Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit, but, at times, can feel a little touristy. If you are looking for an insider's guide to the city, then look no further. I have lived here for over three years and curated a list of my favorite things. From where to stay, where to eat and what to do—I've got you covered in my local's guide to Amsterdam.

Amsterdam is a very family friendly destination—which you might find surprising! In this guide you will find tips to help your family have a great time in Amsterdam. After living in Amsterdam for over three years with a child, I've certainly learned a few tips and tricks that I am excited to share with you. From where to stay, what to do and even where to eat—you'll find it all in my local's guide to Amsterdam with kids.

There is something romantic and historic about traveling city-to-city in Europe by sleeper train. It's also efficient, sustainable and comfortable. The experience might just be a highlight of your trip. We're living in a true renaissance for overnight train lovers, as low-cost carriers recently threatened to eliminate sleepers entirely. Now, new routes are flourishing, classic city pairs are back and train operators are investing in state-of-the-art train cars with smart amenities and modern touches. Driven by a loyal fan base and an important focus on sustainability, you'll find getting from capital to capital super easy, and a perfect addition to your European journey.

Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, is truly a gem. Charming canals, cozy cobble stone streets, historic architecture and eclectic culture. Amsterdam has world-class museums to see including the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank House. The city is also recognized for its liberal and diverse atmosphere, with a progressive approach to social issues. Bicycles are a popular mode of transportation, and the city is characterized by narrow houses, tulip markets and windmills.

Visiting the Christmas Markets in Europe was a bucket-list trip, and I finally took the plunge. After considerable research, I decided an intimate River Cruise along the Rhine was the perfect way to see Christmas markets in Switzerland, France & Germany. I wanted to extend our time before and after the cruise so booked a night in Basel, Switzerland followed by a full day and evening in Amsterdam (not nearly enough time as we fell in LOVE with this amazing city in the Netherlands). While there are a few River Cruise Lines that do these European tours, I chose Ama Waterways and was not disappointed.

I highly recommend staying at the Hilton Amsterdam for its perfect blend of tranquility and convenience. The hotel's location in a quieter neighborhood allows for a peaceful retreat, yet it's just a short distance from major attractions like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. The exceptional dining options, from the authentic Italian cuisine at Roberto’s Restaurant to the cozy Half Moon Lounge, provide delicious experiences right on site. Additionally, the historical significance of hosting John and Yoko’s "bed-in" protest adds a unique touch to your stay, making it both memorable and culturally enriching. The attentive service and comfortable accommodations ensure a truly relaxing visit.

Having lived in Amsterdam for many years myself, it has a special place in my heart. The small but vibrant city has so much to offer in terms of culture, restaurants, arts and entertainment and this guide helps you find the best places to check when visiting.

Amsterdam is a dream and one of my favorite cities to visit. You can unlock the magic of Amsterdam in just three days. The city has something for everyone to enjoy!