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Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the capital and largest city of the Netherlands, famous for its extensive network of canals that have earned it the nickname 'Venice of the North.' Located in North Holland, this vibrant city blends historic charm with contemporary culture and attracts visitors from around the world.

Quick facts

Population
881,933 (city, 2022)
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Language
Dutch
Timezone
CEST (UTC+2)
Local time now
23:01:55

Hotels in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers a range of hotel options for visitors, from luxury properties like Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky and Swissôtel to boutique choices such as Hotel Twenty Seven and De Roode Leeuw. Whether you're staying near Dam Square or elsewhere in the city, you'll find accommodation to suit your travel needs. See all hotels →

Airports in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is served by Luchthaven Schiphol, the city's main airport, along with several regional facilities including Vliegveld Hilversum, Zweefvliegveld Langeveld, and Zweefvliegterrein Soesterberg. The area also hosts specialist flying clubs such as Eerste Zaanse Zweefvlieg Club. See all airports →

Car Hire in Amsterdam

Several major car hire companies operate in Amsterdam, including SIXT, Enterprise, Avis, and Alamo. Whether you're planning to explore the Netherlands or need transport during your stay, these providers offer a range of vehicle options to suit different travel needs. See all car hire →

Things to Do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers visitors a wealth of attractions to explore. From historic landmarks such as the Koninklijk Paleis and the Dam square to popular tourist destinations like Madame Tussauds Amsterdam, there's something for everyone in this vibrant Dutch capital. See all things to do →

Restaurants in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers a vibrant restaurant scene with diverse culinary options. Whether you're looking for fine dining at establishments like Royal98 and Bougainville, or casual Italian fare at La Piazza and La Boca, the city has something for every taste. See all restaurants →

Swimming Pools in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers a variety of swimming pools for both recreational swimmers and fitness enthusiasts. Popular facilities include Zuiderbad, Swimgym, Sportfondsenbad Oost, Sportplaza Mercator, and Doelgroepenbad, providing options for swimming, training, and water-based activities throughout the city. See all swimming pools →

Zuiderbad
1.7 km from centre
Swimgym
2.5 km from centre
Sportfondsenbad Oost
3.0 km from centre

Spas in Amsterdam

We're still gathering spas listings for Amsterdam — check back soon.

Nightlife in Amsterdam

Amsterdam's nightlife scene is diverse and dynamic, offering everything from energetic dance clubs to intimate bars and unique venues. Whether you're looking to dance the night away at ClubNL or Winston, enjoy drinks at Drake's Cruising, or experience something unconventional at Casa Rosso or Theater 97, Amsterdam has a venue to suit every taste. See all nightlife →

Bars in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers a vibrant bar scene with establishments ranging from cozy local cafés to contemporary venues. Whether you're looking for a casual drink at Café Zwart, a traditional Dutch experience at De Drie Fleschjes, or modern cocktails at spots like Bar 4, De Blauwe Parade, and The Tailor, the city has something for every taste. See all bars →

Cafes in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers a vibrant cafe culture with welcoming spots throughout the city. From Dam Good Coffee to 't Nieuwe Kafé, Lucy's, Vascobelo V-bar, and De Drie Graefjes, there are plenty of places to enjoy a drink and soak in the local atmosphere. See all cafes →

Shopping in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers diverse shopping experiences across the city, from iconic department stores like De Bijenkorf and HEMA to modern shopping destinations such as Magna Plaza and Kalverpassage. Whether you're seeking high street fashion, local boutiques, or international brands like TK Maxx, the Dutch capital has something for every shopper. See all shopping →

Nature & Wildlife in Amsterdam

We're still gathering nature & wildlife listings for Amsterdam — check back soon.

Climate snapshot

Amsterdam experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers. The city sees fairly regular rainfall throughout the year, with the coldest months from December to February and the warmest periods from June to August.

Interesting Facts About Amsterdam — Weird & Wonderful

  • Amsterdam's canals form a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflecting the city's unique historical and architectural significance.
  • In 2008, Amsterdam was designated as the World Book Capital by UNESCO.
  • The city hosts approximately 140 festivals and events annually, making it one of Europe's most event-rich destinations.
  • Hundreds of thousands of people travel to Amsterdam each year to celebrate Koningsdag on 27 April, filling the entire city with festivities.

Events & Festivals Not to Miss in Amsterdam

27 April
Koningsdag
King's Day celebration where hundreds of thousands of people travel to Amsterdam. The entire city becomes filled with people buying products from free markets and visiting music concerts.
March
Stille Omgang
A silent Roman Catholic evening procession held every March.
August
Prinsengrachtconcert
A yearly classical concerto held on the Prinsen canal.
first Saturday in August
Amsterdam Gay Pride
A yearly local LGBT parade of boats held on Amsterdam's canals.
Holland Festival
A festival for the performing arts that attracts international artists and visitors from all over Europe.
late August
Uitmarkt
A three-day cultural event at the start of the cultural season offering previews of many different artists, such as musicians and poets, who perform on podia.

Frequently Asked Questions About Amsterdam

What currency is used in Amsterdam?

The Euro (EUR) is the official currency used in Amsterdam and throughout the Netherlands.

What language is spoken in Amsterdam?

Dutch is the official language spoken in Amsterdam, though English is widely understood by locals and in tourist areas.

Where is Amsterdam located?

Amsterdam is located in the Dutch province of North Holland in the Netherlands, in northwestern Europe.

Why is Amsterdam called the 'Venice of the North'?

Amsterdam earned this nickname due to its large number of canals, which form a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are central to the city's character.

What major festivals does Amsterdam host?

Amsterdam hosts numerous famous festivals including Koningsdag (King's Day), the Holland Festival, Amsterdam Gay Pride, and the Uitmarkt cultural event, among many others.

Map of Amsterdam

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