Amsterdam:
Amsterdam is a city in the Netherlands with impressive architecture,
lovely canals that criss-cross the city, great shopping, and friendly
people who nearly all speak English well. There is something for
every traveler's taste here, whether you prefer culture and history,
serious partying, or just the relaxing charm of an old European
city. Amsterdam has over a million inhabitants in the urban area,
and is located in the Province of North-Holland. Although Amsterdam
is the capital of the Netherlands, the seat of government is The
Hague, and the provincial capital is Haarlem.
The Amsterdam that most people know is the city centre, the semicircle
with Central Station at its apex. It corresponds to the old city,
as it was around 1850. Five major concentric canals ring the old
city; the Singel, the Herengracht, the Keizersgracht, the Prinsengracht,
and the Singelgracht (not to be confused with the Singel!), which
runs alongside the roads Nassaukade, Stadhouderskade, and Mauritskade
and marks the location of the former city moat and fortifications.
Almost everything outside this line was built after 1870. The semicircle
is on the south side of the IJ, which is called a river, but is
more exactly an estuary. Going east from central station, the railway
passes the artificial islands of the redeveloped Eastern Docklands.
North of the IJ is mainly housing, although a major dockland redevelopment
has started there too.
The river Amstel flows into the city from the south. Originally,
it flowed along the line Rokin-Damrak. The dam in the Amstel, which
gives the city its name, was located under the present Bijenkorf
department store. The original settlement was on the right bank
of the Amstel, on the present Warmoesstraat: it is therefore the
oldest street in the city. The city has expanded in all directions,
except to the north of the ring motorway. The region there, Waterland,
is a protected rural landscape of open fields and small villages.
The radius of the semicircle is about 2 km. All major tourist destinations,
and most hotels, are located inside it or just outside it. As a
result, much of Amsterdam is never visited by tourists: at least
90% of the population lives outside this area. Most economic activity
in Amsterdam -- the offices of the service sector, and the port
-- is located on or outside the ring motorway, which is four to
five kilometers from the centre.
Attitudes:
Many people choose to visit Amsterdam because of its reputation
for tolerance, although part of this reputation is attributable
to cultural misunderstandings. Prostitution is legalized and licensed
in the Netherlands, and in Amsterdam it is very visible (window
prostitution), and there are large numbers of prostitutes. The sale,
possession, and consumption of small quantities of cannabis, while
illegal, is condoned by authorities (the policy of gedogen). This
does not mean that you can get away with anything in Amsterdam.
In any case, public attitudes and official policy have hardened
in recent years. For more on coffeeshops and drugs, see below in
Stay safe.
Depending on your viewpoint some people will consider Amsterdam
an unwholesome city whereas other people will find their relaxed
attitudes refreshing. Amsterdam is not generally seen as a family
destination, but if you avoid the red light district, it is no more
objectionable for children than any large city. Nearly everyone
in Amsterdam, young or old, seems to speak excellent English.
When to visit:
Amsterdam is a large city and a major tourist destination, so you
can visit it all year round. However, in winter the days are short
(8 hours daylight around Christmas), and the weather may be too
cold to walk around the city comfortably, let alone cycle. Some
things are seasonal: the bulb fields flower only in the spring,
and Queen's Day (Koninginnedag) is always on 30 April, unless that
is a Sunday. Queen Beatrix was in fact born on 31 January, but since
January is too cold, the celebrations are held on the birthday of
her mother Juliana. The color of Queen's Day is orange, symbolizing
national pride in the royal House of Orange-Nassau.
Media/listings:
Amsterdam Weekly is an English-language free cultural weekly
published every Wednesday. It provides coverage of Amsterdam city
life, and an arts and entertainment calendar.
Uitkrant is a free monthly magazine, listing all concerts, classical,
jazz, pop etc., exhibitions, museums and anything cultural to do
in Amsterdam. It can be picked up at many spots in the city, e.g.
at the Uitburo at the Leidseplein.
NL20 is a free weekly listings magazine for Amsterdam, in Dutch.
BOOM! is a free magazine in English available from most hotels and
coffee shops. It is published 4 times a year, by comedy show Boom
Chicago, and if you can overlook their shameless self promotion,
you'll find a wealth of up to date information about life in Amsterdam,
going out, the best restaurants and a guide to the red light district,
all written in an honest, witty style.
Expatica.com/netherlands offers summaries of Dutch news in English,
and is useful to get a flavor of Dutch current affairs and politics.
Get in
By
plane:
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (IATA: AMS) (ICAO: EHAM). Situated 15
km south-west of the city, one of the busiest airports in the world.
Jet2.com, Easyjet and other low-cost carriers serve Schiphol, providing
a fairly economical way to city-hop to Amsterdam from other spots
in Europe (list LCC flights). As Amsterdam is a very popular destination,
the cheapest tickets may be gone, and in that case a traditional
carrier might be cheaper. So it pays to check a number of airlines
before booking, to get the best deal. The former national carrier
for the Netherlands is KLM, now merged with Air France. With partner
Northwest Airlines they offer worldwide connections. The US, Asia
and Europe are particularly well served at Schiphol.
For very frequent visitors to Amsterdam (6 or more times a year)
it may pay to invest in a Privium card. This is available to EU
passport holders only, but allows you to cut the queues at passport
control. Instead of showing your passport you go to a special lane
with an iris scanner, this will save a significant amount of time
if the passport lines are long. Cost is currently €99/year
+ €55 for a partner.
From Schiphol there is a direct train to Amsterdam Central Station,
for € 3.60, in 15 minutes. Buy the ticket from the machine
(yellow with blue writing), at the counter you will pay extra charge
(€ 0.50); beware: most machines may not accept credit or debit
cards, however, there is a machine that accepts cash on the side
of the main airport hall closer to terminal 1 and 2. Moreover, you'll
find there is no problem getting tickets at the ticket office for
the same price, and you will also be given advice as to the next
train and at what platform. The train station at Schiphol is located
underground, under the main airport hall. Watch out for pick-pockets
and baggage thieves: a common trick is a knock on your window to
distract you, so that an accomplice can steal your luggage or laptop.
Another one is to have an accomplice jam the doors and then to steal
your luggage. The thief jumps out and the door immediately closes,
making it impossible to catch them.
If you are desperately trying to save money, you could use local
transport from Schiphol to central Amsterdam, provided that you
use a strippenkaart (see below). A trip would cost 6 strippen, that's
about €2.75 on a 15 strippenkaart, and takes about an hour:
take local bus 300 to the Amstelveen stop "Oranjebaan"
and change there to Metro #51 to go to Amsterdam central station
or take tram #5 to get into town directly.
Even easier, express buses 370 and 197 run to the Museumplein and
the Leidseplein without transferring in about thirty minutes. They
run once an hour middays and every 10ish minutes for the rest of
the day. Surprisingly, late night bus service is even better, with
frequent every five minutes or less. From midnight to six a.m.,
many night bus lines go to and from the airport.
Taxis from Schiphol are expensive and priced unexpectedly. You pay
€6,80 - €7,50 (as of Feb 08) to get in and that includes
the first two kilometers. Then the meter starts racing. The ride
costs about €40 to go, say, the Leidseplein. Luckily, it could
take only 25 minutes. Choose the nicest cab as that driver is more
likely to be reputable. Don't just pick the first taxi in line.
Many hotels in Amsterdam share a paid shuttle bus service, and some
hotels around the airport will send a free van for you.
If you decided to bring your bicycle on the plane with you, there
is a 15-kilometer signposted bike route from the airport to Amsterdam.
Turn right as you leave the airport terminal: the cycle path starts
about 200 metres down the road.
When leaving Amsterdam, give yourself enough time to get to your
plane and through security! (Especially when flying to the United
States) Schiphol is a large airport - be there at least an hour
in advance.
Using other airports than Schiphol could prove cheaper in some cases,
as some budget airlines fly to Eindhoven and Rotterdam Airports.
Then buses and trains can be used to get to Amsterdam. A taxi is
not advisable: from Rotterdam to Amsterdam a taxi would cost €130,
and from Eindhoven even more.
From Eindhoven Airport take a local bus (Hermes bus 401, 23 minutes,
about four times per hour, €3.20 on board or €1.80 using
a 15 strippenkaart) to the train station, from there take a train
to Amsterdam (1:20 hour, four times per hour, single €16.80).
Alternatively, take the express bus directly from the airport to
Amsterdam central station, which takes 1:45 or 2:15 hours depending
on the time of day. This service goes quite infrequently, see their
website for a schedule. The ticket price is €18.50 for a single
or €32.50 for a return.
From Rotterdam Airport ("Zestienhoven") take a city bus
(RET bus 33, 26 minutes, every 10-20 minutes, €2.40 on board
or €1.35 using a 15 strippenkaart) to Rotterdam Centraal train
station, from there take a train to Amsterdam (about an hour, every
10-20 minutes, single €12.70).
By train:
Sign for Platform 2b at Amsterdam Railway Station
Sign for Platform 2b at Amsterdam Railway Station
Train stations in Amsterdam (in orange; centre in bright orange).
Black lines: railways. Red lines: metro lines.
Train stations in Amsterdam (in orange; centre in bright orange).
Black lines: railways. Red lines: metro lines.
Most trains arrive and depart from Amsterdam Centraal Station (with
one extra 'a' in Dutch), located between the old centre and the
IJ waterfront. Other train stations are Duivendrecht, Bijlmer-ArenA,
Amstel, Muiderpoort (all southeast), RAI, Zuid-WTC (both south),
Lelylaan and Sloterdijk (both west). Schiphol airport also has its
own train station, which functions as a major hub within the Netherlands.
It has at least seven trains an hour to Amsterdam Centraal, with
additional trains going to other Amsterdam stations.
Direct international trains run to Brussels (connecting with Eurostar
trains to London St Pancras and Ebbsfleet (Kent) in England), Paris,
Cologne, Frankfurt and Berlin.
By
bus:
Most international bus services are affiliated to Eurolines, which
has a terminal at Amstel Station (train station, metro station 51,
53, 54, tram 12). One bus per day is usually the maximum frequency
on these routes. There are other international bus services, but
they are often aimed at very specific markets, e.g. Polish migrant
workers. There are almost no long-distance internal bus services
in the Netherlands, and none to Amsterdam.
By
car:
The western part of the Netherlands has a dense (and congested)
road network. Coming from the east (Germany), the A1 motorway leads
directly to Amsterdam. On the A12 from Arnhem, change at Utrecht
to the A2 northbound. From the south (Belgium), the A2 goes directly
to Amsterdam: the A16 /A27 from Antwerp via Breda connects to the
A2 south of Utrecht. From The Hague, the A4 leads to Amsterdam.
All motorways to Amsterdam connect to the ring motorway, the A10.
From this motorway, main roads lead radially into Amsterdam (the
roads S101 through S118).
In most cases, you should want to avoid going to the city centre
by car: traffic is dense and parking spaces are expensive and nearly
impossible to find. Instead, when on the A10, follow the signs to
one of the P+R-spots (P+R Zeeburg to the east, P+R ArenA and P+R
Olympisch Stadion to the south, P+R Sloterdijk to the west). Here,
you can park your car, and take public transport to the city centre,
for a single fare.
The speed limit on Dutch motorways is 120 km/h, except where indicated.
On most sections of the A10 ring motorway around Amsterdam, the
maximum speed has been lowered to 80 km/h. These limits are strictly
enforced and there are many speed cameras.
By
sea:
The maritime Passenger Terminal Amsterdam is close to the
city centre, but is only for cruise ships. The nearest ferry port
is IJmuiden (ferry from Newcastle upon Tyne). There are also ferry
terminals at Rotterdam Europoort (ferry from Kingston Upon Hull),
and Hook of Holland (ferry from Harwich). More information, timetables
and ticket prices for these ferries is available at Ferries To Amsterdam.
Get around
On foot and bike:
Amsterdam's centre is fairly small, and almost abnormally flat,
so you can easily get to most tourist destinations on foot - from
the train station, within a half an hour.
A pleasant way to cover a lot of ground is to rent a bicycle. There
are approximately three-quarters of a million people living in Amsterdam
and they own about 600,000 bicycles. The city is very, very bike-friendly,
and there are separate bike lanes on most major streets. In the
city centre, however, there is often not enough space for a bike
lane, so cars and cyclists share narrow streets. If you are not
used to that, be very careful, and also watch out for other cyclists.
Avoid getting your tire in the tram rails; it's a nasty fall. Always
cross tram rails at an angle. There are bike rental shops at stations,
and several others in and around the city centre. Bikes cost about
€ 9 to € 20 per day.
Make sure to get a good lock, and to use it. Amsterdam has one of
the highest bicycle theft rates in the world, see the Netherlands
page. Note also that if buying a bike, prices that seem too good
to be true are stolen bikes. Any bike offered for sale to passers-by,
on the street, is certainly stolen. There's an old Amsterdam joke;
if to a large group of bicycles going by, you yell out, "Hey,
that's my bike!" about five people will jump off "their"
bikes and start running.
* MacBike Bicycle Rental. Perhaps the most ubiquitous bicycle rental
agency in Amsterdam, their bicycles are painted red with a MacBike
sign on the front, everyone will know you're visiting. The bicycles
are reliable, and in very good condition. Several locations around
the city centre for assistance or repairs. Online bicycle reservations
at their website. http://www.macbike.nl
* You might opt for another Bike rental company, like Orangebike,Rentals
& Tours. Their bikes are not so obvious coloured, more discrete
,reliable and sturdy.Even the typical Dutch Grandmotherbikes are
available at Orangebike.Every day you could go on the +- 3 hours
historical city tour and discover the hidden treasures by bike for
19.50 euro only.Online resevations on their website http://www.orangebike.nl
Public transport:
Public transport within the city is operated by the GVB (Gemeentevervoerbedrijf).
The tram (18 lines) is the main form of public transport system
in the central area, and there are also dozens of bus routes. Regional
buses, and some suburban buses, are operated by Connexxion and Arriva.
All tram stops have a detailed map of the system and the surrounding
area.
There is a four line metro, including a short underground section
in the city centre, that serves the neighborhoods of the South East.
It takes 15-20 minutes from Central Station or Waterlooplein to
the Bijlmer (Amsterdam Arena stadium, Heineken Music Hall and Pathe
Arena cinema and IMAX).
Tickets can be bought on bus or tram, but it is always cheaper to
buy a strippenkaart before boarding. They are available from machines
in the metro and railway stations, from the GVB office opposite
Central Station, and from supermarkets, newsagents and tobacconists.
In Central Station, purchase them at the red GVB machine (bills
and coins) or at one of the Albert Heijn To Go mini marts. Purchase
multi-day passes at the Amsterdam Tourist office (ACTB) or GWK Money
Exchange.
A strippenkaart is also valid for use on NS trains within Amsterdam,
validate them on the platform. They are not valid for train trips
to Schiphol airport. You can use them on buses to Schiphol but generally
it's faster to get there by train.
The strippenkaart ticket consists of a number of strips, which must
be stamped in a yellow machine prior to entering the metro, or by
the driver or conductor when boarding a tram or bus. Travel for
one hour through a single zone costs two strips; two zones cost
three strips, and so forth. Typically tourists will only be traveling
through the central zone of Amsterdam, unless they plan on visiting
outer areas. Multiple people can share one strippenkaart but must
be validated respective to the number of travelers (eg. for two
people traveling in one zone, the strip can be validated on the
second and fourth strip from the last validation stamp). a strippenkaart
of 15 strips costs €6.90.
Alternatively, you can get a 1, 2, 3 or 4 day pass. Although convenient,
it is usually cheaper to use strippenkaarten, especially for people
who stay in the city center. (€7/1 day, €11.50/2 days,
€14.50/3 days, €17.50/4 days, as of Feb 08).
Don't forget to stamp it before your first journey. If you stay
longer in Amsterdam, you can buy discounted weekly or monthly tickets
from most post offices or other ticket sale points which are really
cheaper.
A new national ticketing system is being introduced, based on a
contactless card (swipe card). The system is operational on the
Amsterdam metro, at first in parallel with the old system. Trams
and buses will be converted to the new system in 2008-9.
Most trams these days have conductors, near the rear of the tram.
Board by the driver or the conductor. If you have questions, the
conductor will always have more time for you.
Enter buses only via the front door.
See for some more and newer information on the Dutch Public Transportation-system
('Openbaar Vervoer' or O.V. in Dutch/NL): Other public transport-Info/
Openbaar Vervoer (O.V.)
There are several free ferry services across the IJ river, to Amsterdam
North, the most frequent runs every seven minutes. They all leave
from a new jetty on the northern (rear) side of Centraal Station.
The nicest one is the fifteen minute service to NDSM Werf, a funky,
up and coming, industrial neighborhood with a nice cafe-bar (Ijkantine)
restaurant (Noorderlicht), indoor skateboard park, and the Pancake
Boat (Pannekoekenboot) which sails many times each week. Ferries
leave :15 and :45 from Central Station and :00 and :30 from NDSM
Werf. Double frequencies during rush hours.
Trains:
For journeys outside the city, the train is usually the best
option. Besides some exceptions, all trains in the Netherlands are
operated by the Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS, "Dutch Railways").
Their website has English-language information.
Ticket machines are the standard way to buy a ticket, it costs 50
cents extra to buy a ticket at ticket counters, and at Central Station
there are often long lines at these counters. Older machines are
not in English and as such can be difficult to interpret. New machines
come with a language selection, and support English, Dutch, French
and German but usually only accept credit and debit cards (note
that foreign credit and debit cards do not work in most NS ticket
machines). In Central Station, there is a machine that accepts cash
and is located in the hallway in front of the ticket office.
You face a fine of 35 euros, due immediately, if you are caught
on the train without a ticket. The chance of getting caught without
a ticket is almost certain on main routes during the day, but there
is always a random element.
For discount tickets and rail passes see the Netherlands page.
Car:
Using a car in central Amsterdam is something of a pain.
Many of the streets are narrow, the traffic (and parking) signs
are baroque and obscure, and cyclists and pedestrians may get in
your way. You can try parking at one of the secured parking garages,
for example under Museumplein, or near the Central Station, and
then walk around the city center, or use a tram. Car parking is
very expensive in Amsterdam and it's often hard to find a place
to park. You can choose to pay by the hour or for the whole day.
Parking is free outside the center on Sunday. There is always a
spot available on the Albert Cuypstraat. (Which is a market during
the rest of the week). From there it is a 5 minute tram ride or
15 minute walk downtown.
Another option is to park your car further outside the city-centre.
For € 5,50 you get a full day of parking and a return ticket
downtown. The ride takes about 15 minutes. Look for the P+R (Park
and Ride) signs.
You can also park for free in some parts of Amsterdam outside the
city centre though this may be slowly changing. Parking is still
free everywhere in Amsterdam-Noord, and you can just take the bus
from the Mosplein stop to the city centre easily. Plenty of buses
run through here.
Taxis:
Taxis in Amsterdam are plentiful but expensive. Call TCA
taxis at 777 7777 for a reliable driver who arrives almost immediately.
Hailing taxis on the street is usually a positive experience, although
it is not unheard of for passengers to be cheated by shady drivers.
Some drivers, traditionally at Centraal Station, will refuse short
trips, or else they'll quote outrageously high fares, even though
all taxis are metered. For reference, no trip within the historic
centre should cost more than €10 or so.
The Netherlands (and Amsterdam) is in the middle of a huge taxi
liberalization scheme which has been jarring to all involved. After
many missteps, the government has introduced an unusual pricing
scheme. First you feel sticker shock as the initial fare is now
€7,50 (as of Feb 08). Luckily, that includes the first two
kilometers of travel and there is no charge for waiting in traffic.
If you need to run in somewhere, you need to negotiate a waiting
fee with the driver. 50 cents per minute is customary.
Unlicensed, illegal, cabbies operate mainly in Amsterdam Zuidoost.
These aren't easily recognized as such, and most certainly don't
drive Mercedes cars. They are known as snorders and most easily
reached by mobile phone. Rides within Amsterdam Zuidoost (the Bijlmer)
range from €2.50 to €5, whereas Zuidoost-Center can run
up to €12.50. Snorders have a shady reputation, so consider
their services only if you are adventurous.
Tuk-Tuks:
A thai-influenced transportation service using three-wheeled, open-air
(but covered) motorized vehicles was introduced in August 2007 and
may be a more economical and fast way to get around the city center
compared to taxis. Tuk-tuk pricing is based on a zone system. Within
a zone, a ride is €3.50 per person, €5.00 for 2 persons
and €6.50 for 3. If you go to another zone, €3.50 is added
(irrespective of number of persons). This service is handy if it
is past the regular tram/bus/metro service hours (approximately
half past midnight) as they take reservations 24 hours a day at
0900 99 333 99 (note to call, there is a fee of €0.55 per conversation).
See
Architectural
heritage:
Amsterdam has one of the largest historic city centres in Europe,
with about 7 000 registered historic buildings. The street pattern
is largely unchanged since the 19th century - there was no major
bombing during World War II. The centre consists of 90 islands,
linked by 400 bridges. Its most prominent feature is the concentric
canal ring begun in the 17th century. The city office for architectural
heritage (BMA) has an excellent online introduction to the architectural
history, and the types of historical buildings. The website includes
a cycle route along important examples.
The oldest parts of the city are Warmoesstraat and Zeedijk. Two
mediaeval wooden houses survive, at Begijnhof 34 and Zeedijk 1.
Other old houses are Warmoesstraat 83 (built circa 1400), Warmoesstraat
5 (circa 1500) and Begijnhof 2-3 (circa. 1425).
The Begijnhof is a late-mediaeval enclosed courtyard with the houses
of beguines, women living in a semi-religious community. Beguinages
are found in northern France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and north-western
Germany.
There are several large warehouses for more specific uses. The biggest
is the Admirality Arsenal (1656-1657), now the Maritime Museum (Scheepvaartmuseum)
at Kattenburgerplein. Others include the former turf warehouses
(1550) along the Nes, now the municipal pawn office; a similar warehouse
at Waterlooplein 69-75 (Arsenaal, 1610), now an architectural academy,
and the warehouse of the West India Company (1642) at the corner
of Prins Hendrikkade and s-Gravenhekje. The 19th-century warehouses,
along the Oostelijke Handelskade, are surrounded by new office buildings.
The trading city of Amsterdam was ruled by a merchant-based oligarchy,
who built canal houses and mansions in the most prestigious locations,
especially along the main canals. The BMA website has a chronological
list of the most important:
* Singel 140-142, De Dolphijn (circa 1600)
* Oudezijds Voorburgwal 14, Wapen van Riga (1605)
* Oudezijds Voorburgwal 57, De Gecroonde Raep (1615), in Baroque
Amsterdam Renaissance style
* Herengracht 170-172, Bartolotti House (circa 1617)
* Keizersgracht 123, House with the Heads (1622)
* Herengracht 168 (1638)
* Rokin 145 (1643)
* Kloveniersburgwal 29, Trip House (1662)
* Oudezijds Voorburgwal 187 (1663)
* Singel 104-106 (1743)
* Singel 36, Zeevrugt (1763)
The Jordaan was built around 1650 along with the canal ring, but
not for the wealthy merchants. For a long time it was considered
the typical working-class area of Amsterdam, and included some notorious
slums. It was probably the first example of gentrification in the
Netherlands, even before the word was used. The name probably drives
from the nickname 'Jordan' for the Prinsengracht. Apart from a few
wider canals, the streets are narrow, in an incomplete grid pattern.
19th-century architecture is under-represented in Amsterdam. Immediately
outside the Singelgracht (former city moat) is a ring of 19th-century
housing. The most prominent buildings from this period are Centraal
Station (1889) and the Rijksmuseum (1885), both by P. J. H. Cuypers.
Churches:
There are five main churches in the historic centre. The oldest
is the Oude Kerk (1306) on the Oudezijds Voorburgwal, in the red-light
district. It was followed by the Nieuwe Kerk (15th century) on the
Dam. The late-mediaeval city also had smaller chapels such as the
Sint Olofskapel (circa 1440) on Zeedijk, and convent chapels such
as the Agnietenkapel on the Oudezijds Voorburgwal 231 (originally
1470), now the University of Amsterdam museum. Around 1600, three
new Protestant churches were built:
* Zuiderkerk (1603) at Zuiderkerkhof, now an information centre
on housing and planning.
* Noorderkerk (1620/230) at Noordermarkt on the Prinsengracht.
* Westerkerk (1620/31) on Westermarkt is the largest of the three.
The church is open (free) for visitors from Monday to Friday, 11.00
-15.00, from April to September. You can also climb the tower, only
with guide, every half-hour, € 6. In good weather you can see
all of Amsterdam, and as far as the coast.
Later churches included the Oosterkerk (1669) in the eastern islands,
and the heavily restored Lutheran Church on the Singel (1671), now
used by a hotel as a conference centre. Catholic churches were long
forbidden, and only built again in the 19th-century: the most prominent
is the Neo-Baroque Church of St. Nicholas (1887) opposite Central
Station.
The most prominent synagogue is the Portugese-Israelite Synagogue
(1675) at Mr. Visserplein, in an austere Classicist style.
Also, try and investigate on some of the "hidden churches"
found in Amsterdam, mainly catholic churches that remained in activity
following the Reformation.
Modern
architecture:
Since there was little large-scale demolition in the historic
centre, most 20th-century and recent architecture is outside it.
The most prominent in architectural history are the residential
complexes by architects of the Amsterdam School, for instance at
Zaanstraat / Oostzaanstraat.
* Museum of the Amsterdam School, located in the best-known example
of their architecture. Open Wednesday to Sunday 13.00 to 17.00,
entrance € 2.50.
* The largest concentration of new residential buildings is in the
Eastern Docklands. The zone includes three artificial islands: Borneo,
Sporenburg, and Java/KNSM, together with the quayside along Piet
Heinkade, and some adjoining projects. Accessible by tram 10, tram
26 to Rietlandpark, or best of all by bicycle.
* The largest concentration of box-like office buildings is in Amsterdam
Zuid-Oost (South-East) around Bijlmer station (train and metro),
but the area does have some spectacular buildings, such as the Amsterdam
ArenA stadium and the new Bijlmer ArenA station (nearing completion
and already in use).
* Amsterdam is replacing older sewage plants by a single modern
plant, in the port zone. Connecting existing sewers to the new plant
requires long main sewers, and the use of sewage booster pumps -
a new technique at this scale. The new booster pump stations are
a unique type of building, designed by separate architects. The
three complete pumps are located at Klaprozenweg in the north, on
Spaklerweg (just east of the A10 motorway), and beside and under
Postjesweg, in the Rembrandtpark.
Windmills:
Windmills were not built in urban areas, since the building
obstructed the wind. The Amsterdam windmills were all originally
outside the city walls. Nearest to the centre are De Gooyer and
De Otter:
* De Gooyer (1814, restored) on Funenkade currently holds a microbrewery
* De Otter (1631), a restored and functioning sawmill, opposite
Buyskade, west of the Jordaan.
* De Bloem (1878) on the Haarlemmerweg 465 at Nieuwpoortkade,
* De 1200 Roe, Haarlemmerweg 701 near Seineweg
* De 100 Roe (1674), in the Ookmeer sports fields along Ma Braunpad
* D'Admiraal (1792), Noordhollandschkanaaldijk 21, on the bank of
the Noordhollands Kanaal in the north, ferry from Central Station.
* Riekermolen (1636) on the bank of the Amstel river at Kalfjeslaan
* De Jonge Dikkert in Amstelveen (corner of Molenweg and Amsterdamseweg)
is now a restaurant.
Only the Molen van Sloten and De Gooyer are open for visitors. The
Molen van Sloten at Akersluis 10, about 10 minutes walk from the
terminus of tram line 2, open daily from 10.00 to 16.00. De Gooyer
at Funenkade, Bus 22, Tram 7, open Wednesday to Sunday from 15.00
to 19.00.
Museums:
An English-language list at the GVB (public transport) website
includes the tram and bus routes for each museum: Museums and attractions.
The Museumkaart (museum card) costs €34.95 (or €19.95
for those under 25 years old). It gives discount admission (typically
40% or 50%) in over 400 museums across the Netherlands, and sometimes
free admission. You can buy it at most major museums. It is valid
for an entire year, and you will need to write your name, birthday,
and gender on it. If you are going to the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh
Museum, those are €10 each, so this card can quickly pay for
itself.
The tickets to the major museums, including the audio guide; can
be bought early from the tourist information desk at no extra cost.
* Rijksmuseum - masterpieces exhibition. The largest and most prestigious
museum for art and history in the Netherlands: works by Vermeer,
Rembrandt, and other Dutch masters. The museum is being completely
renovated, but the major masterpieces are still on show. Open 09.00
to 18.00, open until 22.00 on Fridays. Admission € 10 for adults,
under 18 free, no discounts for students. In the garden is a small
temporary exhibition on the renovation plans.
* Sexmuseum, The largest and most prestigious museum for sex art
and sex history in the Netherlands. Open daily 09.00 to 22.00.It
charges 3Euros as admission.
* NEMO. NEMO is the biggest science centre in the Netherlands; an
educational attraction where you can discover a world of science
and technology in an entertaining way. NEMO takes you on a voyage
of discovery between fantasy and reality. You will discover how
scientific phenomena influence your daily life. You will learn about
technology and engineering, ICT and bio- and behavioural sciences.
This is a great place to take kids.
* Van Gogh Museum. This museum is dedicated to this late 19th century
Dutch painter. Do not expect to see all of Van Gogh's works however
as they only have a portion at this museum, others are at the Musée
d'Orsay in Paris and elsewhere. Still worth the visit though as
there are many famous examples of his worklike the Sunflowers and
Potato Eaters.Also, there are selected works of Monet exhibited
there. Consider the audio tour at only € 4,00, in the language
of your choice, will give you a much better understanding of Van
Gogh's life and his paintings. Entry is 10 Euros for adults, no
student nor group rates. Open late on Fridays.
* Diamond Museum. This brand new exhibition about the history of
diamond trade in Amsterdam is located opposite the van Gogh Museum.
* Stedelijk Museum. The Amsterdam municipal museum of modern art.
Temporarily located east of Central Station, 10 minutes walk from
there.
* Amsterdams Historisch Museum. The city’s historical museum.
Two entrances, at Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 357 and Kalverstraat 92.
Open 10.00-17.00, opens one hour later on Saturday, Sunday and holidays.
Entrance € 6 adults, € 3 children.
* Anne Frank House. The house where the Jewish girl Anne Frank wrote
her diary while hiding with her family from the Nazis. Don't let
the long line discourage you; it moves quickly and the experience
inside the hiding places on the top floors is moving. The museum
lacks any exhibits to explain the historical context at the time
of Anne's diary, however. Go in the early evening around 17:00 to
avoid any lines. The Anne Frank House is open later during the summer.
* Katten Kabinet. A cat museum. Housed in a beautiful restored palatial
home in an upscale area street - very Masterpiece Theater. It was
opened by the homeowner after his favourite cat died... and he still
lives in the home. Lots of cat-related art, and two real felines.
The admission fee is 5 euros. The exhibition is spread across the
first floor of the house.
* Filmmuseum. A non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation
and exhibition of contemporary and historical films. Multiple screenings
daily. The Filmmuseum is located in the Vondelpark, between park
entrances Roemer Visscherstraat and Vondelstraat. Despite the name
the "Filmmuseum" this is not a museum, rather just an
alternative cinema funded by the government.
* Museum Amstelkring. Most locals don't recognize the official name,
but will know what you mean if you say "Our Lord in the Attic."
This is a Catholic church stuffed into the upper stories of a house
built in 1663, when Catholics were persecuted and had to disguise
their churches. It's a beautiful place to visit, and amazing to
see how they fit worshippers, an organ, and an altar into such a
narrow place. Now a museum, open Monday-Saturday 10.00 - 17.00 ,
Sunday 13.00-17.00, admission € 7, under 18 € 1. Oudezijds
Voorburgwal 40, in the red-light district.
* Tropenmuseum. Ethnographic / cultural museum about Africa, Asia,
and South America.
* Royal Palace. This former City Hall (built in 1651) is currently
closed for renovation. (It is mainly used for diplomatic receptions
and to welcome visiting heads of state, not as a royal residence).
* Allard Pierson Museum. The Allard Pierson Museum is the archaeological
museum of the University of Amsterdam . The ancient civilizations
of Egypt, Cyprus, the Greek World, Etruria and the Roman Empire
are revived in this museum. Art-objects and utensils, dating from
4000 B.C. till 500 A.D. give a good impression of everyday-life,
mythology and religion in Antiquity.
* Schutters Gallery. Located between Kalverstraat and Begijnhof,
shows 17th-century portraits, free.
* Scheepvaart Museum. The Netherlands Maritime Museum is closed
until 2009, for complete renovation.
* Pianola Museum
* The Hash, Marihuana and Hemp Museum. Opened for over twenty years,
the Hash Museum is dedicated to debunking the lies and demonisation
about one of our most useful plants, the hemp plant. A very busy
and well-done museum where people go to get informed.
* Handbag Museum
Zoo and botanical garden:
* Hortus Botanicus. The 'Hortus' as it is called by locals, was
formerly the Botanical Garden of the University of Amsterdam. Monday
to Friday 9.00 - 17.00, Saturday and Sunday 10.00 - 17.00, open
until 21.00 in July and August, admission € 6.
* Artis Zoo. An entry ticket for Artis also provides admission to
the Planetarium, the Geological Museum, the Aquarium and the Zoological
Museum. Artis is also a botanical garden, with plants and trees
gathered from all over the world, just like the animal species.
Parks and countryside:
The nearest open countryside is north of the city, about 20 minutes
by bike. Cross the IJ by ferry behind Central Station, and follow
the cycle signs for the villages of Ransdorp, Zunderdorp, Schellingwoude
or Durgerdam. Cycling along the Amstel river for about 30 to 40
minutes will also take you into open countryside, and the village
of Oudekerk.
* Vondelpark. The only large park in the older part of the city.
Especially in the summer it's lively and crowded. Meet the locals
there.
* Rembrandtpark. Not too far west of the Vondelpark, but much bigger
and quieter.
* Museumplein. Not exactly a park, but a large grassed open space.
Around its edges are the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, the Concertgebouw,
and the temporarily closed Stedelijk Museum.
* Wertheimpark. A small park opposite the botanical gardens. Has
a second world war memorial and lies on one of the nicest canals
in Amsterdam.
* Westerpark. Newly expanded park, at the western edge of the centre,
with cultural activities in a former gas factory. Access from Haarlemmerweg.
* Oosterpark, Behind the tropical museum, at the eastern edge of
the centre, holds several multicultural festivals throughout the
year.
* Sarphatipark, at the southern edge of the centre, is a place where
people sunbathe and have picnics in the summer.
* Amsterdamse Bos. A much larger forest-type park on the outskirts
of the city. Access from Amstelveenseweg. Horse rental, canoe rental
and an open air theatre are part of the attractions.
Beach:
The whole coast west of the Netherlands is a single long
beach. The nearest stretch is at Zandvoort - 27 minutes by train
from Central Station, every 30 minutes. In summer there are extra
trains, change trains at Haarlem. Zandvoort is very crowded on warm
days in summer: parts of the beach attract the incrowd, others the
somewhat less so. The long beaches continue north of IJmuiden, they
are more family oriented. For the most accessible of these, take
the train to Castricum, and then bus (or minibus) 267. Or, you can
take the hydrofoil (Fast Flying Ferries) from behind the Central
Station to IJmuiden, and then take a bus to the beach.
There is a temporary artificial beach Blijburg, surrounded by construction
sites, in the new suburb of IJburg. Tram 26 to the last stop, then
a few minutes walk, follow the signs.
Attractions
and tours:
* Former Heineken Brewery (Heineken Experience), Stadhouderskade
78. Not a functioning brewery any more. Tuesdays to Sundays 10.00
- 18.00. Shameless promotion for Holland's leading export beer,
but they charge tourists € 11 to get in. That includes three
drink coupons and a take home a souvenir bottle opener inside a
fake Heinken bottle. They no longer offer the souvenir beer mug.
It is currently closed until June 2008.
* Organised city tours. Several operators offer tours, visits to
diamond factories, other guided visits, and canal cruises. Unless
you really need a guide - for instance if you speak only Chinese
- it is cheaper to visit everything yourself.
* New Amsterdam Tours offers a free three-hour guided tour (tips
accepted at the end of the tour) of the major Amsterdam sites and
history twice a day at 11:00AM and 1:00PM and once a day in Spanish
at 11:00AM. Meet in front of the tourist information office across
from Amsterdam Centraal Station, near the tour guide in a red "Free
Tour" shirt. The company also offers a two-hour guided tour
through the Red Light District at 6:45PM that meets at the same
location for 10 euros per person (8 euros for students).
* Amsterdam Insider is a tour company offering bike, boat and walking
tours. Their guides are artists, musicians and writers. Tours are
€ 15 per person. E-mail AmsterdamInsider@yahoo.com for more
information.
Red Light District:
The Red Light District consists of several canals, and the side
streets between them, south of Central Station and east of Damrak.
Known as 'De Wallen' (the walls) in Dutch, because the canals were
once part of the city defences (walls and moats). Prostitution itself
is limited to certain streets, mainly side streets and alleys, but
the district is considered to include the canals, and some adjoining
streets (such as Warmoesstraat and Zeedijk). The whole area has
a heavy police presence, and many security cameras. Nevertheless
it is still a residential district, has many bars and restaurants,
and also includes historic buildings and museums - this is the oldest
part of the city. The oldest church in Amsterdam, the Netherlands-gothic
Oude Kerk on the Oudezijds Voorburgwal at Oudekerksplein, is now
surrounded by window prostitution. The area has many sexshops and
peep show bars. Note: Don't try to take photos of prostitutes even
from the streets, or you might lose your camera without any warning.
You can book a tour of the Red Light District via the I amsterdam
information booths. The tour starts at 17:00 at the VOC Cafe and
is found to be very informative and entertaining.
Do
* Several companies offer canal cruises - usually about one hour.
Departures from: Prins Hendrikkade opposite Centraal Station; quayside
Damrak; Rokin near Spui; Stadhouderskade 25 near Leidseplein.
* The Canal Bus runs a fixed route, stopping near major attractions.
You can get off or on at each stop and as often as you like, but
it is expensive - € 18 for a day pass.
* With a canal bike or rented boat, you can cruise the canals yourself,
without the commentary.
o Canal Company has four rental locations; four-seater canal bikes
cost €8/person/hour.
o Rent a boat Amsterdam family.
* Smoking cannabis in public is something enjoyed by those who would
be persecuted for doing so back home, but it is considerate to give
some thought as to whether the location is appropriate. Amsterdam,
as some tourists seem to forget isn't an adult disneyland and as
such it is appreciated if you for instance don't light up in the
quieter residential and family areas outside the centre. Places
such as the Damsquare and the Vondelpark on the other hand are fine,
and even historically known for this as this is where people gathered
in Amsterdam in the sixties to exercise their freedom.
o Grey Area
o Barney's, coffeeshop.
o Rokerij - four coffeeshops.
o Global Chillage
o Pink Floyd
o De Kroon
o Abraxas
o Homegrown Fantasy
o Kadinsky
* Queens Day. The national holiday, nominally in celebration of
the Queen's birthday (in fact the previous Queen's birthday). The
city is one big flea market, with bands playing, and many on-street
parties. An experience you'll never forget! April 30th - but if
that is a Sunday, it is one day earlier (to avoid offence to orthodox
Protestants).
* MEETin Amsterdam is a not-for-profit social group to help expats
meet new people away from the bar and dating scene. The site's primary
focus is to provide a relaxed, 'non-pickup-scene' social environment
for people to enjoy without paying membership fees. For people who
have either just moved to Amsterdam or lived there for a while,
this group can be a great way to meet new people in the area. Events
are arranged by MEETin members and include a variety of activities
such as pub crawls, potlucks, movies, concerts, day trips and much
more. You have to register and create a profile in order to participate.
The group consists mostly of expats from around the world and has
grown to more than 1,400 members (January 2008). The site is financed
through voluntary donations.
* Canal Pride Amsterdam gay pride on the first weekend in August.
One of the biggest festivals in Amsterdam with parties, performances,
workshops and a boat parade on the Prinsengracht on Saturday afternoon
which is always well worth seeing.
* BOOM CHICAGO is a Chicago-based comedy group that has been performing
in Amsterdam for over ten years. The shows are cheap and audience
participation is always encouraged. They perform at the Leidseplein
Theater nightly (check their website for times) and are attached
to the Boom Bar which is always lively before and after shows. Don't
miss their Heinekin Late Nite at 11:30 PM on Friday nights (13 euros)
which includes the whole cast unscripted, beers handed out for good
suggestions from the audience, and just a general good time.
* CityNavigators offers handheld GPS tourist maps for rent through
participating hotels or online. The GPS devices are pre-programmed
to take you to popular attractions or to guide you through walking
(or bicycle) tours. E-mail info@citynavigators.com for more information.
* Play Futsal Football tour organisers Eurofives stage special tournament
weekends in Amsterdam at which you can enjoy some Dutch-style five-a-sides.
* Amsterdam Weekly It is an Entertainment magazine in English on
the Internet. You can find weekly Amsterdam events.
* De Poezenboot You really like cats? The poezenboot (cat boat)
is an refuge for cats awaiting adoption. Located in the centre of
the city, a must for any cat lover.
* Rialto Cinema For all arthouse cinema freaks. All films are shown
in their original language with Dutch subtitles. They have late
night and classic showings too. Just a short walk from the Albert
Cuyp-Market/Heineken Brouwery, in a nice non-touristy neighbourhood.
Learn
Amsterdam is home to two universities, both offer summer
courses and other short courses (with academic credits).
* Vrije Universiteit (VU University) Founded in 1880, the VU campus
is located southwest of the city centre, and approximately 20 minutes
away by bicycle. It is the only protestant general university in
the Netherlands.
* Universiteit van Amsterdam Founded as the Athenaeum Illustre in
1632, in 1877 it became the University of Amsterdam. With about
25 000 students, the UvA is located on three separate campuses in
the city centre, plus smaller sites scattered over Amsterdam.
The Volksuniversiteit is, despite the name, not a university, but
a venerable institute for public education. Among the many courses
are Dutch language courses for foreigners.
Work
Many people plan to move to Amsterdam for a year to relax
before "settling down". This plan often falls apart at
the job phase. Many people will find it difficult to get a suitable
job, if they do not speak Dutch. However, hostels and hotels in
Amsterdam may need bar staff, night porters etc, who speak English
and other languages. There are also specialist websites for English
and non-Dutch speakers looking to work in Amsterdam and they are
a often a good place to start - Undutchables, Unique and Xpat Jobs
are all useful resources.
Immigration matters are dealt with by the Immigration Service IND.
Registration is done by both police and municipalities. Immigration
policy is restrictive and deliberately bureaucratic. That is especially
true for non-EU citizens.
European Union citizens do not require a work permit. Australians,
New Zealanders and Canadians are afforded a one year working-holiday
visa. In general the employer must apply for work permits. Immigration
is easier for "knowledge migrants" earning a gross annual
salary of over € 45 000 (over € 33 000 for those under
30).
Buy
The main central shopping streets run in a line from near Central
Station to the Leidseplein: Nieuwendijk, Kalverstraat, Heiligeweg,
Leidsestraat. The emphasis is on clothes/fashion, but there are
plenty of other shops. They are not upmarket shopping streets, and
the north end of Nieuwendijk is seedy. Amsterdam’s only upmarket
shopping street is the P.C. Hooftstraat (near the Rijksmuseum).
Other concentrations of shops in the centre are Haarlemmerstraat
/ Haarlemmerdijk, Utrechtsestraat, Spiegelstraat (art/antiques),
and around Nieuwmarkt. There is a concentration of Chinese shops
at Zeedijk / Nieuwmarkt, but it is not a real Chinatown.
The ‘interesting little shops’ are located in the side
streets of the main canals (Prinsengracht / Keizersgracht / Herengracht),
and especially in the Jordaan - bounded by Prinsengracht, Elandsgracht,
Marnixstraat and Brouwersgracht. The partly gentrified neighbourhood
of De Pijp - around Ferdinand Bolstraat and Sarphatipark - is often
seen as a 'second Jordaan'.
For general shop info and their openings hours you can visit 'Openingstijden
Amsterdam' it shows an overview of the most popular shops and their
location on the map.
* The Nine Streets or De Negen Straatjes, nine narrow streets between
the main canals from the Prinsengracht to the Singel, north of Dam
Square. Boutiques, specialist shops, galleries and restaurants.
* Santa Jet, Prinsenstraat 7, tel. (020) 427 2070. This little boutique
specialises in hand-made imports from Latin America. You can find
everything from mini shrines made of tin, to lamps, to kitschy postcards.
* De Beeldenwinkel Sculpture Gallery. This is a gallery for sculpture
lovers, with bronze statues, pottery, abstract sculpture, raku-fired
statues and marble figures sculpture to suit every budget and taste.
* Jordaan. One of the most picturesque 'village' areas of Amsterdam,
the Jordaan has always been a centre for artisans, artists and creatives,
today, this area has a wonderful selection of goldsmiths and jewellers,
fashion boutiques, galleries, designer florists, and specialist
shops.
* Museum Quarter. Located in Amsterdam Zuid, this is considered
the chiquest area for shopping in Amsterdam, close to the Museum
district, the PC Hooftstraat and the Cornelis Schuytstraat have
some of the finest designer shops in the city, including designer
shoes, health and well-being specialists, massage, fashion boutiques,
designer interiors, designer florists and specialist shops.
In the older areas surrounding the centre, the main shopping streets
are the Kinkerstraat, the Ferdinand Bolstraat, the Van Woustraat,
and the Javastraat. The most 'ethnic' shopping street in Amsterdam
is the Javastraat. There are toy stores and clothing shops for kids
in the centre, but most are in the shopping streets further out,
because that's where families with children live.
A give-away shop can be found at Singel 267, open Tuesdays and Thursdays
1700-1900 and Saturdays 1200-1700.
For books, your best bet is The Book Exchange at Kloveniersburgwal
58 (tel. (020) 6266 266), diagonally across from the youth hostel.
It is a secondhand bookstore specialising in English books, and
has a large selection, with an escpecially good selection of travel
writing, detectives, and sf/fantasy. Open M-S 10-18, Sun 11.30-16.
For English literature and books, you can also try The American
Book Center store on Spui square. Large Dutch bookstores also carry
a selection of foreign language books.
Street
markets:
Street markets originally sold mainly food, and most still sell
food and clothing, but they have become more specialised. A complete
list of Amsterdam markets (with opening times and the number of
stalls) can be found at Hollandse Markten and Amsterdam.info in
English
* Ten Cate Market. 3rd Largest in Amsterdam. Monday to Saturday
from about 08.00 until around 17.00.
* Albert Cuyp. Largest in Amsterdam, best-known street market in
the country. Monday to Saturday from about 09.00 until around 17.00.
* Dappermarkt. In the east, behind the ZOO was voted best market
in the Netherlands. Monday to Saturday from about 08.00 until around
17.00.
* Waterlooplein. Well-known but overrated flea market. Monday to
Saturday until about 17.00.
* Lindengracht. In the Jordaan, selling a wide range of goods, fruit
and vegetables, fish and various household items. Saturday Only.
09:00 to 16:00. Tram 3 or 10 to Marnixplein, and a short walk along
the Lijnbaansgracht.
* Spui. Fridays: Books. Sundays: Art and Antiques.
* Bloemenmarkt. Flower market, open daily on Singel, near Muntplein.
Buy pre-approved bulbs if taking them to the US or Canada. It was
becoming a tourist trap market but the council told the stall owners
to stop selling tourist junk.
* Lapjesmarkt. Westerstraat, in the Jordaan. A specialist market
concentrating on selling cloth and material for making clothes,
curtains etc. Monday Only. 09:00 to 13:00. Tram 3 or 10 to Marnixplein.
* Noordermarkt. In the historical Jordaan area of the city. On Monday
morning (09:00 to 13:00) the Noordermarkt is a flea market selling
fabrics, records, second-hand clothing etc, and forms part of the
Lapjesmarkt mentioned above. On Saturday (09:00 to 16:00) the Noordermarkt
is a biological food market, selling a wide range of ecological
products like organic fruits and vegetables, herbs, cheese, mushrooms
etc, there is also a small flea market. Tram 3 or 10 to Marnixplein,
and a short walk down the Westerstraat.
Eat
For food during the day, the Albert Heijn supermarkets (largest
national chain) usually have cheap ready-to-go meals on hand, from
pre-packaged sandwiches and salads to microwavable single-serving
meals. There is one right behind the Royal Palace on Dam Square,
on the Nieuwmarkt, on Koningsplein and in the Vijzelstraat.
For vegetarians Maoz chain of falfels is a blessing.The falafels
are excellent offering a variety of options to load onto the basics
falafel and pita bread.One of the Maoz is just outside Centraal
station.
Take advantage of the diversity of restaurants... especially Asian.
The influence of the Dutch colonial past is apparent; Indonesian
food is usually excellent, while Indian is often expensive and of
poor quality. Surinamese food is widely available and worth a try.
The highest concentration of Surinamese restaurants can be found
in the Albert Cuypstraat. For Chinese food (generally good and cheap)
check out the Zeedijk/Nieuwmarkt area. Also very good value are
the numerous Falafel bars scattered around town, often sporting
a "all you can pile" salad bar. And the Vlaamse Frites
-- large french fries served with mayonnaise -- are great. Eetcafe's
are pubs serving dinner too. Many restaurants of all kinds can be
found in the Haarlemmerstraat and the Haarlemmerdijk, and in the
narrow streets crossing the two. Also worth trying is the Van Woustraat
in the Pijp, or continue to the Rijnstraat in the Rivierenbuurt.
Exquisite but expensive restaurants can be found in the Utrechtse
Straat.
Local cheese is marvelous, buy some at the Albert Cuyp market, or
at specialist cheese shops found around central Amsterdam. Dutch
cheese is tradionally firm, and is made in large wax-covered wheels,
and falls into two main categories - Young and Old. Within those
categories, there exists a rich variety. Among the more unusual
young cheeses is Cumin (Komijn) cheese, which is particular to the
Netherlands. Sheep (Schapen) and Goat (Geiten) cheeses are also
common. Old (Oud) cheese can be made of any sort of milk, and is
often reminiscent of Italian Parmesan in consistency and sharpness
of flavor.
Don't forget to taste the main culinary contribution of the Amsterdammers
to the world: Heineken - oh, except you've already done that, and
it doesn't taste any better in Holland. Try some of the other excellent
beers you can get from this part of the world - including "Witbeer"
(White beer). Also check out "bitterballen", a kind of
fried meatball, and the "kroketten" (the same, but shaped
like a cylinder). Last but not least, don't forget to try the "broodje
haring" (herring sandwich), available from the dozens of fish
stalls that scatter the city. (And if they ask "with onions
and gherkins?", just say "of course"!) If you're
visiting in late November or December, you can enjoy oliebollen,
which are round blobs of sweet fried dough embedded with raisins
(sultanas) and dusted with powdered sugar.
For much more detailed restaurant listings, see the Iens restaurant
guide, the web version of a published restaurant guide, similar
to Zagat. The English breaks down occasionally, and you may not
always agree with the opinions, but the listings are exhaustive.
* Damsteeg, Reestraat 28-32, 1016 DN Amsterdam. They specialise
in fish dishes, but they also have a wide variety of meat and vegetarian
meals to choose from. With bar.
* Restaurant Dosa, Overtoom 146, 1054 HN Amsterdam Tel: 020-6164838
They specialise in traditional Southern Indian cuisine, especially
the eponymous 'Dosa' (a rice an lentil pancake with a variety of
fillings). The food is outstanding not being just the run of the
mill Indian Reatuarant and well worth hunting out. The Dosa's are
exceptional and a treat worthy of a visit by themselves.
* En Route, Hobbemakade 63, tel 020-6711263. En Route offers the
French cuisine for very reasonable prices (euro 22,50 for three
courses). The chef changes his surprisingly good and creative dishes
every week. Just opened, still fresh and comfortable!
* Proust, Noordermarkt 4. Tel. 020-6239145. Proust is a little off
the beaten path, near the intersection of Brouwersgracht and Prinsengracht,
but it's worth a visit for the inexpensive and satisfying meals
as well as the company: It's a favorite with locals.
* Sari Citra, Ferdinand Bolstraat 52. Tel. 020-6754102. Located
just off the far end of the De Pijp neighborhood's famous the Albert
Cuyp Market, Sari Citra is one of the most delicious and most affordable
Indonesian restaurants in town. Be sure to try several of the selections
as the friendly staff builds a plate for you. Don't show up right
at 5PM unless you feel like waiting in line behind a lot of hungry
locals just getting off work. Open during the week from 2PM-9PM,
and from 3PM-9PM on weekends.
* Dimitrij, Prinsenstraat 3. Offering dozens of interesting sandwiches
and salads, mostly on an Italian model Dimitrij is a must for at
least one lunch, and it's on a street which is packed with an ever-changing
lineup of fun boutiques.
* La Margarita, Reguliersdwarsstraat 49, near the flower market.
Tel. 020 623 07 07. Open 17.00-23.00, reservations accepted. This
caribbean restaurant offers a huge range of plates, including three
different vegetarian options. Every dish comes with ample sides
of white rice, black beans, plantains, and vegetables. In addition
to having great food the restaurant is decked out with a range of
fantastic and magic-realist art. If you like your food hot be sure
to ask for the special home-made hot sauce. 20-30 Euro per person,
with drinks.
* Green Planet, Spuistraat 122. Behind Dam Square. Superb food,
which happens to be vegetarian, from an enthustiastic and imaginative
young Austrian chef. We spent 25 euros each for two courses and
drinks, including great crostini, an authentic curry with a pile
of basmati and wild rice encrusted in sesame seeds, and a great
vegan "cheesecake". A word of warning, they don't take
credit cards.
* Gary's Muffins is a pleasant, warm cafe with oversized cups of
coffee, muffins and bagels galore. It's a combination of a New York
deli and a California cafe where American-style products are baked
on location and available to eat there or to take away. Muffins,
brownies, giant cookies, cheesecake and bagels spread with various
toppings are served at reasonable prices to a clientele that is
a mix of locals, tourists, and expatriates hungry for a taste of
home. There are 3 locations in the city.
* Rembrandt Corner, Jodenbreestr, around the corner of the "Rembrandt
Huis" is a very nice "Eetcafe" with fresh food, wireless
hot spots and internet workplaces. Try the dish of the day or the
mussels, this always seems to be a good choice!
* Q’s Café - Ruysdaelkade, De Pijp (Opposite the flower
boat). Q's is worth a visit with its pleasant canal setting just
around the corner from the Albert Cuyp Market. It does a wide variety
of sandwiches (hot and cold) at extremely reasonable prices, as
well as pancakes, soups and all day cooked breakfast. It also stocks
a really good beer from the south of Holland and is the only place
in the city that serves it. Definitely at least worth one of their
excellent coffees which come in a variety of flavours.
* Nam Tin - Jodenbreestraat 11, near Waterlooplein, just opposite
Rembrandt's house. A huge Chinese restaurant. Very authentic food:
about half of the customers are chinese tourists or expats. They
serve cheap but delicious dim-sum at lunchtime.
* De Orient - Van Baerlestraat 21, near Museumplein. Small restaurant
serving authentic Indonesian cuisine. Open daily from 17:00 to 22:00.
* Dim Sum Court - Two locations, one at Zeedijk 109 and one at Rokin
152. To get to the one on Rokin (the better location), take tram
4 from Amsterdam Centraal Station to the Muntplein stop, and the
restaurant will be on your right just before the stop. Both locations
offer an all-you-can-eat (maximum one hour) Chinese buffet for 7.5
euros (beverages not included, but available for an additional fee).
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, just ask the cashier/waitress
about the contents of individual dishes.
* Akbar - Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 15, near Leidseplein. Indian restaurant,
Muslim (halal) / Hindu (no beef). Good quality dishes from different
regions of India. Main courses €15-20.
* Barney's- Haarlemerstraat 98, 1013 EW. A gorgeous brasserie with
outside seating which has the best breakfasts in Amsterdam for very
reasonable prices. Their strawberry milkshakes are to die for.
* Koffiehuis van den Volksbond - Kadijksplein 4, 1018 AB. Former
coffeehouse for harbour laborers. Now a small atmospheric restaurant
in the east of the city center. Mainly visited by locals. Different
menu every evening, ranging from 10 to 15 euro for a main course.
Not possible to make reservations and you may have to share a table
with other guests.
* Los Lations South American grill Steak House. Damrak 32.
* Burger-Bar Home of the Hamburger. Burger Bar
* De Bamboeseur - Plantage Parklaan 10, 1018 ST. 020-625 47 21.
Fabulous little bar in the traditional "brown cafe" style
in a fairly residential district near Artis Zoo. All the food is
homemade daily; you really can't go wrong with any part of the menu.
No reservations necessary, but seating is limited to a small bar
and 8 tables of varying sizes upstairs. Great place to spend an
evening. Open for lunch and dinner, 11:00-01:00.
Drink
* Check out local "brown bars" with their gorgeous wood
panelling and booths.
* Mulligans Irish Music Bar Amstel 100. The oldest Irish bar in
Amsterdam, Mulligans has live music most nights. This is where the
trad. music crowd gathers.
* Hard Rock Cafe This is close to, or right next to the Holland
Casino also close to the Leidseplein. Great service, great food,
plenty of drinks.
* Schuim Spuistraat 189, +31 20 638 93 57. The super comfy cafe
is a great place to spend entire rainy days at a time. It heats
up quite a bit at night. Pot smoking seems to be tolerated even
though Schuim is definitely not a "coffee shop".
* Dan Murphy's Leidseplein 7. One of the many Irish Pubs in the
city. People from all over the world meet here and watch football,
rugby and typical Irish sports like hurling and gaelic football
while drinking a pint of Guinness.
* Vrankrijk Spuistraat 216. The most well-known and permanent squat
café in Amsterdam has been a fixture on Spuistraat for over
eighteen years. You have to ring at the door to be let in (the black
door on the right with a single buzzer, please don't bother the
people living in the building at the yellow-and-black checkered
door on the left!), but once inside, you will find a super-cozy
bar with an all-volunteer staff and the best prices in the inner
city. All profits go to support various good causes. Open every
night of the week, special nights are Monday night: queer night;
Tuesday night: fancy cocktails to support refugees; Saturday night:
dance night, the café's cavernous disco hall is opened for
a mix of 80s, ska, and new wave; Sunday night: film night. Sunday
through Thursday: 9pm - 1am; Friday and Saturday: 10pm - 3am.
* In De Wildeman Kolksteeg 3. A very well stocked beercafe, or actually
beer tasting room (bierproeflokaal) in the center of the inner city.
17 beers (usually from various countries) and a cider on draught,
and about 250 different bottled beers offered. There is no music
played, which makes for a very friendly and talkative atmosphere,
and it even has a separate non-smoking room.
* Gollem Raamsteeg 4. A special beer café, serving many beers,
especially from Belgium, Germany, Czech Republic and other countries.
* De Bierkoning Paleisstraat 125. Not a café, but a 'supermarket'
specialized in beer.
* Cafe de Jaren - Nieuwe Doelenstraat 20-22, with a minimal art-deco
interior next to Hotel d'Europe and a great view of where all the
main canals come together.
* Brouwerij 't IJ. Or in English The IJ Brewery. Its label with
an ostrich egg is a visual pun, as IJ and 'ei' - the word for egg
- sound the same in Dutch. East of the center, close to Artis Zoo,
in a former bath house beside a windmill. A small scale brewery
where delicious beer in several varieties and strengths is brewed
and sold - at a bar - on the premises. Open Wednesday to Sunday,
from 15:00 PM to 20:00 PM. The beer is available at some specialist
beer shops, and of high quality and, in some cases, alcohol content.
Internationally renowned!
* Backstage Utrechtsedwarsstraat 67. This café is really
the only place in Amsterdam where strangers talk to each other and
become friends after a while. As owner Gary Christmas puts it, "We
don't have customers, we have friends." Gary offers a nice
assortment of drinks (no alcohol) and sandwiches which fit very
well into the ambiance. Easily spend a few hours here making friends.
Open Monday to Saturday from around 10 am to 6 pm.
* Café l'Opera Rembrandtplein 27-29. A friendly spot for
coffee, a beer, or something stronger. You may at first only notice
the outside seating and the enclosed terrace, but there is also
an elegant, (usually) quieter indoor area. Food, too, but you don't
see many eaters.
* Café Belgique Gravenstraat 2, +31 (0)20-6251974 Easily
one of the smallest bars in Amsterdam, there is seating for at most
15 people, but if you can get in you will enjoy it thoroughly. Specializing
in Belgian beers, Belgique's menu is extensive and it includes some
hard to find beers on tap. This place is smoke friendly so don't
be surprised to see people rolling joints as they drink.
* Boom Chicago In the Leidseplein. This is a great place to watch
an American comedy show. They've been in Amsterdam for many years
now. Great food, drinks, and a good time! They also have a quiz
night in English for the large expat community.
Music
* Melkweg - multimedia centre in Amsterdam with live-music, theater,
photography, cinema, special events and parties.
* Paradiso - music venue in a beautiful former church, but with
relatively bad acoustics.
* Heineken Music Hall - larger-scale music venue, best reached by
train (train station Amsterdam Bijlmer) or metro/subway.
* Concertgebouw - Famous for its orchestra and its accoustics (among
the top ten in the world), this is the world's most frequently visited
concert hall. Classical music is the main fare, but they also bring
other kinds of music on stage. They have a free "lunch concert"
Wednesdays from 12:30 to 1 pm. In the same building is the "Kleine
Zaal" or "Small Hall" for more intimate performances,
often top-notch also. The building is near the major three museums
on the Museum Square.
* Bimhuis - Piet Heinkade 3, 1019 BR. World class jazz and improvised
music venue, five minutes by foot from Central Station. Tickets
14 to 18 euro.
* Waterhole - Light rock/funk jam sessions in a dingy but atmospheric
bar with pooltables.
* Maloe Melo' - Live 50's rockabilly bar. Drinks are cheap and the
crowd are mostly Dutch rockers, but the music is good.
* Jimmy Woo - The most glamourous club in amsterdam offers a selection
of house and r&b, with a spectacularly lit dance floor downstairs.
Entry policy is strict so dress sharp to get in.
* Cineac' - Club nights on thursday, friday and saturday in Tiesto's
new club gaurantee good music. Drinks are expensive and the crowd
is mostly young professionals, but the music is good.
Sleep
Amsterdam has over 400 registered hotels of varying standards from
budget tourist to some of the most expensive hotels in Europe. Advance
booking is recommended, especially for weekends and holidays. Mosts
hotels are in the centre of the canal ring, especially south of
Centraal Station, or near Museumplein. Hostels are also found around
the Warmoesstraat, in the red light district. Prices: a bed in hostel
starts around €15 in weekday winter time and might be up to
€30 on a summer weekend. A twin room in a budget hotel, 1-2
stars, might cost around €40 in winter time on weekdays, and
up to €100 on summer weekends. In a three and four star hotel,
the prices would range from €100 to €200, depending on
season, and five stars hotels can cost between €150 and €400
a night.
Most of the small hostels/hotels will not have elevators and have
the usual steep staircases; so if you suffer from vertigo, do get
an assurance that you would be getting a first/second floor room
or that the hotel has an elevator.
Budget:
* Amsterdam budget hotel the Crown between Red Light District and
CS..
* Amsterdam Bicycle Hotel in the de pijp province, a walk or short
tram ride from the centre of the action, yet far enough away to
feel safe. Surrounded by fantastic architecture with reasonable
rates, even on peak. Rooms from single to quadruple and optional
en suite. Comes with free coffee, breakfast and wireless internet
access. Great for students. [mailto: info@bicyclehotel.com] tel:
0031-20-679 34 52.
* Bob's Youth Hostel, Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 92, Phone +31 20 623
00 63. Cheap hotel close to Dam Square. Breakfast, shower, and dorm
bed at €18 a night. Private rooms with a kitchen and television
are €70 for two and €80 for three people.
* Bulldog, Oudezijds Voorburgwal 220, Phone +31 20 620 38 22. Friendly,
cheap hostel right in the heart of the red light district. Breakfast,
sheets, shower and a locker starting at 22 Euros. The Bulldog Coffeeshop
is conveniently located on the ground floor (also where you get
your breakfast).
* Flying Pig, there are two Flying Pigs, Vossiusstraat 46 (The Uptown),
and Nieuwendijk 100 (Downtown). Lots of students/young adults stay
here. Wide range of prices and accommodations, from €13,90
for a dorm bed to € 70 for a private room. The Uptown is supposed
to be the nicer (and cleaner) compared to the Downtown location.
Do not stay in a 32 bedroom dormatory.
* Hotel ABBA, Overtoom 118-122, Cheap hotel.
* Hotel Ben, Beurstraat 21, Basic hotel
* Hotel Brian, Singel 69, Very basic hotel, but free breakfast and
free internet included.
* Hans Brinker Hostel, Kerkstraat 136-138, tram number 1. Phone:
+31 (0)20 - 622 06 87. No frills, nice bar inside. From US$32.10/€24.00/£17.09
per person.
* Hotel de Stern,Utrechtsestraat 18, One star hotel
* Hotel Tamara, N.Z Voorburgwal 144, Cheap "hotel" in
a great location. Very close to the center, basic but clean rooms
(single/double/triple/quad/dorm). From €23 shared, €49
private.
* Oranje Tulp Budget Hotel On Amsterdam's main street, between CS
and Dam Square. Cheap & functional.
* St Christopher’s Amsterdam Hostel (Amsterdam Hostel), Warmoesstraat
129, 1012 JA Amsterdam, Netherlands, ? +31 206 231 380 (amsterdam@st-christophers.co.uk,
fax: +31 206 392 308). Check in: 2PM; Check out: 11AM. Also known
as St Christopher's @ The Winston this part hostel part hotel is
located in the heart of Amsterdam. Each room is designed by local
Dutch artists. €20 with breakfast inlcuded.
* Stayokay Stadsdoelen, Kloveniersburgwal 97, Phone +31 (0)20 624
68 32. Stayokay operates a network of 30 hostels in the Netherlands,
this hostel is the Amsterdam city centre location. A little smaller
than Stayokay Vondelpark, this location does not take groups.
* Stayokay Vondelpark, Zandpad 5, Phone +31 (0)20 589 89 96. Fairly
large youth hostel, very clean and professional. Next to the pleasant
Vondelpark, puts you on the southern side of downtown and just a
few blocks from the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum. The breakfast
is filling and has a social atmosphere. This location is popular
with school groups. Bring a padlock for your locker, or purchase
one at the desk.
* The Shelter, Barndesteeg 21 and Bloemstraat 179, Phone +31 (0)
20 - 62 44 717. Two alcohol & drug free Christian youth hostels
in the heart of Amsterdam, the city-centre hostel has a curfew.
Great value for money. Single-sex dormitories (including breakfast,
bed linen) from € 17, € 19 in July and August.
* The White Tulip, Warmoesstraat 87 Phone +31 (0)20 6255974 (Fax
+31 (0)20 4201299. About 5 minute walk from the main station. Dorms
and a few rooms right in the middle of things. Really a basic crash-pad,
but quiet and relaxed due to their 'No large groups' policy. From
€ 20 per person.
Mid-Range:
* Aalborg Hotel. 3-star.
* Amsterdam Orange Tulip Hotel, info@oranjetulp.nl. cheap 2-star
hotel, 3 minutes walk from Central Station.
* Amsterdam Season Star Hotel, info@seasonstar.com. 3-star hotel,
2 minutes walk from Central Station. Free breakfast and Wi-Fi, clean
& nice, reasonable prices, helpful team.
* Amsterdam Hotel de Paris. 3-star hotel situated in the centre
of Amsterdam, near the Leidseplein.
* Amsterdam Hotel La Boheme, Marnixstraat 415, tel: +31 (0)20 624
2828. 2-star hotel with very friendly staff in the centre of Amsterdam,
200 meters from the Leidseplein. Clean rooms and free Wi-Fi.
* Amsterdam Mozart Hotel. Renovated in April 2006. 47 en-suite rooms.
* Bastion Hotels. Comfortable but soulless 4-star hotel near OverAmstel
metro, 10 minutes walk then 10 minutes train ride to Centraal Station.
But without pedestrian access to the road - you have to take your
chance with the traffic. Doubles €70.
* Borgmann Villa Hotel. An old brick villa with large windows, 15
rooms, beside Vondelpark, near museums and Leidseplein. Parking
in front (€12 per day). Wi-Fi.
* citizenM hotel Amsterdam Airport, Jan Plezierweg 2, 1118 BB, Phone:
+31 (0)20 40 80 498. The brand new citizenM hotel, located at walking
distance from the terminals of Schiphol Airport, opens spring 2008.
citizenM claims to offer affordable but luxurious rooms. Rooms are
including free wifi and movies, rainshower and XL kingsize bed.
From 69 - 120 euro. Connected to the city center by the 24h a day
train transportation, it makes it a perfect choice for a city centered
trip.
* Delta Hotel, Damrak 42-43. Close to the central station and Dam
square. Clean rooms and friendly staff. Doubles €65-160.
* Gresham Memphis hotel Amsterdam, De Lairessestraat 87. Near the
Museum square and the Vondel Park.
* Hotel Citadel, Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 100. Close to the central
station and Dam square. Clean rooms and friendly staff. Doubles
€65-160.
* Hotel Nicolaas Witsen, Nicolaas Witsenstraat 4-8, tel: +31 20
6236143 fax: +31 20 6205113, info@hotelnicolaaswitsen.nl. tram 4
to Frederiksplein and walk the short distance from there to the
hotel. From €75.
* Hotel Y Boulevard, Prins Hendrikkade 145. Nice rooms, classy atmosphere,
free breakfast.
* Marnix Hotel, next to Leidseplein, 2-star hotel with dorm beds
located on the Marnixstraat, city center. Prices: from 20 €
a bed and 60 € for a room.
* Rembrandtplein Hotel, Amsterdam, Groenbrugwal 27. Beautiful but
sometimes tiny mid-priced (€70-90 including breakfast) near
the flower market. Friendly staff, bar open all night.
* RHo Hotel - although the hotel is in the city center, rooms are
quiet. Parking available. Friendly staff.
* Roemer Hotel Vondelstraat 28, tel: +31 20 6120120. Trendy boutique
hotel, housed in a converted from an 18th-century town house adjacent
to central Leidseplein Square.
* Rokin Hotel. Nice place in 2 renovated 17th century mansions.
Very clean and good atmosphere, own parking.
Splurge:
* Estherea, Singel 303-309 - four star hotel on one of the main
canals in the centre, 300 metres from the Dam Square and the Royal
Palace. 17th century facade, 75 recently renovated rooms.
* Hotel Ambassade, Herengracht 341, tel: +31 20 555 0 222 - four
star hotel on one of the main canals. Writers that stayed here left
signed copies of their books in the hotel's library.
* Hotel Krasnapolsky Amsterdam, Dam 9 Amsterdam - somewhat seedy
location for a 5-star hotel - the entrance may be on the main square
but the hotel backs onto the red-light district, with a view of
sex-shops and peepshows.
* Hotel Okura, Ferdinand Bolstraat 333, tel: +31 20 671 23 44 -
five star Japanese-owned and operated hotel with an excellent range
of Japanese food, clothing, and book shops in the basement, and
wireless Internet in the lobby, bar, and conference rooms. The only
drawback is that it's relatively distant from the central station
(15 minutes by tram), but worth considering if work is paying and
you don't mind taking cabs.
* Hotel Pulitzer - 25 restored 17th and 18th century canal houses
overlooking two of the city's most picturesque canals, Prinsengracht
and Keizersgracht, and made famous in Ocean's 12.
* Hotel Toren, Keizersgracht 164
* Hilton Amsterdam - site of John Lennon's and Yoko Ono's bed-in.
Located in an upscale, older neighborhood outside of the city center
but close to the Rijksmuseum and Vondel Park.
* Renaissance Amsterdam Hotel, Kattengat 1 (just off Nieuwe Zijds
Voorburgwal) tel: +31 20 621 22 23 - four star hotel with conference
center, wireless Internet access in the lobby and café.
* Park Hotel Amsterdam, Stadhouderskade 25, tel: +31 (0)20 671 1222,
Bang in the middle of Amsterdam between Leidseplein, Rijksmuseum
and P.C. Hooftstraat. 4-star hotel spread over several historical
buildings. Parking. Very friendly staff.
* Victoria Hotel Amsterdam, Damrak 1-5 - historic building directly
opposite Centraal Station, and currently also directly opposite
the construction site for the metro.
Apartment
and Canal Boat rentals:
Some agencies rent furnished apartments or canal boats. Short-stay
tenancies are permitted in Amsterdam, but the minimum is one week.
Apartments (or houseboats) let for less than one week are officially
an "illegal hotel". The city and boroughs have begun an
enforcement campaign to close them. This is not applicable to bed
and breakfasts and private accommodation with a main tenant.
Contact
The telephone country code for the Netherlands is 31, and
Amsterdam's city code is 020. If making local calls to reserve hotel
rooms or restaurants, or calls to other cities in the country, you
will need a phone card (5 Euro minimum) as many green KPN telephone
booths do not accept coins. Blue/orange Telfort booths accept both
coins and cards. The KPN booths are currently being replaced by
newer models, which will accept coins again.
There are phone centres/shops ('belwinkel') all over the city. Outside
the city centre, they mostly serve immigrants calling their home
country at cheap rates.
Tip: If you have a Simlock-free European GSM mobile phone( suitable
for GSM 900/1800 networks ). Consider buying a prepaid simcard.
You can buy these in any electronics store, and it's often on the
same price level as buying a KPN phonebooth card, and you're mobile.
Internet:
There are internet cafés in the centre, and almost
every phone centre has internet access, even if only one terminal.
Stay safe
General:
You should take normal precautions against pickpockets and baggage
theft, especially in the main shopping streets, in trams and trains,
at stations, and anywhere where tourists congregate. Street begging
is no longer common in Amsterdam, because the police take a harder
line. Some beggars are addicts, some are homeless, and some are
both.
What looks like a footpath, especially along a canal bank, may be
a bike lane. Bike lanes are normally marked by red/purple tiles
or asphalt, and a bike icon on the ground. However, the colour fades
over time, so you might miss the difference. Don't expect cyclists
to be kind to pedestrians: some consider the side-walk an extension
of the road, to be used when it suits them. For the bike theft problem
see above, Get Around.
Watch out for trams when crossing the street. Taxis are also allowed
to use some tram lanes, and even if not allowed, they often use
them anyway.
Visitors from outside the Euro zone should also take care they are
not short-changed in shops. Unscrupulous vendors sometimes try to
take advantage of those who are not familiar with the currency.
Groups of women visiting the Red Light District at night might feel
harassed in the aggressive environment, though this is said to be
the safest area because of the police presence. Keep to main streets
and groups. Do not take photographs of the prostitutes!!
Cannabis and other drugs:
It cannot be denied that many tourists come to Amsterdam
for the coffeeshops. Coffeeshops (in English but written as one
word) only sell soft drugs such as marijuana and hash - asking for
other drugs is pointless because coffeeshops are watched closely
by the authorities, and nothing will get them closed faster than
having hard drugs for sale. 'Café' is the general name for
a place licenced to sell alcohol, i.e. a bar. Since April 1, 2007
coffeeshops are no longer allowed to sell alcohol.
Quality varies! Coffeeshops aimed at tourists are more likely to
have overpriced and poor quality products. A simple rule of thumb
is: if the place looks good and well-kept chances are their wares
will be good as well. Don't just enter a coffeeshop being overwhelmed
that it's possible at all to buy and consume cannabis openly - be
discerning as to the quality.
If you're not a smoker, and you really want to try it, start with
something light, make sure you don't have an empty stomach, and
don't combine it with alcohol. Be forthright with the counter person
about your inexperience, they see it all the time. Go with an experienced
person if you can. Regardless of the strength, your first experience
can be quite a sensation at first, but will quickly decrease in
intensity. You may want to plan to return to your hotel and "hole
up" for a couple hours until you become comfortable with the
feeling. If you do find yourself too strongly under the influence
- feeling nauseous, woozey or faint - drink orange juice or eat
something sweet like cookies or candy, and get fresh air. Dutch-grown
nederwiet (a.k.a. super skunk) is much stronger than you might expect,
even if you are experienced. The THC level can be as high as 15%,
twice the norm (source: Trimbos Institute).
You will be approached by people offering to sell you hard drugs
in the street, especially as you are walking through the Red Light
District. Ignorance or failing that a firm refusal is enough - they
will not pester you. The selling of drugs in the street is illegal
and often dangerous; moreover the drugs sold to strangers are usually
fake. When they invite you to see the goods, they can lure you into
a narrow street and rob you.
So-called smartshops do not sell any illegal products, but a range
of dietary supplements, including 'herbal exstacy' - a legal attempt
at an XTC alternative which is a complete waste of money, various
more or less obscure psychedelic herbs, and magic mushrooms. It
is the latter which causes problems as people often underestimate
their strength. Magic mushrooms have little physical risks attached
to them, but can have a very strong short-acting psychological effect,
which can either be great or very distressing, depending on your
own mindset (e.g. if you are relaxed, have any serious worries,
history of mental illness, etc.) and your surroundings (e.g. if
you feel comfortable and safe in them). The first time you try this
should always be in a familiar and trusted environment, not on the
streets of an unfamiliar city. If you do decide to try it please
get informed first. Conscious Dreams, the company who invented the
entire concept of a 'smartshop' back in 1994 does this clearly (without
downplaying the possible risks just to sell more like some other
shops do) and responsibly. Also plan well ahead, make sure you have
thought out where you will be, most recommended is going to a large
park like the Vondelpark or the Amsterdamse Bos where it is quiet,
and there is no risk from traffic. Make sure that being intoxicated
will not endanger your safety, or that of anybody else. Be sure
to make your purchase in the Smartshops rather than a regular coffeeshop.
They are better regulated and information is available from the
attendents that work there. They are also of better quality and
stronger potency than at the coffeeshops.
If you're not sure of how much to take, take a small dose. Then
you'll know what your "tolerance" level is. People who
have bad trips are those who take a dosage over their own tolerance
level. A good smart shop can give you more info about this.
Do keep in mind that all hemp related products (except the seeds)
are still illegal. This can be confusing for most tourists, who
do think hemp products are legal since they are sold in coffeeshops.
Hemp products are not legal, rather they are "tolerated"
under the Dutch Opium Act. Read more about the legalities in the
article about the Netherlands.
Cope
Religious Services:
Holy mass in catholic churches (Overview of cath. churches in Amsterdam
(dutch)):
* Begijnhofkapel (HH. Joannes en Ursula), Begijnhof 29. Su: 10:00,
11:15 (french); Mo-Fr: 09:00, 17:00; Sa: 9:00
* De Krijtberg (St. Franciscus Xaverius), Singel 448 (stop Koningsplein
of trams 1, 2, 5). Sa: 12:30, 17:15; Su: 09:30; 11:00, 12:30, 17:15;
Mo-Fr: 12:30, 17:15
* Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk, Keizersgracht 220/218 B (stop Westermarkt
of trams 6, 13, 14, 17 or busses 21, 170, 172). Sa: 19:00; Su: 11:15,
13:00 (surinam.); Mo-Fr (chapel): 12:15, 19:30
* Papegaai (HH. Petrus en Paulus), Kalverstraat 58 (by feet 20 min
from central station). Sa: 17:30; Su: 10:30, 12:15; Mo-Sa: 10:30
* Zusters van Moeder Teresa, Amsterdam-Badhoevedorp, Egelantierstraat
147 (city center). Su: 15:00; Mo-Sa: 07:30
* Vrouwe van alle volkeren, Diepenbrockstraat 3 (near to RAI congress
centre), tel. (020)-6620504. Su: 09:30, 11:15; Mo-Sa: 12:15; Tu:
7:15
Get out
Direct trains connect Amsterdam to Paris, to major Belgian cities
like Brussels and Antwerp, and to German cities like Cologne, Frankfurt
or Berlin. The ticket machines sell tickets to nearby destinations
in Belgium and Germany. For longer journeys you will need the international
ticket office which is located on Platform 2.
Almost everywhere in the Netherlands can be reached within 3 hours
travel from Amsterdam, by public transport. To make more sense,
day trips can be divided into those very close to the city (about
30 minutes by public transport) and further afield.
Under
45 minutes away
Haarlem is the closest of the historic cities, only 15 minutes by
train. Smaller towns just outside Amsterdam (all within cycling
distance) include:
* Weesp, nearest small town to Amsterdam (12 minutes by train),
with a quiet historic centre on the Vecht river.
* Muiden, formerly a small port at the mouth of the Vecht river,
with the best-known castle in the Netherlands, Muiderslot.
* Naarden, surrounded by a complete ring of 17th-century fortifications.
Train to Naarden-Bussum station, then about 30 minutes walk or take
bus 110 in the direction of Weesp (ask the driver where to get off).
* Zaanse Schans, Historic windmills, tradesmen's workshops and open-air
museum. 20 minutes by train to Koog-Zaandijk station, then a 10
minutes walk.
* Monnickendam, a small 17th-century port town, 20-25 minutes by
bus lines 111 or 115, every 15 minutes from Amsterdam. Bus 111 also
stops at the 'picturesque' village of Broek in Waterland, a tourist
destination since the 19th century.
* Volendam - once a fishing village, it is now the most commercialised
tourist destination in the Netherlands, and can be quite disappointing.
30 minutes by bus, but fortunately they all continue to Edam.
The historic cities of Utrecht, Amersfoort, and Leiden, and the
smaller historic town of Alkmaar, are 30 to 35 minutes away by train.
So is Zandvoort, the nearest beach resort. The historic port of
Hoorn is 40 minutes away by train, and the smaller historic port
of Edam is 40 minutes by bus (lines 110, 112, 114, 116, 117, 118).
About one hour away
Rotterdam, The Hague, Delft, Den Bosch, Apeldoorn, and Arnhem all
take about one hour by train. A slightly longer journey, 80 minutes,
takes you to the historic cities of Zwolle and Deventer, by then
you are already in the Eastern Netherlands.
The smaller historic town of Enkhuizen is also one hour away by
train, it has a large open-air museum showing how people used to
live around the former sea, Zuiderzee. Several other smaller historic
towns are within an hour by train.
* The bulb fields are a se | |
