Netherlands
☀️ Time to Visit - We visited in early March 🚆, and let me tell you—it was chilly! You definitely need a solid coat and a warm winter hat to protect you from those biting Dutch winds. ❄️💨 It’s the kind of cold that makes you extra grateful for a hot coffee and a cozy cafe.
That said, if you’re looking for the absolute "Golden Window," my friends swear by mid-April to mid-May. 🌷 That’s when you can capture the tulip fields in full, vibrant bloom. Plus, you’ve got King’s Day on April 27th, which is basically a massive, country-wide street party where everyone wears orange and the canals turn into one giant celebration! 🧡🥳
Everyone knows the Jordaan is gorgeous, but most people walk right past the best part. Keep an eye out for heavy wooden doors with names on them—these are Hofjes. If the door is unlocked, give it a push! You’ll find yourself in a hidden 17th-century courtyard garden that’s so quiet you’ll forget you’re in a city.
If you want to cycle without the crazy Amsterdam traffic, head to Hoge Veluwe National Park. They have hundreds of "White Bikes" parked at the entrance that are totally free to use. You can peddle through forests and sand dunes, drop the bike at a rack, and check out the Van Gogh museum inside the park. It’s a total vibe.
Before houses had numbers, they had Gable Stones. Look up at the colorful stone plaques above the doors. They usually show what the original owner did for a living—like a little stone carving of a loaf of bread for a baker. It’s like a 400-year-old Instagram bio!
You really don’t need paper money here. From the smallest cafes to the tram, almost everything is "pin only." Your contactless card or phone will be your best friend. 📱 (exception: some of the cheaper supermarkets and smaller local shops don't accept credit cards)
Amsterdam is popular, and the big spots sell out fast, but these are the only two places I recommend for purchasing tickets in advance.
Anne Frank House: This is a hot ticket—reservations are mandatory and often sell out weeks in advance.
Rijksmuseum: Don't spend your vacation standing in line! Book your spot early to see the Dutch Masters without the stress. 🖼️🏰
If you just ask for "water" at a restaurant, they’ll usually bring you a tiny, expensive bottle. Save your money and ask for a "karaf kraanwater" (a pitcher of tap water). Most places are happy to bring it out for free or a tiny fee if you're already ordering drinks.
Indonesian food is a huge deal here. Skip the fancy, overpriced "Rice Table" restaurants and look for a Toko (a little Indonesian deli). Ask for a "Rames"—it’s a plate piled with a bit of everything, it's super authentic, and it costs a fraction of the price.
You can't leave without trying the street food!
Poffertjes: These tiny, fluffy mini-pancakes are served with a mountain of powdered sugar and butter. 🥞 (They are my favorite)
Waffles: Whether it's a giant syrup-filled Stroopwafel or a fresh waffle from a street stand, it's the ultimate fuel for a walking tour. 🧇
The train is hands-down the fastest way to get from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Centraal—it’s a breeze and takes only 16 to 18 minutes. The station is right under the airport terminal; just follow the signs to Schiphol Plaza.
For all train rides: You don’t even need a ticket! Just use OVpay by tapping your contactless card or phone at the gates. Crucial: Always remember to tap out when you leave, or you’ll be hit with the maximum fare charge. 💸
In this city, bikes are king. They have the right of way, they are fast, and they don't like to stop. Stay alert and stay out of the red bike lanes, or you’ll hear that famous "ding-ding" bell real quick! 🔔
I highly recommend staying near a tram line to make getting around effortless. We stayed at the Grand Hotel Downtown, which was modern, super nice, and perfectly located. Being close to the tram saved our legs after a long day of exploring! 🚋✨