Callum Booth is a journalist with over a decade of experience. Previously, he was the Managing Editor of The Next Web, an Amsterdam-based global tech news site owned by the Financial Times. Callum’s reporting has been cited widely — including in VICE, the FT, and the BBC.
He’s an avid bookworm, a Fisherman's Friends addict, and resolutely unshaven. Follow him on Twitter @CallumBooth
Callum Booth

Callum Booth

Local expert, Amsterdam

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Articles (10)

The 26 greatest things to do in Amsterdam in 2025

The 26 greatest things to do in Amsterdam in 2025

Amsterdam in 2025: Aside from the city’s ongoing – and successful – attempts to curb the worst tourism excesses and make visits a more pleasant experience, there’s another good reason why the Venice of the North should be on your destination list in 2025: it’s celebrating its 750th birthday. Essentially, there’s never been a better time to visit Amsterdam, as throughout the year, a host of special events will commemorate this momentous milestone: 24 Hours will see each district take turns to open up with workshops, tours, and exhibitions; SAIL Amsterdam returns (it’s held only once every five years); and on the longest day of the year (June 21), the A10 ring road round the city will be turned into a 15-kilometre parade full of music, dance, theatre, food trucks, and more – oh, and the city will even pay for your wedding if you ask nicely. Of course, there’s plenty to see and do year-round, too: you’ll find everything worth your dough on our list below. Derek Robertson How long should I spend in Amsterdam? While I’m biased, and think you could spend years meandering Amsterdam’s winding streets, you actually only need about three days to see the lion’s share of the city. That gives you enough time to take in the best sights, have a genever or two, and, yes, do some serious walking. Callum Booth RECOMMENDED:🕺 The best clubs in Amsterdam⛵ The best day trips from Amsterdam 🏠 The best Airbnbs in Amsterdam🏨 The best hotels in Amsterdam📍 An Amsterdam weekend itinerary Callum Boot
The 7 best canal tours in Amsterdam

The 7 best canal tours in Amsterdam

When you think of Amsterdam, you’re probably picturing its canals. But even as one of the city’s biggest tourist allures, they’re far from a tacky tourist thing. Canals are the heartbeat of Amsterdam, and the once-industrial bloodlines are (to this day) beloved by locals (myself included), and drifting down them on a boat is about as Dutch as tucking into a stroopwafel. The only problem? There’s many, many competing boat trips out there. So which one should you book to see the wet side of Amsterdam? That depends what you’re looking for. We’ve rounded up some of the best canal tours in the city – take your pick.  When is the best time to do a canal tour in Amsterdam? While summer is an obvious choice to go on a canal tour in Amsterdam, it’s a lot of fun all year round, as long as you dress appropriately. It’s also sort of impossible to choose between a day and evening tour, as you’re choosing between two very different sides of this brilliant city. If you want more energy, try the sunlight, but if you’re after something more atmospheric, then nighttime is a great shout. The only moment you should try and avoid being on Amsterdam’s canals? That’d be when it’s raining. Still, it’s not a dealbreaker, as there are plenty of covered boats available, so don’t let it stop you! RECOMMENDED:🏨 The best hotels in Amsterdam🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Amsterdam🏠 The best budget hotels in Amsterdam📍 The best things to do in Amsterdam Callum Booth is a writer based in Amsterdam. At Time Out
The 13 best clubs in Amsterdam

The 13 best clubs in Amsterdam

Fittingly for a city known as being something of a party destination, there’s no end of late-night entertainment and dancing options in Amsterdam. However, the scene has undergone something of a metamorphosis of late – following several years of vocal (local) complaints and increasingly strict laws, the work of successive Night Mayors has seen clubbing receive a veneer of acceptability and greater freedom; witness the introduction of several 24-hour licenses and a more holistic approach to the granting of permits.  This has seen new venues quickly establish themselves – Shelter, or the now sadly closed De School – and existing ones cement their reputation as incubators of talent. After all, the Dutch are known for their love, and ability, with underground dance, techno, and electronica, and most places continue to push the new and the innovative for crowds always hungry to dance the night away to the latest and greatest. Whatever your vibe, these are the best clubs in Amsterdam right now.  RECOMMENDED:🍷 The best bars in Amsterdam🌿 The best coffeeshops in Amsterdam📍 The best things to do in Amsterdam🏘️ Where to stay in Amsterdam This guide was updated by Derek Robertson, a writer based in Amsterdam. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 
The 15 best coffeeshops in Amsterdam, for locals and tourists

The 15 best coffeeshops in Amsterdam, for locals and tourists

Amsterdam might be trying to abandon its party girl image, but that doesn’t mean all the fun stuff has stopped. Far from it. Amsterdam’s best bars are open late, its best clubs are poppin’ as ever, and its notorious coffeeshops? Thriving. But lets get one thing out the way first: when we talk about coffeeshops, we mean licenced cannabis cafés (not normal cafés), where you can choose from extensive marijuana menus. And they’re more than that, too – these joints are social hubs, creative spaces, and they’re intrinsic to Amsterdam’s identity.  Can tourists still use coffeeshops in Amsterdam? In short, yes – tourists can still visit and purchase cannabis in Amsterdam’s coffeeshops. A locals-only system was implemented in Maastricht, with a few other cities following suit, but while there have been discussions about restricting coffeeshop access to residents only, current government policy is to allow individual cities to decide for themselves. As these measures have not been implemented in Amsterdam – nor is it likely any time soon – tourists are still welcome in the city’s coffeeshops. How have the laws around smoking changed? The Netherlands applies a tolerance policy (‘gedoogbeleid’) towards soft drugs like cannabis, allowing the sale and possession of up to five grams per person for personal use. To enter a coffeeshop, you must be at least 18 years old and present valid identification. However, it’s important to note that as of May 25, 2023, using soft drugs in public areas o
12 actually good things to do in Amsterdam’s red light district

12 actually good things to do in Amsterdam’s red light district

We know what you’re thinking when you hear ‘red light district’, but trust us, ogling outside windows with gaggles of loud inebriated tourists is far, far from the best thing there is to do in De Wallen, Amsterdam’s most famous red light district (yes, there are a few).  So the good news is you don’t have to avoid an entire district of Amsterdam if you’re not interested in the sex shops and strip clubs. You can come here and see great museums and galleries, have chilled-out drinks at a few nice bars, go to the theatre and even see the oldest church in Amsterdam. You heard us! Here are the best things to do in the red light district.  RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Amsterdam🪩 The best clubs in Amsterdam🌿 The best coffeeshops in Amsterdam🛏 The best hotels in Amsterdam🔑 The best Airbnbs in Amsterdam This guide was updated by Callum Booth, a writer based in Amsterdam. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 
The 13 most iconic live music venues in Amsterdam

The 13 most iconic live music venues in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has some of Europe’s finest nightlife — and its live music scene is no exception to this. The Dutch capital is a fantastic place to watch musical performances, as it has that winning combination of a world-renowned name, but a relatively small geographical footprint. This means Amsterdam attracts high-calibre artists who play at venues that can often be reached in under 20 minutes, no matter where you are in the city. The live music scene isn’t all about huge artists though. Despite increased gentrification in recent years, Amsterdam remains a counter-cultural hub and attracts up-and-coming musicians and creatives from all over the world. There are still plenty of venues where you can simply turn up and be met with interesting performances. Whether you’re searching for chart-topping pop artists, or are interested in underground punk bands, Amsterdam has something for you – and here are the best live music venues to find what you want. RECOMMENDED:🪩 The best clubs in Amsterdam🍷 The best bars in Amsterdam📍 The best things to do in Amsterdam🍴 The best restaurants in Amsterdam This guide was updated by Callum Booth, a writer based in Amsterdam. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.
Is this the end for Amsterdam’s herring stalls?

Is this the end for Amsterdam’s herring stalls?

Having lived in Amsterdam for six years, I’ve come to appreciate the city’s many quirks. The constant chime of bike bells. The ever-present waft of weed. Lost, stoned tourists. And glorious, fishy herring stands: a ubiquitous sight across the city, where counters are stacked with glistening fillets of brined fish and sun-faded signs advertise nieuwe haring, broodje paling or verse kibbeling.  So intrinsic are these little street-side shacks to Dutch culture that even the practice of eating herring on the street has its own name: ‘haringhappen’. You’ll see locals surrounding their favourite cart, dangling the elongated flesh from their fingers and gobbling down the fatty meat in a few bites.  But thanks to an EU ruling adopted by Amsterdam’s council, the city’s herring stands are under serious threat.  A traditional ’haring’ snack in Amsterdam | Photograph: Callum Booth for Time Out A new ‘lottery’ system for running a kiosk Until now, Amsterdam’s kiosks have long had permanent licences to hawk their wares. This means that business owners — whether they’re selling herring, hot dogs, or flowers — have the right to stay in their location as long as they desire. Anyone wanting one of these spots signs up to a waiting list, and often waits decades for their opportunity. The EU, though, isn’t a fan. It believes this untethered approach to licensing stifles market competition, and has made moves to stop the practice. This has led to new rules in the European Services Directive sta
The 14 best museums in Amsterdam

The 14 best museums in Amsterdam

There are many, many museums in Amsterdam. Many of them great. A few of them not so great. But the good news is we’ve been to them all: small ones, big ones, ones floating on the water, you name it.  If you’re wanting to go to the big hitters (we’re talking about the likes of Van Gogh and Anne Frank Huis), you’re going to want to book in advance. But the joy of Amsterdam is there’s plenty you can just rock up to too. If you’re more of an art person, try our list of the best galleries in Amsterdam on for size, but if you’re ready for some good old museum action, read on for our top picks.   RECOMMENDED:🖼️ The best things to do in Amsterdam🌿 The best coffeeshops in Amsterdam🍝 The best restaurants in Amsterdam🏠 Where to stay in Amsterdam This guide was updated by Callum Booth, a writer based in Amsterdam. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 
The 14 best bars in Amsterdam

The 14 best bars in Amsterdam

Unlike some cities, visitors to Amsterdam often find themselves wanting to go again and again and again. This city is known for its innovative food scene and great attractions, but the thing that will forever linger in your mind? Amsterdam’s bars. The nightlife scene here is second to none, and there’s a bar for (literally) every mood.  So whether you’re looking to sip cocktails with a view or boogie on down ‘till the early hours, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for in this party capital. Think hotel bars, glitzy wine bars, trendy craft breweries and everything in between. Just try not to miss your flight home the next day. Here are the best bars in Amsterdam right now.  RECOMMENDED:🪩 The best clubs in Amsterdam🌿 The best coffeeshops in Amsterdam📍 The best things to do in Amsterdam🍴 The best restaurants in Amsterdam This guide was last updated by Amsterdam-based writer Derek Robertson. Photos are by Amsterdam-based photographer Joao Costa. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 
A weekend in Amsterdam: the ultimate itinerary

A weekend in Amsterdam: the ultimate itinerary

There’s no one word to describe Amsterdam. And that’s because it’s a city of dualities. Postcard-perfect canals coexist with renovated industrial parks; innovative international cuisine is served alongside local classics like stamppot; and centuries-old buildings contain smoke-filled marijuana stores. But while the Dutch capital is known to many visitors as either ‘the Venice of the North’ or ‘the City of Sin,’ the reality is altogether different. Take a step away from the traditional tourist beat and you’ll discover a place that exudes both a stylish modernity and a sense of cosiness the locals call gezellig. Here’s how to do a weekend in Amsterdam properly.  RECOMMENDED:🍽 The best restaurants in Amsterdam📍 The best things to do in Amsterdam🪩 The best clubs in Amsterdam🖼 The best galleries and museums in Amsterdam🍸 The best bars in Amsterdam This guide was updated by Callum Booth, a writer based in Amsterdam. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

Listings and reviews (13)

Anne Frank Huis

Anne Frank Huis

What is it? The Anne Frank House is a museum dedicated to the eponymous Anne Frank, one of the most famous figures from the Second World War. Frank was a young Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis in an Amsterdam canal house, something she documented in her world-renowned diary. Visitors to the Anne Frank House can visit the location where the Frank family sheltered. Is it worth visiting? There’s nothing quite like the Anne Frank House anywhere else on earth. The museum walks you through Anne Frank’s life and time in hiding, offering a portal and human lens into the horrors the Nazis perpetuated on both the Jewish people and the world at large. It’s a touching, unforgettable experience, and something every first timer in Amsterdam should have near the top of their list.  What should I know before I go? The Anne Frank House is one of the most-visited museums in the Netherlands, but can hold far fewer people than the Van Gogh or Rijksmuseum. This means that tickets get snapped up incredibly quickly. Our advice would be to book your entrance tickets as soon as you have your flights to ensure you can visit. What is worth visiting nearby? As the Anne Frank House is next to the Jordaan, you’re close to the bustling heart of Amsterdam. For some lighter relief, you could check out Electric Ladyland, a small, psychedelic museum devoted to luminescence. Or maybe enjoy a cosy beer at Café 't Smalle or a tasty bite at La Perla Pizzeria.  📍 Discover more of the best museums in Amsterdam
Garage Noord

Garage Noord

What is it? Garage Noord is a club and restaurant in Amsterdam Noord. Situated in an old car repair shop, it’s open from Thursday to Saturday for food. But when it hits 10.30pm on those days? Garage Noord transforms into one of Amsterdam’s best clubs. Is it worth it? If you’re into eclectic club sounds, a progressive environment, and a welcoming crowd, then Garage Noord is for you. Alongside an excellent soundsystem and engaging lightwork, Garage Noord is an excellent place for night out that’s both intimate and exciting. Should I book tickets in advance? While there are sometimes tickets on the door, this is a gamble. If you want to go to Garage Noord, we suggest you buy tickets beforehand. Most nights cost about €16 if you pre-book or €18 on the night. Although, if you get to Garage Noord before midnight, entry on the door is often closer to €9 – but that’s your call. Where should I eat nearby? If you want a bite to eat before your big night out, Garage Noord serves some good food, but if you’re wanting to explore the area a bit more, head over to Europizza for a slice before you dance until the wee hours. The best restaurants in Amsterdam. 
Radion

Radion

What is it? Nestled in Amsterdam’s Nieuw-West area, Radion is an industrial-looking rave venue inside a former dental centre. And, yes, before you ask, the pounding techno it plays will shake your teeth. Is it worth visiting? Like techno? Then Radion is the place to be. The genre is arguably the sound of Amsterdam, and Radion is the centre of this scene for many ravers. The club also has a 24-hour licence, so if you really fancy dancing until it’s almost time for lunch, you’re more than welcome.  To sum it up: if you’re hunting for an intense, high-octane, techno-fuelled night out, Radion will be just what the doctor ordered. Should I get a ticket in advance? Get a ticket before you go. Radion often runs early bird offers, so it’s worth picking something up with plenty of time before the night. You can easily book these online. Accessibility-wise, Radion is a large venue with several stairwells, making it a tough place to move around for people in wheelchairs. Where’s good to eat near Radion? Between midday and 10pm from Tuesday to Friday, Radion has a vegan cafe where you can grab some green treats. Beyond that, the club sits in an out-of-the-way part of Amsterdam, meaning you’re better to eat something in town before heading out. One of the closer spots is Lokaal van de Stad, a beautiful canal-side café with a wide-ranging menu. 📍 The best bars in Amsterdam.
Melkweg Club

Melkweg Club

What is it? Meaning ‘Milky Way’ in Dutch, Melkweg is one of Amsterdam’s prime musical venues. It sits in the heart of the city, just off Leidseplein, and hosts gigs, club nights, and movie showings. With six different halls, something interesting is always happening. Is it worth visiting? Amsterdam is a techno-first city. If you’re going out clubbing at random, there’s a strong chance you’ll end up somewhere playing techno or techno-adjacent music.  Of course Melkweg also hosts these sort of genre nights too, but it also has a whole load more; from DnB to hip hop, and heavy metal to Taylor Swift – you’re likely to find some music you like. Oh, and there‘s no dress code.  Should I get tickets in advance and can I go for free? You can often get tickets on the door, but not only are they more expensive, they’re also liable to sell out if it’s a popular night. We advise you to sort out your tickets online beforehand. If you grab an Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket in advance, you can get free entry every Monday, Saturday and Sunday.  Melkweg also has a variety of accessibility features, including seating options in the main hall, lifts, and a wheelchair-accessible toilet.  Where’s good to eat near Melkweg? As you’re in the centre of town, you have a raft of options. If we had to pick one place with good food and a high likelihood of getting a seat, then we’d suggest Umaimon, a mouth-watering ramen spot about a two minute walk from Melkweg.  The best restaurants in Amsterdam. 
De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets)

De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets)

What are the Nine Streets? De Negen Straatjes (that’s the Nine Streets in English) is Amsterdam’s best shopping area. These beautiful Dutch streets are brimming with quirky boutiques, chic cafes, and trendy restaurants. Pretty much exactly what you imagined when you planned a trip to Amsterdam.  Why go to the Nine Streets? Even if you aren’t looking to buy anything, the Nine Streets are a great place for a stroll and to soak up the city. The area is bustling and beautiful, overflowing with the sort of iconic Amsterdam buildings and canals you see on postcards the world over. There’s plenty of other things to do though. Whether it’s grabbing a coffee at Screaming Beans, trying on some vintage clothes at Bij Ons, or finding a new board game at the Gamekeeper, there’s something for everyone. Are the Nine Streets expensive? It depends where you go, but it’s a pretty touristy area, so things can get pricey. But hey, you’re only in Amsterdam once, so you’ve got to buy something, right? Even if it’s just a cookie from Het Koekemannetje. One thing to note is that sadly, the Nine Streets isn’t a particularly accessible area. The pavement is uneven, narrow, and often littered with bikes and random debris. Where’s good to eat on the Nine Streets? There are a gamut of places to grab a snack on the Nine Streets, but if you’re after something hearty try visiting Raïnaraï on the Prinsengracht, a cosy, picturesque Algerian restaurant right in the thick of it all.  📍 Still hungry? Check out
Rijksmuseum

Rijksmuseum

What is the Rijksmuseum and why is it famous? The Rijksmuseum is the Netherlands’ national gallery, and as such features a huge range of Dutch historical artifacts, paintings, and sculptures. It’s so famous because it’s the country’s largest art museum, with over 8,000 objects on display, and the building is pretty incredible from the outside (and inside).  Is the Rijksmuseum worth visiting? If you like art and history, definitely. There’s world-famous artwork by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh on display – including The Night Watch, a painting of magnificent scale – which makes the Rijksmuseum a holy site for art lovers.  This collection is also housed in one of Amsterdam’s most stunningly beautiful buildings (which is saying something), so even if you don’t care about what’s inside, it’s worth having a look at all the same. Can I visit the Rijksmuseum without booking? Much like other museums in Amsterdam, make sure you book a slot before you arrive. It gets busy. While tickets are a rather pricey €22.50, the Rijksmuseum is massive (most people spend minimum two hours here), so you get your money’s worth.  Accessibility wise, the Rijksmuseum has a gamut of elevators and plenty of wheelchair-accessible toilets. It also has a range of schemes and programs to help those with a range of disabilities and impairments.  Where’s good to eat nearby? Are you a meat fan? Then hit up l'Entrecote et les Dames, a French restaurant that (basically) only sells steak and fries. But for some
Van Gogh Museum

Van Gogh Museum

What is it? The Van Gogh museum is an art gallery holding the largest collection of the painter’s work in the world. Alongside his art, the museum also houses paintings by his contemporaries and influences. Opened in 1973 and designed by Gerrit Rietveld and Kisho Kurokawa, it’s one of Europe’s most iconic museums. Is the Van Gogh Museum worth it? Undoubtedly. Few painters are as well-known as Van Gogh, so it’s amazing to actually see these pieces of art you know from school, books, and movies. The layout of the museum is also wonderful, as it follows his life chronologically, making it easily digestible in only an hour or two. Can I just turn up at the Van Gogh Museum? We wouldn’t advise it. Make sure to book ahead, this place gets busy. Tickets are €22, so it’s certainly not cheap, but trust us, it’s totally worth that price. There’s nothing in the world quite like it.  The institution also has excellent accessibility, with broad wheelchair access, as well as facilities for people with visual, auditory, and sensory impairments. You can find out more about that here. Where’s good to eat nearby? A mere four minute walk away is l'Entrecote et les Dames, an elegant French steak restaurant that serves fries and, you guessed it, steak. If you’d prefer something greener, we suggest Yerba, a plant-forward restaurant serving creative and seasonal dishes. The best restaurants in Amsterdam. 
Stedelijk Museum

Stedelijk Museum

What is it? The Stedelijk is one of the holy trinity of museums in Amsterdam (the other two being the Van Gogh and Rijksmuseum). What separates it from its compatriots is its focus: the Stedelijk is all about modern and contemporary art. Is the Stedelijk Museum worth visiting? Are you a fan of modern art? If yes, you should go. Hosted in a building that looks kinda like a bathtub, the Stedelijk displays work from an array of modern masters, including Picasso, Matisse, and Warhol.  Tickets, accessibility and booking While the Stedelijk is less busy than the other two big hitters on Museumplein, it’s still not recommended to get tickets on the door. You can buy them online for €22.50, which is on par with other museums in the area. In regards to accessibility, the Stedelijk has lifts and disabled toilets, as well as a range of schemes for other people with impairments. Check its accessibility page for more. Where’s good to eat near the Stedelijk museum? A ten minute walk away is The Bab, a no-frills Korean spot at the heart of Amsterdam with good portion sizes and reasonable prices.  Check out the best restaurants in Amsterdam. 
Foam

Foam

What is it? Foam is Amsterdam’s premier photography museum. It’s in the centre of the city (on the Keizersgracht) in a beautifully converted canal house. Foam constantly rotates its exhibitions, sharing the work of new artists alongside that of well-established photographers. Is it worth visiting? Definitely. The curation team at Foam are excellent, and even if you don’t enjoy an artist’s photos, it’s likely to make you feel something. Multiple exhibitions run at once – often showcasing startling different styles – and taking a slow, exploratory walk through them all is stunning.  Tickets, accessibility and booking Getting tickets on the door at Foam is usually no problem at all. If you want to be safe, book ahead, but we’ve never heard of people not being able to get into a standard showing. Unfortunately, the nature of Foam’s historic home means the entire building isn’t wheelchair accessible. There are a range of other accessibility schemes available though, which you can read about here. Where’s good to eat near Foam? Just around the corner is Greenwoods, one of Amsterdam’s most delicious brunch spots. It’s a delightful place to fuel up either before or after you’ve visited Foam. Check out more of the best restaurants in Amsterdam. 
Nederlands Scheepvaartmuseum

Nederlands Scheepvaartmuseum

What is it? In English, the Nederlands Scheepvaartmuseum translates to the National Maritime Museum – which is a good description of what it is. Situated a short walk away from Amsterdam Centraal in an old navy warehouse, this museum hosts a range of artifacts and exhibitions about the Netherlands’ sailing past. Is the Scheepvaartmuseum worth visiting? Dutch history is intrinsically linked with water: whether that’s its famous canal systems, reclaiming land from the ocean, or its seafaring history – and the National Maritime Museum is a reflection of that. The museum is not only a fascinating glimpse into the past, but also helps you understand how the Netherlands became what it is today. Also, there’s a full replica of an 18th-century ship outside. Who wouldn’t want to see that? Tickets, accessibility and booking Tickets cost €18.50 and there’s no need to book a specific time slot. It’s likely that you’ll be able to get tickets on the door at the National Maritime Museum, but we always advise to book ahead to be safe. The majority of the museum is accessible via wheelchair, although the pier is only partially so. You can find a more in-depth guide on how people with disabilities can access the venue here. Where’s good to eat nearby? A 15-minute walk will take you to one of Amsterdam’s coolest locations: Hannekes Boom. This restaurant and bar is nestled right on the waterfront and is a beautiful place to get a light bite, have a drink, and watch the sun go down.  Check out mo
The Plug

The Plug

What is the Plug (Utopia)? The Plug is a new(ish) chain of coffeeshops in Amsterdam, which now has three locations across the city. The first – known as Plug Utopia – is on the Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal right in the heart of Amsterdam. This coffeeshop chain is known for one key thing: high quality weed. Is it worth visiting? If you’re a fan of the strongest strains from across the world, then The Plug is for you. It’s not a particularly cheap coffeeshop, nor does it have the aesthetics of somewhere like Abraxas, but it does stock an unbelievable array of top class marijuana that’ll impress even the most experienced stoner. It’s unlikely you’ll want to spend a huge amount of time in the coffeeshop, but there are a few seats and tables available for relaxing. The shop should be accessible to most wheelchair users as there is a ramp heading inside. Where’s good to eat near the Plug (Utopia)? While you’re in Amsterdam, you have to go to Febo. This fast food chain serves typical Dutch snack fare out of self-service windows, like a huge, human-sized vending machine. A five minute walk up the Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal will get you there – and then you can snack to your heart’s content. Check out more of the best restaurants in Amsterdam. 
Grey Area

Grey Area

What is Grey Area? Grey Area may well be Amsterdam’s most famous coffeeshop. Situated in the centre of the Dutch capital’s canal belt, Grey Area has attracted an array of world-famous celebrities over its tenure, with everyone from Snoop Dogg to Woody Harrelson popping in. Is it worth visiting? While it attracts a lot of tourists and doesn’t have a huge amount of seating available, it is somewhere all Amsterdam-bound potheads should visit at least once. Grey Area has won multiple awards for its weed and continues to stock some excellent (and classic) flavours. Beyond that, it’s an iconic part of Amsterdam’s coffeeshop culture – and if that’s something you’re interested in, it’s well worth your time. Time Out tip If you’d like to sit down inside, it’s best to get there early, as it’s small inside and gets busy fast. Where should I eat near Grey Area? An eight minute walk down the Singel and you’ll find yourself at Broodje Bert. This is one of the best sandwich shops in the city, offering bulging plates for very reasonable prices, making it an ideal stop for the snacky stoner. Check out more of the best restaurants in Amsterdam.