Amsterdam travel information

Amsterdam has a reputation for tolerance laced with sin, but it is equally renowned for its scenic and cultural attractions. Amsterdam's hotels are known for their cleanliness and hospitality, its restaurants offer world-class cuisine, and along the city streets is a shopper's paradise. Additionally, Amsterdam is nourished by a wealth of museums, concert halls, and avant-garde theatre and dance venues. Its relaxed and tolerant attitudes draw those looking for a creative, anything-goes atmosphere. It is smaller than most European capitals, making it easy to explore on foot as well as relatively safe, although pickpocketing can be a problem in crowded tourist areas.

• Amsterdam peaks with people around July and August for the beautiful summers. April to May sees daffodils and tulips come to life, while the weather is pleasant and the crowds are less oppressive. Queen's Day, on April 30, is the most popular day on Amsterdam’s calendar; there's a free market, street parties, live music and lots of beer.

• However tempted you may be, don't even think about mailing any illegal substances home from Amsterdam. Illegal contents will almost certainly be confiscated, and the addressee can be prosecuted.

• Amsterdam isn’t cheap but there are a lot of free activities to stretch your budget, especially in summer.

• The best and most classically 'Amsterdam' way to get around the city is by bicycle. Make sure you get a lock, as theft is rife. There’s also an efficient public transport system, but the taxis are among the most expensive in Europe and drivers are rude.

• Don't take a camera if you tour Amsterdam's red-light district - the women have been known to throw photographers into canals, camera and all.

• Don't buy any tulip bulbs unless there's a customs declaration form included that will allow them to be imported into your home country.

• Tipping is not compulsory in the Netherlands, but rounding up the bill is always appreciated in taxis, restaurants and pubs with table or pavement service.

• Avoid driving in the city centre; parking is difficult and expensive, with parking regulations strictly enforced. The clampers work a day and night, and seem to pay particular attention to foreign cars.

Useful travel tips resources

Footprint Guides – Amsterdam
Exhaustive resource on Amsterdam from this well-known travel guide publisher.
http://www.footprintguides.com/

Amsterdam
The Netherlands Board of Tourism and Conventions official Amsterdam site.
http://www.holland.com/amsterdam/

Amsterdam Info
A thorough guide to all there is to know about Amsterdam, including handy tips.
http://www.amsterdam.info/

More topics on this site…
Amsterdam maps and geography
Netherlands travel information
Netherlands travel tips
Netherlands health and safety
Netherlands maps and geography

Essentials

Visas: Not required for most nationals for stays up to three months
Season: Summer (June – August)
Money: Euro
Language: Dutch and Frisian, English understood widely
Emergency #: 112

Netherlands