There is some know-how in advance that you have to take into account when you go to Amsterdam. As Dutchies we know exactly what you need to know before traveling to Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Language
In The Netherlands, we speak Dutch, which is a very difficult language to pronounce and to learn for foreigners. Here you can find the most important Dutch words for your trip. The Dutchies almost all speak fluent English, especially in the bigger cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht. Thus communicating in English will not cause any problems. This is because many nationalities live in Amsterdam and they are used to having many tourists visiting their city.
Continent & timezone
Amsterdam is the capital of The Netherlands and belongs to the continent of Europe. Amsterdam has a population of 872.779+. The timezone is UTC +2.
Visa
Amsterdam, The Netherlands is part of the Schengen Agreement. This means that US citizens can enter The Netherlands visa-free for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days. Please note that your passport must be valid for at least six months. For all other countries visiting Amsterdam, please check out this Wiki-page.
Don´t forget one of the most essentials things for your next trip: the right travel insurance! Consider World Nomads
Best time to visit Amsterdam
The best time to visit Amsterdam is between late March and June or September and November – these months are right before or directly after the summertime high tourist season. April is the best time to see the beautiful tulips!
Currency
The currency in The Netherlands is the Euro (Eur). At hotels and larger restaurants you can pay by credit card and in the cities, you will find enough ATMs or banks. For the markets and smaller restaurants and shops, it is useful to have cash with you. But in general, you can pay anywhere with a debit card or even with your phone. Paying with a credit card in physical stores and restaurants is less common and therefore often not possible.
Tipping in the Netherlands is not very common, but in restaurants, it is common to tip about 10%.
If you are also looking for a great hotel, hostel, or Airbnb rental in Amsterdam, be sure to check out our recommendations.
Safety
Be very alert for pickpockets. Just like in all other major cities, warnings are issued for this in Amsterdam. Fortunately, we have never had to deal with this, but that is also because we are alert to this. Do not bring any valuables with you and if you are taking them, put them in the bottom of your bag and never leave your bag unattended or out of sight. Do not put your phone or wallet in your back pocket. And watch your stuff in big crowds. And be aware of typical scams and don't ever buy drugs from the streets. It's usually not even the drug you wanted (it's mostly a run-down version of it with some chemicals mixed in with it).
Culture & Religion
In Amsterdam, about 30 percent of the inhabitants are not Dutch. This makes Amsterdam one of the largest ex-pat cities in the world. Most residents of Amsterdam are not religious, yet there are many different churches, synagogues, mosques, and Buddhist temples.
All different religions, sexualities, traditions, and customs are tolerated in Amsterdam, making it a place where everyone can feel comfortable and tolerated. Amsterdam is probably one of the most tolerant places on earth if you are LGBTQI+.
‘Amsterdammers' also love their bicycles. Everyone owns a bicycle. They like good weather and come together in one of the many parks to have a picnic and relax. Also, the Dutch are Burgundian (meaning; they enjoy the good life!) and love a good beer, wine, their cheeses and often eat with friends on one of the many terraces in the city.
Sex, drugs, and rock and roll
Amsterdam is known for its freedoms, such as its drug policy and the Red Light District. Nevertheless, there are laws and regulations attached to this.
>> It is only allowed to buy and use soft drugs in a coffee shop in Amsterdam. You must be at least 18 years old to enter a coffee shop and you can buy a maximum of five grams per day. You can buy excellent weed in Amsterdam, but beware; the weed is pretty strong, and therefore it is wise to start slow. The same advice counts for other legal psychedelics like magic truffles.
>> Buying and selling hard drugs such as XTC, heroin, and cocaine is illegal in the Netherlands! So do not buy this from street dealers, it is prohibited and you may be buying unsafe drugs.
If you want to try soft drugs, make sure you are well prepared, that you know how to use it and what happens. And never mix drugs with alcohol. You can find the correct information on the Jellinek website. In case of serious drug and alcohol incidents, you should seek immediate medical attention by calling 112.
Everyone of all ages can visit the Red Light District in Amsterdam. Please note that it is forbidden to take photos and video recordings of the ladies behind the windows. In Amsterdam, brothels, sex clubs, and escort agencies are legal if they have the correct permits from the City of Amsterdam.
What about Rock and Roll? Well, there are many great cafes to listen to live bands. But with rock and roll, we actually mean the typical ‘party-like-a-rockstar'-attitude. And you will encounter that vibe in the heart of Amsterdam!
Amsterdam insider tips you need to know
>> Amsterdam is very big and the sights are sometimes quite far apart. Amsterdam has an excellent public transport system. Because you already walk so much in a day, we recommend that you use one of these systems. The metro or busses are affordable and always on time.
>> Amsterdam is large, busy, and attracts many tourists every year. This can cause traffic to be a bit chaotic and rougher than you are used to at home. Always obey the traffic rules and don’t just cross the road!
>> Only rent a bike when you are an experienced cyclist. Amsterdam is a busy city with many cyclists, trams going through traffic, taxis, and cars everywhere. And then there are also many tourists walking everywhere who do not always pay attention. So it is a challenge that you have to be experienced in. But if you are an experienced cyclist, there is nothing better than experiencing Amsterdam like a real Dutchie… And that’s by bike!
So now you know a whole bunch of useful information before you travel to the one-of-a-kind city of Amsterdam. Veel plezier / have fun!
ps; looking for a great hotel, hostel, or Airbnb rental in Amsterdam? We got you!
Also, check out:
>> Top 7 best hotels in Amsterdam
>> Top 7 best hostels in Amsterdam
>> Top 7 best luxury hotels in Amsterdam
>> Top 7 best Airbnb in Amsterdam
