Amsterdam Guide
Time of Year: April, 2023
Duration: 3 nights, 2 days
Hotel: Waldorf Astoria
Best ‘to do:’ Tulip Tour
Best thing we ate: Dekas for lunch….everything!
Picture-book beautiful, friendly, and bolstered by a history so rich that even the most unassuming buildings have a story to tell, Amsterdam is an exciting—yet refreshingly approachable—city to discover. The locals are famously forward-thinking, too, evidenced by everything from the culinary landscape, to the art scene, to the retail concepts, which all feel next-level cool. Plus, every neighborhood is compact and pedestrian-friendly, so it can all be easily accessed by foot (or bike, or boat).
Where to stay
Spread out over six stunning buildings on the banks of one of Amsterdam’s most memorable canals, the Waldorf Astoria is just as much a historic landmark as it is a supremely plush place to stay. The rooms and suites are reflective of the unique surroundings, meaning that no two are the same—though the elegant décor and awe-inspiring views are consistent throughout. The central location means most sights are just a short stroll away.
Where to eat & drink
Lunch: George WP: Boasting one of the most beautiful and fashionable terraces in town, combining the elegance of a fancy brasserie with the casual vibe of a neighborhood get-together, George W.P.A. has become a beloved favourite in the Amsterdam Upper South side. Favorite dishes: artichokes,
Lunch or Dinner: DaKas: From plant to plate, since 2001. DaKas gardens in Amsterdam and the Beemster are the heart and soul of the restaurant and the menu. They reflect the changing seasons. The gardens – greenhouse and open air – they grow around 300 varieties of vegetables, herbs and fruits. Harvested at the very last minute and prepared in the kitchen as quickly as possible. The food was so fresh!
Dinner: Hap Hmmm: If you are searching for budget-friendly delicious bites, Hap Hmm is one of the best restaurants. Operational since 1935, this eatery specializes in Dutch food. It has been attracting a large number of regular clients as well as tourists for years. Their chefs only work with fresh products to craft grandmother’s meatballs, applesauce, warm custard, delicious steak, stew pears, rhubarb, and other dishes.
Dinner & Drink: Mr. Porters: Upscale with great vibes, Mr. Porters we visited multiple times. The views are one thing, but the drinks and food are another. Both are worth the stop.
Dinner: Seafood Bar: The Seafood Bar is a modern seafood restaurant that offers a wide variety of the highest quality seafood.
Dinner: Bathazar: Ever since 1995 you will find restaurant Balthazar's Keuken on the Elandsgracht. A small family restaurant where season, origin and tradition are the key ingredients. Father and son serve honest dishes inspired by the offer of their loyal suppliers.
Coffee: Uncommon
What to do
Boat Tour: We enjoyed the Canals Of Amsterdam by boat. On a privatet boat along the canals of the city, was a great way to get our bearings. The tour ends anywhere in the city center at your convenience.
Walking Tour: book a walking tour through your hotel concierge. This city is all accessible by foot We loved seeing Amsterdam and discovering the magnificence of the “Venice” of the North. The tour ends at the Begijnhof, in the city center.
Tulip Tour: This was on our bucket list. After lunch at Dekas we were picked up by a wonderful tour guide. Our first stop a beautiful rose farm, that included amazing espresso and the best apple pie. After the rose farm, she took us to the tulip fields. They were incredeible!
VanGough Painting Class: Olivia loved this!
KINGS DAY: We by chance were here for Kings Day, what an experience. The city was alive and being immersed in their culture was great. A few tips: wear orange, make reservations far in advance, be open to experiencing life in Amsterdam.
Itinerary
Monday April 24th
12:30 LV House
1:00 AR Airport
2:18 LV BZN
5:34 AR MN
7:55 LV MN
Tuesday April 25th
11:15 AR Amsterdam
Transportation: confirmed
Lunch At the hotel or Bluespoon
2:00 Boat Tour: Eva: Canal Museum (2-4:30)
Flower Market
Leidseplein
4:30 Beers at Cafe de Sluywacht
7:00 Dinner: Hap Hmmm
Wednesday April 26th:
Meditation + MWH
Coffee Uncommon (8am, 12min)
Juice Cold Press Juicer
9:30 Walking Tour (10-12)
12:00 Lunch: DKas
1:30 Flower Tour (1:30-4:30)
6:00 Dinner: Bathazaar
Thursday April 27th
Meditation + MWH
King’s Day in Holland: Parades
12:00 George WPA
Beers De Rigeur
TBD Olivia Van Gohn painting class
6:00 Seafood Bar
AMSTERDAM
Eat Stroopwafel: @Van Wonderen
Eat: Freak Shake @ Ree7
Eat: Dutch apple pie @Winkel 43
Eat: Pancakes Amsterdam
*Tea: Lanesborough: Bridgerton Tea
See: Dancing Houses
See: Wisteria Walk
See: look for Tiny Houses
See: Anne Frank House
See; Floating Flower Market (Stins)
++See: Keukenhof Gardens
Eat/Drink: Mr Porter
