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.

  • Lovers canal cruise Amsterdam: is it worth it?

    Lovers canal cruise Amsterdam: is it worth it?

    There are dozens of boat companies that organize canal cruises in Amsterdam, but Lovers is my favourite. I like their colourful and comfortable boats, affordable tickets and the option to buy combi-tickets with an extra discount. In this guide I…

  • KLM houses walk in Amsterdam

    KLM houses walk in Amsterdam

    There are hunderds of popular walking routes and day itineraries in Amsterdam (we also have a few!). But how about a creative one? You have probably heard about the KLM Delft Blue houses. Each of them is a miniature replica…

  • Red light district Amsterdam: rules and tips

    Red light district Amsterdam: rules and tips

    De Wallen, Amsterdam’s red-light district, is the most vibrant and internationally known part of the city. It offers legal window prostitution, sex shops, brothels, live shows, strip clubs, and a number of coffeeshops that sell marijuana. It may sound like…

  • 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 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.…

  • List of museums included in I amsterdam card with 2026 prices

    List of museums included in I amsterdam card with 2026 prices

    How much can you save with the I amsterdam City Card? Check the list below of free museums and attractions, add up the places you want to visit, and compare the total ticket costs with the price of the card.…

  • 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…

  • How to use public transport in Amsterdam?

    How to use public transport in Amsterdam?

    Public transport in Amsterdam is operated by GVB and covers trams, buses, metro and ferries. How does public transport work? It’s very easy to use — and in this guide we’ll walk you through everything you need to know. 📋…

  • Flower market in Amsterdam: the Bloemenmarkt

    Flower market in Amsterdam: the Bloemenmarkt

    Flower market in Amsterdam, also called Bloemenmarkt in Dutch, or Floating market is one of the most colourful attractions in Amsterdam. It’s the city’s iconic landmarks operating since 1862. Today some consider it to be too touristic, because of the…

  • 2-day Amsterdam itinerary for first-time visitors

    2-day Amsterdam itinerary for first-time visitors

    What can you see in Amsterdam in 2 days? This Amsterdam itinerary for first-time visitors shows you how to maximize your time and visit top museums, famous neighbourhoods, and hidden gems. I’ve also added some personal dos and don’ts to…