Whether you’re in town for business, a brief stopover, or a leisurely vacation, here’s how to smoothly transit from the airport to your destination in Amsterdam.

Here’s a map that shows the airport location:

This is a pretty short article, because getting from the airport to the city center of Amsterdam is easy and pain-free.

To summarize, it’s straightforward, and everybody speaks English if you need help navigating the airport or public transport.

Let’s start with my preferred way of getting from Amsterdam Airport to the city center.

1. By Train: The Fast & Efficient Route

I usually take the train from Schiphol to Amsterdam Centraal (the central train station) when I go to Amsterdam as it’s cheap and efficient.

Schiphol Airport Station offers easy navigation with 3 platforms and 6 tracks located directly beneath the airport.

Trains to Amsterdam Centraal usually depart from platforms 1 or 2.

The journey is about 15-20 minutes and trains run every 10-15 minutes.

Insider Tip: For a scenic view of the Dutch countryside, grab a window seat on the right side of the train.

The price for a one-way 2nd class ticket is €5.90, while 1st class is €9.33. But there’s really no need to buy a 1st class ticket when you’re only going to be on the train for 15 minutes.

GVB Multi-Day Tickets

For longer stays, consider these tickets for unlimited use of public transport within Amsterdam.

Read more about the tickets here.

You can also ‘tap in’ with your phone using Apple Pay – I did this on my latest trip to Amsterdam in spring 2023, and it worked like a charm.

• Currently, no metro line directly connects the airport to the city. However, plans to extend metro line 52 to Schiphol are underway, with completion expected by 2030.

Here’s a great video that shows the transfer brilliantly:

2. By Taxi: Prices & Info

Taxis are available outside the arrivals area for direct, hassle-free transport to your destination.

If you’re traveling with heavy luggage or traveling in groups this might be a good way to get from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam City Center.

Cost: Typically between €40-60 for a ride to the city center. Duration is about 15-25 minutes, obviously, depending on where your hotel or destination is.

Pre-Booked Shuttles: These offer fixed prices and can be cheaper than local taxis. You’ll know the cost upfront, and there are no detours to inflate the fare.

I always recommend Welcome Pickups for airport transfers as they’re the company I use myself whenever I want a pre-booked airport taxi.

Taxis can be a time-saver, especially if your accommodation is not near a train or bus station. The comfort and convenience of a taxi can be particularly appealing after a long flight.

If you haven’t booked a place to stay yet, check out my huge guide on the best areas and places to stay in Amsterdam.

3. By Bus: Connect to Key Locations

For a journey that aligns closely with your hotel location, buses are a great option.

The Amsterdam Airport Express Bus 397, departing from Schiphol Plaza, takes you to various stops in the city, including Museumplein and Leidseplein, in about 30 minutes.

Buses run from 5:00 AM to 12:30 AM. Single fare costs €6.50, and children aged 4-11 travel for €1.

An open return ticket, valid for 14 days, is €11.75.

Get tickets & more info here.

Here are the bus stops from the Airport:

• Knooppunt Schiphol Noord
• Anderlechtlaan
• Amstelveenseweg
• Olympisch Stadion
• Haarlemmermeerstation
• Emmastraat
• Museumplein
• Rijksmuseum
• Leidseplein
• Elandsgracht-busstationen

Be aware that this bus does not go to Amsterdam Central Station.

Alternatively, the GVB bus 369 connects Schiphol to Amsterdam Sloterdijk, taking around 40 minutes​.

And there you have it, the essential guide to transport from Schiphol Airport to the streets of Amsterdam.

Let me know in the comments if you’ve any questions about your trip to Amsterdam.

See all Amsterdam travel guides here.

Frequently asked questions:

The post 3 Best Ways to Get From Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to the City Center ✈️ appeared first on Destination Well Known.

If you’ve never been to Amsterdam, you’re in for an adventure-packed trip filled with many sights, attractions, and experiences.

I’ve been to Amsterdam 4 times, so I know a thing or two about this fantastic city. So let’s dive into the guide on the best things to do in Amsterdam.

Top Tip: Get the official GVB ticket online.

For only 9 euros per day, this ticket provides unlimited use of public transport (trains, trams, ferries, buses, and the metro). 

1. Canal Cruise – An Amazing Amsterdam Experience

Looking at a map of Amsterdam, you’ll quickly notice the city’s intricate network of small and large canals. These canals are a significant tourist attraction, drawing in millions of visitors annually.

When you first arrive in Amsterdam, taking a canal cruise is a brilliant way to get your bearings. During your cruise, audio guides will share interesting facts about the monuments and buildings you pass. 

The tour lasts around 75 minutes, and once you’re back on land, you can explore any sights you’ve taken a fancy to during the cruise.

Get your ticket for a 75-minute canal cruise here.

2. Heineken Experience – A Must for Beer Lovers

Just as you wouldn’t miss a trip to the Guinness Brewery in Dublin, you should take advantage of the Heineken Experience in Amsterdam.

Of course, this is mainly for those who enjoy a good beer, but it’s almost a must-see in Amsterdam.

Since its establishment in 1867, Heineken has become one of the most popular and well-known beers globally. 

This means you can look forward to an engaging and comprehensive experience in the old brewery.

Learn about the brewing process, discover how to pour the perfect Heineken draft beer, and taste the beer at the end of the tour. 

You’ll also hear more about Heineken’s many sponsorships, including the Champions League and Formula 1. Your ticket includes two beers.

Book your ticket for the Heineken Experience.

3. The Van Gogh Museum – A Treat for Art Lovers

If you’re an art enthusiast, the Van Gogh Museum is the perfect experience in Amsterdam.

Founded in 1973, this museum has welcomed millions of visitors who come to marvel at the historical and valuable paintings by Vincent Van Gogh.

Over two million people visit the museum annually, which holds the most extensive collection of Van Gogh’s artworks worldwide.

• You’ll find around 200 paintings, 400 drawings, and 700 letters from the artist himself. The collections primarily originate from Van Gogh’s nephew.

In 2019, the museum unveiled a new virtual tour, the “Meet the Vincent Van Gogh Experience,” which you can enjoy during your visit.

Book a time slot that suits you, and your ticket will give you access to the entire exhibition.

Get your skip-the-line entrance ticket here.

4. Rijksmuseum – Perhaps Amsterdam’s Best-Known Museum

To continue your museum tour, the Rijksmuseum, situated right next to the Van Gogh Museum, is the next stop. Since they are only 300 meters apart, visiting them on the same day is a good idea.

The Rijksmuseum was founded in 1800 in The Hague, but eight years later, it was moved to Amsterdam, where it has remained since. 

It boasts an extensive collection of paintings and works of art from various artists – the most famous perhaps being “The Night Watch” by Rembrandt.

The Rijksmuseum is quite large, with over 80 different galleries. So, select the sections you’d most like to see beforehand. 

Get tickets for Rijksmuseum here.

5. Keukenhof – One of the World’s Largest Flower Gardens

• Please note that Keukenhof is closed, undergoing renovations, and will open in 2024!

If you’re after a spectacular nature experience, the Keukenhof, one of the world’s most extensive flower gardens, is a must-visit. 

Located just outside Amsterdam, you can catch a bus to Keukenhof and return after seeing the impressive garden’s beauty.

Visiting the garden in late spring is recommended as most flowers are in bloom, and the garden is at its best.

The buses run back to Amsterdam until 18.30, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the park at your own pace.

6. Xtracold Icebar – A Very Unique Experience

Fancy a few drinks in the city? How about a visit to the Xtracold Icebar, a bar built entirely from natural ice? 

With 35 tons of ice in its construction, it offers a fun and unique alternative to traditional bars.

Don’t worry if you haven’t packed your ski jackets and thermal pants; jackets are provided at the entrance.

With a constant temperature of minus ten degrees, you can enjoy your drinks from glasses made of ice, ensuring they’re perfectly chilled.

Book your tickets here and enjoy two free drinks included in the price.

7. Anne Frank’s History and House

Amsterdam also offers the poignant and tragic story of Anne Frank. 

You can partake in a guided city walk, where you’ll hear the full story of Anne Frank’s life and how World War II impacted Amsterdam and its residents, particularly the Jewish minority.

The tour will take you past monuments and buildings from the Second World War and the city’s Jewish quarter. 

It starts at the Jewish History Museum and ends at the Anne Frank House, which you can choose to visit afterwards. 

Please note entrance tickets to the Anne Frank House are not included in the tour and must be purchased separately at their website.

This tour will provide a deeper understanding of the harsh conditions Anne Frank grew up under. It’s a devastating yet significant story to hear.

Read more about the tour here.

8. Madame Tussauds – A Popular Attraction in Amsterdam

The famous wax museum, Madame Tussauds, is situated in the heart of Amsterdam.

Although the London and Los Angeles branches are the most famous, Madame Tussauds in Amsterdam offers a fantastic experience.

If you’ve never been to a Madame Tussauds wax museum before, the one in Amsterdam promises to be an incredible experience. 

Here, you can take selfies with celebrities you’ve only seen on TV and media. Fancy a picture with George Clooney, Lady Gaga, or Taylor Swift?

You can get your entrance ticket to Madame Tussauds here.

9. Rembrandt House Museum

The Rembrandt House Museum, though less extensive than the Van Gogh Museum or the Rijksmuseum, is still a must-visit in Amsterdam.

It offers exhibitions of his works and insights into Rembrandt’s life and personality.

The museum is set in Rembrandt’s house, where he lived for several years and created many works. 

The museum opened in 1911, almost 250 years after Rembrandt lost the house due to personal bankruptcy.

Read more and get tickets here.

10. A’DAM Lookout – Amazing View of Amsterdam

Located in northern Amsterdam, across the river dividing the city’s north and southern parts, the A’DAM Lookout is an exciting attraction that offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the beautiful Dutch capital.

If you’re adventurous, try “Over The Edge”, Europe’s highest swing. 

Here, 100 meters up, you can swing your legs over the building’s edge and enjoy an adrenaline rush.

11. Volendam, Marken & the Historic Windmills – Day Trip

This tour is perfect if you’d like to escape the city and experience the real Netherlands. 

It includes a half-day trip from Amsterdam, passing through the small town of Volendam. 

From there, you sail to the island community of Marken and drive past the world-famous Zaanse Shans windmills, with ample time to take pictures.

The tour lasts about 6-7 hours and includes an English-speaking guide who will narrate the story of the beautiful places you pass along the way. 

On tour, you’ll visit an authentic cheese shop, a waffle shop, and a traditional wooden shoemaker who will share his craft and history.

This tour is ideal for those who want to experience more than just the big city.

See more and book the tour here.

12. The Royal Palace in Amsterdam

If you have an affinity for royal buildings, the Royal Palace in Amsterdam should be on your list. 

The palace is an architectural delight both from the inside and outside. Though not a residence for the royal family, it serves as the venue for state ceremonies, including state visits and royal receptions.

The palace was built in the mid-17th century and has been owned by the Dutch royal family ever since. 

Now, you can see where the royals and their guests celebrate, stay, and dine during ceremonies at the palace.

Tickets to enter the palace can be booked here (audio guide included)

13. The Jordaan Quarter

The Jordaan neighbourhood in central Amsterdam is a charming and vibrant area, home to narrow streets, canals, and local shops. 

Built in the 17th century for the working class, it has become a popular destination for tourists and locals.

In Jordaan, explore the quaint streets and traditional houses adorned with flower boxes on the windows. 

It also houses numerous cafes and restaurants where you can savour coffee or try local specialities like bitterballen or stroopwafels.

Jordaan boasts several markets selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to antiques and art. 

Noordermarkt is among the most popular, offering various goods, from organic products to vintage clothing.

Check out my guide to the best areas and where to stay in Amsterdam, where I also mention Jordaan.

14. Moco Museum

If you have a thing for modern art or seek a unique experience during your Amsterdam visit, the Moco Museum is a must-visit. 

This museum is dedicated to contemporary artists and movements and is situated in an elegant building on the Museumplein, sharing the vicinity with other renowned museums like the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum.

Opened in 2016, the Moco Museum quickly became a favoured destination for international visitors. 

It showcases works by some of the most notable contemporary artists, including Banksy, Andy Warhol, and Keith Haring.

One of the museum’s key attractions is the permanent exhibition “Laugh Now” by Banksy, displaying several of his iconic street art pieces and some works specially created for the museum. 

Besides the Banksy exhibition, Moco hosts temporary exhibitions featuring captivating artworks from various artists.

You can learn more and get skip-the-line tickets to the Moco Museum here.

15. Artis – Oldest Zoo in Netherlands

Artis is one of Europe’s oldest and best-preserved zoos and the oldest in the Netherlands. 

A delightful destination for the whole family, Artis is a standout with its aquarium and planetarium, both accessible with your entrance ticket.

If you’re interested, guided tours around the zoo are available, where you can learn more about the various animal species housed there. 

Learn more and get tickets here.

16. Bloemenmarkt – Floating Flower Market

Another sight I recommend during your visit to Amsterdam is the Bloemenmarkt, the world’s only floating flower market. 

Since 1862, this market has been the primary supplier of flower seeds to locals and tourists alike.

Whether you want to purchase tulip bulbs or simply appreciate the unique setting, the Bloemenmarkt is a fascinating thing to do in Amsterdam. 

Although it’s not a large market, it remains a charming attraction in Amsterdam, free to explore and pleasant to experience.

17. Hop On Hop Off Sightseeing Buses

While not a specific attraction, the Hop On Hop Off sightseeing buses are an excellent way to see Amsterdam, particularly if you prefer a more leisurely pace. 

You can customize your sightseeing to suit your interests and schedule.

The buses pass all the major sights, from the iconic canal ring to the bustling Museumplein. 

An informative audio guide provides insight into the city’s history and culture, all while you enjoy the view from the double-decker bus.

You can learn more and get tickets online here, which includes free cancellation and the option of a boat trip.

18. Westergas – Cultural Hub in Westerpark

Located in the expansive Westerpark, Westergas is a cultural haven you won’t want to miss during your Amsterdam visit. 

This former gasworks has become a vibrant collection of bars, restaurants, coffee breweries, and even an art-house cinema.

At Westergas, you can enjoy locally brewed beer, explore a diverse culinary scene, and partake in cultural events within the framework of Amsterdam’s industrial past. 

Westergas is known for its frequent food markets, mini-festivals, and events, fostering a dynamic atmosphere where creativity flourishes.

• Also, every first Sunday of the month, there’s the Sunday Market Westergas nearby, which is well worth a visit.

I hope this travel guide to Amsterdam’s best things to do and see was helpful.

If you’ve got any questions about your trip to Amsterdam, please comment below and I’ll do my best to help.

You will find all my travel guides to Amsterdam here.

Here are some FAQ’s about Amsterdam:

The post The 18 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam + Top Attractions & Hidden Gems 🇳🇱 appeared first on Destination Well Known.

In this article, I will guide you to the best places to stay in Amsterdam as a tourist so that you can make the most of your trip to this fantastic city.

Where to stay in Amsterdam? Let’s dive in.

Best areas in Amsterdam

If you’re in a rush and want a quick rundown – here are the places you should stay in Amsterdam:

• Amsterdam-Centrum – best area for most tourists
• De Pijp – best area for trendy nightlife
• Jordaan – best authentic and cosy area
• Oud-West – best cool and up-and-coming area

Click on the name of the area above and check out the best hotels in that particular area.

The guide continues below, where I delve deeper into the best places to stay as a tourist in Amsterdam.

1. Centrum – best area for 99% of tourists

If you’re seeking the perfect place to stay in Amsterdam, Amsterdam-Centrum (centrum translates to city centre) is an excellent choice.

As the name implies, you’ll be at the heart of everything, within strolling distance of most of Amsterdam’s best things to do.

Imagine strolling to world-renowned museums like the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, or the moving Anne Frank House.

You can also explore the iconic Dam Square and the infamous Red Light District, both hallmarks of this city’s diverse character.

Moreover, the Centrum is a haven for those who enjoy shopping and culinary adventures. 

The area boasts a plethora of boutiques, stores, restaurants, and cafés.

From charming local specialities to international gourmet dishes, the gastronomic offerings in the Centrum will cater to every palate.

Take a look at the best hotels in Amsterdam Centrum here.

One significant advantage of staying in the Centrum is the accessibility and ease of travel. 

You can conveniently navigate the city using its efficient tram network or hop on a bike to truly immerse yourself in the authentic Amsterdam experience. 

Importantly, Amsterdam Centraal, the city’s central train station, is nestled in this area, making inter-city travel a breeze.

In conclusion, if your heart desires a location that boasts proximity to the best attractions, exceptional shopping venues, and an array of dining options that Amsterdam offers, then the Centrum is the ideal area for your stay. 

It’s where convenience meets charm, offering you an unforgettable Amsterdam experience.

Places to stay in the city centre

Hotel TwentySeven: This luxury hotel is located in a historic building in the heart of Amsterdam Centrum. The rooms offer fantastic views of Dam Square, and the hotel has a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Kimpton De Witt Amsterdam: This boutique hotel is exceptionally close to Amsterdam Centraal Station and is the perfect choice for those who want to explore the city on foot. 

The hotel has modern rooms with stylish interiors and an on-site fitness centre. Amsterdam Centraal is where you arrive by train from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. Hence, getting to and from the airport is super easy.

Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky: This iconic hotel is located next to Dam Square and has an impressive history dating back to 1866. The rooms are spacious and elegant, and the hotel has a spa and several restaurants.

2. De Pijp – Stay in a Trendy and Lively area

If you’re seeking a trendy and vibrant area to stay in Amsterdam, then De Pijp should be on top of your list.

This district, located south of the city centre, is an enchanting blend of buzzing energy and understated cool.

Choosing to stay in De Pijp doesn’t merely place you near some prime locations; it immerses you into a microcosm of Amsterdam’s unique culture. 

Here, a laid-back atmosphere beautifully co-exists with vibrant energy.

This place is a food lover’s paradise, teeming with dining venues serving everything from traditional Dutch dishes, an assortment of cheese, and mouth-watering stroopwafels to a wide variety of international delicacies.

Discover the best hotels in De Pijp here.

A key highlight of De Pijp is the Albert Cuyp Market, one of the Netherlands‘ most prominent and charming open-air markets.

Strolling through this market feels like stepping into a lively tableau, with stalls selling everything from fresh flowers, cheese, fish, and clothes and accessories.

The experience of interacting with the friendly locals, bargaining for prices, and feeling the pulse of everyday life in Amsterdam is different.

Staying in De Pijp also places you near Amsterdam’s green lung, the verdant Vondelpark. Just a leisurely stroll away, it’s the perfect place to relax, people-watch or enjoy an impromptu picnic amidst nature. 

You might also catch one of the free concerts at the open-air theatre during summer.

Finally, De Pijp is an incredible blend of buzzing cafes, classy bars, and local markets, harmoniously co-existing with quiet, tree-lined streets. 

Its undeniable charm lies in its ability to offer a rich, local experience, making you feel less of a tourist and more of an Amsterdammer during your stay.

Check out my video about the best areas in Amsterdam:

Places to stay in De Pijp

Sir Albert Hotel: This boutique hotel boasts a stylish interior adorned with modern artwork. The rooms are spacious and luxurious, and the hotel also features a rooftop bar with city views.

Hotel Okura Amsterdam: This five-star hotel is close to the Amstel River and offers elegant rooms with Japanese-inspired design.

The hotel also has several Michelin-starred restaurants, including Yamazato Restaurant, which serves authentic Japanese cuisine. It’s also one of the best hotels in Amsterdam, with an indoor swimming pool.

Conscious Hotel The Tire Station: This eco-friendly hotel is located in the heart of De Pijp and offers modern rooms with sustainable materials and energy-saving technology. The hotel also has an organic restaurant on-site, serving fresh dishes made from local ingredients.

An excellent choice for those who don’t need absolute luxury but still want to stay relatively cheaply in Amsterdam.

3. Jordaan – city centre area with cobblestones & canals

If you’re yearning to immerse yourself in the more historic and charming aspects of Amsterdam, then the Jordaan district should undeniably be your first choice. 

Tucked away to the west of the city centre, this neighbourhood is an enchanting labyrinth of narrow, cobbled streets and meandering canals, a veritable throwback to an Amsterdam of yesteryears.

Although Jordaan may technically be considered part of Amsterdam’s “Centre”, it exudes a slightly more laid-back ambience than the hustle and bustle of the city’s heart. 

Jordaan possesses a unique charm, exuding an understated tranquillity that starkly contrasts its vibrant surroundings.

Staying in Jordaan offers a golden opportunity to delve headfirst into an authentic Dutch atmosphere. 

See the best hotels in Jordaan here.

This area teems with quaint boutiques, inviting art galleries, and welcoming local cafes, perfect spots to while away your hours, simply observing the ebb and flow of life or soaking in the infectious vibe. 

Jordaan has also earned a sterling reputation for its pulsating music scene, with many bars featuring live music performances, adding another layer to its undeniable appeal.

Moreover, Jordaan boasts some of Amsterdam’s most renowned landmarks. Here, you will find the Anne Frank House, a poignant testimony to the city’s history, and the magnificent Westerkerk Church. 

One of Jordaan’s standout features is its tranquil atmosphere. Despite its strategic location in the city’s heart, it exudes an aura more akin to a serene village than a bustling metropolis.

Here, amidst the constant hum of city life, you find a peaceful refuge.

In conclusion, if your travel objectives include basking in an authentic Dutch atmosphere while having access to all of Amsterdam’s significant attractions, then Jordaan would be an ideal place for your stay.

Places to stay in Jordaan

Canal House: This elegant hotel in a beautifully restored 17th-century canal house offers stylish rooms with antique furniture and modern amenities. The hotel’s bar serves cocktails and snacks, while the restaurant serves dishes inspired by French-Mediterranean cuisine.

Hotel Mercier: This boutique hotel stands out with its unique and modern décor, featuring comfortable and luxurious rooms.

The hotel also features a lovely patio and a restaurant serving French cuisine.

Pulitzer Amsterdam: This five-star hotel lies in the heart of the Jordaan district, comprising 25 interconnected canal houses from the 17th and 18th centuries.

The rooms are elegantly decorated with antiques, artworks, and modern amenities, while the hotel also features several on-site restaurants, including Jansz Restaurant, which serves Dutch-inspired cuisine.

4. Oud-West – a cool, up-and-coming area

If you’re looking for a young and trendy area to stay in Amsterdam, then Oud-West would be a good choice.

This area is located west of the city centre and is known for its lively atmosphere, arts scene, and good places to eat.

Staying in Oud-West allows you to experience Amsterdam’s young and creative side. You will find many small shops, vintage clothing stores, and art galleries here.

The area is also known for its cosy cafes and restaurants, serving everything from traditional Dutch dishes to international specialities.

See the best hotels in Oud-West here.

Oud-West is also home to Vondelpark, one of Amsterdam’s largest parks.

Here you can relax in the middle of the city or run along the many paths.

The area also boasts some of Amsterdam’s best nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs, many of which play live music. This means that there will always be something to do after sunset.

So Oud-West is the perfect place to stay if you want to experience Amsterdam’s young and creative side while being close to all the major attractions in the city.

Places to stay in Oud-West

Hotel De Hallen: This trendy hotel is located in a former tram hall and has a unique and modern design with rooms that offer comfort and style. The hotel also has a cosy bar and restaurant serving local specialities.

Conscious Hotel The Alfred The Alfred: This environmentally friendly hotel is close to Vondelpark and offers bright and modern rooms with sustainable materials. The hotel also has a rooftop terrace with city views to enjoy a cocktail or two.

Still unsure where to stay in Amsterdam? Let’s summarise

Amsterdam has many different areas to choose from, each with its charm and advantages. Let me summarise – where to stay in Amsterdam for different vibes:

If you want to experience authentic Dutch culture, the Jordaan area is a good choice, while De Pijp is perfect for those who love food experiences and vibrant markets. Centrum is the best place to stay if you want to be close to the city’s nightlife and shopping opportunities.

And if you want to experience Amsterdam’s young and creative side, Oud-West will be the best place to stay.

No matter where you stay in Amsterdam, you will find a fantastic mix of history, culture, and nightlife. 

I hope this guide has helped you decide where to stay in Amsterdam.

Frequently asked questions:

The post Where to Stay in Amsterdam? 4 Best Areas + Places to Stay 🇳🇱 appeared first on Destination Well Known.