amsterdam get-away: destination guide
Let's have a dam good time 🚲
Amsterdam was the first city I ever visited solo. It was destination number uno on my post-level summer adventure in Europe, a 5-day pit stop before heading across to Italy.
This is a longer one, so if you’d like to read my full guide head over to the substack website or read via the app <3 thanks!
I’ve since re-visited for a long weekend break in the autumn, when the canals are lined with auburn trees and the dark evenings are illuminated by warm glowing streetlights. I’m not a fan of the cooler seasons, but this city makes me appreciate and dare I say, even enjoy the romance of fall.
Being one of the closest European cities to the UK, I think it’s the ideal destination for a quick weekend getaway. Plus, flights to the city are always pretty affordable from the UK — flights from London Gatwick to Amsterdam Schiphol start at £50 for returns in September, or do as I did, as get the Eurostar direct from Euston to Amsterdam Central for a greener and easier journey!
During these trips, I’ve covered most of the top sights that any traveller might want to hit up - so I thought I’d compile a list of recommendations and spots that are still on my want-to-go list for trip number 3:
things to do 🚲
See van gough’s masterpieces - The famous Dutch painter has an entire museum dedicated to his work here in Amsterdam, and it’s one of the best galleries I’ve ever visited. It walks you through his life and the development of his style, featuring original works such as Sunflowers, Almond Blossom, The Bedroom, and The Potato Eaters — make sure you book online in advance, tickets are €22 per person, and free admission for under 18 years olds
Cycle through the city - You haven’t ‘done’ Amsterdam until you get on a bike. This cycle-centric city is made for two-wheeled adventures. Rent one for the day and explore the city like a local. If you’re nervous about joining the traffic of daily commuters you could stick to Vondel Park or use the free ferry to head north on The Waterland bike path out into the picturesque countryside.
Take a boat ride - One of the best ways to see the city is by its immense network of waterways — I’ve only done a generic tourist ride which was pretty sub-par, but companies such as Pure Boats offer guided tours along with a serving of dutch apple pie and a glass of fizz! Alternatively, you could rent a boat privately or try and befriend a local with a boat
Visit the anne frank house - The independent museum was created with Otto Frank, Anne’s father in 1957 and exists to continue to educate people on the holocaust and the dangers of antisemitism, racism and discrimination
where to eat 🍽️
Confession time: I didn’t eat anything notable on either trip to Amsterdam. The first time around I lived off cheap bread and crisps foods from Albert Heijn, the second time, none of the restaurants I ate in hit the mark.
We had overpriced Italian in Rembrandtplein, a lovely but unmemorable brunch, and homemade sandwiches in Vondelpark. I did enjoy grabbing a late-night croquette from FEBO, a fast food chain where you instantly grab your food from little heated lockers, and my sweet tooth will never say no to a freshly made stroopwaffle.
Here are a few of the places I’ve since seen recommended:
Cafe Binnenvisser - is a neighbourhood restaurant & wine bar with a bistro-style menu focussing on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, aka, the kind of food I go wild for
Little Collins - Fancy brunch and speciality coffee? Count me in
brunch @ little collins Restaurant Blauw - Indonesian flavours from the entire Indonesian archipelago? — yes yes thank you very much
Meatless District - Sashimi Watermelon, the ultimate no cheeseburger, Smoked no Salmon Bagel, dishes you know and love turned vegan
Box Sociaal - For affordable Asian & Australian inspired brunches
where to drink (+ smoke) 🍻
I no longer partake in any mind-altering substances, as I write this I’m celebrating my 1st sobriety anniversary today! Nevertheless, I’ve both smoked and drank my way around this city so no judgment if you’d like to do either — just don’t be a stereotypically awful Brit abroad (please)
Drink beer at a traditional pub - There is a unique charm to old Dutch buildings. The wonky buildings, wooden floorboards, narrow rooms, and dimly lit interiors are akin to the comforts of a British pub. On my trips to the city, I’ve enjoyed Dutch beers in a variety of bars: Café de Sluyswacht dates back to 1695 and sits beside the canal, De Pilsner Club is less touristy and seems to have remained unchanged for decades, Proeflokaal Arendsnest only serves beer from Holland and offers over 100 varieties to choose from!
Unwind at a coffee shop - No, we’re not talking coffee. Look it’s legal (at the moment) for tourists to partake in recreational uses. The world’s largest coffee shop near central station, Prix d’Ami and Boerejongens is another popular spot. For a more bohemian, relaxed experience head to La Tertulia
Watch the sunset waterside - The best place to be in Amsterdam is waterside, especially in the warmer months. Sip on something on Café van Zuylen on their bridge-side terrace, or to Noorderlicht’s alternative vibe greenhouse cafe
where to stay 🏡
On my first trip, I both camped (!) and stayed at The Flying Pig Hostel Downtown — it’s centrally located and about as cheap as you can get in Amsterdam. On my second trip I stayed at The Black Canal Studio — I was obsessed with this place! The traditional building was on the second floor, up a winding steep staircase with two bedrooms, one being a shoebox-sized single, and the second a functional studio with its large main window overlooking the autumnal canal, illuminated by the warm glow of the orange street lamp. The city is tortiously expensive so many people opt to stay further out for a better price.
If I were able to splash the cash that I don’t have — I’d stay at The Hoxton in Amsterdam Central. The wooden floorboards and canal views of this hotel made even the little rooms look so cosy and charming.
So, does anyone fancy visiting with me this autumn?
By becca mae x
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I'm planning a trip to Amsterdam right now - this is perfect!
Amsterdam was also the first city I ever visited solo! I spent the entire time in museums and eating french fries in a paper cone :')