Amsterdam

A charming city of canals, bicycles, and creative spirit. Amsterdam balances its Golden Age heritage with a famously liberal, forward-thinking culture and world-class museums.

Amsterdam skyline
Best time to visit

May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Essentials

Currency: EUR
Language: Dutch
Timezone: Amsterdam

Average temperatures
Jan 6°Feb 7°Mar 10°Apr 14°May 17°Jun 20°Jul 22°Aug 22°Sep 19°Oct 14°Nov 10°Dec 7°

Things to do

Visit the Van Gogh MuseumCruise the canals by boatExplore the Anne Frank HouseCycle through VondelparkBrowse the Albert Cuyp MarketVisit the Rijksmuseum

Local cuisine

StroopwafelBitterballenHaringDutch pancakes

Amsterdam's 17th-century canal ring is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The iconic narrow houses with ornate gables lean over the water, connected by over 1,500 bridges.

Travel Tips for Amsterdam

Best Time to Visit

The ideal months to visit Amsterdam are May, June, July, August, September, when the weather is at its most pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities. During these peak months, you can expect average highs of around 17°C in May, 20°C in June, 22°C in July, 22°C in August, 19°C in September. Temperatures across the year range from 6°C to 22°C, so layers are a good idea as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Right now in May, the average high in Amsterdam is 17°C.

Getting There

From the UK, you can reach Amsterdam in approximately 1h 15m. Direct flights make this a convenient destination to reach from most major UK airports. Booking early and staying flexible with dates will help you secure the best fares.

Money and Language

The local currency is the EUR. Euros are easy to obtain from most UK banks and currency exchange services. Card payments are widely accepted across Europe, but carrying a small amount of cash is handy for markets and smaller establishments. The main language spoken is Dutch. While you may encounter some English speakers in tourist areas, learning a few basic phrases in Dutch will go a long way and is always appreciated by locals.

What to Expect

A charming city of canals, bicycles, and creative spirit. Amsterdam balances its Golden Age heritage with a famously liberal, forward-thinking culture and world-class museums. Whether you're interested in visit the van gogh museum or cruise the canals by boat, there's something for every type of traveller. Amsterdam is also known for its food scene, with local specialities including Stroopwafel, Bitterballen, Haring. With 5 months of great weather, Amsterdam is a fantastic year-round destination.

Popular Activities in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers a fantastic range of activities for every kind of traveller. From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, here are the top things to do during your visit.

Visit the Van Gogh Museum

A must-see attraction that draws visitors from around the world.

Cruise the canals by boat

Sit back and enjoy the scenery from the water.

Explore the Anne Frank House

Wander through and discover hidden gems at your own pace.

Cycle through Vondelpark

See the sights on two wheels at a perfect pace.

Browse the Albert Cuyp Market

Take your time discovering unique stalls and hidden treasures.

Visit the Rijksmuseum

A must-see attraction that draws visitors from around the world.

Food & Drink in Amsterdam

No trip to Amsterdam is complete without sampling the local food and drink scene. From street food to sit-down restaurants, there's an incredible variety of flavours to discover. Here are some dishes and drinks you absolutely must try:

Stroopwafel

The signature dish of Amsterdam that every visitor should try at least once.

Bitterballen

A beloved local favourite that showcases traditional flavours and techniques.

Haring

Ask any local for their recommendation and you're in for a treat.

Dutch pancakes

A delicious way to round off your culinary exploration.

Practical Information

Everything you need to know before travelling to Amsterdam. Use this quick-reference guide to help plan your trip.

Currency

EUR

Language

Dutch

Timezone

Amsterdam

Visa (UK citizens)

No visa required for UK citizens (up to 90 days)

Best months to visit

May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Temperature (May)

17°C average high

Flight time from UK

1h 15m