Amsterdam: where canals are the new streets, bikes are the new cars, and tulips are the new... well, they're just tulips, but they're everywhere, and we love them 🌷

Amsterdam holidays 2026

• There's a museum for pretty much EVERYTHING (we're not kidding)

• Home to iconic canals for boat rides and waterside strolls

• Coffee shops on every corner ('cafés' are something a bit different over here, FYI 👀)

• Inclusive culture - it's the gay capital of Europe! 🌈

What are the best sights to see in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam city breaks are all about that old-world charm with a modern twist. Whether this is your first 'Dam rodeo or you're coming back for more, we've picked a few of the best bits so you can hit the ground running...or peddling 🚲

• The Rijksmuseum - this art gallery tells the story of the Netherlands from past to present, and it's big enough to get lost in, with newly-revamped gardens and a mahoosive library that's on par with the one from Beauty and the Beast - if you know, you know 📖

• Anne Frank House - it might be on the heavier side, but this is the place to connect with history - and it's right in the centre, so easy to reach. Tickets are available online, giving you access to the full, heart-wrenching story through quotes, photos, videos, original items and an audio guide (there's a special version just for kids, too)

• The Red Light District - this one's decidedly not for the kids, but rather anyone curious enough to learn more about the history and reality of Amsterdam's sex work profession. It's also lined with quirky shops and bars - because it's Amsterdam.

• Vondelpark - Amsterdam's very own central park, with everything from ponds to picnic spots, Picasso sculptures and bike trails. Be sure to stop by between April and May to see the tulips in full bloom 😍

Best Day Trips to make on your holidays to Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a 10/10 city break, but the Netherlands is actually tiny, meaning you can swap the canals for windmills or the beach in less than an hour. If you fancy escaping the hustle for a bit, these day trips are a must-do on your holidays to Amsterdam...

• Zaanse Schans - the postcard-perfect Dutch experience with spinning windmills, clog workshops, and the smell of chocolate in the air (seriously).

• Keukenhof Gardens - only open in spring (March-May), this place is an explosion of millions of tulips - your Instagram feed will never level up like this again (probably).

• Zandvoort aan Zee - ideally located just 30 mins by train, this is "Amsterdam Beach" - think golden sands, beach bars, and chilling by the North Sea.

• Haarlem - known as "Little Amsterdam," it’s got all the pretty canals and cobbled streets but with zero crowds and way chiller vibes.

• Utrecht - a university city with a buzzing cafe culture and unique split-level canals that make for the perfect alfresco pint spot.

• Rotterdam - if you want something totally different, head here for futuristic architecture, massive food markets, and a proper modern city feel.

When's the best time to go on your Amsterdam holidays?

Amsterdam’s got year-round charm, but the best time to go really depends on your vibe. Looking for flowers? Festivals? Fewer crowds? Here’s the lowdown.

• 🌷 Spring (March – May) – Amsterdam’s most Instagrammable season. The city bursts into bloom with tulips everywhere (Keukenhof, we see you). It’s the perfect time for canal strolls and park picnics before the summer rush.

• 🎶 Summer (June – August) – festival season! Think outdoor concerts, street markets, and terrace bars buzzing till late. Prices are higher and crowds bigger, but the energy is unbeatable.

• 🍁 Autumn (September – November) – the city slows down a notch. Museums are quieter, canals are lined with golden leaves, and café culture takes over. Perfect for couples or culture buffs who prefer a laid-back pace.

• 🎄 Winter (December – February) – cosy canals, fairy lights and festive markets make Amsterdam feel straight out of a Christmas card. Great deals on hotels and fewer queues at the top attractions sound like a win-win to us.

Our pick? Visit in April or September for that golden balance – lively but not hectic, and plenty of daylight for exploring.

Our top hotel picks for your holidays to Amsterdam

When it comes to bagging Amsterdam hotels, you've really got to let the city do the talking. What do you wanna be close to? Amsterdam Square for a totes central vibe? Somewhere along the canals for that picturesque moment your Gram's been begging for? Or somewhere closer to the Museum quarter so you can get your Van Gogh fix without having to hop on a tram? Whatever you're after, we've got a hotel for that...

• Zaan Hotel Amsterdam - Zaandam - a cosy boutique hotel right in the city centre, just a stroll away from major attractions with bikes to rent on site and a brekkie buffet that's stacked with all the Dutch classics

• Pulitzer Amsterdam – a whopper of a hotel right in the heart of the Jordaan District, spanning across 25 restored canal houses. Expect swanky rooms (including the Music Collector's Suite with its wall of trombones 🎶), top-tier service, and mega views

• INK Hotel Amsterdam - this trendy spot is perfect for a city break. It’s got a proper cool vibe with sleek, modern interiors and a prime location near Dam Square. Ideal for those looking to be in the thick of it!

• Leonardo Museumhotel Amsterdam City Center – nestled right next to the city’s famous Museum Quarter, this hotel is a dream for culture buffs. You’ll be a stone’s throw away from the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum, perfect for a day of soaking up the art. The rooms are modern and comfy, and the leafy Vondelpark is just around the corner if you fancy a morning stroll.

• Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Centre – smackdab in the city centre, this hotel is ideal for those who want to be right in the action. With sleek rooms, a wellness centre, and a prime location near Dam Square and Central Station, it’s a top-notch choice for both exploring and unwinding. Plus, you’re surrounded by loads of bars, restaurants, and shops – perfect for a buzzing city break!

Amsterdam holidays travel guide

🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Things to do for families in Amsterdam

Amsterdam might be known for its nightlife, but it’s a top spot for family holidays too. There is plenty to keep the kiddos entertained, from interactive museums to outdoor fun.

• NEMO Science Museum - five floors of interactive exhibits where the little ones can get hands-on with fun experiments.

• Artis Zoo - one of the oldest zoos in Europe, home to giraffes, elephants and plenty of space to run around.

• Rijksmuseum - even the art is fun here, with a special family route designed to keep the kids engaged.

• Amsterdam Dungeon - a spooky history lesson with a side of humour - perfect for older kids who like a thrill.

• Canal Cruise - a whopper of an experience for all ages, letting you see the city without wearing out little legs.

❤️ Things to do for couples in Amsterdam

For couples' holidays, Amsterdam is pure romance. With its pretty canals and cosy corners, it is the perfect place to reconnect and enjoy some lovely experiences together.

• Canal Cruise - snuggle up as you float past the stunning houses and bridges - absolute couple goals.

• Vondelpark - perfect for a hand-in-hand stroll, a bike ride, or a cheeky picnic if the sun is shining.

• De Kas - a swanky greenhouse restaurant serving farm-to-table food that will have you swooning.

• Jordaan - wander the cobbled streets and grab dinner at a candle-lit restaurant for a truly romantic vibe.

• Brown Cafes - duck into these cosy traditional pubs for a chilled-out drink with plenty of old-school charm.

🧗🏼 Things to do for groups in Amsterdam

If you are heading off on a mates' trip, Amsterdam should be top of your list. From adrenaline kicks to top-notch nightlife, the city is set up perfectly for group holidays.

• Heineken Experience - learn all about the brewing process and enjoy some crisp tasters - cheers to that!

• A’DAM Tower - give the swing at the top a whirl if you’re brave enough - it’s the highest in Europe.

• Van Gogh Museum - get a bit of culture in before the night starts at this world-famous art spot.

• Boat Tour - get the whole squad on a private boat to check out the iconic canals in style.

• Nightlife - hit Leidseplein or the Red Light District for bars and clubs that will keep you going 'til the early hours.

🧀 Things to do for foodies in Amsterdam

Foodies, get ready to loosen the belt buckle because the scran in Amsterdam is 10/10. From street snacks that hit the spot to swanky dinners, the food scene here is properly popping off.

• Stroopwafels - head to Albert Cuyp Market for these massive caramel waffles; pro tip: sit one on top of your hot coffee for a minute to get the middle all gooey.

• Poffertjes - these mini, fluffy pancakes are smothered in butter and icing sugar – absolute breakfast goals at Pancakes Amsterdam.

• Raw Herring - it’s a classic Dutch experience, so grab it from a street cart (haringhandel) with pickles and onions if you’re feeling brave.

• Foodhallen - a massive indoor market in a converted tram depot where you can grab everything from sushi to gourmet burgers – perfect if you can't decide what you fancy.

• Fine Dining - if you’re feeling boujee, book a table at Ciel Bleu or Restaurant Breda for a Michelin-starred feast that is absolutely delish.

🚴🏼 Getting around Amsterdam

Getting around Amsterdam is a doddle. Whether you want to blend in with the locals or sit back and relax, there are plenty of ways to explore the city on your jollies.

• 🚲 Bikes - there are more bikes than people here, so grab a rental and join the locals in the lanes.

• 🚉 Trams - the iconic blue and white trams are super efficient and make hopping between the major sights a doddle.

• 🚝 Trains - perfect for getting from the airport to the centre or venturing out for a day trip elsewhere.

• 🛶 Canal Boats - fancy something different? Book on for a canal cruise for a chilled-out way to see the sights from the water.