Visiting Amsterdam for its legendary tulips is a must for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the culture and beauty of one of Europe’s most iconic cities.
From April to early May, the city is bathed in vibrant colors as fields of bright red, yellow, orange and white flowers stretch across the countryside surrounding Amsterdam.
Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for the umpteenth time, now is an ideal time to explore this enchanting destination.
But if you want to experience it at its very best – with spectacular blooms around every corner – when exactly should you make your journey?
Read on as we discuss everything there is to know about finding that perfect balance between tulip season peak times and all other must-see sights and activities.
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The best time to visit Amsterdam for tulips:
The most popular time to visit Amsterdam for tulips is during April and early May. This period usually offers the best combination of warm weather, long days, and stunning displays of color in the fields surrounding the city.
For those visiting in April, you can expect a mix of freshly blossoming tulips, combined with still-blooming hyacinths and narcissus.
By early May, however, the tulips will have reached their peak and can be seen in full bloom across Amsterdam’s parks and gardens.
If you want to experience the beauty of Amsterdam’s tulips without the crowds, late April is a great time to visit – as there are fewer tourists and the flowers are still at their best.
Alternatively, if you can’t make it during late April or early May, late September is also a great time to visit as many of the city’s tulips will be in full bloom again, making for beautiful displays in parks and gardens across Amsterdam.
Is the Tulip Festival in Amsterdam worth it?
The Tulip Festival, or tulip season in Amsterdam, is an annual celebration of the colorful flowers that blanket the city each spring.
Visitors can expect to find lots of activities and events such as parades, markets, boat tours and even a giant tulip festival for kids.
If you want to experience Amsterdam’s tulips at their best, the Tulip Festival is definitely worth checking out.
The festival takes place in April and May every year – so make sure to plan your visit accordingly.
Just remember that it can get very crowded during this period so book ahead of time if you want to avoid the crowds.
Best things to do in Amsterdam:
Amsterdam is Known for its historic canals, cobblestone streets, and beautiful architecture, it offers a wide range of activities for tourists.
Whether you are interested in art, history, or just the beautiful outdoors, Amsterdam has something for everyone.
From exploring museums to sampling local cuisine, this city has much to offer. Take your journey through the best things to do in Amsterdam, giving you an insight into the hidden gems of the city.
1. Discover the Canals
Amsterdam is famous for its canals and taking a boat tour is one of the most popular things to do.
Alternatively, you can rent a bike and explore the canals at your own pace. The best time to visit is in the summer when the weather is warm and the city is bustling with life.
You can also explore the different neighborhoods and their unique charm, such as Jordan or De Pijp.
2. Visit the Museums
Amsterdam has a rich cultural history and home to several museums. The Rijksmuseum is the largest and contains an extensive collection of art from the Dutch Golden Age.
The Van Gogh Museum houses the largest collection of Van Gogh masterpieces in the world. For those interested in contemporary art, the Stedelijk Museum is a must-visit.
Other museums worth visiting include Anne Frank House, Amsterdam Museum, and the Hermitage Museum.
3. Try the Local Cuisine
Amsterdam offers a variety of cuisines, but make sure to try the local classics such as stroopwafels, poffertjes, and bitterballen.
Stroopwafels are thin waffles filled with caramel syrup, while poffertjes are small fluffy pancakes.
Bitterballen are small fried meatballs that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. You can find these delicacies in local food markets or traditional Dutch cafes.
4. Experience Nightlife
Amsterdam has a vibrant nightlife scene, and there is always something happening in the city.
From pub crawls to nightclubs, the city offers a variety of options for both tourists and locals.
A visit to the Red Light District is an experience in itself and is something that tourists shouldn’t miss.
5. Enjoy the Outdoors
Finally, Amsterdam has a lot of parks and green spaces that are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors.
Amsterdamse Bos is a massive park that offers many activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Vondelpark is another popular park that attracts thousands of visitors every day. It offers a beautiful walking path and a children’s play area.
Best places to stay in Amsterdam:
Finding the right place to stay in Amsterdam can be a challenge. Whether you’re looking for an affordable hostel or a luxurious suite, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Here are some of the best places to stay in Amsterdam:
Hotel V Nesplein –
This is one of the top rated hotels in Amsterdam, located near the vibrant Nesplein square.
It’s perfect for couples, families and business travelers alike.
Hotel Droog –
This boutique hotel offers a unique design experience with its modern decor and luxurious amenities.
Located in the Jordaan neighborhood, it provides easy access to many attractions.
The Hoxton Amsterdam –
This hotel is just a short walk away from the city center and has stylish rooms with an industrial vibe.
The Hoxton offers great value for money, making it one of the best budget-friendly options in town.
Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam –
Located on Prinsengracht canal, this five-star hotel offers an array of luxurious amenities and modern rooms.
It’s the perfect choice for those looking for a sophisticated and comfortable stay.
Holland Hostel Leidseplein –
If you’re on a budget, then the Holland Hostel is a great option. It features basic rooms and a great location near the Leidseplein square.
The hostel also has an on-site bar, where you can mingle with other travelers.
Best restaurants in Amsterdam:
Now that you’ve found the perfect place to stay, it’s time to explore Amsterdam’s culinary scene.
Here are some of the best restaurants in town:
Restaurant Bazar –
Located in the heart of Amsterdam, Restaurant Bazar offers guests a unique experience with its hand-crafted cocktails and Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant is known for its creative dishes, such as their signature “gazpacho” soup and whole grilled turbot.
De Kas –
One of the most popular restaurants in Amsterdam, De Kas offers an array of seasonal and local dishes that are prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, making it ideal for a romantic date night.
Van Speyk –
Located near the city center square, Van Speyk is perfect for those seeking traditional Dutch cuisine. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it great for groups or families.
Bolenius –
This Michelin-starred restaurant is one of the best in Amsterdam. Here, guests can enjoy unique dishes made with fresh ingredients from local farmers and fishermen.
Tuesdays at the Chelsea Hotel –
For something a little different, Tuesdays at the Chelsea Hotel offers an innovative mix of cuisines. The menu features dishes from all over the world, making for an exciting and unique dining experience.
Best cafes in Amsterdam:
Amsterdam is known for its vibrant cafes and bars. From cozy coffee shops to bustling beer halls, you’ll find something for everyone in this city.
Here are some of the best cafes in Amsterdam:
Coffee Company –
This popular cafe chain has several locations throughout Amsterdam, making it a great spot for grabbing a quick bite or coffee. The cafe offers both local and international dishes.
Mokum –
Located in the Jordaan district, this cozy cafe is known for its delicious pastries and gourmet coffees. It has a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it perfect for those looking for a relaxed spot to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea.
The Coffee Culture –
If you’re looking for somewhere special to have coffee and cake, then head over to The Coffee Culture in Amsterdam-Oost. Here, you can enjoy a selection of artisan cakes and freshly brewed coffees.
Caffènation –
This small, independent cafe is located in the popular De Pijp district. It’s known for its specialty coffee blends, homemade pastries and sandwiches.
The Wildernis –
If you’re looking for something a little different, then The Wildernis is the place to go. This cafe-bar offers delicious cocktails and craft beers, as well as an array of vegan and vegetarian dishes.
Best shopping areas in Amsterdam:
Amsterdam is known for its wide selection of stores and markets.
The city has something for everyone, from designer boutiques to vintage stores. Here are some of the best shopping areas in Amsterdam:
Kalverstraat –
This main shopping street located in the heart of Amsterdam features a variety of shops selling everything from fashion to souvenirs.
The Nine Streets –
This area features a range of independent shops, including fashion boutiques and vintage stores. It’s also home to several cafes and restaurants, making it the perfect spot for a day of shopping and dining out.
Waterlooplein Market –
At this outdoor market, you can find an array of second hand items and antiques. It’s great for finding unique souvenirs or picking up a bargain.
De Bijenkorf –
This high-end department store features an array of luxury brands. It’s the perfect place to find designer clothes, shoes and accessories.
Albert Cuyp Market –
This vibrant market is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Here, you can find everything from fresh produce to local crafts.
Noordermarkt –
The Noordermarkt is the city’s oldest market and features an array of organic produce and artisanal products. It’s also home to several cafes and restaurants.
The Utrechtse Straat –
This street is filled with a variety of independent stores and vintage shops. Here, you can find unique items from all over the world.
Noorderkerk –
The Noorderkerk offers a mix of high-end designer goods and local products. It’s also home to several cafes and restaurants, making it a great spot for a shopping break.
These are just some of the best shopping areas in Amsterdam. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll be sure to find something special in this vibrant city.
