Amsterdam is one of my favorite European cities and will always have a special place in my heart. When strolling the streets, you can’t help to be in awe of the city’s beauty. Having had the opportunity to live here for about 2 months, I tried to take in as much as I could, yet I am sure there is far more to see. Amsterdam is really where my love for traveling began, and it is one place that keeps me coming back time and time again.

WHERE TO STAY: 

When living here, our apartment was in the Oud West neighborhood- and we absolutely loved it! When going back to visit, we found and Airbnb in this same area and would highly recommend those visiting to also check out Oud West. It is in good location to Vondel Park, many restaurants, and of course one of my favorites- the Food Hallen.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO: 

1. Tour the Anne Frank House- must do (be sure to buy your tickets in advance, they book up quickly!!!)

2. Visit Food Hallen (a classy indoor food market and bar inside an old train station, serving up high-end street food).

3. Pack a picnic for Vondel Park

4. Museumplein- (if you want to check out the museums they are all in this area)

5. Visit the Banksy Museum

6. Stroll through the Red light district at night

7. Have a drink at one of the many outdoor patios in Leidseplein

8.  Stroll the streets and canals, you really can’t go wrong walking in just about any direction- it’s all so beautiful!

WHERE TO EAT: 

1. Food Hallen

2. Spaghetteria (quaint Italian restaurant, great atmosphere, one of my favorites. There is usually a line/wait to get in)

3. The Breakfast Club (for breakfast or brunch)

4.  Supper Club- (clubby, lively restaurant where guests can lounge in beds & order food/drinks while watching live performances)

5. Cafe Panache

6. De Kas – Set in a greenhouse setting – all dishes made from organic ingredients grown on site. One of the absolutely best meals I have ever had. Reservations required in advance. 

7. Cafe De Klepel

8. Seafood Bar

9. Balthazar’s Keuken

10. Restaurant Olijfje

11. d’Vijff Vlieghen

WHERE TO DRINK:

1. Vesper

2. Njoy

3. Door 74

4. Hiding in Plain Sight

5. Tales and Spirits

6. The Flying Dutchman

7.. Venus and Adonis – one of our favorites spots to pull up a seat at the bar.