Your Guide to Amsterdam
No one knows travel quite like Delta people, which is why we've curated a guide to help you discover the best that Amsterdam has to offer - from can't-miss attractions and hidden gems to our favorite local cuisine and neighborhoods. So go ahead and book that flight - we'll take care of the planning for you.
GETTING AROUND THE CITY
From the airport to the city
You can easily grab a train from Schiphol Airport that will take you into the city where you can then transfer to a tram or metro to get to your hotel. Train tickets can be purchased from kiosks at the station, or you can simply tap to pay with your phone.
Take your pick
Amsterdam has several modes of transportation, including the metro, trams and buses, all of which are very reliable. Use maps on your phone to find the best routes and use your phone or card to tap in and off. Tip: There are specific entrances and exits for the trams and buses – don’t get caught trying to go through the wrong door!
When in doubt, bike (or walk) it out
One of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, Amsterdam has dedicated bike paths, and renting a bike from shops is super easy and affordable. Not big on biking? The city is very walkable. Just be sure to steer clear of the bike paths!
WHERE TO STAY
Explore some of our favorite neighborhoods to call home during your trip
RECOMMENDED BY DELTA PEOPLE
We asked the people who live, work and play in Amsterdam which city experiences can’t be missed
“A canal tour is reasonably priced and a nice way to see the city (especially if you go the day you arrive to kill time and are jet jagged).”
-Kate E.., In-Flight Service
“I was impressed with several of Amsterdam’s museums, but the Rembrandt House Museum was one of my favorites! Located in the Dutch painter’s old house, there are some interactive areas – including a paint making demonstration – that I really enjoyed.”
-Anna M., Global Communications
“If you love fresh fish and a bit of theater with your food, this place needs to be on your list. Instead of sitting down and flipping through a menu, you’re first guided to their vibrant “fish market” where you curate your entire meal from the daily catch, choose your sides, and even pick out your wine before being seated.”
Willy B., IT
Dutch history, Van Gogh, modern art, cats… no matter your interest, Amsterdam probably has a museum you’ll enjoy. Standouts include the popular Rijksmuseum and the more modern Stedelijk Museum, but if you’re looking for something more niche, check out the Amsterdam Cheese Museum or KattenKabinet.
“The zoo has free-roaming conservatories. The Lemurs Island was our favorite!”
-Doni C., Global Sales
“I love EU Christmas Markets, but I also love year-round markets. This is definitely one we checked out and added to our collection of favorite places.”
Beau T., Airport Customer Service
“I highly recommend going to AMS during the tulip season. I went to The Tulip Barn which was around 30 minutes away from Schiphol Airport.”
Jasmin J., Reservations & Customer Care
Tip: Amsterdam’s tulip season is from late March to early May. Keukenhof, a flower park near Amsterdam, is another great place to catch the tulips.
While it’s certainly not for everyone, the Red Light District is an Amsterdam staple. If you’re comfortable with a scene that’s meant for an 18+ crowd, take a stroll around the area after dinner.
Located beneath a windmill on the Funenkade, this brewery is a fun spot for a midday pit stop between museums or a great place to end a long day.
QUICK TIP
When you get to the city, pick up an I amsterdam City Card from Amsterdam Centraal. This card can be used for a canal cruise, bike rental, public transportation and entrance into most of the museums in the city.
A TASTE OF AMSTERDAM
Our favorite quick bites, big meals and everything in between from across the city
If you have a hankering for Dutch comfort food, order stamppot – a hearty dish that combines mashed potatoes with things like kale or sauerkraut and is served with rookwurst (sausage).
Recommendation: Try a Dutch meal at The Pantry – just be sure to make a reservation!
Do you like pancakes? What if instead of one big pancake, there were several tiny pancakes covered in powdered sugar and butter? Those are poffertjes, and this not-to-be-missed treat can be found in places like Albert Cuyp Market as well as on the dessert menu at traditional Dutch restaurants.
Bruin cafés, or brown bars, are abundant in Amsterdam and for good reason. These cozy Dutch pubs are a great place to unwind like the locals with a beer and jenever (Dutch gin)
This popular street food is served raw and is eaten with onions and the occasional pickle slices, but it can also be served as a sandwich. If you’re in the Netherlands in June, you’ll catch the celebration of the arrival of Hollandse Nieuwe (“New Dutch Herring”) – the first catch of the season – but this snack can be eaten during any season.
A traditional Dutch snack, these fried balls are filled with a stew thickened with roux as well as meat, but many places offered a meatless version. You can find these in most bars.
A visit to the Netherlands isn’t complete without having at least one stroopwaffel. These thin, crispy cookie-like treats with a caramel syrup filling are best eaten freshly cooked, but many places in Amsterdam sell them in tins to take home.
Recommendation: One of the best places to grab a warm stroopwaffel is Rudi’s at Albert Cuyp Market, but be prepared to wait in line.
Your Amsterdam Adventure Awaits
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