A truly unique hotel experience; rather than traditional hotel rooms, Sweets offer 28 converted bridge houses scattered around Amsterdam. Forgo the traditional lobby and front desk, and check in to each bespoke space using a smartphone.
A brewery next to a windmill? It doesn't get more Dutch than that. Nice spot for any type of beer on the river. They also offer cheap tours of the factory on the weekends for just over the price of a drink.
Visit one of the oldest, and possibly, most beautiful cities in the Netherlands. Located two and a half hours from Amsterdam, the city of Maastricht offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities, restaurants, cultural experiences, and more.
In a time when the city forbade Catholic worship, this secretive attic church provided a space for prayer. The museum now serves as testament to the then hidden coexistence of religious denominations in the seventeenth century.
Just a quick 20-minute drive from Amsterdam is the town of Muiden. The town is most famous for its 13th-century castle, which even has a moat and drawbridge. Other highlights include boat trips along the River Vecht.
One of the Netherlands' most touristic locales, but worth a visit nonetheless. The Zaandam neighborhood is headlined by its bevy of waterside windmills - many having been relocated to create the feel of 18th-19th century village.
Bar-restaurant space with interior design inspired by its namesake artist, Jean-Michel Basquiat. Street food-style breakfast and lunch dishes served throughout the day. But it's best at night for drinks and real Dutch "gezelligheid".
This restaurant takes the dining experience to a new level. Located on a little island, the experience starts with a boat ride. Then it moves on to a creative, multicourse menu. Just be sure to book ahead, over a month prior is advised.
This distillery has been around from the 17th century; today they are still producing traditional Dutch favorites, like genevers, alongside modern items like prebatched cocktails. Stop by the tasting room of an evening for a drink.
Hilversum is less than a 40-minute drive from the capital - an ideal escape. Once called the "Garden of Amsterdam", many visit for its walking and cycling opportunities. The town itself is also nice, with a few interesting buildings.
Nicknamed "the cinematic memory of the Netherlands", this museum is home to more than 54,000 works of film. The institute comprises four theaters, an exhibition hall, and offers plenty of activities for both adults and children.
A contemporary gallery featuring Daniel Richter, Charles Avery, and other international artists. Grimm prides itself on representing both established and emerging creators, as well as a variety of new and traditional mediums.
Less than an hour drive south of Amsterdam is the town of Utrecht. The city center has many historic buildings, along with a stunning canal system. Another main attraction is just outside the city, The De Haar Castle.
Choux features a creative, gastronomic multi-course tasting menu that leans heavily on vegetarian dishes. Their sister company is a natural wine importer, so indulge in a few glasses of red or white too.
Small city located 40 kilometers north of Amsterdam. The historic cheese market, with over 30,000 kilos of product, is the main attraction here - artisans and vendors use traditional methods to weigh, carry, and sell their goods.
The Nemo Science Museum is a spot for those traveling with children - with five floors of interactive exhibits, there is enough for a full day out. It's a hard place to miss too, given its boat-like appearance.
Tropenmuseum celebrates the cultures of the world. They have permanent and temporary exhibits that explain cultural differences from areas all around the globe. The establishment also hosts a variety of spaces for its younger visitors.
Standing since 1814, this is the country's tallest windmill. The landmark is located in the middle of the city, and its interior is closed to the public. The neighboring brewery is great for enjoying a craft beer in view of the windmill.
For an opulent move night. The Pathé Tuschinski is a picture house that features a combination of highbrow design influences - Art Deco, Art Nouveau, and Jungendstil. Patrons can enjoy oversized seats with footrests and side tables.
A large park and reserve that provides the people of Amsterdam with a place to relax, enjoy nature, and partake in outdoor activities. With one-third of the park being water, visitors can swim, sail, and kayak at their leisure.
This is one of the largest English book stores in Amsterdam; with a huge variety of genres: from manga and sci-fi, to poetry. There is also a small café with coffee and snacks on the first floor.
Cozy boutique hotel in Amsterdam West, boasting an elegant ambiance. Enjoy international classics such as bouillabaisse at their stylish restaurant, paired with beer and wine from their cocktail bar.
The largest collection of Van Gogh paintings and drawings in the world. The museum itself is architecturally interesting and houses a pleasant cafe that's perfect for lunch. Can get busy so be sure to get tickets ahead.
Amsterdam's Eastern Docklands neighborhood is populated with former warehouses that have come to be transformed into modern homes, storefronts, and art spaces. The area, now a cultural hub for the city, is a great place to explore.
The eponymous home of Gouda cheese, about an hour drive south of Amsterdam. There are plenty of cheese related activities here, including a museum and traditional market. Non-cheese interests include architecture and stroopwafels.
One of several Marriott hotels in the city. The W Amsterdam is a well-designed hotel with five-star amenities, including a modern spa, a rooftop bar, and a pair of restaurants. Far from a unique independent, but proven comfort.
An hour south of Amsterdam is the historic town of Leiden; famous for its historic architecture and university - the country's oldest. There are a few interesting museums, including one with works from the locally-born Rembrandt.
This contemporary and modern art museum, often noted for its bathtub like architecture, is populated by both famous and up-and-coming artists. There are over 500 pieces within the museum, so be sure to leave enough time for everything.
Neighborhood bakery with a city-wide reputation. Swing by in the morning for a coffee and Instagram-worthy croissant. Grab a loaf of sourdough for brunch or lunch too. Its popularity leads to queues, but the goods are worth the wait.
Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant serving creative, eclectic Mediterranean cuisine, paired with a diverse wine selection. Choose from four, five, or six courses curated by Chef Chris Naylor and his talented team.
City southwest of Amsterdam intersected by canals and famous for being the manufacturing hub of Delftware - a brand of handpainted blue and white pottery. Visitors often spend their days wandering the old town and market square.
Rotterdam, located just thirty minutes by train from Amsterdam, is one of the largest cities in the Netherlands. Its post-WWII revival has led the city to become most famous for its modern, innovative architecture.
A hot spot for architecture fans. Originally an apartment building, this museum is arguably the best existing example of the Amsterdam School style of architecture. The complex offers guided tours in multiple languages.
Non-profit contemporary art gallery giving an exhibit space for new, emerging artists. The gallery encourages artists to develop work that relates to the specific nature of the exhibition space present within the building.
Flevopark is a public green space next to Nieuwe Diep Lake. The park can host a range of activities - from walking trails to tennis and outdoor swimming. One of the many places in Amsterdam to spend a sunny afternoon.
Take a stroll around the Grachtengordal neighborhood, also called the canal district. The canals were dug in the 17th century, for a combination of urban planning and defense purposes, and encompass the city center like a series of rings.
On Saturdays and Monday mornings this market opens to sell a variety of goods: including food and produce, vintage items, books, and more. It's a great place to stroll through and find a few Amsterdam keepsakes.
This café is a local's favourite, serving great coffee and a wide selection of tea. They have a few pastries and desserts available, along with a tasty brunch menu. Just know, finding a seat can sometimes be a task.
Rem Eiland was once a broadcasting station 9 kilometers off the coast in The North Sea. Now it's much closer to shore and home to an upscale bar and restaurant. You'll dine surrounded by an arcade machine, neon smiley, and disco balls.
Popular with locals and tourists, Zuid is one of Amsterdam's most happening neighborhoods. It's also known as the Museum Quarter, harboring both the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. Shopping and dining options are abundant too.
Coastal city an hour north of Amsterdam by train that was once one of the most prosperous in the Netherlands. Local highlights include the settlement's 16th-century walls and the Zuiderzeemuseum.
This little deli has a wide assortment of quality products and wine; but the main focus is on fermented foods. It's a great place to pick up a sandwich for lunch, along with homemade water kefir flavoured with figs and lemons.
Canalside hotel with great amenities within the lively 9 Straatjes (The Nine Streets) district. The décor features vintage furniture and mid-century themes. Lotti's is an in-house brasserie serving dishes, daytime drinks, and cocktails.
One of the most respected music halls in the world, Amsterdam's Concertgebouw first opened its doors in 1888. The venue hosts an average of 900 concerts and events a year, including a free lunchtime performance each Wednesday.
Perfect spot for beer enthusiasts. Listen to their live radio and sip on a unique brew. If peckish, turn to their bistro style menu for hearty eats and snacks. Best enjoyed when on the outdoor terrace in the sun.
Centrally located brewery with a down-to-earth crowd. Expansive indoor space serving a selection of their own beers alongside hearty dishes. Grab a streetside table for alfresco drinks - daytime or evening.
Luxurious five-star hotel with 40 rooms in four unique styles, located by the renowned Keizersgracht canal. Guests can enjoy a casual meal at the brasserie or a fine dining experience at the Michelin-starred restaurant on site.
Beginning life as a naval warehouse, several centuries and renovations have turned this building into The National Maritime Museum. Visit this interactive space to enjoy virtual voyages, and a replica of an 18th-century merchant ship.
A trio of cheese shops that sell a curated collection of goods from some of the country's top producers. Buy a selection of cheeses and other deli goods for a DIY lunch platter. Book in for one of their Sunday cheese tasting sessions too.
