Amsterdam travel guide

Your local guide to Amsterdam

13 years living here. Real tips, not tourist traps.

My name is Anastasia, and I live in the Netherlands since 2013. In this guide, I’ll inspire you to visit Amsterdam, discover hidden gems, and help you plan your trip.

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Latest from the blog

Check my new articles, guides and tips for your trip to Amsterdam.

  • Day trip to Efteling from Amsterdam

    Day trip to Efteling from Amsterdam

    Efteling is the most visited attraction in the Netherlands – and one of the best day trips you can do from Amsterdam with kids. The park is 110 km away, about 2 hours by public transport or 1 hour 15…

  • Amsterdam to Giethoorn: train, bus & day trip guide (2026)

    Amsterdam to Giethoorn: train, bus & day trip guide (2026)

    Giethoorn is a village in the Dutch countryside, often called the “Venice of the Netherlands” for its network of canals and traditional farmhouses. The historic centre has no roads — the only way to get around is by boat, bike,…

  • Amsterdam night buses explained: routes, tickets and tips

    Amsterdam night buses explained: routes, tickets and tips

    There are 11 night bus lines connecting Amsterdam Centraal station with other parts of the city. They run every hour between 00:30 and 07:30. A single night bus ticket in Amsterdam in 2026 costs € 5,70. Last updated: 25 August…

  • I amsterdam Explorer Card 2026: Pick 3, 5 or 7 Attractions

    I amsterdam Explorer Card 2026: Pick 3, 5 or 7 Attractions

    The I amsterdam City Card Explorer: Special Edition, launched in May 2026, is a “pick and mix” alternative to the traditional I amsterdam City Card. Instead of paying for unlimited access over a fixed number of hours, you choose 3,…

  • I amsterdam City Card review: is it worth it + savings calculator

    I amsterdam City Card review: is it worth it + savings calculator

    The I amsterdam City Card is worth buying if you plan to visit 4+ museums and use public transport in Amsterdam. A 72-hour card costs €115 and can save you up to €274 compared to buying tickets separately. Use our…

  • How to book Anne Frank house tickets

    How to book Anne Frank house tickets

    Anne Frank House tickets must be booked online in advance, since they’re never sold at the door. Tickets go on sale every Tuesday at 10:00 AM (Amsterdam time) for the entire week six weeks later, and they sell out fast.…

  • Amsterdam tourist tax in 2026: rates, calculator & tips

    Amsterdam tourist tax in 2026: rates, calculator & tips

    If you stay in a hotel in Amsterdam in 2026, you will pay a tourist tax of 12,5% of the room price (excluding VAT). Tourist tax is a municipal tax that applies to hotels, apartments, hostels, B&Bs and other accommodations.…

  • Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam: tickets, prices and tips

    Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam: tickets, prices and tips

    The Rijksmuseum is the most famous museum in Amsterdam, and one of the most important art museums in the world. If you want to understand Dutch history, culture, and art, this is a good place to start. In this article…

  • Amsterdam prices & travel budget 2026: is it expensive?

    Amsterdam prices & travel budget 2026: is it expensive?

    Amsterdam is one of the most expensive cities in Europe. But the actual cost depends heavily on where you stay, eat, and what attractions you visit. In this guide, you’ll find up-to-date 2026 prices for hotels, restaurants, public transport, museums,…

  • How to pay for public transport in Amsterdam?

    How to pay for public transport in Amsterdam?

    Paying for public transport in Amsterdam has never been easier: simply tap in and out with your bank card – and you’re ready to go. However, while OV-pay is very convenient, it’s not always the cheapest option. If you plan…