Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting in 2024?

As with many popular cities in Europe, you may be wondering whether Amsterdam lives up to all the hype. You may even ask yourself if Amsterdam is worth visiting. As someone who has traveled to Amsterdam, I will answer this very question and highlight some of the amazing things that the city has to offer.

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Where is Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands, which is situated in Northwestern Europe and serves as the country’s cultural and economic hub. Furthermore, the city is built on a network of canals that flow into the IJsselmeer, a large lake that was once part of the North Sea.

Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting? 7 Reasons You Should Visit Amsterdam

First, let me say that I fell in love with Amsterdam so I definitely believe it’s worth visiting. It is a beautiful city with plenty of things to do no matter what your interests. Here are 7 of my favorite reasons why you should visit Amsterdam.

1. It’s Canals

Amsterdam’s iconic canals are an absolute must-see and a defining feature that sets this city apart as a unique and enchanting destination. The picturesque waterways winding through Amsterdam offer visitors a unique experience, allowing them to immerse themselves in the city’s rich history, breathtaking architecture, and vibrant culture.

These waterways, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, paint a charming backdrop to the city’s landscape, lined with historic buildings, picturesque bridges, and bustling streets.

Moreover, the canals aren’t just about sightseeing; they offer an immersive experience of local life. They act as a central hub for Amsterdam’s residents, with houseboats adorning the water’s edge and locals cycling alongside the banks, creating an authentic and dynamic ambiance.

Whether it’s capturing the perfect photograph of the iconic canal houses or simply enjoying the serene beauty while savoring a stroopwafel from a nearby vendor, Amsterdam’s canals weave an enchanting tapestry that truly encapsulates the city’s charm, making it an essential addition to any traveler’s itinerary.

I thoroughly enjoyed my wheelchair-accessible canal boat tour. I got to see many of Amsterdam’s major highlights during my short time in the city. It was also a great way to get my bearings and I could make a mental note of the areas I wanted to go back to visit when I was on land.

Accessibility of the Amsterdam’s Canals

The canals are easily enjoyed both by land and through a canal boat tour. As I mentioned above, there is even a wheelchair-accessible canal boat tour that you can take.

This tour is made accessible through the use of a motorized lift that comes out of the floor of the boat. Once onboard, you can choose to either sit inside at an accessible table or outside for unobstructed views.

Just make sure to contact the boat tour company in advance so they can ensure they have the right type of boat for you and inform you of available times.

☑️ Prebook your Amsterdam Canal Boat Tour in advance to secure your preferred date and time by clicking here. During peak travel season, tours do sell out.

2. The Art Museums

Amsterdam stands tall as a cultural hub and a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts, boasting some of the best art museums in Europe. The city’s art scene is nothing short of spectacular, with world-renowned institutions that house an incredible wealth of artistic treasures.

At the forefront is the Rijksmuseum, a crown jewel renowned for its extensive collection of Dutch Golden Age masterpieces, including Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch” and Vermeer’s “The Milkmaid.”

Adding to this impressive lineup is the Van Gogh Museum, an institution dedicated to the life and works of Vincent van Gogh, housing the largest collection of his paintings, sketches, and letters in the world. It offers an intimate journey through the mind and soul of this iconic artist, allowing visitors to delve deep into his creative evolution and emotional depth.

Each museum contributes uniquely to the city’s artistic tapestry, making Amsterdam a haven for those seeking to immerse themselves in the vibrant and diverse world of art.

Accessibility at the Art Museums

The most popular art museums in Amsterdam all offer access to wheelchair users and other services for people with disabilities. There are step-free routes, availability of mobility devices like manual wheelchairs, and specialized tours for people with low vision and cognitive problems such as dementia.

Make sure to check the website of the museum you are interested in visiting for availability and more detailed information.

3. Visiting the Anne Frank House

Visiting the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam is a profoundly moving and historically significant experience that adds immeasurable depth to any traveler’s visit to the city. The house, where Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis during World War II, provides a glimpse into the life of a young girl amidst the horrors of the Holocaust.

Stepping into the clandestine annex where Anne wrote her famous diary brings history to life, evoking emotions and fostering a profound sense of empathy and reflection.

The Anne Frank House offers a compelling narrative, guiding visitors through the concealed rooms, displaying personal artifacts, and sharing Anne’s powerful words. It’s an important reminder of the atrocities of war and the resilience of the human spirit.

Furthermore, the museum doesn’t just focus on the past; it prompts introspection, fostering discussions about tolerance, human rights, and the importance of standing against discrimination.

☑️ To learn more about Amsterdam’s history during World War II, make sure to combine a visit to the Anne Frank House with a historical walking tour like this one.

Accessibility at the Anne Frank House

The museum where Anne’s original diary is located is wheelchair accessible. For obvious reasons, the attic where she and her family hid is not (there are steep and narrow stairs to access it). However, the museum does offer an innovative virtual reality tour of the attic for people with mobility problems who are not able to access it directly.

4. Tulip Season is Gorgeous

Tulip season in Amsterdam is an enchanting spectacle that captivates travelers from around the world, making it an irresistible reason to visit this vibrant city. Typically peaking from late March to mid-May, the city bursts into a range of colors as millions of tulips bloom.

The sheer beauty and diversity of tulip varieties on display are nothing short of breathtaking, with rows upon rows of meticulously cultivated tulip fields painting the landscape in vivid hues of reds, yellows, pinks, and purples.

Keukenhof Gardens, often referred to as the “Garden of Europe,” is the quintessential destination during this season, offering a mesmerizing showcase of tulips alongside other bulb flowers like daffodils and hyacinths. Visitors can wander through intricately designed gardens, take stunning photographs, and learn about the history and cultivation of tulips through various exhibits and displays.

Beyond Keukenhof, the countryside surrounding Amsterdam transforms into a patchwork of colorful blooms, and many opt for scenic drives or cycling tours to explore these picturesque fields.

Whether you’re an avid horticulture enthusiast or simply someone seeking natural beauty, the tulip season in Amsterdam offers an unparalleled visual feast, leaving visitors awestruck by the sheer magnificence of these iconic flowers and providing an unforgettable experience that embodies the essence of Dutch springtime.

Accessibility of Tulip Season in Amsterdam

During Spring, you are likely to see tulips throughout the city and in some of the public gardens. There are some accessible tours to Keukenhof Gardens and the countryside available but always check with the tour company to see if they can accommodate your needs.

For example, some can store your mobility device but you must be able to climb the stairs of the bus. While others may have lift-equipped vehicles that allow you to stay in your wheelchair.

☑️ Tours to Keukenhof Gardens will sell out during tulip season so make sure to book in advance by clicking here.

5. It Makes a Great Base for Day Trips

Amsterdam’s central location and well-connected transportation network make it an ideal hub for embarking on captivating day trips that offer diverse experiences just a stone’s throw away from the city. This allows you to see more of this beautiful country without having to move hotels all of the time.

Furthermore, the Netherlands’ compact size allows travelers to easily venture beyond Amsterdam to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage, charming towns, and picturesque landscapes within a short journey.

Popular Day Trips from Amsterdam

Haarlem

One popular day trip option is a visit to the historic city of Haarlem, merely a 15-minute train ride from Amsterdam. Haarlem’s cobblestone streets, stunning architecture, and iconic landmarks such as the Grote Kerk (Great Church) and Frans Hals Museum make for an enriching cultural excursion.

Utrecht

Additionally, a short train ride to Utrecht unveils a vibrant city adorned with canals, medieval structures, and the iconic Dom Tower. Utrecht offers a blend of historical charm and modern flair, perfect for exploring its lively cafes, unique boutiques, and picturesque waterways.

☑️ This day trip to Utrecht from Amsterdam is a fantastic tour option. Check prices and availability by clicking here.

Zaanse Schans

For those seeking natural beauty, a visit to the windmill-dotted countryside of Zaanse Schans is a must. Located just a short bus ride away, Zaanse Schans offers a glimpse into the traditional Dutch way of life with its well-preserved historic windmills, wooden houses, and artisanal craft demonstrations.

☑️ A guided tour like this one will help you get the most out of your day trip. Click here to check pricing and availability.

6. Amsterdam is a Cyclist’s Paradise

If you love cycling, then Amsterdam should definitely be high on your bucket list. Bicycles are the primary mode of transportation in the city and can be easily rented if you are a visitor.

In fact, Amsterdam is renowned as one of the most bike-friendly cities globally, and boasts an extensive network of well-maintained cycling paths, making it incredibly convenient and safe to navigate by bike.

For cyclists, exploring Amsterdam provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the local lifestyle while enjoying the city’s iconic landmarks, charming neighborhoods, and picturesque canals at a leisurely pace.

Furthermore, there are plenty of opportunities to get out of the city to explore the gorgeous countryside either on your own or with a cycling tour.

☑️ Check the pricing and availability of this countryside cycling tour from Amsterdam by clicking here.

7. Amsterdam is Worth Visiting for its Nightlife

Renowned for its eclectic and inclusive party scene, the city offers something for everyone, from bustling bars and cozy pubs to trendy nightclubs and live music venues. The vibrant energy pulsating through Amsterdam’s streets after dark creates an electrifying ambiance, drawing in locals and tourists alike.

Moreover, the city’s relaxed and liberal atmosphere contributes to a lively and inclusive nightlife experience. Visitors can enjoy a drink at one of the many historic brown cafes or opt for a trendy rooftop bar offering stunning views of the city skyline.

Whether you’re seeking a bustling club scene or a more laid-back evening by the canals, Amsterdam’s nightlife exudes a unique charm, ensuring an unforgettable experience for those looking to immerse themselves in the city’s after-dark offerings.

While the famous Red-Light District is the obvious choice for nightlife, other neighborhoods such as Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein also make for great options.

Accessibility in the Red-Light District

Most of the area’s narrow streets and alleys are cobblestoned, which can be difficult to traverse in a wheelchair. However, efforts have been made to improve accessibility in recent years.

Some establishments, like cafes, restaurants, and certain shops, have made accommodations with ramps or accessible entrances, but this is not uniform across the entire district. Additionally, while some adult entertainment venues may be wheelchair accessible, others might not be due to the historic nature of the buildings.

It’s advisable for travelers with accessibility needs to plan ahead, research specific locations, and inquire directly with venues or businesses about their accessibility features before visiting the Red Light District in Amsterdam.

Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting as a Wheelchair User and People with Limited Mobility?

As a wheelchair user myself, I really enjoyed my time in Amsterdam. While no destination offers perfect accessibility for everyone, I found the city to offer a variety of fun experiences that allowed me to immerse myself in its culture.

In the previous section, I tried to add as much information on accessibility as possible so that you can get an idea of the fantastic Amsterdam tourist attractions that are possible with a disability. However, I will also mention some of the possible challenges and barriers to accessibility to help you know what to expect during your visit.

Challenges to Accessibility

During my time in the city, there were two primary obstacles to accessibility that I ran into. The first was cobblestones. Like most older European cities, cobblestones were rampant throughout Amsterdam (although they weren’t nearly as bad as in Bruges Belgium).

The second challenge was that bikes, cars, and other obstacles often blocked the sidewalks which made them difficult to navigate. There were times when I had to use the bike lanes that run alongside many of the sidewalks (which is not optimal either as it’s easy to get run over by cyclists).

I expected both of these to be an issue during my trip and made the best of things often looking far ahead to predict what path would be the best/safest for me to follow. Additionally, this is another reason I enjoyed the canal boat tour as it allowed me to see a lot of Amsterdam without having to worry about these obstacles.

Getting Around Amsterdam with Mobility Problems

In general, Amsterdam is an easily walkable (or rollable) city with a lot of popular sites in a fairly compact area. While you will encounter crowded sidewalks and cobblestones, the sidewalks will have curb cuts.

However, should you want to save some energy (and battery power) you can also opt to use the trams which are located throughout the city. The newer trams will be the most accessible, with a wheelchair icon near the accessible entrance (which is level). In addition, there will be a dedicated wheelchair space on board.

Travel Tip: Get yourself a map of the city. Not only will it show the tram lines and where they go, but it will make navigating the city easier if you decide to opt out of public transportation.

How to Get to Amsterdam

Getting to Amsterdam is relatively straightforward, given its well-connected transportation options. I’ll talk about the three most popular options that visitors choose to arrive to the city. Please note, if you can avoid it, it is not recommended to arrive by car or to drive as parking is problematic.

Flying

First and foremost, if you’re traveling from abroad, you’ll want to book a flight to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, which is the main international gateway to the city. Once you arrive at Schiphol, you can easily reach the city center by taking a train from the airport’s railway station.

➡️ Want to save money on your next flight? Check out my tips for finding cheap flights anywhere!

Train

If you’re already in Europe and prefer to travel by train, Amsterdam is well-connected to the European rail network. You can catch a high-speed train or an international train service to Amsterdam Central Station.

The train journey can be a scenic way to arrive in the city, and it’s especially convenient if you’re coming from nearby countries like Belgium, France, or Germany.

Cruise Ship

Lastly, many people stop in Amsterdam as part of a European cruise. The port is located near the train station and allows passengers a day of exploring the city as part of their itinerary.

Sometimes, ships will also dock in the town of Rotterdam, and then excursions and shuttles are available to reach Amsterdam.

This is how I arrived in the city. While my time was limited, it gave me a great taste of what Amsterdam had to offer and I am determined to go back again.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam

There are a wide range of accommodation options in the city that will suit a variety of budgets. There are even wheelchair-accessible hotels in Amsterdam for you to choose from. However, here are my top picks.

➡️ DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Amsterdam Centraal Station

Situated near Amsterdam Central Railway Station, this hotel stands out as one of the city’s most popular hotels. Catering to diverse guests, the hotel ensures accessibility for individuals with disabilities while offering an array of top-notch amenities.

Notably, booking an accessible room at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Amsterdam Centraal Station ensures additional accommodations such as fold-down grab bars, wider doorways, an emergency bathroom pull cord, step-free entrances, and accessible public spaces, including handicap-accessible parking.

Additionally, each guest room at DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Central Station features floor-to-ceiling windows, a flat-screen TV, and complimentary Wi-Fi, accompanied by splendid city views. Additionally, the hotel boasts inviting open-air spaces, including a charming courtyard, perfect for relaxation.

For travelers seeking convenience, the hotel’s location is ideal, with trams and metro stations just a stone’s throw away. Major attractions like Dam Square are within a brief 5-minute reach, while accessibility to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport via train or car takes around 20 minutes.

☑️ Check prices and availability for your travel dates by clicking here.

➡️ Holiday Inn Express Amsterdam – City Hall

The rooms at Holiday Inn Express offer ample space and essential facilities including a closet, flat-screen TV, and towels. Some rooms even offer picturesque city views, adding to the charm of the stay.

Daily housekeeping services ensure a tidy and comfortable environment, while guests can start their day with a continental or vegetarian breakfast provided by the hotel. Moreover, guests will find various dining options nearby, including several restaurants and a sizable grocery store within easy reach of the hotel.

For guests requiring accessibility features, Holiday Inn Express Amsterdam – City Hall offers a step-free entrance and in-room amenities tailored for convenience. The accessible rooms feature bathrooms equipped with a roll-in shower, raised toilet seat, grab bars, and an emergency pull cord, ensuring a comfortable and safe stay for all guests.

☑️ Check pricing and availability when you choose your room by clicking here.

Amsterdam FAQs

When Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting?

Amsterdam is worth visiting whenever you get a chance to go. Each season offers something special for visitors to enjoy. However, the most popular times to visit are in the Spring (when the tulips are blooming) and in the summer.

How Long Should I Spend in Amsterdam?

If you’re on a tight schedule or simply want to get a taste of Amsterdam’s highlights, spending 1-2 days can be sufficient. However, to dive deeper into the city’s rich culture and experience more of its neighborhoods, consider spending 4 days in Amsterdam.

Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting on a Cruise?

Visiting Amsterdam as part of a cruise itinerary will severely limit your time in this incredible city, but it is still worth visiting. Just know that depending on how long your ship is in port (or if you will be traveling from the nearby port of Rotterdam) you will only be able to see a couple of things that the city has to offer.

My ship docked in Rotterdam and I took a ship excursion to visit Amsterdam on my own. Essentially, the excursion provided transportation, a map of the city, and a little bit of narration during the drive. The rest of what I wanted to do or see was up to me and I only had about 4 hours in Amsterdam.

During this time I did a canal cruise to get a general overview and walked to Dam Square and a nearby flower market. I got just enough of a taste of the city to appreciate a little of its beauty and know that I’d like to return someday. When I go back, I’ll make sure to spend more time there.

Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting if You’re Traveling on a Budget?

Absolutely! Amsterdam can be a fantastic destination for travelers on a budget. Amsterdam offers numerous wallet-friendly experiences.

The city boasts an extensive network of cycle paths, making renting a bike an affordable and efficient way to explore its charming streets and iconic landmarks like the Anne Frank House or the Van Gogh Museum. Opting for budget accommodations in hostels or budget hotels scattered across the city can significantly cut down lodging expenses.

Moreover, Amsterdam is brimming with free or low-cost attractions, including the beautiful Vondelpark, lively street markets like Albert Cuyp Markt, and the chance to wander around the city’s neighborhoods, taking in the unique architecture and lively atmosphere without spending a dime.

Overall, with careful planning and smart choices, Amsterdam absolutely deserves a spot on the itinerary of budget-conscious travelers seeking an enriching and culturally diverse experience without breaking the bank.

Do They Speak English in Amsterdam?

English is widely spoken and understood in Amsterdam, and you’ll find that the majority of locals, especially those in the tourism and service industries, speak English fluently. Signs, menus, and transportation information often have English translations alongside Dutch, making it quite convenient for English-speaking visitors to navigate the city.

Would I Go Back to Amsterdam?

Since I only had a day in Amsterdam when I visited, I would absolutely go back to see more of the city. I’d love to visit in the spring to see the famous tulips as well as visit more of the amazing museums the city has to offer.

Final Thoughts on is Amsterdam Worth Visiting

I hope that after reading this post you’ve realized that Amsterdam is worth visiting despite some challenges to accessibility and potentially large crowds. Additionally, this post should have given you some ideas on how to spend your time in the city. Now, all you have to do is plan and enjoy your trip!