Amsterdam Highlights
We only had a short time in Amsterdam, so we had to choose wisely! I’ve included a few highlights from our last trip there as well.
EXPERIENCE
Bulldog Coffeeshop - The quintessential Amsterdam cannabis shop, they have many locations around the city but we checked out the original and the ex-Police Station. The OG had a cozy vibe and we could hang out in there chatting and drinking coffee. While the ex-Police Station location was a bit more clubby (loud music) and more of a TGIFriday’s vibe… Stick to the original.
Barraka Coffeeshop - We didn’t see this spot on any “Best Of” lists but that’s what we liked about it - it was an unfussy place with few tourists and just a few tables. This felt like a more authentic experience.
Anne Frank House Museum - The actual house where Anne Frank and her family were hidden during WWII, a must-see. Very sad, of course, but an important experience where you can gain a better understanding of the struggles of WWII.
Van Gogh Museum - The painter’s most famous pieces are on permanent exhibition here.
Heineken Experience - Any beer drinker should checkout this immersive brewery tour to learn some history and drink some Heinekin.
MoCo Museum - This small museum has contemporary and modern art and was featuring a Banksy exhibit when we were there. Plan ahead for this one and make a reservation!
Keukenhof Garden - Only open from mid-March to mid-May, the world’s largest flower garden in Lisse is a short bus ride away and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
EAT
Blue Amsterdam - enjoy amazing views (or watch the storm clouds roll in and out) with a coffee and Dutch Apple Pie. This place is tucked away in a shopping center but a quick elevator ride takes you up to panoramic views.
Cafe Schiller - Top rated for Dutch food with great service.
Albert Cuyp Market - A street market with many options, grab some cheap eats and do some shopping here. There is a park nearby you can take your lunch to if the weather is nice.
Bleu - Well reviewed bistro serving french food, little sister to the upscale Black & Bleu Steakhouse. Cozy and intimate. We had poor service but it may have been an off night, the food was excellent.
Foodhallen - This massive food hall has all kinds of stands (fried chicken, tacos, pizza, dim sum, you name it) and drinks as well. Something for everyone!
Vatten Ramen - Excellent location on the canal, try to get a seat in the window. The ramen was just as good as the view!
Lolo - Very eclectic design, in the red light district, they also have food if you’re looking for dinner. We loved the atmosphere.
DRINK
Law & Order Bar - Delicious and inventive cocktails by world class bartenders. Maybe you’ll get lucky as we did and they will have some guest bartenders!
Proeflokaal Arendsnest - Old-fashioned place to try Dutch beers - they have 52 on tap! No proper food here, but you can get meat and cheese to accompany your brews.
Deus Cantina - Cute, trendy place with classic cocktails; probably a good dinner spot as well but we can’t vouch as we just had drinks there.
