Amsterdam is a beautiful capital, with its own charm, peaceful space and modern lifestyle. This city is always a favorite destination for tourists in Europe. Let’s explore Amsterdam in detail with Living Nomads through the The SUPER Amsterdam travel guide: Top attractions, Stay, Eat & MORE below!
- 10 best day trips from Amsterdam to other countries & around
- Suggested ultimate Amsterdam itinerary 3 days
- Where to go in Amsterdam? — 14 top, must & best places to visit in Amsterdam
- How to get around Amsterdam cheap? — 7 cheapest & best way on how to travel cheap in Amsterdam
- Amsterdam travel blog — The fullest Amsterdam travel guide for first-timers
Where is Amsterdam?
Amsterdam is the capital and largest city of the Netherlands, located in the province of Noord – Holland (Northern Netherlands). The city was formed along the Amstel River with a system of interwoven canals creating a unique landscape, known as the “Venice of the North”. Thanks to its favorable location and large port system, Amsterdam soon became an important economic and commercial center of Europe.
Not only famous for its ancient architecture and poetic canals, Amsterdam is also known for its open, free and diverse culture. This city is a convergence of hundreds of different nationalities, contributing to creating a vibrant, diverse and modern cultural picture. The spirit of art, creativity and tolerance has become the unique characteristics that make Amsterdam attractive.
Amsterdam travel guide: What to prepare when going to Amsterdam?
For a smooth and comfortable trip to Amsterdam, you should carefully prepare everything from documents, luggage to transportation utilities. Below is a list of suggestions to help you get ready for your journey to explore the beautiful capital of the Netherlands.
Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the expected date of entry into the Netherlands. Prepare passport information (number, date of issue, place of issue, nationality, full name, date of birth, …) to help you complete immigration procedures more quickly.
Schengen Visa: Vietnamese visitors are required to have a Schengen visa when entering the Netherlands. This visa allows you to travel freely between Schengen countries for a maximum stay of 90 days. If you want to save time and increase your visa approval rate, you can use Klook’s Schengen visa service.
Schengen Visa Service from SPUN
Pre-itinerary by day: Amsterdam has many famous attractions. Therefore, planning in detail by day will help you be more proactive in your journey to explore this capital.
Necessary items: Don’t forget to bring windbreakers, walking shoes, small umbrellas, waterproof bags, adapters, etc. to enjoy a smoother and easier travel journey.
Air tickets and hotel rooms: Booking air tickets and hotels early will help you choose the right accommodation and hunt for good prices. Don’t forget to use Klook discount codes to enjoy your trip to the Netherlands in the most complete and economical way!
Travel insurance: In the Netherlands, there are many insurance packages for tourists such as health insurance, luggage or flight insurance, etc. Choosing the right package will help you feel more secure and minimize financial risks when exploring Europe.
Currency and payment methods in Amsterdam: The official currency of the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). You should prepare some cash for small expenses and use Visa, MasterCard or Maestro cards for large transactions.
SIM and eSIM phone: Prepare a European SIM or eSIM for easy communication and information lookup. With eSIM, you can activate it as soon as you land without removing the physical SIM, helping to maintain connection throughout the journey.
How to get from Vietnam to Amsterdam
Europe eSIM Data | 35 Countries Multi-Country Travel | Email Deliver
Amsterdam is one of the central cities of Europe, so getting here is quite convenient and has a variety of options. Below are the means of transportation in Amsterdam for first-time travelers.
From Vietnam, the fastest and most convenient way to get to the Netherlands is by air. There are currently many airlines operating flights from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Amsterdam Schiphol International Airport (AMS), often transiting at destinations such as Shanghai, Wuhan, Phnom Penh, etc. You can easily book flights to Amsterdam on Klook to compare prices, choose the right flight and hunt for attractive deals for your upcoming European trip.
After landing at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, you can get to the center of Amsterdam by domestic means. In addition, if you want to be more proactive with your schedule, you can choose to rent a car or book an airport shuttle service on the Klook app.
How to get around Amsterdam
Whether you are staying for a short time or exploring for a long time, getting around the city is extremely convenient and flexible. Here are the local means of transport when travelling in Amsterdam:
Tram
Public transport ticket in Amsterdam by GVB
Trams are an iconic part of Amsterdam, with their distinctive blue-white design and familiar jingling bells. The system is operated by GVB, connecting Amsterdam Central Station with famous neighborhoods such as Jordaan, De Pijp or Museumplein, making it easy for visitors to explore the city. Trams operate from 06:00 – 00:00 with a fare of around 3.40 EUR/trip (~105,000 VND). In addition, you can use GVB tickets and I amsterdam City Card for unlimited travel.
Bus
Buses are a convenient way to travel between areas in the city and explore the suburbs of Amsterdam. The system is operated by GVB (inner city), Connexxion – R-Net (to the airport and surrounding areas) and EBS (Northern suburbs). Buses operate from 06:00 – 00:30, with many departing from Amsterdam Central. Travellers can pay via OVpay, using debit, credit or smartphone without the need to buy a paper ticket.
Metro
Amsterdam’s metro system consists of five main lines managed by GVB, connecting major areas such as Zuid, Noord, Zuidoost, Amstelveen and Sloterdijk, all of which pass through Amsterdam Central. The metro operates from 06:00 – 00:30, making it a quick way to get around the city. Travellers can check in/out using OVpay, credit or phone; or use a GVB day ticket and I amsterdam City Card for unlimited travel across the network.
Ferry
The ferry across the IJ is a fun part of Amsterdam’s public transport system, connecting the city centre with the north. Ferry routes operate 24 hours a day, running every 5-15 minutes during the day and less frequently at night. In particular, the service is completely free, very convenient for pedestrians, bicycles and small motorbikes when moving across the river.
Train
The train system is operated by Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), connecting Amsterdam Centraal with Schiphol Airport and many major cities such as Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht and international routes to Paris, Brussels, Berlin. Trains run regularly from 05:00 to 00:30, with fares depending on the distance. You can buy tickets at automatic machines, NS website or pay by OVpay via card or phone, very convenient and fast.
Taxi
Taxi is a convenient choice for traveling in Amsterdam, you can easily catch it at places such as Amsterdam Centraal, Schiphol Airport or book through the Uber, Bolt app. Prices start from 4.15 – 8.44 EUR (~128,000 – 260,000 VND) and can be paid by cash, card or app.
Bicycle
Biking is the most fun way to explore Amsterdam. You can easily rent a bike at locations near Central Station, Leidseplein or hotel areas, with flexible rental periods from 3 hours to the whole day, with an average price of about 10 EUR/day (~308,000 VND). Remember to follow traffic laws and bike lanes to travel safely like a local.
Rent a bike
If you want to freely explore Amsterdam on your own schedule, you can rent a bike on Klook to easily choose the right bike, compare prices and pick up your bike conveniently at the airport or city center.
Best time to visit Amsterdam
Autumn (September – November) is considered the most magical time to visit Amsterdam. If you can’t go in the fall, you can still visit Amsterdam at any time of the year, because each season has its own charm, from the fresh spring colors to the bustling summer days of festivals.
In the fall, Amsterdam is dressed in a warm, brilliant orange-yellow color with rows of trees reflecting on the canals, creating an unforgettable romantic scene. Not only that, this is also the season of music festivals, cultural events, film festivals and cozy dishes typical of the Netherlands. All blend together to create a vibrant and peaceful Amsterdam, making anyone who visits once want to come back.
Places to visit in Amsterdam you should not miss
Amsterdam is a convergence of many unique historical, artistic and cultural works. Here are some places you should definitely not miss on your Amsterdam trip.
Koninklijk Paleis Amsterdam (Royal Palace Amsterdam)
- Address: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 147, 1012 RJ Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Opening hours: 10:00 – 17:00
- Ticket price: From only 414,969 VND
Koninklijk Paleis Amsterdam is one of the iconic buildings located in Dam Square, right in the city center. Built in the 17th century, the palace used to be the city hall of Amsterdam before becoming the place to hold royal ceremonies such as coronations, welcoming heads of state and important events of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. With its magnificent classical architecture and luxurious interior, this is a must-see destination for those who want to explore Dutch history and culture.
Anne Frank House (Anne Frank Museum)
- Address: Westermarkt 20, 1016 GV Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Opening hours: 09:00 – 22:00
- Ticket price: 492,000 VND
Anne Frank House is a famous historical museum located on the Prinsengracht canal, which preserves the touching story of Anne Frank – a Jewish girl who wrote the Anne Frank Diary while hiding from the Nazis. The house is preserved almost intact, helping visitors feel deeply about life, fear and hope during World War II.
Van Gogh Museum
- Address: Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Opening hours: 09:00 – 18:00
- Ticket price: 798,277 VND
Van Gogh Museum is home to the world’s largest collection of works by the famous painter Vincent van Gogh. The museum showcases more than 200 paintings, drawings and handwritten letters, helping visitors explore his artistic journey, life and creative inspiration. This is a must-see destination for those who love art and want to understand more about one of the world’s greatest painters.
Rijksmuseum
- Address: Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Opening hours: 09:00 – 17:00
- Ticket price: From only 770,000 VND/person
Rijksmuseum is the most famous national art museum in the Netherlands, located in the heart of Amsterdam. It houses thousands of works of art and historical artifacts, including masterpieces by famous painters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer or Frans Hals. With impressive neo-Gothic architecture and modern exhibition space, Rijksmuseum is a must-see destination for those who love European art and culture.
Vondelpark
- Address: 1071 AA Amsterdam, Netherlands
Vondelpark is the most famous and largest park in Amsterdam, considered the “green lung” of the city. The cool green space, clear lake and tree-lined paths make this place an ideal stop for tourists and locals. On sunny days, you can find picnics, cycling, or vibrant outdoor concerts at Vondelpark.
NEMO Science Museum
- Address: Oosterdok 2, 1011 VX Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Opening hours: 10:00 – 17:00 (Tuesday – Saturday)
- Ticket price: From only 660,000 VND/person
NEMO Science Museum is the largest science museum in the Netherlands, featuring a unique ship-shaped architecture located on the Amsterdam harbor. It offers interesting interactive experiences, helping visitors explore the world of science through experiments, games and vivid models. Not only appealing to children, NEMO is also an ideal destination for the whole family who want to both learn and play in a creative and modern space.
Accommodation options in Amsterdam for you
Amsterdam hotels are diverse, from luxury hotels by the canal to modern hostels, suitable for all budgets. Visitors often choose to stay in the center of Amsterdam for easy access to famous attractions, shopping and local cuisine. These are ideal areas to fully experience the typical life of the city.
Here are hotels that Living Nomads recommends for you:
Conservatorium Hotel
- Address: Paulus Potterstraat 50, 1071 DB Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Room price for 1 night from: 19,307,549 VND
Conservatorium Hotel is one of the most luxurious hotels in Amsterdam, located right in the bustling Museum Quarter. The hotel stands out with its architecture blending classic and modern, with a system of 5-star rooms, restaurants, and spas. From here, visitors can easily visit famous museums such as the Van Gogh Museum in just a few minutes’ walk. (klook, agoda)
Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam
- Address: Herengracht 542-556, 1017 CG Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Rate for 1 night from: 26,263,331 VND
Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam is a luxury hotel located on the famous Herengracht canal, formed from six ancient 17th-century mansions. The hotel impresses with its sophisticated space, luxurious rooms overlooking the canal, quiet private gardens and a famous Michelin-starred restaurant. This is the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy classic beauty mixed with modern class in the heart of Amsterdam. (klook, agoda)
Below are some best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.
XO Hotels Couture: a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $62/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com).
Lloyd Hotel: a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $51/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com).
XO Hotels Park West: a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $62/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com).
Ambassade Hotel: a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $273/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com).
Hotel Estherea: a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $111/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com).
Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam: a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $161/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com).
Hotel2stay: a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $108/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com).
Amsterdam Teleport Hotel: a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $75/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com).
NH Collection Amsterdam Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky: a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $184/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com).
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Amsterdam Centraal Station: a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $219/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com).
Hotel Casa: a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $60/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com).
Check out more top and best hotels in Amsterdam via Agoda.com
Must-try dishes when coming to Amsterdam
Amsterdam cuisine offers a unique experience with a strong European flavor. This is definitely the highlight that makes your journey of discovery more complete and unforgettable.
Bitterballen
Bitterballen is a traditional Dutch snack, often served with beer in bars in Amsterdam. The rich beef stew balls are fried until golden brown and served with a mildly spicy mustard to create an unforgettable flavor. You can enjoy this dish at Winkel 43, Bitterbal Bezorgen, Eetsalon Van Dobben,…
Appletaart
Appeltaart (Dutch apple pie) is a familiar dessert that cannot be missed when coming to Amsterdam. The crispy crust, sweet apple filling and fragrant cinnamon scent make anyone who tastes it fall in love. You can enjoy Appletaart at Winkel 43, De Laatste Kruimel, Patisserie Holtkamp,…
French fries
Dutch fries are a famous dish with thick, crispy potatoes on the outside and soft inside with a variety of sauces. This is a favorite street food throughout Amsterdam. You can find delicious fries at restaurants such as Frites Huys Amsterdam, Fabel Friet Runstraat, Frites & Frites,…
Amsterdam is a great destination for those who love the mix of classic and modern, culture, art and dynamic lifestyle.
Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Amsterdam you can refer to
- Volendam, Marken & Windmills of Zaanse Schans Tour from Amsterdam
- Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn Small-Group Tour with Hotel Pick Up
- Rijksmuseum Ticket & Canal Cruise
- I amsterdam City Card
- Amsterdam Airport Schiphol – Amsterdam Centraal train ticket by NS
- Eurail Global Pass – 33 European Countries
- Public transport ticket in Amsterdam by GVB
- Amsterdam Canal Cruises with Multiple Options & Departure Points
- Giethoorn Day Tour from Amsterdam with Traditional Boat Cruise
- Heineken Experience Ticket in Amsterdam
- Van Gogh Museum Ticket in Amsterdam
Read more Amsterdam guide here.
