Embrace the Amsterdam Vibe
Forget the clichés of clogs and windmills. Amsterdam has successfully rebranded itself as Europe’s ultimate playground for young adults. Whether you’re a local looking to spice up your weekend or a tourist ready to blend in with the cool kids, this guide is here to help with a dash of humor thrown in for good measure.
Get Artsy at Street Art Spots
Amsterdam is the Van Gogh of street art. Your Instagram feed will thank you as you explore creative hotspots like the NDSM Wharf or the Jordan district. From giant murals to cheeky tags, it’s like going to a free art museum. Don’t worry; the only admission fee is your sense of adventure (and maybe your ability to dodge cyclists).
Experience the Ultimate Chill in Coffeeshops
Put aside the artisanal lattes and caramel macchiatos; Amsterdam’s coffeeshops offer a completely different brew (wink, wink). While navigating these laid-back retreats, remember the golden rule: Start low and go slow. Whether you seek nirvana or just some giggles, you’re in for a good time. Just avoid zoning out in front of the passerby’s. It’s awkward.
Explore Attractions Incognito
Sure, you may stumble upon a classic guidebook listing, but only the bold will explore attractions in Amsterdam that are off the beaten path. Consider the Electric Ladyland museum, where you’ll see the world’s first museum of fluorescent art. Pro tip: your socks will glow in the dark. Then, find the hidden church of Our Lord in the Attic. It’s your chance to appear pious while secretly counting halo selfies.
Revel in Amsterdam’s Nightlife
From techno beats to intimate indie gigs, Amsterdam’s nightlife caters to every musical taste and tempo. Strut your stuff at Paradiso or hit Melkweg for world-class DJs. Dance your heart out, just avoid stepping on someone else’s feet; they’ll thank you for it. Not in the mood for beats? There’s a dive bar around every corner, packed with character and sometimes actual characters. For a deeper dive (into a pint), check out one of the coolest bars in Amsterdam.
Cruise the Canals
While monotonous bus tours are for the snoozers, young adventurers prefer the subclass transportation: canal cruising. Feeling like the captain of a tiny ship as you navigate Amsterdam’s waterways is the definition of living large. If you want that pompous flair, grab a bottle of bubbles and toast to the inevitable duck-watching. Just don’t drop your electric scooter in the canal—we hear they’re difficult to mop out.
Embark on a Picture-Perfect Bike Tour
If you haven’t experienced the exquisite chaos of cycling in Amsterdam, you haven’t really lived. Rent a bike, clumsily balance, and ring your bell like there’s no tomorrow. Wind through picturesque parks like Vondelpark or zip down the quirky Nine Streets bustling with boutiques. Mastering bike traffic will make you feel like a true Amsterdamer—minus the tulip fetish.
Taste Unique Dutch Delicacies
When hunger bites, why not seduce your taste buds with some profound and totally healthy Dutch snacks (wink again). From piping hot stroopwafels to the mysteriously mood-lifting bitterballen, your palate won’t know what hit it. For the adventurous, tackle herring the proper way—though you might wish you brought mint gum. Bon appétit—or “eet smakelijk,” as the locals say.