Flights from Shanghai (PVG) to Amsterdam (AMS)

About Amsterdam

Discover Amsterdam

Why visit Amsterdam?
Amsterdam blends historic canal houses, world-class museums, and a relaxed waterside lifestyle in a compact city. You can explore iconic canals, leafy streets, and diverse neighbourhoods, all at a gentle pace that makes the city feel welcoming from the moment you arrive.

What to expect
You will find a city shaped by water, with elegant bridges, narrow gabled houses, and countless bicycles. Major areas such as the Canal Ring, Museumplein, Jordaan, and De Pijp each offer a different mood, from cultural landmarks to creative studios and lively cafés along quieter side streets.

Plan your trip
Amsterdam is an ideal base for exploring the Netherlands, thanks to frequent rail links to cities such as Rotterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague. With Amsterdam Airport Schiphol close to the city, you can quickly reach your hotel, then plan easy day trips through the countryside and coastal towns nearby.

Top sights in Amsterdam

Canal Ring (Grachtengordel)

Stroll or cruise along Amsterdam's UNESCO-listed canals to see classic townhouses, picturesque bridges, and waterside cafés.

Rijksmuseum

Discover a rich collection of Dutch art and history, including masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer, in an impressive gallery setting.

Van Gogh Museum

Trace the life and work of Vincent van Gogh through an unparalleled collection of his paintings, drawings, and letters.

Jordaan district

Wander through narrow streets filled with independent boutiques, art galleries, and intimate canal-side terraces.

Vondelpark

Relax on the lawns, cycle along shaded paths, or pause at a lakeside café in Amsterdam's best-known city park.

NEMO Science Museum roof terrace

Head up to the rooftop terrace for city views and a playful outdoor space, especially enjoyable on sunny days.

A'DAM Lookout

Take a short ferry across the IJ and enjoy panoramic views from this observation deck overlooking the city and harbour.

De Pijp neighbourhood

Explore a lively district known for its mix of eateries, local shops, and relaxed side streets close to the city centre.

Experience Amsterdam's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Amsterdam is easy to navigate using its extensive tram, metro, and bus network, which links major sights and residential areas. Cycling is a popular way to experience the canals and parks at a slower pace. For short distances, walking between compact neighbourhoods is often the most enjoyable option.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Amsterdam unfolds along the canals, with people meeting at waterside terraces and small local cafés. Creative districts blend studios, galleries, and performance spaces, reflecting a strong arts and design culture. You will notice a relaxed, outdoor-oriented lifestyle, especially when the weather is mild.

Where to unwind
For quiet moments, head to Vondelpark, Westerpark, or the smaller canal-side gardens dotted around the historic centre. Along the IJ waterfront, you can pause on promenades and small piers to watch boats come and go. Early mornings and late afternoons are especially peaceful times to enjoy these outdoor spaces.

A taste of Amsterdam

Street food & local specialties
Around the city centre and De Pijp, you can sample traditional snacks, freshly made treats, and local baked goods from cafés and small stalls. Neighbourhood markets and side streets are good places to find quick bites that fit easily into a day of sightseeing along the canals.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Modern eateries and relaxed bistros cluster around areas such as Jordaan, the Nine Streets, and the streets off Museumplein. You will find a wide mix of flavours, from contemporary European menus to global influences, with portions that make it easy to share plates and try several dishes during one meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable experience, choose a restaurant overlooking a canal, a waterside terrace along the IJ, or a venue on a higher floor with city views. Some converted warehouses and historic buildings now house refined dining rooms where the setting is part of the experience, especially in the evening when the city lights are reflected on the water.

Retail therapy in Amsterdam

Malls & lifestyle hubs
In central Amsterdam, larger shopping streets and arcades bring together international brands, Dutch labels, and lifestyle stores under one roof or along covered walkways. These areas often combine shopping with cafés and cultural venues, turning a retail trip into a comfortable day out.

Markets & local crafts
Neighbourhoods such as Jordaan, De Pijp, and the Nine Streets are ideal for browsing smaller boutiques and design studios. You can find locally made accessories, homeware, and artworks alongside vintage shops, giving you a chance to discover items that feel distinctly connected to the city.

Evening retail scene
After sunset, key shopping streets and canalside areas remain pleasantly busy, with illuminated windows and inviting storefronts. Seasonal events and evening openings add to the atmosphere, especially during weekends. Trams, buses, and the metro make it straightforward to reach these districts and return to your hotel comfortably.

Best time to visit Amsterdam

Spring (lente), March to May, is shoulder season, with average temperatures around 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F). Parks and canalside trees turn green, and nearby countryside landscapes are especially scenic. Light layers and a compact umbrella help you stay comfortable in changing conditions.

Summer (zomer), June to August, is peak season, with averages of 17°C to 22°C (63°F to 72°F). Long daylight hours create a lively atmosphere in parks, terraces, and along the canals. It is an ideal time for boat tours, outdoor cafés, and extended evening walks through different neighbourhoods.

Autumn and winter (herfst and winter), September to February, are low season, with temperatures around 3°C to 10°C (37°F to 50°F). The city becomes quieter, with cosy interiors and soft light over the canals. This is a comfortable period for museum visits, slower exploration, and enjoying warm spaces overlooking the water.

Frequently Asked Questions