A weekend in Amsterdam
I had often heard good things about this city, yet I don't know deep down inside Amsterdam is about 2 things: pretty girls in shop windows and coffee shops.
Luckily it's not only that: Amsterdam is also:
- Lots of museums: Van Gogh, Anne Franck's house...
- A different atmosphere in each district
- Between land and water, some very nice ballads
- A fascinating mix of architecture
- but also tulips, brown coffee, gouda...
How to get there
By plane : several companies serve Amsterdam : Easy Jet, Hop, Transavia, Ryanair...In short take a look at Skyscanner to find the most attractive ticket.
By train: the Thalys from the North station, about 3h15 of journey with a big advantage as you arrive directly in the city centre of Dam.
By car: Certainly cheaper for several people but not at all practical in the centre of Amsterdam.
For your accommodation
We opted for a 4-star hotel, the Hamsphire Hotel, located 30 minutes from the train station (on foot). It has the advantage of being opposite a tram line and in a very quiet area not too far from the city centre. Quite convenient!
If I had to go back to Amsterdam this time I would opt more for an airbnb or possibly test a night in a barge. Some barges are also hotels and you can also find them on airbnb.
Where to eat
The Foodhallen covered market: my favourite in Amsterdam. This industrial-style covered market has many food stalls where you can enjoy world cuisine.
DRIE GRAEFJES: we had our Brunch there, initially we had opted for the Bakers & Roasters but I got my brushes tangled on the addresses... but it was perfect all the same, and very well located in the historic Dam district.
LAVINIA GOOD FOOD: an address like I like them. It is frequented by locals, we eat fresh and healthy products! The setting is very pleasant and you can enjoy this address at any time of the day.
DE ENGELBEWAARDER: a small brown café near the canal with Jazz sessions on Saturday/Sunday. Don't expect a big kitchen but the setting is very nice.
STUBBE'S HARING : a kiosk serving the best herring sandwich.
Beware, dinner is taken early in Amsterdam from 6pm to 8pm!
How to visit the city
Either by renting a bike if you are brave and not too shy, or by getting lost on foot. For another point of view, don't hesitate to take a boat trip. Whatever the mode of transport Amsterdam remains a city on a human scale.
Things to do
Start the day at the flower market open all year round winter and summer.
Look for Begijnhof's not-so-secret garden.
Buy tea from Jacob Hooy & Co.
Joordan, my favourite neighbourhood! Between art galleries, ethnic and design shops. You don't need a map to visit this neighbourhood, nothing better than to get lost in its pretty alleys.
For the pretty shops there is also the district 9, vintage atmosphere and concept store.
Push the door of a Coffee Shop.
Visit the red light district. Personally, we came across it in the afternoon but in the evening it's a whole different atmosphere. Indescribable I let you make your own opinion.