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.

  • Hortus Botanicus: my favourite green escape in Amsterdam

    Hortus Botanicus: my favourite green escape in Amsterdam

    Yesterday I had an unusual Monday morning. Instead of starting the week at my usual busy tempo, I went to the Hortus Botanicus, a green oasis in the heart of Amsterdam. Last updated: 27 October 2026 by Anastasia Dudina 🌿…

  • Anne Frank house tickets: how to book before they sell out

    Anne Frank house tickets: how to book before they sell out

    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 Light Festival Cruises 2026/2027

    Amsterdam Light Festival Cruises 2026/2027

    Which Amsterdam Light festival cruises are the best? Amsterdam Light Festival is a famous winter festival of art, light and water in Amsterdam. Historical buildings, bridges and sculptures in the center of Amsterdam will be illuminated with colour in the…

  • Amsterdam canal cruise prices 2026: which one to book?

    Amsterdam canal cruise prices 2026: which one to book?

    Most Amsterdam canal cruises cost €15,50 to €25 per person. Special cruises with food, drinks or private boats range from €30 to €150+. In this guide, I’ll compare prices, explain which cruises are worth the extra money, and share my…

  • Is Amsterdam expensive? Prices in Amsterdam 2026 + trip cost calculator

    Is Amsterdam expensive? Prices in Amsterdam 2026 + trip cost calculator

    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,…

  • Antiekcentrum Amsterdam: best antique shops (my tips)

    Antiekcentrum Amsterdam: best antique shops (my tips)

    Looking for authentic antiques in Amsterdam instead of boring souvenirs? Antiekcentrum Amsterdam is one of the city’s best hidden gems for vintage furniture, jewelry, Delftware, silver and collectible Dutch pieces, all under one roof. Last updated: 22 October 2026 by…

  • Best things to do in Amsterdam: a local’s guide

    Best things to do in Amsterdam: a local’s guide

    Planning a trip to Amsterdam and wondering which places are truly worth visiting? I’ve collected my favourite museums, neighbourhoods, markets, cafés, hidden gems, and things to do in Amsterdam. Written by a local Anastasia Dudina I’ve been living in the…

  • 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: 24 October…

  • Are Amsterdam museums open on Christmas & New Year? (2026/27)

    Are Amsterdam museums open on Christmas & New Year? (2026/27)

    Which museums in Amsterdam are open on Christmas (25 – 26 December 2026) New Year’s Eve (31 December) and New Year’s Day (1 January 2027)? Opening hours during the holiday season may differ from usual working times. But there are…

  • Amsterdam public transport: tickets, cards & prices in 2026

    Amsterdam public transport: tickets, cards & prices in 2026

    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 to…