What do you do with a long holiday weekend and a need for an overseas trip to maintain your airline status? Book a three day getaway to Amsterdam. If you are like us and only have a few days, here's our tips and a few of our favorites we highly recommend.
Catch the local bus from the airport to your hotel for less than $10. We stayed at Hotel JL No76 right in the heart of the Museum Quarter, which was the perfect location for early mornings and late evenings.
Best Dutch Pancakes | Upstairs Pannenkoeken Huis: These guys specialize in only pancakes, which makes it the best in the city. It's a little shop up steep stairs, that only has 5 tables, making it for a cozy experience. But the food is delicious and the service amazing. Highly recommend their King Dutch pancakes, made with fresh local strawberries. We tried De Rozenboom but alas, was sorely disappointed. Once you have Upstairs Pannenoeken's versions you can't go back.
Best Local Pub | Proeflokaal Arendsnest: The Dutch is known for great beer. This pub only has at least 50+ local beer on tap and is frequented by locals and tourists alike. Beer isn't the only great thing here, so is the food and cheese.
Best Indonesian Food | Kartika: Known for their Indonesian rice tables, this restaurant only has a meat or vegetarian option; you let the waiter know of immediately upon being seated. From there, ten dishes ranging from curries to bbq skewers are brought to your table with a basket of rice.
Recommended Museums: Like Paris, Amsterdam is known for museums and has many to choose from in this densely packed into this city.
Van Gogh Museum: By far, this was our favorite museum. Beautifully well done story of his life, his work, his struggles, and his family. Book tickets online in advance and get there by opening hours to avoid the long lines.
Rijksmuseum: Well known for the "I AMSTERDAM" sign, get there early (by 7am) to take photos with minimal tourists. That said the museum itself is well done with great exhibits and artwork.
Anne Frank House: This is a no brainer. Must do while you're in town, just make sure to book your tickets online at least a month in advance. Oh, and bring tissues. You'll definitely need it.
Museum of Prostitution: Gritty experience, but educational and informative all around.
Ok to skip, not worth it:
Bloemenmarket: Super touristy area with flowers or bulbs that are all packaged up. Prices here are expensive due to the tourists. Watch your pockets and purses while here.
Amsterdam Museum: Most of the history of the city and exhibits can be found at the Rijksmuseum.
De Rozenboom: Avoid this place for pancakes and instead visit Upstairs Pannenkoeken Huis.
Heinken Factory and Tour: If you think it's like the Guiness Tour, it's not. Save your time and money. This tour is an over commercialized experience that is fit for a frat party, unless that's the vibe you're going for.
Beer Temple: If you're craving beer from the US, this is the place to visit. That said, why would you especially if you have the opportunity to try local beer you can't get back in the States?
We immediately fell in love with this city and plan to be coming back; hopefully for more than three days the next go around.
Tip:
Watch your belongings. Amsterdam is known for pick-pockets. We had several good friends of ours, who are seasoned travelers, have things stolen while in Amsterdam.
Keep copies of your passports and an extra credit card in your hotel room.