Your friend in Amsterdam
Amsterdam
Like a Local
Skip the tourist traps. These are the spots my friends and I actually go to. Hotels, restaurants, bars, and things to do — from someone who actually lives here.
Hotels I Tell Every Friend About
These are the places people I know have actually stayed and loved. No chains, no sponsored picks.
Hotel de Hallen
Local FavoriteStay in a former tram depot in Oud-West, right in the middle of a lively cultural hub. Great for foodies and locals alike.
The Hoxton Amsterdam
Local FavoriteIf you want a hotel that feels like a stylish apartment with a great lobby bar, The Hoxton is it. Book early—especially in summer.
Pulitzer Amsterdam
Local FavoriteIf you want the most romantic, historic, and dreamy Amsterdam experience, stay at the Pulitzer. Trust me, it’s worth the price.
What are you looking for?
I have split my recommendations into the four things everyone asks me about. Pick one and start exploring.
Where to Stay
Hotels and stays I actually recommend to friends visiting. No chains, no tourist traps.
Things to Do
Hidden gems, museums worth the hype, walking routes, and the stuff my friends actually do on weekends.
Eat & Drink
The restaurants, cafes, and street food spots where you will see zero tour groups.
Going Out
Bars, clubs, live music — the places I go when I text my friends "drinks tonight?"
Local Favorites
The places I keep coming back to. If you only have a few days in Amsterdam, start here.
Yuan's Hot Pot
Local FavoriteMy roommate dragged our whole friend group here and now we go every month. Pick your broth, load up on fresh ingredients, and prepare for the loudest, steamiest dinner of your trip.
Cafe de Klos
Local FavoriteThe best ribs in Amsterdam, cash only, no reservations, and always packed. Show up around 5:30.
O'Donnell's Irish Pub
Local FavoriteMy buddy watches every Premier League game here with a Guinness in hand. Proper Irish pub, proper pints, and the pub grub hits different when you are homesick for comfort food.
Gollem's Proeflokaal
Local FavoriteMy neighbor calls this beer heaven and he is not exaggerating. Over 200 beers, staff who actually know what they are talking about, and the coziest little bar you will find.
Padel Amsterdam
Local FavoritePadel Amsterdam is a fun, weather-proof indoor court in Oud-West. Go Wednesday with a group — it’s where my coworker Lisa hooked us all.
Private Boat on the Canals
Local FavoriteForget the tourist boats. My roommate rents a little electric boat, loads it with cheese and wine, and cruises the canals herself. No license needed. Best afternoon in Amsterdam.
Things to Do
Beyond the tourist checklist. These are the experiences my friends and I actually do on weekends.
Padel Amsterdam
Local FavoritePadel Amsterdam is a fun, weather-proof indoor court in Oud-West. Go Wednesday with a group — it’s where my coworker Lisa hooked us all.
Private Boat on the Canals
Local FavoriteForget the tourist boats. My roommate rents a little electric boat, loads it with cheese and wine, and cruises the canals herself. No license needed. Best afternoon in Amsterdam.
Pathe Tuschinski
Local FavoriteGo to the Grote Zaal at Pathe Tuschinski for a real cinematic experience. The lobby is free, the architecture is stunning, and the seats are comfy.
Street Art Museum Amsterdam (SAMA)
Local FavoriteMy neighbor dragged me here expecting graffiti and left speechless. A massive warehouse in Noord filled with world-class street art. Take the free ferry and combine with NDSM exploring.
Axe Throwing Amsterdam
Local FavoriteBook axe throwing for a bachelor party or group night out. It’s more fun than it sounds.
Museumplein — The Big Three
Local FavoriteRijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum — all on one square. Yes they are touristy, yes they are worth it. My friend's dad cried at the Night Watch.
Not sure where to start?
Let me plan your trip
Answer five quick questions and I will build you a personalized Amsterdam itinerary — including where to stay, what to do, and where to eat.
Plan My AmsterdamExplore Amsterdam
All my favorite spots on one map. Click around — everything here is personally vetted.
Tips from a Local
The stuff my friends always ask me before they visit. Guides, neighborhood breakdowns, and honest advice.
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