Amsterdam
Where Canals, Culture & Cheese Collide in Glorious Harmony
Bikes, Boats & Stroopwafels – The Dutch Do It Better
Say hallo to Amsterdam – the laid-back, loveable city that runs on bikes, brunch, and beautiful scenery. It’s a place where 17th-century buildings lean charmingly sideways, the streets are filled with flowers and the air smells faintly of waffles and adventure. Whether you’re cruising a canal or conquering a pancake stack, Amsterdam is guaranteed to charm your clogs off.
From world-famous art and culture to windmills, tulips, and that cheeky red light district, this city is an easy-going mix of sophistication and silliness. It’s perfect for weekend breaks, romantic escapes, and spontaneous “I need to feel like a bohemian painter for 48 hours” moments.
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Top Tips for First-Time Visitors
(01)
Direct flights to Amsterdam from most UK airports take around 45 minutes to an hour – quicker than a takeaway delivery. Schiphol Airport is just 15–20 minutes from the city centre by train, which means you can land, check in, and be eating cheese by the canal before lunch.
Getting There from the UK – Quick Hop to the Land of Bikes
(02)
UK passport holders can travel to the Netherlands for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. Just ensure your passport is valid and you’ve got proof of onward travel. That’s it – no faff, no fuss, just fiets (that’s “bike” in Dutch).
Visa Rules – Smooth as Dutch Chocolate
(03)
The Netherlands uses the Euro (€), and you’ll find card machines everywhere – even market stalls and vending machines take contactless. That said, it’s handy to have a few coins on you for public loos, lockers, or if a stroopwafel emergency arises.
Currency Chat – Euro Time
(04)
The Dutch speak excellent English, often better than we do. You’ll find it easy to get by, order food, ask directions, and make awkward jokes without needing Google Translate. Still, “dank je wel” (thank you) goes a long way and makes you look worldly.
Do They Speak English? Yes, Fluently and Kindly
4 Unmissable Things to Do in Amsterdam
Cruise the Canals – The Chillest Way to Sightsee
Hop on a canal boat and glide through the city’s iconic waterways, passing centuries-old houses, quirky bridges, and confused ducks. Choose a classic daytime tour or go full romance with a candlelit evening cruise (blanket and wine optional but highly recommended).
Anne Frank House – Powerful, Moving, and a Must-Visit
Step inside the hidden annex where Anne Frank and her family lived during WWII. It’s sobering and powerful – a poignant experience that stays with you. Book your tickets well in advance, as slots disappear faster than a plate of bitterballen.
Rijksmuseum – Where Rembrandt and Selfies Meet
Home to masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and all your moody Dutch faves, the Rijksmuseum is an art lover’s dream. Don’t miss The Night Watch, the grand library, or the inevitable moment you declare “I could totally live here.”
De Pijp & Foodhallen – Hip, Hungry and So Very Dutch
Explore the trendy De Pijp neighbourhood and then head to Foodhallen – an indoor market of global cuisines, Dutch delicacies, and cocktails on tap. It’s perfect for grazing, people-watching, and pretending you're a stylish local with excellent taste in craft beer.
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Survival Guide: 3 Tips for a Dreamy Dutch Adventure
Respect the Bikes – They Rule the Roads (and Possibly the World)
Cyclists are everywhere – and fast. Bike lanes are sacred, and stepping into one without looking both ways could result in a very polite crash. Always check before crossing, and if you hire a bike yourself, do not stop in the middle of the road to take a selfie.
Avoid Peak Tourist Times – Unless You Enjoy Shuffling Slowly
Some areas (looking at you, Dam Square and the Red Light District) get rammed. Visit early, late, or take a quick detour to a quieter canal for a more local, peaceful vibe. Amsterdam’s charm is often found just a block or two off the beaten path.
Embrace the Stroopwafel – You Won’t Regret It
This thin, syrup-filled waffle is a national treasure. Eat it warm, eat it cold, balance it on your coffee to soften – just make sure you eat lots. And yes, it is entirely acceptable to stuff your suitcase with them on the way home.
Final Thoughts: Why Amsterdam Is Always a Good Idea
Tulips, Tolerance & a Touch of Magic – Amsterdam Has It All
Amsterdam is the kind of city that makes everyday life feel like a film – with canals as your backdrop, cobblestones beneath your feet, and a stroopwafel never far from your hand. It’s compact, friendly, effortlessly cool, and full of cultural gems and quirky surprises.
Book with Flying Business Holidays, and get ready to fall in love with a city that’s as welcoming as it is unforgettable. Just watch out for the bikes. Seriously.