Lifestyle
Gray's Guides
Amsterdam

Amsterdam

A city where history, culture, and modernity blend seamlessly. From the picturesque canals to the world-class museums, Amsterdam offers a unique experience that will captivate every traveler. Whether you’re strolling through the cobblestone streets of the Jordaan district, exploring the rich art scene, or enjoying a bike ride through lush parks, Amsterdam is a city full of charm and endless discovery.

Stay

From family-run inns to world-renowned luxury resorts, find a welcoming home away from home.

The Dylan Amsterdam

A chic and intimate boutique hotel located in the heart of the city, The Dylan offers luxurious rooms and a sophisticated atmosphere. Its central location on the Keizersgracht canal makes it an ideal base for exploring the city’s cultural and culinary treasures.

De L’Europe Amsterdam

One of Amsterdam’s most iconic luxury hotels, De L’Europe offers a refined blend of classic grandeur and modern style. Situated along the Amstel River, the hotel boasts opulent rooms, exceptional dining options, and world-class service. It's an excellent choice for travelers seeking a five-star experience in the heart of the city.

Hotel Pulitzer

This unique hotel is a collection of 25 interconnected canal houses, providing a beautiful and historic setting. With its stunning interior design and tranquil courtyard, Hotel Pulitzer offers a relaxing retreat in the heart of Amsterdam.

Conservatorium Hotel

A five-star luxury hotel in the Museum Quarter, the Conservatorium blends contemporary design with historical architecture. It features a top-notch spa, Michelin-star dining, and spacious rooms with views of the city’s famous canals and parks.

Sir Adam Hotel

A trendy and youthful hotel located in the A'DAM Tower, Sir Adam offers a mix of contemporary style and creative vibes. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere, with easy access to Amsterdam’s nightlife scene.

The Hoxton

Located on the Herengracht canal, The Hoxton offers a laid-back and stylish vibe, with cozy rooms, an inviting lobby, and a popular restaurant. It’s perfect for those looking for a relaxed yet trendy stay in Amsterdam.

The College Hotel

Housed in a beautiful, historic building, The College Hotel offers a blend of old-world charm and modern comforts. With its stylish interiors and top-notch service, it provides a cozy yet luxurious stay. Located in the upscale Oud-Zuid district, it’s perfect for those who want to be close to both cultural landmarks and local cafés.

Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky

Located right on Dam Square, this grand hotel combines historic architecture with modern luxury. Its elegant rooms, Michelin-star dining, and impressive facilities make it an ideal choice for travelers looking for luxury in the heart of the city, with easy access to Amsterdam’s top attractions.

Eat

Dining out is an essential part of any travel experience. Explore our favorite restaurants, bars, and more.

BAK

A creative, ingredient-driven restaurant located in a former warehouse overlooking the water. BAK focuses on local and seasonal produce, delivering a thoughtful and modern tasting menu in a relaxed yet refined atmosphere.

De Kas

Set inside a former greenhouse, De Kas offers a farm-to-table dining experience like no other. The menu is created daily based on the fresh, seasonal ingredients harvested from the restaurant’s own garden.

Restaurant Breda

A chic, modern spot in the city center offering inventive European cuisine with a focus on bold flavors and refined presentation. Known for its multi-course menus and wine pairings, Breda is a go-to for foodies looking for something special.

Café Winkel 43

Famous for its apple pie, Café Winkel 43 is a must-visit spot for anyone with a sweet tooth. Located in the Jordaan district, it’s the perfect place to relax with a slice of pie and a coffee after a day of exploring the city.

Bakers & Roasters

A New Zealand-style café offering delicious brunch options, Bakers & Roasters is known for its high-quality coffee, inventive dishes, and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great spot to fuel up for a day of exploring.

Restaurant Greetje

For authentic Dutch cuisine, Restaurant Greetje offers a cozy, homey atmosphere and a menu full of traditional Dutch dishes, prepared with a modern twist. It’s the perfect place to try local specialties like stamppot and poffertjes.

The Seafood Bar

A must-visit for seafood lovers, The Seafood Bar offers fresh fish and shellfish in a casual yet elegant setting. Whether you’re craving oysters, lobster, or a seafood platter, this restaurant has it all.

Drink

Explore our favorite bars.

Brouwerij 't IJ

For craft beer lovers, Brouwerij 't IJ is a local brewery housed in a former bathhouse. It offers a variety of unique, flavorful beers, all brewed on-site. Don’t forget to try their famous IPA!

Vesper Bar

This stylish cocktail bar in the city center is known for its expertly crafted drinks and intimate atmosphere. The bartenders here are masters of their craft, and the cocktails are truly top-notch.

Bar Centraal

A favorite among locals, Bar Centraal is a lively spot known for its excellent natural wine selection and casual, neighborhood feel. Great for spontaneous meet-ups, relaxed evenings, and delicious small plates that pair perfectly with their rotating wines.

Murmur

A cozy and design-forward wine bar tucked away in Amsterdam’s Oud-West neighborhood. Murmur is all about natural wines, thoughtful small bites, and a relaxed, intimate vibe—perfect for a low-key night out.

SkyLounge Amsterdam

Located on the 11th floor of the DoubleTree by Hilton, SkyLounge offers panoramic views of the city and an impressive selection of cocktails. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset over Amsterdam’s canals.

Hiding in Plain Sight

A hidden gem in the city’s nightlife scene, Hiding in Plain Sight serves up classic cocktails in a speakeasy-style bar. It’s an intimate and stylish spot for a nightcap after a day of exploring.

What to do

Immerse yourself in local activities — including world-class golf courses, beaches, spas, parks, and more.

Tulip Fields

A truly unforgettable experience, especially in the spring. Just outside the city, fields of vibrant tulips stretch for miles in perfect rows of color. Whether you explore them by bike, car, or helicopter, the tulip fields capture the essence of Dutch beauty and make for a breathtaking day trip.

Rijksmuseum

Home to masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other Dutch masters, the Rijksmuseum is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum’s stunning architecture and extensive collection make it one of Amsterdam’s top attractions.

Canal Cruise

No visit to Amsterdam is complete without a canal cruise. Explore the city’s historic canals and admire the picturesque architecture from the water. You can take a private boat or hop on a public tour for a unique perspective of the city.

Van Gogh Museum

Dedicated to the life and work of Vincent van Gogh, this museum houses the world’s largest collection of his paintings, as well as works by his contemporaries. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in art history.

Vondelpark

Amsterdam’s largest and most famous park, Vondelpark is the perfect spot for a relaxing stroll, picnic, or bike ride. With its lush green spaces, ponds, and open-air theaters, it’s a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Anne Frank House

A poignant and moving experience, the Anne Frank House allows visitors to step inside the secret annex where Anne Frank and her family hid during WWII. It’s an important historical site and a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.

Culture

Discover local art museums, theaters, landmarks, festivals, and more.

Dutch National Opera & Ballet

Amsterdam’s premier venue for opera and ballet, the Dutch National Opera & Ballet offers world-class performances in a stunning setting. Check out the schedule for performances during your visit.

Royal Palace of Amsterdam

Located on Dam Square, the Royal Palace is an iconic landmark that’s open to visitors. Explore the opulent rooms and learn about the history of the Dutch monarchy in this beautiful building.

The Jordaan District

Known for its charming canals, trendy boutiques, and artistic vibe, the Jordaan is one of Amsterdam’s most beloved neighborhoods. Wander through its narrow streets, stop at a local café, and soak in the atmosphere.

King’s Day (April 27)

If you’re in Amsterdam during King’s Day, don’t miss the celebration! This national holiday celebrates the Dutch royal family with street parties, live music, and a sea of orange-clad revelers. It’s one of the most exciting and lively events in Amsterdam.