion: Sam & Julia is a charming little spot you shouldn’t miss. It’s a tiny world full of beautiful miniature rooms, furniture, and stories about two mice, Sam and Julia. Every room is full of detail, like a real tiny home, and it feels magical to walk through. It’s perfect for families, art lovers, or anyone who enjoys something different.
GASSAN DIAMOND EXPERIENCE TOUR
The Gassan Diamond Experience Tour in Amsterdam is a must-visit for anyone curious about diamonds. This free tour shows you how diamonds are made, from rough stones to sparkling gems, with skilled craftsmen working right before your eyes. You’ll also learn about diamond history and see beautiful pieces up close. It’s both educational and fascinating, and best of all — it won’t cost you a thing.
BROUWERIJ ‘T IJ
Found in the former Funen bathhouse next to the De Gooyer windmill, this small, certified organic brewery was opened by former musician Kaspar Peterson back in 1985. You’ll find their standard selection here and across the city, along with their unique seasonal and special occasion brews. Opt for one of their guided tours or tastings, then grab a spot in the pub or on the sunny terrace outside.
ALBERT CUYP MARKET
This market has been a favorite for Amsterdammers since 1905, but tourists, students, day-trippers and entrepreneurs are also at home here. Located in one of the most popular districts of Amsterdam, it’s a place to experience an authentic atmosphere and all-around happiness.
TWO CHEFS FOOD BAR
Indulge in a sensory explosion of bold flavors and unique brews at Two Chefs Food Bar. In 2012, two visionary chefs embarked on a journey to create daring flavor combinations and brewed their own beers at home. Today, their passion has blossomed into a thriving brewery and two cozy restaurants and bars in Amsterdam. Sample their Funky Falcon Pale Ale or Bon Chef New England IPA, crafted with the finest ingredients, and savor their delectable lunch and dinner menu. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or food lover, Two Chefs Food Bar is a must-visit spot in Amsterdam’s West or Zuid district.
DE HALLEN AMSTERDAM
De Hallen is located in Amsterdam Old-West and is home to multiple different cultural and entrepreneurial initiatives. Inside De Hallen is De Foodhallen, which is a well-known place by locals, as you can choose from many different cuisines while dining together. Whether you want to visit an exhibition, food market or cinema, De Hallen is the place to be.
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ARTS & CULTURE
FABRIQUE DES LUMIERES
Fabrique des Lumières offers an unparalleled art experience, where cutting-edge technology is seamlessly integrated into the vast open spaces of Amsterdam’s Westergasfabriek. This immersive exhibition showcases the works of the greatest artists in history through digital imagery and sound, providing a modern and captivating experience. Alongside classical and modern art, the museum also features contemporary creations that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
THE RIJKSMUSEUM
Its world-famous masterworks from the Dutch Golden Age include “The Milkmaid” by Vermeer and Rembrandt’s “Night Watch”. The Rijksmuseum itself is also a masterpiece. The collection is presented in a stunning building with amazing interior design. In 80 galleries 8,000 objects tell the story of 800 years of Dutch art and history, from the Middle Ages to Mondrian.
VAN GOGH MUSEUM
Explore the world-renowned masterpieces of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries at the Van Gogh Museum. Housing the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s works in the world, this museum provides insight into the artist’s inspiring life and art. Marvel at his famous painting “Sunflowers” and take a moment to compare his works with those of other 19th-century artists.
H’ART MUSEUM
H’ART Museum, formerly the Hermitage, is an international art museum in the heart of Amsterdam. Housed in a historic building, it presents memorable exhibitions and serves as a cultural oasis with a garden, café, and a lively program of concerts, lectures, and film nights.
ARTIS-GROOTE MUSEUM
The interactive nature museum at Amsterdam Royal Zoo takes you on a journey through art and installations to show how humans, animals, plants, and microbes form one interconnected ecosystem. From trees that “talk” to babies moving like crocodiles, you’ll discover surprising links in nature and be reminded that we are not separate from it. We are nature.
FOAM
FOAM, located on the pituresque Keizersgracht, is a photography museum featuring national and international talent. The exhibitions vary from photography to visual installation to graphic works. The combination of the exciting exhibitions in the historic building is an experience in itself. Keep an eye on the website for updates on the current exhibition.
STRAAT MUSEUM
Nestled in the former NDSM shipyard, Straat Museum is Amsterdam’s premier destination for street and graffiti art. From the iconic works of Keith Haring to Banksy’s subversive creations, this museum offers a fresh and invigorating perspective on contemporary art, fashion, design, advertising, and culture.
ANNE FRANK HOUSE
Discover the poignant story of Anne Frank and her family at the Anne Frank House. This museum is housed in the actual house where the Frank family hid during World War II, and aims to increase global awareness of Anne’s life story. If you’re interested in learning more about Anne Frank’s diary and the Secret Annex, a visit to this museum is a must.
HUIS MARSEILLE
This stately canal house from 1665 has a little secret of its own. Walk inside and you’ll soon realize you’re in the city’s first photography museum and among some of the most world-renowned photographs in the world. The building’s historical architecture and design are worth the trip alone. Check out their website to see what exhibitions are currently on display.
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AMSTERDAM’S INDULGENCES
L’ABEILLE
People love L’Abeille Pastry & Coffee in Amsterdam for its delicious French-style pastries. The shop is run by a pastry chef who trained in Michelin-star restaurants, so everything tastes and looks amazing. It’s a small, cozy place with a friendly vibe, where you can also take pastry classes. Many say it feels like a little piece of Paris in Amsterdam.
THE EYE FILM MUSEUM
A modern-day Amsterdam icon, the Eye Film Museum is also home to a cinema and water-view café with a huge collection of Dutch movies, foreign films and film posters. Explore the history of cinema, grab a drink in the café, then catch a foreign art-house film or restored classic before hopping on the 5-minute free and easy ferry back to Centraal Station.
STACKS DINER
Stacks Diner blends classic American home cooking with European ingredients, offering a modern take on comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a spot to have a cosy family dinner or a place to unwind with a nightcap, Stacks Diner has you covered.
CEPPI’S
Discover your new go-to spot for an unforgettable evening at Ceppi’s, located in the heart of Amsterdam. Savor their authentic Italian goodness, including delicious pizzas, linguine with clams, ravioli with lemon and ricotta, and more. Stay late for strong cocktails and local mingling, and enjoy a cozy ambiance that invites you to gather and celebrate with friends.
DOOR 74
Step into a world of artistic ambiance at Door 74, tucked away in a hidden location. Admire the dark wood and antique barware as you savor the perfectly balanced, classic and creative cocktails. The innovative menu offers a range of heavier and easy-drinking cocktails, alongside imported cocktails, wines, and champagnes. It’s the perfect spot to indulge in a high-quality drink and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
DEGUELLE
Deguelle Patisserie is a small, cozy bakery in Amsterdam Oost known for its French-style pastries and relaxed atmosphere. They bake everything fresh each day, from buttery croissants and almond pastries to their popular pistachio cruffin. The patisserie also makes Dutch vlaaien (fruit pies), blending French technique with local flavors. With its warm interior and friendly service, Deguelle is a welcoming spot for a morning coffee or a sweet treat any time of day.
PROEFLOKAAL ‘T BLAUWE THEEHUIS
Proeflokaal ‘t Blauwe Theehuis is Amsterdam’s hidden gem nestled in the heart of Vondelpark. With its iconic blue exterior and scenic surroundings ‘t Blauwe Theehuis offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely afternoon tea or soaking up the sun on the spacious terrace, unwind and savor the simple pleasures of life.
VAN STAPELE
Satisfy your sweet tooth cravings with a visit to Van Stapele, where you’ll find a mouthwatering cookie that’s worth the wait. Sink your teeth into a crunchy dark chocolate exterior filled with a soft white chocolate cream. The lovely ladies at Van Stapele bake these treats all day long, and you might even get lucky and snag a warm one. Prepare to queue up, but trust us – it’s definitely worth it.
THE BUTCHER
Feel like having the best burger in town? (Who doesn’t?) The Butcher is where to go. You can choose from one of four locations in Amsterdam. Each location, just like the food, has an easy-going vibe, and any dish you order is great. We strongly recommend the truffle burger accompanied by some sweet potato fries. If you have room for a milkshake, don’t hesitate to order a spiked one.
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CONSCIOUS AMSTERDAM
DIGNITA HOFTUIN
Escape the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam’s center and relax in the serene greenery of Hoftuin. Dignita offers all-day brunch options, delicious breakfast, lunch, and a peaceful ambiance. Sit inside their cozy restaurant or outside on the terrace to soak up the atmosphere and indulge in some quality time with friends and family.
CHEZ NINA
Experience a casual shared dining concept with a twist at Chez Nina. Led by Swedish chef Nina Olsson, the menu is based on plant-based ingredients that change with each season. Savor the flavors of neo-bistro cuisine and complement your meal with their lush cocktails and natural, vegan wines. Whether it’s a tasting menu, à la carte, or brunch, Chez Nina is a must-visit for foodies seeking a unique culinary experience.
KINDERBOERDERIJ DE PIJP
Tucked away from the city buzz, Kinderboerderij De Pijp is where urbanites become farm hands for a day. Spend time with goats, feed the chickens, and embrace the laid-back vibes of countryside life living right in the heart of Amsterdam. The petting zoo is free of charge and it is not necessary to make a reservation.
LENA FASHION LIBRARY
Looking for a way to revamp your wardrobe without compromising your commitment to sustainability? Look no further than Lena Fashion Library. Their impressive collection consists exclusively of high-quality, pre-loved clothing that can be borrowed for a fraction of the retail price, and each item can also be purchased if you fall in love with it. By opting for this eco-friendly alternative to fast fashion, you can refresh your style with a clear conscience.
DIGNITA HOFTUIN
Dignita Hoftuin is a café serving delicious food alongside the motto ‘eat well, do good.’ This is reflected in its sourcing of mainly local and organic ingredients and in its collaboration with Not for Sale, an organisation that provides certified training programmes to victims of human trafficking.
SAINT-JEAN
Indulge your sweet tooth and caffeine cravings at Saint-Jean, a sleek plant-based bakery and specialty coffee shop located in the vibrant Jordaan district. Admire the minimalist decor and enjoy some of their delectable pastries and sustainably-brewed coffee at one of their marble-topped tables.
DE KAS
A dining experience like no other, De Kas offers Mediterranean cuisine made with the freshest ingredients. Situated in a former greenhouse surrounded by lush greenery, the produce is grown on-site and in local gardens. Indulge in a culinary adventure with their impressive wine list, and enjoy the perfect setting for gatherings with friends and family.
LENA LIBRARY
The Lena Library in Amsterdam is known for being a fashion library where people can borrow clothes instead of buying them. It promotes sustainable fashion by offering a curated collection of designer and vintage pieces that members can rent, wear, and return. The library encourages conscious consumption, helping reduce textile waste while allowing visitors to enjoy stylish, high-quality clothing in an eco-friendly way.
PLLEK
Discover the unexpected at PLLEK, located in the creative and vibrant Amsterdam North. They focus on sustainable food, with most of their vegetables grown in-house and their meat and fish sourced from the North Sea. But it’s not just about the food – PLLEK hosts weekly live music, movie nights, dance events, and more, making it a hub for culture and creativity.
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FANCY AMSTERDAM
X BANK
A one-of-a-kind concept store and art exhibition space set in the historic W Hotel Amsterdam, the 450-square-metre store is a destination for the best in Dutch art, fashion and design. A meeting and event space for the local creative community, X BANK hosts both small and large-scale public expositions, lectures and gatherings, with changing artworks to keep the creative community inspired.
Vedder & Vedder
Looking for a little something special? Stop by this Amsterdam atelier to to check out the gorgeous, personalised jewellery created by two Dutch sisters (and get a sneak peek behind the scenes). It’s a popular spot, so don’t forget to make an appointment over on their website first.
PC Hooftstraat
The most luxurious shopping street in Amsterdam, the PC Hooftstraat is well-known across the Netherlands and beyond. Drawing in visitors with its chic ambiance and international allure, there’s no shortage of beautiful brands from around the world to explore. If you’re looking to treat yourself to something luxurious and high-end, add this one to your list.
MR PORTER
Experience the perfect blend of modern steakhouse cuisine and chic lounge atmosphere at Mr Porter. With a prime location on the top floor of the W Hotel, this unique concept serves up sophisticated and surprising takes on steakhouse classics alongside mouthwatering cocktails. The cozy ambiance and stylish decor make Mr Porter the ultimate destination for a memorable evening out.
CECCONI’S
Cecconi’s Amsterdam is a stylish Italian restaurant located within the historic 1930s Bungehuis building near Dam Square. The restaurant serves modern Northern Italian cuisine: handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and classic dishes like veal Milanese and lobster spaghetti. The restaurant is also known for its gluten-free options, accommodating guests with dietary needs.
CANTINE DE CARON
Cantine de Caron in Amsterdam is known for its warm ambiance and French-Mediterranean cuisine, set within a stylish industrial-chic environment. Located in the historic Westergas Cultural Park, the restaurant occupies a former factory building with high ceilings and exposed brick walls, creating a spacious yet inviting atmosphere. The menu blends classic French dishes with Mediterranean influences.
ENTREPOT
If you want a locally-sourced, mesmerizing dinner experience, go to this restaurant located on a small dock and in a former warehouse space. For once, veggies are the stars of the show and meat takes a backseat. We recommend that you to go all out—order as much as you possibly can and get the wine pairing. It’s worth every penny.
MOMO Restaurant, Bar & Lounge
MOMO is culinary hotspot located next to Vondelpark in the heart of Amsterdam. Go for fancy dining with cocktails in a timeless, cosmopolitan and sparkling atmosphere. During weekends, you can find many locals getting together there for cocktails and bites.
IZAKAYA Asian Kitchen & Bar
The words “Asian fusion” don’t do IZAKAYA justice. If you can get a reservation, the concept of this sleek Amsterdam hotspot is Japanese with a South American twist (think padron peppers with yuzu miso), and their cocktail menu will change the way you think of sake.
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DOG-FRIENDLY
Drovers Dog
Drovers Dog is an Australian cafe with laidback Aussie vibes. With three locations in Amsterdam, you’ll always find one nearby. The best thing is your four‑legged friend is more than welcome to join you for brunch, lunch, dinner and drinks!
Mr & Mrs Watson
At Mr&Mrs Watson, you and your dog are more than welcome. At this restaurant, they love animals so much that they only serve plant‑based food and their goal is to “change the world with good food”.
Ao Bart
At the Japanese‑inspired AO Bar, your four‑legged friend is always welcome and most likely will receive a treat when visiting.
Pllek
Pllek is the jack‑of‑all‑trades. Whether you visit to relax at a yoga class, have drinks and bites with friends or want to party when the DJ is around, Pllek is the place to be. Dogs are welcome for it all. In October they even host a three‑course dinner for you and your dog!
Vondelpark
Vondelpark is the most famous park in Amsterdam and is also called “Amsterdam’s lungs”. Your furry friend is allowed to run loose in almost every part of the park, resulting in many, many dog playgrounds.
Het Stenen Hoofd
This area, a 20‑minute walk from Max Brown Canal District, is heaven for all dogs. It has lots of room to run around and even includes a small beach.
Dog Playground Buiksloterweg
In Amsterdam North, you will find a playground where your furry friend can run and play with other friends. This playground is even equipped with digging spots, small fences to jump over and car tires to sneak through. A dog’s paradise on earth.
Frederik Hendrikplantsoen
Only a 15‑minute walk from Max Brown Canal District, you’ll find this park. It has a small fenced playground where your dog can run loose and play with others.
Woof & Me
Enjoy some quality time with your best furry friend at Woof & Me, located in one of Amsterdam’s most buzzing areas, de Pijp. Whilst you enjoy some sandwiches, healthy bowls, sweets, and coffee – your dog gets to enjoy some gluten-free and homemade treats, either with or without meat. Your pup can even play with other dogs off-leash, and make new friends.