Vacation Photography

Have you wondered which are the best things to do in Amsterdam while on vacation?

We walked with Swati around the streets of Amsterdam's city center while explaining the best the city has to offer. This is, in summary, what we do in our Lifestyle Routes, which are 4 hours exploring the most beautiful and Instagrammable places in Amsterdam while telling you a bit of the history and nuances of a city that lives on two wheels.

So what are the best things to do in Amsterdam from the eyes of a local?

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1. Wander the Beautiful Streets: Amsterdam is perfect for wandering and getting lost in its picturesque streets. Every corner offers a new charm to discover!⁠ Start at Central Station and go towards Damrak for the classic postcard of the dancing houses. Then, head towards Singel and you will discover beautiful alleys on your way. When you reach the canal, you will be standing in an important piece of history at the beginning of modern Amsterdam. From that point on, everything was built during the 1600s. Pay attention to three things: bigger streets, different architecture, and higher streets, showing how the walls were before the dikes. Did you know most of the streets hosting the trams were before canals?

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2. Explore by Water: Seeing Amsterdam from the water is a must! You can go on small boat tours for a more intimate experience of the city's stunning canals.⁠ Companies like Pure Boats or Those Dam Guys offer different experiences worth trying. If you travel with a small group, you can also rent a full boat for yourself with Mokumboot, for example. There are no requirements for this, and the only rule is that bigger boats have the right to pass.

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3. Visit the Museums: With 75 museums, Amsterdam is a cultural treasure trove. Don’t miss the Museum of the Canals, which showcases the city's unique architecture, and the Resistance Museum, offering insights into Dutch resilience during WWII. These are great alternatives if Anne Frank House tickets are sold out.⁠

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4. Try Dutch Food: You can’t visit Amsterdam without trying poffertjes—small, fluffy pancakes topped with powdered sugar and butter. For a real treat, add some stroop, the delicious local syrup!⁠

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5. Relax at Waterfront Cafés: When the weather is warm and dry, head to a café by the water. Some favorites include Café de Sluyswacht, De Waterkant, De Belhamel, and Hannekes Boom. Each offers a unique atmosphere perfect for any occasion.⁠

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Are you looking for a unique way to explore Amsterdam? Our lifestyle routes blend history, sightseeing, and beautiful photos! Discover the city through the eyes of a local while we help you capture amazing holiday memories.⁠

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Have you been to Amsterdam before? We’d love to hear about your favorite spots?

Enjoy the pictures, and if you need a photographer in Amsterdam, I'm only a DM away.

Joanna, your Amsterdam photographer