Amsterdam is compact, scenic, and remarkably easy to explore. Much of the historic center is walkable, and taxis, rideshare services, and public transportation are readily available. English is widely spoken, making communication effortless for American travelers.
Amsterdam Travel Guide
Hotels, Attractions, Insider Tips & Cruise Port Info
Whether you're visiting for a river cruise, ocean sailing, or an independent European vacation, Amsterdam is one of the easiest and most rewarding cities for first-time international travelers. This guide covers where to stay, what to see, essential travel tips, and insider recommendations to help you experience the city with confidence.
Curated by John Heath
Founder of John Heath Travel and luxury cruise specialist who has personally visited Amsterdam. These recommendations are based on firsthand travel experience and client insight.
🌍 Getting to Know Amsterdam
people
Population: ~900,000
directions_bike
Known for: Canals, museums, cycling culture, historic architecture
language
English spoken: Nearly everywhere
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Walkability: Excellent
✈️ Arriving in Amsterdam: Airport & Transportation Guide
Amsterdam is served by Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) — one of Europe’s most efficient and traveler-friendly airports. Clear signage, excellent English proficiency, and intuitive navigation make arrival surprisingly smooth, even for first-time international travelers.
The airport is located approximately 20 minutes from the city center, with several easy transportation options.
Taxi (Easiest After a Long Flight)
If comfort and simplicity are your priority — especially after an overnight flight — a taxi is the most effortless option.
What to expect:
✔ Flat-rate style pricing typically between €45–€60
✔ About 20–30 minutes depending on traffic
✔ No need to pre-book — simply follow the official taxi signage outside arrivals
Important: Only use licensed taxis from the designated airport taxi queue. Avoid anyone offering rides inside the terminal.
Best for:
Travelers with luggage, couples, or anyone wanting a seamless arrival.
Uber & Rideshare
Uber operates very reliably at Schiphol and is often slightly less expensive than a traditional taxi.
✔ App-based convenience
✔ Upfront pricing
✔ Minimal wait times
Pickup instructions are clearly marked within the app once you land.
Good to know:
Pricing can increase during peak demand periods.
Best for:
Travelers comfortable using rideshare apps internationally.
🏨 Where to Stay
⭐ John's Personal Favorite
NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace
If you’re looking for a hotel that perfectly balances comfort, location, and value, this is my top recommendation in Amsterdam.
Why guests love it:
✔ Prime location just steps from Central Station
✔ Easy access to the cruise port
✔ Walkable to canals, dining, and major sights
✔ Spacious, modern rooms (larger than many European hotels)
✔ Seamless pre- and post-cruise experience
Insider Note:
Many major cruise lines utilize this hotel, making it especially convenient for travelers joining or departing a sailing.
Who it’s perfect for:
Travelers who want an upscale experience without stepping into ultra-luxury pricing.
Elevated Luxury
(For guests celebrating a milestone or wanting a higher-touch experience)
- Waldorf Astoria
- Conservatorium
Stylish & Better Value
(Boutique feel without luxury pricing)
- Pulitzer Amsterdam
- Andaz Prinsengracht
Amsterdam hotels often sell out quickly — particularly during cruise season — so we recommend reserving your pre-cruise stay as early as possible.
INSIDER GUIDE
| John’s Insider Guide to Amsterdam
Amsterdam is one of those rare cities best experienced without an overly rigid plan. Some of my favorite memories here have come from simply wandering along the canals, discovering a tucked-away café, or stumbling upon a neighborhood I hadn’t intended to explore.
If this is your first visit, here are a few experiences I strongly recommend.
Take a Canal Cruise — It’s the Best Introduction to the City
My advice:
Book a smaller boat experience rather than the large tourist vessels when possible. They’re quieter, more intimate, and far more enjoyable.
Ideal timing: Your first day in the city. It helps you get oriented quickly.
Anne Frank House — Deeply Moving and Unforgettable
This is one of the most powerful historical sites in Europe. The experience is emotional, educational, and something that stays with you long after your visit.
Reserve tickets in advance.
Tickets go on sale every Tuesday at 10:00 AM CET (4:00 AM EST) for a visit six weeks later and it frequently sells out. Click here for the official website. There are fake websites out there that sell fake tickets. This link is the ONLY website to buy tickets.
If you only pre-book one activity in Amsterdam, make it this one.
Van Gogh Museum — Even if You’re Not an “Art Person”
Surprisingly accessible and incredibly well curated, this museum tells the story behind the artist in a way that resonates even with guests who don’t typically visit museums.
Advance reservations are strongly recommended, particularly in peak travel seasons.
Pro Tip:
Go early in the morning to avoid the heaviest crowds.
Have an Authentic Stroopwafel
Warm, caramel-filled, and slightly crisp — this classic Dutch treat is simple but unforgettable.
My suggestion:
Find one freshly made at a street market rather than pre-packaged.
It makes the experience that much better.
💶 Essential Travel Tips
The local currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payment is extremely common.
- Some smaller merchants may not accept American Express.
- Visa and Mastercard are the safest choices.
ATM & Currency Tips (Read This — It Can Save You Money)
When withdrawing cash abroad, you may be asked whether you’d like the ATM to convert the transaction into U.S. dollars.
Always choose to be charged in the local currency (Euros).
This avoids a costly practice called Dynamic Currency Conversion, where the ATM provider sets the exchange rate — and it is almost always significantly worse than your bank’s rate.
In short:
- Select Euros
- Decline conversion to USD
Use Bank ATMs Only
For the safest experience and best exchange rates, withdraw cash from ATMs operated by established banks.
✔ Located inside or directly attached to a bank branch
✔ Found inside the airport arrivals hall
✔ Positioned within reputable hotels
Avoid standalone machines on sidewalks, in souvenir shops, or inside convenience stores — these typically charge higher fees and offer poorer exchange rates.
Pro Tip:
Notify your bank before departure and bring at least one backup credit card. While rare, cards can occasionally be flagged for international activity. This can usually be done on your credit card app and some credit cards no longer need to be notified.
Language
Dutch is the official language; however, English proficiency in the Netherlands is among the highest in the world. Most visitors find communication effortless.
Tipping Culture
Tipping in the Netherlands is appreciated but far less expected than in the United States.
General Guidelines:
- Restaurants: Round up or leave ~5–10%
- Taxis: Round up
- Hotel staff: €1–2 per bag
🚢 Port Information
Amsterdam Cruise Port Facilities and Location
Amsterdam’s cruise passengers will find a bustling yet smooth and efficient port. Ships embarking on cruises from Amsterdam are docked in the Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA), where a 10-minute walk will take you to a popular transportation station. From there, you can travel by bus or trolley to Amsterdam’s historic center.
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©2026 by John Heath Travel, LLC
Celebrity Eclipse & Celebrity Beyond - Ship Registry: Malta
Celebrity Eclipse & Celebrity Beyond - Ship Registry: Malta