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Amsterdam, the capital of Netherlands
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Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the capital and largest city of the Netherlands, famous for its picturesque canals and vibrant cultural scene. Known colloquially as the "Venice of the North", this UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts visitors from around the world.

Photo: Andrés Barrios (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Quick facts

Population
881,933 (city, 2022)
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Language
Dutch
Timezone
CEST (UTC+2)
Local time now
11:39:45

Hotels in Amsterdam

We're still gathering hotels listings for Amsterdam — check back soon.

Airports in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is served by Luchthaven Schiphol, the city's main airport. The region also features several specialist facilities including Eerste Zaanse Zweefvlieg Club, Vliegveld Hilversum, Zweefvliegveld Langeveld, and Zweefvliegterrein Soesterberg for aviation enthusiasts. See all airports →

Car Hire in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers a range of car hire options through established providers including SIXT, Enterprise, Avis, and Alamo. Whether you need a vehicle for exploring the Netherlands or day trips beyond the city, multiple rental companies are available to suit your travel needs. See all car hire →

Things to Do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers visitors a wealth of attractions to explore, from historic landmarks like the iconic Dam and the grand Koninklijk Paleis to popular attractions such as Madame Tussauds Amsterdam. Whether you're interested in cultural sites, memorable experiences, or simply soaking in the city's vibrant atmosphere, Amsterdam has something for every traveler. See all things to do →

Restaurants in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers a vibrant culinary scene with restaurants ranging from traditional Dutch establishments like De Roode Leeuw to international cuisine at venues such as La Piazza, La Boca, Bougainville, and Royal98. Whether you're seeking classic local fare or contemporary dining experiences, the city's restaurant landscape caters to diverse tastes and preferences. See all restaurants →

Swimming Pools in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers a variety of swimming pools and aquatic facilities for residents and visitors. Popular options include Zuiderbad, Swimgym, Sportfondsenbad Oost, Sportplaza Mercator, and Doelgroepenbad, providing different settings for swimming and water sports throughout the city. See all swimming pools →

Zuiderbad
1.7 km from centre
Swimgym
2.5 km from centre
Sportfondsenbad Oost
3.0 km from centre

Spas in Amsterdam

We're still gathering spas listings for Amsterdam — check back soon.

Nightlife in Amsterdam

Amsterdam's nightlife is as diverse and energetic as the city itself, offering everything from late-night clubs like ClubNL and Winston to unique entertainment venues such as Casa Rosso and Theater 97. Whether you're looking for dancing, drinks, or distinctive Dutch nightlife experiences, Amsterdam's bustling evening scene has something for every visitor. See all nightlife →

Bars in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers a diverse selection of bars to suit every taste, from traditional Dutch drinking establishments to modern venues. Whether you're looking for a cozy neighbourhood bar or a lively night out, you'll find excellent options throughout the city including well-known spots like De Drie Fleschjes, Café Zwart, Bar 4, De Blauwe Parade, and The Tailor. See all bars →

Cafes in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers a vibrant cafe culture with welcoming venues scattered throughout the city. Whether you're looking for a quiet coffee spot or a lively local hangout, cafes like Dam Good Coffee, 't Nieuwe Kafé, Lucy's, Vascobelo V-bar, and De Drie Graefjes provide authentic Amsterdam experiences. See all cafes →

Shopping in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers excellent shopping options ranging from iconic department stores like De Bijenkorf to modern shopping centres such as Magna Plaza and Kalverpassage. Whether you're looking for high street brands at TK Maxx or everyday essentials at HEMA, the city has retail experiences to suit all tastes and budgets. See all shopping →

Nature & Wildlife in Amsterdam

We're still gathering nature & wildlife listings for Amsterdam — check back soon.

Climate snapshot

Amsterdam experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and moderate summers. The city sees regular rainfall throughout the year, so visitors should be prepared for wet weather at any season.

Interesting Facts About Amsterdam — Weird & Wonderful

  • Amsterdam is colloquially referred to as the "Venice of the North" due to its large number of canals, which are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • In 2008, Amsterdam was designated as the World Book Capital by UNESCO.
  • Koningsdag (King's Day) is held every year on 27 April and attracts hundreds of thousands of people to celebrate in Amsterdam.
  • Amsterdam Gay Pride is a yearly LGBT parade held on the canals on the first Saturday in August.

Events & Festivals Not to Miss in Amsterdam

27 April
Koningsdag
King's Day (formerly Queen's Day until 2013) draws hundreds of thousands of visitors to celebrate with residents. The entire city becomes filled with people buying products from free markets and visiting music concerts.
Holland Festival
A yearly festival for the performing arts that attracts international artists and visitors from all over Europe.
August
Prinsengrachtconcert
A classical concert held yearly on the Prinsen canal.
March
Stille Omgang
A silent Roman Catholic evening procession held every March.
first Saturday in August
Amsterdam Gay Pride
A yearly local LGBT parade of boats held on Amsterdam's canals.
late August
Uitmarkt
A three-day cultural event at the start of the cultural season featuring previews of musicians, poets, and other artists performing on podia.

Frequently Asked Questions About Amsterdam

What currency is used in Amsterdam?

The Euro (EUR) is the official currency of Amsterdam, as the Netherlands is part of the Eurozone.

What language do people speak in Amsterdam?

Dutch is the official language spoken in Amsterdam. However, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

What is Amsterdam's population?

As of 2024, Amsterdam had a population of 933,680 within the city proper, with 1,457,018 in the urban area and 2,480,394 in the metropolitan area.

What region of the Netherlands is Amsterdam in?

Amsterdam is located in the Dutch province of North Holland.

Why is Amsterdam called the Venice of the North?

Amsterdam earned this nickname due to its large number of canals, which are now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Map of Amsterdam

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