Amsterdam travel guide
Amsterdam's 17th-century canal ring, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is lined with gabled houses, bridges and houseboats. Major museums, cosy cafés and bike rides out to windmills and villages complete most trips.
Best time to visit Amsterdam
April and May bring tulip season, with the Keukenhof gardens open for a few weeks in spring. Summer is mild and the busiest time.
Autumn and winter are cooler, wetter and quieter. Rain is common year-round, so pack a waterproof layer.
Getting to Amsterdam
Schiphol Airport (AMS) has direct flights from many US cities. Trains run from the airport to Amsterdam Centraal in about 15 to 20 minutes.
Recent round-trip fares Aviasales travellers found recently. Tap a route to see that trip and today's price on Aviasales.
Getting around
Trams and metro
GVB trams and metro cover the city. Tap in and out with a contactless card or a GVB travel pass.
By bike
Cycling is the local way to get around, with bike lanes everywhere. Rental shops are all over the centre; watch for trams and follow the bike signals.
On foot and by boat
The canal ring is compact and walkable. Canal cruises leave from Centraal Station and the museum quarter.
Top things to do in Amsterdam
1. Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum
Dutch masters including Rembrandt's Night Watch, and the largest collection of Van Gogh's work, side by side on Museumplein. Book timed tickets.
See tours & prices ›2. Anne Frank House
The hiding place of Anne Frank and her family. Tickets are sold online only, released weeks in advance, and go fast.
See tours & prices ›3. Canal cruise
An hour on the water is the easiest way to see the canal ring's houses, bridges and houseboats.
See tours & prices ›4. Zaanse Schans and the countryside
Working windmills, wooden houses and cheese farms a short trip north of the city.
See tours & prices ›Practical tips
- Never walk in red bike lanes; cyclists ride fast and have right of way.
- Book major museums and the Anne Frank House online before you go; many do not sell tickets at the door.
- Some trams and many shops are card-only, so a contactless card is more useful than cash.
Amsterdam travel FAQ
How many days do you need in Amsterdam?
Two to three days covers the canals, main museums and a neighbourhood or two. Add a day for Zaanse Schans, Haarlem or Keukenhof in spring.
When is tulip season in Amsterdam?
Roughly from late March to mid-May, depending on the weather. Keukenhof gardens open only during this period.
How do you get from Schiphol to Amsterdam?
Direct trains run frequently from the station under the airport to Amsterdam Centraal, taking about 15 to 20 minutes.