Northern Europe · Netherlands
Amsterdam Travel Guide
Amsterdam is a city of canals, bicycles, world-class museums, and brown cafes. The Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, and Rijksmuseum are all within easy reach of the cruise terminal.
How Do You Get from the Ship to the City?
Walk 15-20 min or take Tram 26 (5 min) to Centraal Station. From there, trams go everywhere.
What Can You See in 6 Hours?
Rijksmuseum — Rembrandt's Night Watch and Vermeer. Allow 2 hours. Book timed entry.
Anne Frank House — The secret annex. Profoundly moving. Tickets must be booked weeks ahead.
Canal Ring — UNESCO canal belt. Walk or take a boat tour (1 hr, 15-18 euro).
Jordaan — Charming district with independent shops, cafes, and galleries.
Where Should You Eat?
Bitterballen: Deep-fried meat ragout balls with mustard. The Dutch bar snack.
Stroopwafels: Warm waffles with caramel syrup. Buy fresh from street markets.
Indonesian rijsttafel: Rice table of 12-20 small dishes. A Dutch colonial legacy.
Is Amsterdam Worth Exploring Independently?
Tram system is excellent, the city is walkable, English is spoken everywhere. Ship excursions unnecessary.
Useful Local Phrases
Hallo
Hello
(hah-LOH)
Dank u wel
Thank you
(dahnk oo VEL)
Hoeveel kost het?
How much?
(hoo-VALE kost het)
De rekening, alstublieft
The bill, please
(duh RAY-keh-ning, AHL-stoo-bleeft)
Local Tips
- •Book Anne Frank House tickets online weeks in advance.
- •Never walk in bike lanes (red paths). Cyclists will not stop.
- •Brown cafes (bruine kroegen) are traditional Dutch pubs. Try one for a beer.
- •The I amsterdam City Card (65 euro/24hrs) includes museums and transport.