Amsterdam – The best places for the summer
The summer months are the best time to relax and unwind somewhere beautiful or maybe to take that break early in the year to travel. It’s July and as we plan our Euro trips tapping on our laptops with a glass of wine in hand, you’ve got to ask ‘what time is it in Amsterdam?’ The Dutch government still keeps the EU travel ban on international travelers but there are exemptions on outside travelers from “safe” countries so let’s not rule out a weekend trip to Amsterdam in September just yet. Holland is both charming and quirky and there’s no question that it’s a cool place for nightlife (hello Red Light District). But what makes this Danish city stand out from, for instance, Rotterdam? The capital city of Amsterdam is famous for its impressive history, art and culture, Dutch Baroque style architecture, scenic canals and best craft beer in the world, not to mention the “anything goes” attitude of the locals, which really keeps things fresh and fun. Here’s a quick guide to the best hotels to check in to and best things to do in Amsterdam from the moment you touch down at Schiphol Airport, eating classic stroopwafel, going on a ridiculously long cycle tour, to a starry night at the Dutch National Opera & Ballet.
Best hotels in Amsterdam
Where is Amsterdam without its modernity and gritty charm? Amsterdam hotels are something out of a picture book. Book a stay facing the canals and it’s hard not to stare for hours at the gorgeous view from your bedroom window. The same can be said for The Dylan set on Keizergracht canal, a favourite Amsterdam wedding venue. Couples fall in love with the modern design of the rooms where not a single detail is missed. The fairytale courtyard covered in purple and mauve garden flowers is usually where ceremonies take place and its Michelin starred restaurant is just more reason to stay here for your Dutch weekend trip.
So you’ve come to Amsterdam’s stretch of 17th and 18th century canal houses along the famous Prinsengracht canal. This is the perfect spot where you can see a fresh and contemporary reinvention of Dutch history in the exquisite ceilings, fireplaces and antiques inside this iconic boutique hotel. Spend some time exploring the antique Pulitzer art, book and music collection, tour the canals in the hotel’s exclusive 1909 salon boat or get in some delicious bistro food from the trendy Jansz restaurant nearby – great spot for people watching by the way.
Best restaurants/bars in Amsterdam
This spot is definitely recommended for hungry travelers when in Amsterdam. Located on Albert Cuypstraat, The Butcher is the real deal, the OG hip burger bar set in the heart of Holland’s most popular market and Amsterdam’s hippest neighborhood - De Pijp. Known as the place for the ‘best bloody burgers’ , expect perfectly cooked juicy Aberdeen Angus patties hot off the grill when you order, served with a side of chunky fries and mouthwatering BBQ dip. They’ve also got cocktails so it’s a cool place to just grab food and chill.
If you’re in Amsterdam and still hungry for Japanese, Yamazato is the best place to go for authentic Japanese Kaiseki cuisine. The charming restaurant space transports you to Asia and the best part about the cooking is that their team of culinary experts focuses mainly on using authentic traditional ingredients instead of bold flavors. Perfect for a bite of traditional Japanese in a peaceful Zen-like environment.
Dive bars are plentiful in the city but for an occasion, where only artisanal drinks will do – the bar at Pulitzer is a timeless classic to quench your thirst and rub shoulders. Do not miss it. The art décor bar breathes an effortless style into its dark wood panels and oracle shaped lampshades and the free-flowing cocktails are just as original as the glam ambience – we recommend the Leather Negroni and Chocolate Factory Martini.
Best things to do in Amsterdam
Everything in Amsterdam seems a bit more magical when it’s viewed from a boat. Booking yourself a canal cruise isn’t too complicated because there seems to be an endless number of scenic canal tours offered by private operators but also hotels, restaurants and museums. Discover the city’s attractions and top sights and take in the landscape – it is gorgeous at night with all the lights on the canal.
Museumplein
It’s not a weekend trip in Amsterdam without fully exploring the Museumplein, the museum square. It is the place for both art aficionados and lovers of psychedelics. In the summer, Vondelpark is a relaxed place for families having a picnic on the grass or locals lounging about getting high. There are also the big three museums that must be visited - Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art, and the Van Gogh Museum. Do not forget to pay a visit to Anne Frank House to see the original house of author Anne Frank as well as a historic museum with wartime memorabilia including photos, videos and artifacts. If you want to venture out nearby to Lisse, the Keukenhof Gardens is an absolute must for a summer’s day in the tulip fields!
Best shops in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is home to different types of shops including, cheesemakers, flea markets, florists, vintage fashion and so much more. But when it comes to high fashion designer shopping labels, P.C. Hoofstraat is the best shopping district for big names including Gucci, Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, the list goes on. You’ll find several other luxury boutiques for example Chopard jewelry and Mont Blanc specialty stores but mid-range shopping is also possible. Shop Massimo Dutti and Diesel too.
Waterlooplein flea market is Amsterdam’s bustling flea market, the oldest one in the city but also in the Netherlands. The market is hundred and thirty three years old and these days there are close to three hundred stalls when they open six days a week. The perfect place to buy nick knacks and things and spend time with the locals. Shop vintage cameras, an autographed copy of Hemingway, jewelry, secondhand fashion as well as food trucks selling Italian, Greek or Lebanese food. Another market not to be missed is the flower market Bloemenmarkt – the only floating flower market in the world. The air is usually filled with the scent of fresh flowers from tulips to geraniums you can buy off floating boats.
Locals also love the very chic Marie-Stella-Maris store that sells handcrafted natural beauty products minus all the nasties. Art lovers must pay a visit to The Otherist where you can find collections of merchandise from talented artists around the world. Droog is another unique concept store if you’re looking for home fixtures that aren’t running with the herd! And if you need a break , their café and tea room will relax you in between.
When it comes to Amsterdam weather, the best time to visit would be between April and May and September and November. Check out our city page for more information on Amsterdam before visiting. If you’re looking for more Amsterdam activities, hardcore clubbing is one of them. Read all about Amsterdam’s best nightclub spots here.