Amsterdam is a city of beautiful canals, historic sights, and vibrant neighborhoods, but let’s face it— like every popular tourist destination, it also has its fair share of tourist traps. You know, those places that promise the world but leave your wallet feeling a little emptier and your stomach a bit unsatisfied.
Don’t worry, though! Here are some funny and helpful ways to avoid them, along with a few tips to make the most of your time in the city.
Buy a multi-ride ticket to OV-Chipkaart: Instead of buying single tickets every time you hop on a tram or bus, grab an OV-chipkaart: a smart card that lets you travel on trams, buses, metros, and even trains. You can load it up with credit at any station or online. You’ll save both time and money, plus it’ll make you feel extra Dutch.
Rent a bike (but don’t become a tourist in the bike lane): Biking in Amsterdam is a way of life. While tourists often rent bikes, locals are pros when it comes to weaving through narrow streets without running into anything. If you choose to rent a bike, remember to stick to the right side of the bike lanes, and always yield to cyclists coming from behind. Also, avoid looking like a deer in headlights when someone rings their bell at you — it’s all part of the Amsterdam experience!
Tram is your best friend: Trams are the easiest way to get around the city, especially if you’re not a fan of walking everywhere. They’re super frequent and convenient, plus you’ll get to enjoy Amsterdam’s views while traveling. Don’t forget to check the tram map to plan your routes!
Book ahead the popular attractions: Some of Amsterdam’s most iconic attractions, like the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, or Anne Frank House, often have long lines. Skip the wait by booking tickets online in advance. Many places offer skip-the-line options, so you can spend more time enjoying the exhibits rather than waiting in the sun (or rain, more likely).
Get a City Pass: If you plan to visit multiple attractions, check out a City Pass (like the IAmsterdam City Card). It gives you access to museums, canal tours, and public transport, plus discounts at local shops and restaurants. You’ll save both time and money, and you won’t have to worry about missing out on top spots.
Okay, museums are great, the canals are charming, and Amsterdam’s history is fascinating—but let’s cut to the chase: it’s all about the food. Whether you’re chasing the perfect stroopwafel or diving into a plate of bitterballen, eating out is one of the best parts of traveling. But here’s the catch: not every restaurant in a tourist city is going to give you that authentic, delicious experience. Some might even try to scam you out of your euros with sneaky tactics or subpar meals. Don’t worry, though—we’ve got the ultimate guide to help you spot and dodge these foodie pitfalls, so you can focus on enjoying every bite!
1. No menu prices: If a restaurant doesn’t display prices on the menu (or if they seem vague), that’s a major red flag. Transparent pricing is a must for any reputable restaurant. If you’re asked to order without seeing prices, you might be in for an unpleasant surprise when the bill comes.
2. Pushy sales tactics: Restaurants that aggressively try to get you in with promises of “the best food” or “special offers” often have questionable standards. If a host is standing outside constantly trying to pull people in, it’s usually a sign that they’re relying on quantity over quality.
3. “Tourist menu” traps: Be wary of fixed menus targeted specifically at tourists. These can often feature overpriced, low-quality food or hidden fees. Local patrons generally avoid these places, and you should, too.