Netherlands’ capital, Amsterdam is acknowledged for its artsy culture, intricate canal system, and narrow houses. This description should help you with all that you need to know to plunge into the beautiful ‘Venice of the North’, called Amsterdam.
Amsterdam has an active street art scene, so hit the streets for innovative art or visit the modern art galleries in scenic Jordaan, where art simply comes alive. To move around, you can hop in a canal boat or simply ride a bike for sightseeing. You can visit the flower market or explore Begijnhof, one of Amsterdam’s secret gardens. For a relaxed time, head to the Vondelpark for an impeccable picnic. The delightful street food includes raw herring, which is a ‘must’. Additionally, music devotees can catch a typical jazz concert at the Bimhuis. Amsterdam is notably convivial, you can get that fuzzy, warm feeling in simple places like a traditional brown cafe.
The ideal time to visit Amsterdam is mid-April and May, otherwise, September and November. You will deal with fewer tourists; you will relish fairly warm temperatures and experience Amsterdam as the inhabitants do – at its casual best.
Visiting Amsterdam, the artistic city it’s known to be, provides a great opportunity to see the amazing Rijksmuseum, Heineken Experience, Van Gogh Museum or take a Canal Cruise and lots more. Purchase your tickets in advance for fast, hassle-free entry to the places you want to be.
The best time to visit Amsterdam depends on your purpose; if yours is to see the tulips, then mid-April to early May would be the best time. Between April and September, the days are longer and temperatures are milder than during other months. July and August are the most popular and busiest time of year. During these months Amsterdam is crammed with tourists and it’s almost impossible to find deals. If you want a quieter crowd and the cheapest prices for Amsterdam flights and accommodations, October to March, with the exception of New Year’s Eve would be it. If you love unique and riotous celebration, New Year’s Eve is also well worth experiencing.
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is the main international airport of the Netherlands, located 9.1 km (5.6 mi) southwest of Amsterdam.
The train is the fastest form of transport to the city centre. A direct link railway line connects Schiphol International Airport with Amsterdam Central Station. Trains run every 10 minutes from Platforms 1,2 or 3 in the main arrival plaza and the travel time is 10-15 minutes. You can buy tickets either at the ticket desk on the arrivals level or at the yellow machines using Euro coins or credit/debit cards. Tip: buy your tickets in advance because the purchase of the tickets at Schiphol is complicated and busy! Through the following link you can buy tickets online: Amsterdam train tickets. A ticket for a one-way journey from Schiphol International Airport to Amsterdam Central Station costs €4.20.
Schiphol Hotel Shuttle is an easy and comfortable way to get to your hotel from the Schiphol International Airport. It runs every day, from 6.00 a.m. to 9.30 p.m. Tickets cost €17 for one-way or €27 for a return, and can be purchased at the Connexxion Shuttle Desk in Arrivals 4 or the Holland Tourist Information desk at Arrivals 2. You can also book in advance on the Schiphol Hotel Shuttle website.
The Amsterdam Airport Express (bus 197) provides a quick and easy transfer from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to the city centre of Amsterdam. Departing every 10 minutes from bus platform B9, this bus takes you directly to Museumplein, Rijksmuseum or Leidseplein. You can buy your e-ticket on www.bus197.nl. Price: €4,75 (single) €9,00 (return).
A taxi rank is immediately outside the airport, the fare to the city centre is 40-50 euros.
Amsterdam is a city for biking and walking, so maybe the best idea for getting around would be to walk or rent bikes to enable you use the great bike lanes. Amsterdam is one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the world and is a centre of bicycle culture. Also, public transport (trams, metros, and buses) makes an excellent choice. For more information visit I amsterdam.
There is a new taxi service in Amsterdam, called Abel. It offers you the option to share your ride with other passengers. This way, the fare is between a regular taxi and public transport. For more information visit Abel.
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GVB 72-hour ticket (bus, tram, metro) | 0 |
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Meal for 2 people in mid-priced restaurant | 0 - 0 |
0.5 litre draught beer | 0 - 0 |
McDonalds Big Mac | 0 |
Cappuccino (regular) | 0 - 0 |