a citizen's guide to Amsterdam

bikes, art, canals—let’s go!

Ah, Amsterdam—where bicycles outnumber people, and the canals are prettier than your Instagram feed. Whether you're here for world-class art, a romantic canal cruise, or just curious about the city’s, um, relaxed attitude, Amsterdam has it all. From Van Gogh’s sunflowers to the lively streets of Jordaan, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to culture and adventure. And when you're ready to kick off those walking shoes, citizenM’s Amterdam hotels are right here, ready with a fluffy bed and a drink at the bar. Because exploring a city as cool as this deserves a stylish home base.

getting around Amsterdam

Getting around Amsterdam is a breeze, especially if you’re on two wheels. Bikes are basically the city’s favourite mode of transport, and you’ll soon see why. If you’re staying at citizenM Amstel Amsterdam or Amsterdam South, ask one of the friendly ambassadors for one of the free bikes—perfect for zipping along the canals. Just remember to ring your bell, and watch out for the trams... they're sneaky. If there are no bikes left, don't worry—our ambassadors can point you to a great local rental spot. Not a fan of cycling? No worries. The city’s trams are super easy to navigate and get you to all the major spots. You can also hop on the metro if you're heading out to the further corners of the city, like Amsterdam-Noord. Don’t forget the ferries! They’re free, and a fun way to cross the IJ river. For something a bit slower, a canal boat cruise is a must. It’s the most scenic way to see the city, and let’s be honest, a bit more relaxing than dodging bikes. And of course, there’s always walking—Amsterdam is compact and packed with beautiful streets, so your feet might just be your best bet.

people sitting at a terrace bar in Amsterdam

where to wander: Amsterdam’s must-see areas

Whether you’re on a bike, a tram, a boat, or your own two feet, Amsterdam’s neighbourhoods are calling out to be explored. Each one has its own distinct vibe and charm, from the cosy, narrow streets of Jordaan to the vibrant, food-filled corners of De Pijp. There’s so much more to this city than just its postcard-perfect canals—every area has its own personality and hidden gems. So, don’t stick to one spot—get lost in the vibe of these must-visit areas:

Jordaan: Picture narrow streets, cosy cafes, and charming galleries. This former working-class area is now one of Amsterdam’s most desirable neighbourhoods. Take a stroll and soak in the local atmosphere, perfect for lazy afternoons and window shopping
De Pijp: A foodie’s paradise and creative hub. Grab a bite at the famous Albert Cuyp Market or pop into one of the many trendy cafes. This vibrant neighbourhood has a young, international vibe that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Amsterdam-Noord: Just a quick ferry ride from the centre, this edgy, up-and-coming area is full of street art, industrial buildings turned into creative spaces, and a cool, alternative scene. Visit the A’DAM Lookout for incredible city views and, if you’re brave, the swing over the edge!
Museum Quarter: Home to cultural heavyweights like the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum, this area is a must for anyone into art and history. It’s the heart of Amsterdam’s cultural scene, and you can easily spend an entire day here.
Red Light District: Famous (and a little infamous), this area is steeped in history and has evolved into a mix of culture, intrigue, and nightlife. By day, you’ll find centuries-old buildings and museums. By night, well... you can explore the modern-day quirks.

Whether you’re here for culture, food, or just a scenic wander, Amsterdam’s neighbourhoods have it all.

things to do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is like the ultimate playground, no matter your vibe. History buff, art lover, foodie, or just here for a good time? You’ll find something that fits the bill. Here are some top things to do in the city:

tour the canals: You can’t visit Amsterdam without cruising through its famous canals. Whether you go for a guided boat tour or rent your own, you’ll get a whole new perspective of the city from the water. Extra points if you do it at sunset!
visit the Rijksmuseum: Home to Rembrandt, Vermeer, and more, the Rijksmuseum is an art lover’s dream. Even if you’re not big into galleries, the architecture alone is worth the trip.
check out the Anne Frank House: A moving experience, the Anne Frank House is a must-see. Walk through the rooms where Anne wrote her famous diary and learn about the history of WWII in Amsterdam.
get your Van Gogh fix: Right next door to the Rijksmuseum is the Van Gogh Museum, which is packed with the iconic artist’s most famous works. It’s an emotional rollercoaster, but in a good way.
chill in Vondelpark: Take a breather in Amsterdam’s most popular park. Whether you’re picnicking, cycling, or just people-watching, it’s the perfect green escape from the city’s buzz.
explore the Negen Straatjes: These “Nine Streets” are packed with cute boutiques, vintage shops, and quirky cafes. It’s the best place to spend an afternoon shopping and eating your way through the city.
hit the markets: From the famous Albert Cuyp Market to the flower market (Bloemenmarkt), Amsterdam’s markets are a feast for the senses. Stock up on stroopwafels, pick up some tulip bulbs, or just people-watch.
experience the Red Light District: Whether you’re curious about the area’s history or want to check out the nightlife, the Red Light District is worth a visit. It’s one of the city’s most famous spots, and yes, it’s safe to explore.
try a Dutch pancake: No trip to Amsterdam is complete without indulging in a Dutch pancake or two. They come savoury or sweet, but you can’t go wrong either way. Find a cosy cafe, order up, and dig in!

a local’s guide to food and drink

Amsterdam is bursting with food options, from full-on feasts to quick bites on the go—there’s way too much to list in one go! But to help you out, here are some fan favourites that locals (and visitors) can't get enough of.

breakfast at bakers & roasters: Kickstart your day at this lively Kiwi-Brazilian cafe. Expect hearty breakfast bowls, eggs, and great coffee in a buzzing atmosphere. It’s a local favourite, and you’ll see why after the first bite.
lunch at Foodhallen: Head to Foodhallen, an indoor food market packed with global street food options. From dim sum to tacos, you can try a bit of everything. Perfect for a laid-back lunch when you just can’t decide what you’re craving.
canal-side dinner at Café de Jaren: For dinner, grab a table at Café de Jaren, where classic Dutch dishes come with a view. Situated right along the canals, it’s the perfect spot to wind down and enjoy some traditional bites with a side of scenic charm.
best bars: Looking for a cool drink? Try Hiding in Plain Sight, a speakeasy-style bar serving up cocktails that are as delicious as they are Instagram-worthy. Or hit Brouwerij ‘t IJ, a brewery housed in a windmill (because why not?) for some top-notch local brews.

beer and bitterballen by a canal in Amsterdam

typical dutch snacks

The Netherlands may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of world-class cuisine, but Dutch snacks are on another level. You can't leave without trying some of them. Grab a serving of bitterballen—crispy, deep-fried and filled with savoury, creamy ragout. They’re served piping hot and pair perfectly with a cold beer. You’ll find them on almost every bar menu, so they’re an easy choice when you’re taking a break from sightseeing. Sweet tooth? Keep an eye out for stroopwafels—thin waffles filled with caramel syrup that’ll give you a sugar hit like no other. They’re best enjoyed warm from a market stall, and they’re the perfect pick-me-up as you wander the city. For something different, try the iconic haring (raw herring), a classic Dutch snack served with onions and pickles to balance the bold flavour. Traditionally eaten by holding the fish by its tail and taking a bite, it’s a must-try if you’re after a truly authentic local experience. Hold on tight, though—Amsterdam’s seagulls are always on the lookout for a free meal.

what to know before you go

Before you head off to explore Amsterdam, here are a few handy tips to make the most of your trip:

language tips: While everyone speaks excellent English, it never hurts to throw in a bit of Dutch. A simple "dank je wel" (thank you) or "alsjeblieft" (please) can go a long way. Even learning how to say "hallo" (hello) or "tot ziens" (goodbye) will be appreciated. And don’t worry—if you get stuck, everyone is more than happy to switch to English!
best time to visit: Summer brings sunshine and dreamy canal views, perfect for outdoor exploring. Winter, however, has its own charm. The Christmas lights bring a festive glow to the city, and don’t miss the Amsterdam Light Festival from November to January, where the canals become a stage for dazzling light installations. Every season has its own kind of gezellig (that cosy, warm vibe you feel in Amsterdam)—whether you’re basking in the summer sun or huddled up with a hot chocolate by the canals.
coffee shop vs cafe: Before you go ordering a cappuccino in the wrong place, here’s the deal: a cafe is your cosy spot for coffee and pastries. A coffee shop, however, is where things get a little hazier (if you catch our drift). Handy info to keep in mind on your Amsterdam adventure!
packing essentials: Layers are key! The weather can be unpredictable, so pack for sun, rain, wind and everything in between. Don’t forget comfy shoes, whether you’re cycling or strolling along cobbled streets, your feet will thank you for wearing something sturdy. And if you're visiting in winter, bring extra warm clothes for those chilly, crisp nights exploring the city’s glowing streets.

With these tips, you’ll be ready to take on Amsterdam like a pro!

exterior of the citizenM Amstel Amsterdam hotel with tall trees and spotlights on the walls

where to stay in Amsterdam

Whether you're here to dive into world-class art, wander through cosy neighbourhoods, or snack your way around town, Amsterdam’s got you covered. It’s the kind of city where every corner invites a new adventure, and it’s all yours for the taking. Need a place to rest those tired feet? citizenM Amstel hotel is your perfect base, right in the heart of the canal ring—you'll be staying in the thick of the action, with everything that makes Amsterdam iconic right on your doorstep. On the other hand, citizenM Amsterdam Zuid hotel is your chill spot in the business district. It’s located right by one of Amsterdam's main stations, so you’ve got quick links to the airport and the city centre. But don’t worry, it’s still within biking distance from iconic areas like the Museum Quarter and De Pijp, so you’re never far from the fun.

So, grab your bike, your stroopwafel, and your sense of adventure—Amsterdam’s ready when you are!

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