Amsterdam
Overview of Amsterdam
Amsterdam wears two faces. On one, it beckons you with its notorious Red Light District and liberal views around marijuana use. On the other, it offers discerning travellers some of Europe’s finest museums and art galleries. Its house boats, bicycles, cobbled streets, and quaint canals are a visual treat.
For tourists, Amsterdam’s compactness is a plus. The old part of town is a story-book setting of narrow lanes, gabled houses and ancient bridges, and a pleasure to explore on foot. Visitors can shop boutiques for souvenirs such as Delft china or wooden clogs, or relax at cosy bars and pavement cafes.
At night even the most conservative visitors are drawn to the Red Light District’s lively atmosphere, where prostitutes stand in shop windows and touts encourage passers-by to view raunchy floorshows. For the most part, travellers will find the best bars in the bustling Leidesplein and Rembrandtplein.
Key Facts
- Language:
- Dutch is the official language. English is widely spoken. Frisian (as well as Dutch) is spoken by the people of Friesland Province.
- Passport/Visa:
The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. All of these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple-entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. Additionally, non-EEA visitors to the Netherlands must hold confirmed return/onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country.
It is recommended that a traveller’s passport has at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The official currency is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. Major credit cards are widely accepted. Foreign currency can be changed at banks, post offices or bureaux de change (usually indicated by the letters GWK). Banks are closed on weekends but bureaux de change are open. ATMs are widely distributed and most are open 24 hours a day.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Two-pin round European-style plugs are used.
Travel to Amsterdam
Climate for Amsterdam
The oceanic climate of Amsterdam is temperate, generally mild and damp. Winters (December to February) are fairly mild, though frost can occur, while summers (June to August) are warm but seldom hot. Temperatures average between 68°F (20°C) and 71°F (22°C) in summer, and around 32°F (0°C) in winter. Cloudy, rainy days can be expected at any time of year, and light rainfall is common.
On the whole, the weather in Amsterdam is very changeable, and even mid-summer visitors should be prepared for sudden drops in temperature. Spring and autumn are particularly unpredictable.
Spring (March to May) is the best time to visit, when the beautiful gardens are in bloom. Summer is the peak tourist season. Amsterdam is considered a year-round destination, though, with some travellers preferring to visit in autumn or winter, when the city is at its cheapest and least crowded.
7 day forecast for Gemeente Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
| Saturday Dec. 20, 2024 | Sunday Dec. 21, 2024 | Monday Dec. 22, 2024 | Tuesday Dec. 23, 2024 | Wednesday Dec. 24, 2024 | Thursday Dec. 25, 2024 | Friday Dec. 26, 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hi: 50°F Lo: 43°F  Overcast | Hi: 45°F Lo: 40°F Overcast | Hi: 45°F Lo: 40°F  Mostly cloudy | Hi: 45°F Lo: 36°F Cloudy | Hi: 47°F Lo: 45°F Overcast | Hi: 47°F Lo: 34°F  Morning clouds | Hi: 41°F Lo: 32°F  Scattered clouds |
Health Notes when travelling to Netherlands
There are no health risks associated with travel to the Netherlands and no vaccinations are required for entry into the country. The water is safe to drink. The standard of health care is very high, but the necessary health insurance provisions must be made before travelling. A reciprocal agreement exists with other EU countries, which entitles nationals to low-cost emergency medical treatment. A European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is necessary for this purpose. After Brexit, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for UK citizens. The GHIC allows UK citizens access to state healthcare during visits to the EU. The GHIC is not valid in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland, nor is it an alternative to travel insurance. Although medication is widely available in the Netherlands, it is always best to take along any prescribed medication, in its original packaging, and accompanied by a signed and dated letter from a doctor detailing what it is and why it is needed.
Safety Notes when travelling to Netherlands
Travel in the Netherlands is fairly safe and the vast majority of trips are trouble-free. Travellers should, however, always exercise caution in empty streets at night and be aware of pickpockets, particularly in central Amsterdam and at Central Station. There have been several incidents on trains from Schiphol Airport where heavily laden passengers have been targeted by thieves. As in all Western countries, there is a risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks.
Travellers should also watch out for a scam whereby tourists will be approached by ‘plain clothes policemen’ who claim to be investigating credit card fraud and counterfeit currency. Tourists are shown fake identification in the form of badges, and asked to hand over credit cards and money. If approached, travellers are advised to ask for proper identification or to accompany them to the nearest police station.
Customs in Netherlands
In the Netherlands, the use of cannabis is tolerated in designated ‘coffeeshops’ in major cities. This policy exists to prevent the marginalisation of soft drug users, thereby exposing them to more harmful drugs. However, the trafficking in hard or soft drugs outside licensed premises is illegal and the possession of soft drugs in public places will incur a prison sentence. Travellers should note that the rules are somewhat different for foreigners, with the Netherlands tightening up drug laws in recent years: Amsterdam is the only city still fighting for the right of tourists to smoke cannabis in ‘coffeeshops’ and this has become a bit of a grey area with laws not always enforced on the ground. Everybody from the age of 14 is required to show a valid identity document to law enforcement officers on request. Tobacco smoking in cafés, bars and restaurants is prohibited.
Duty Free in Netherlands
Duty free items for travellers to the Netherlands include 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars or 250g smoking tobacco; 1 litre spirits, 2 litres spirits or aperitifs made of wine or 2 litres of sparkling wines, liquor wines or still wine; perfume up to 50g or 250ml eau de toilette; 500g of coffee; 100g tea. Prohibited items include the import of all birds.
Doing Business in Netherlands
Business in the Netherlands is conducted in an efficient and professional manner. Punctuality is important, dress is usually formal (suits and ties are standard), business cards are exchanged and greetings are made with a handshake. Titles and surnames are used, unless otherwise indicated. Women tend to be well received in Dutch business and it is not uncommon for women to hold high positions. Most Dutch people speak excellent English. Business hours are usually 8.30am to 5pm.
Communication in Netherlands
The international access code for the Netherlands is +31. Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free wifi are widely available. As international roaming costs can be high, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option.
Tipping in Netherlands
Service charges are included in hotel rates, restaurant bills and taxi fares, usually at about 15 percent. Tipping for good service is always appreciated but not necessary. It is customary to tip taxi drivers and waiters about 10 percent.
Passport/Visa Note
The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. All of these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple-entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. Additionally, non-EEA visitors to the Netherlands must hold confirmed return/onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country.
It is recommended that a traveller’s passport has at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in the Netherlands. No visa is required for a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in the Netherlands. No visa is required for a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in the Netherlands. No visa is required for a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in the Netherlands. No visa is required for a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in the Netherlands. No visa is required for holders of Irish passports.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in the Netherlands. No visa is required for a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in the Netherlands. A visa is required.
Getting around in Amsterdam, Netherlands
The central area of Amsterdam is fairly compact and easy to get around on foot, but there’s also an excellent public transport system. By buying an OV-chipkaart users can get unlimited use of trams, buses and metros. Cards can be purchased at airports, stations, newsagents and supermarkets, and on buses and trams. Taxis are expensive and renting a car is not recommended. The streets in the city centre are narrow and awkward to navigate, and parking is limited. The ideal way to get around is often by bicycle and visitors will find several bike rental agencies around the city. There are ten train stations within Amsterdam, the main one being Amsterdam Central. Travelling by train is popular with locals and visitors due to the quick connections not just to the airport but also to regions and towns all over the country, and even to neighbouring countries like Belgium, Germany and France.
Events in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Keukenhof
Thursday March 23, 2023 to Sunday May 14, 2023 (23 March — 14 May 2023)
Where: The Keukenhof is located in the bulb-growing area between Amsterdam and The Hague.
Keukenhof is regarded as one of the world’s largest and most beautiful spring gardens. Millions of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths fill the extensive grounds with colour and fragrance every year, attracting legions of tourists. The site is divided into themed gardens, sculpture routes and various exhibitions, while numerous pavilions feature flower and plant shows for keen gardeners and flower arrangers. Visitors will find many cafes and restaurants, as well as souvenir stands and flower shops selling bulbs and seeds. They can also take a cycling excursion or a boat trip from Keukenhof to explore the bulb fields surrounding the garden. Visitors should allow at least a few hours to explore the park and enjoy the many events, displays and performances on offer.
http://www.keukenhof.nl
King’s Day
Wednesday April 27, 2022 (27 April annually)
Where: Most of the action takes place at Vondelpark in the city centre.
The king’s birthday is a very festive occasion in the Netherlands, and Amsterdam goes all out to celebrate. Street trade proceeds without regulation for the day, allowing people to display their unused and unwanted goods and potentially sell them to passers-by. Bargain hunters and party seekers will enjoy themselves, especially if the sun shines. The occasion includes live music and many street performances. Travellers should also look into spending the day on a boat. Amsterdam’s canals provide a wonderful vantage point from which to take in the festivities, and allow visitors to avoid some of the crowds and queues on land.
Amsterdam Pride
Sunday July 31, 2022 to Tuesday August 02, 2022 (31 July to 2 August 2022)
Where: Various places throughout the city
Amsterdam’s Pride is one of Europe’s most popular and well-attended gay pride festivals, taking place annually between late July and early August. For many, its highlight is the Canal Parade, in which about 75 decorated craft carry revellers along the Amstel, Stopera and Prinsengracht canals. The festival includes a full programme of street parties, an open-air film festival on the Nieuwmarkt and many cultural and theatrical events. The city’s club scene also comes alive, with special events and parties held all week long. All of the main events take place in central Amsterdam, and travellers should book accomodation in advance as the city gets very busy over Pride.
http://www.amsterdamgaypride.nl
Amsterdam Roots Festival
Thursday June 23, 2022 to Monday July 04, 2022 (TBC)
Where: Various locations
Amsterdam’s Roots Festival started as a celebration of African music in 1983, becoming a major event on the global music calendar. Today, the annual programme draws top artists from all over the world. Performances take place at different venues around the city, though the festival always ends with a massive open-air concert in the Oosterpark. The Roots Festival is part of the Holland Festival and a wonderful experience for lovers of world music. Music genres are diverse, with main stages including World Stage, Club Stage, Urban Groove and Bass Stage, and a lot of pop and dance music in the mix. Festival-goers can enjoy dance and music workshops, a food fair and lots of craft and clothing markets along with the music. The festival also has an area dedicated to children’s entertainment.
http://www.amsterdamroots.nl
Holland Festival
Thursday June 02, 2022 to Sunday June 26, 2022 (2 — 26 June 2022)
Where: Information and booking at The Festival Centre, Stadsschouwburg, Leidseplein
The Holland Festival is a yearly trend-setting and innovative presentation of the dramatic arts, and the highlight of the country’s cultural season. Dance, music, theatre and opera performances are all on offer, meaning it truly covers the full spectrum of the arts. The festival also caters for a wide range of tastes, as attendees can expect to see everything from pop to high-drama. Famous actors, authors and musicians mingle with the crowds, and Amsterdam’s museums, theatres and galleries come alive with exciting exhibitions and performances. Culture lovers will not pick a better time of year to visit the Netherlands.
http://www.hollandfestival.nl
New Years Eve in Amsterdam
Saturday December 31, 2022 (31 December annually)
Where: Various venues throughout the city
Locals and tourists pack into central Amsterdam on New Year’s Eve, with Dam Square and the Leidseplein drawing most of the revelry. The Oosterdok area usually hosts the biggest event, with the VOC Ship, Science Centre NEMO and Scheepvaartmuseum forming a backdrop for festivities. These open-air celebrations are a treat for the whole family, and are the occasion’s main highlight. Visitors can expect a festive, friendly mood beneath a sky lit up by fireworks. Many nightclubs offer New Year specials with top DJs, music concerts and performances, and there are also a number of quirky parties for those who like to dress up.
Arrival of St Nicholas
Saturday December 10, 2022 (10 Dec 2022)
Where: Central Station, Amsterdam
Travellers who visit Amsterdam with kids in November should catch the annual appearance of Santa Claus. He usually arrives on a ship three weeks before the celebration begins, and rides a white horse to Dam Square. His coming is a festive occasion, when musical bands liven up the atmosphere and are accompanied by animals, clowns and acrobats. The story of Santa Claus dates back to the 3rd century, when the Bishop of Myra, St Nicholas, dedicated his life to helping the poor and needy. The passing centuries gave rise to many legends and stories about St Nicholas, though he remains best known for giving presents to children.
http://www.stnicholascenter.org
Uitmarkt
Saturday August 27, 2022 to Sunday August 28, 2022 (27 — 28 Aug 2022)
Where: Various venues throughout the city
Every year, Uitmarkt heralds the official beginning of the country’s cultural season. Essentially, it introduces and celebrates the upcoming activities. Visitors will encounter stages all over Amsterdam, and can enjoy a wide variety of free performances, which include dance, music, film and theatre. They can also attend numerous workshops around Leidseplein and Museumplein. Hundreds of cultural institutions are on hand to provide information about their events. The festival’s large book market is a must, and children will relish the junior programme.
http://www.uitmarkt.nl
TCS Amsterdam Marathon
Sunday October 16, 2022 (16 Oct 2022)
Where: Olympic Stadium
Runners from all over the world enjoy Amsterdam’s flat terrain, sparse traffic and stunning architecture. The race dates back to 1975, and is widely recognised as one of the most professionally organised races on the international athletics calendar. Besides the main marathon, athletes can choose from a half marathon, a kid’s marathon, a mini marathon and an 8km run. DJs, singers and samba bands line the course, cheering runners on and entertaining spectators. Visitors can also attend the free and popular marathon expo, which is home to stalls promoting all things related to athletics. The route traditionally starts and finishes at the Olympic Stadium.
http://www.amsterdammarathon.nl
Nightlife in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Famed for its wild nightlife, Amsterdam offers visitors something quite unique when the sun goes down. Pubs, clubs, soft drugs and the sex trade feature among the options.
The Red Light District is a major drawcard, with many tourists choosing to simply wander through and see women posing in shop windows, and hear insistent touts push sex shows. Safety is not an issue, though visitors should be wary of pickpockets and other petty criminals. Travellers should also understand that De Wallen (as locals call the Red Light District) is a nightlife hub aside from the sex trade.
Amsterdam is famously tolerant of marijuana use. Visitors can purchase a variety of strains in some coffeeshops, and smoke at these establishments. Tourists should note that while marijuana use is tolerated, it’s not strictly speaking legal. Some caution is necessary.
The city’s mainstream nightlife centres around Leidseplein, where visitors will find the most popular bars, clubs and restaurants. Amsterdam also has a fondness for live music, particularly jazz, as many of the world’s jazz legends have settled here. Music lovers can enjoy performances at fun jazz clubs, or catch world-class rock and pop acts at many venues. Bigger concerts take place at the Koninklijk Theater Carré, Heineken Music Hall, and the huge Amsterdam Arena.
For a more cultured night out, visitors can purchase tickets to a number of highly-regarded orchestras. Or, they can watch the National Ballet and Netherlands Opera. Many theatres produce shows in both Dutch and English, including De Balie, Felix Meritis, Theater Frascati, and the Vondelpark Open-Air Theater.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
