Destination Guides > Europe > Netherlands > North Holland (Noord-Holland) > Amsterdam

Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s reputation precedes it arguably more than any other European city, but there are many fascinating layers to this city beyond the coffee shops and Red Light District that make it one of the most enjoyable destinations in Western Europe for any type of visitor.

First and foremost, Amsterdam is a fun city. Its coffee shops are world-famous, it has great nightlife and great local pubs, known as brown cafés; so you’ll be happy whether you want to get stoned, party all night or just sit with a Heineken in a cosy bar and meet the locals.

There is also plenty to see in Amsterdam including world-class museums to simply wandering around the city’s canals, looking at Amsterdam’s unique architecture and soaking up the atmosphere.

Practical information

The national chain of Dutch tourist offices is called the VVV. The various branches are staffed by a helpful team of impressively multilingual people who really know their city. The main office outside the train station is usually very busy, so you may prefer to try the branch at Leidseplein. AUB Uitburo is an information service more geared toward selling tickets for theatre, concerts and special events.

 

A 17½% sales tax called Belasting Toegevoegde Waade (BTW) is included in most prices. This tax is similar to VAT or GST, and travellers from non-EU countries can claim a refund on items over €135 if they are taken out of the European Union within three months. You will need to get an export certificate from the shop that sells you the good and get this endorsed by the customs official when you leave the EU. An easier option is to shop at a place displaying a "Tax Free for Tourists" sign on the window.

 

Although tipping isn't necessary, you may want to round up the bill to the nearest 5% or so. A 10% tip is considered generous. Please don't overtip as it is not only a waste of your money, but you're also doing your part to promote an American custom that most Europeans can do without.

 

If you can read Dutch, pick up a copy of Uitkrant. This free tabloid is full of listings of what's happening around Amsterdam.

INFORMATION CENTRES & USEFUL NUMBERS

VVV Tourist Information

Stationsplein 10, Amsterdam

Tel (06) 340 34066
Website www.iamsterdam.com

Leidseplein 1, Amsterdam

Tel (06) 340 34066

Website www.iamsterdam.com

Lost property - GVB metro, trams & buses

Prins Hendrikkade 108-114, Amsterdam

Tel (020) 551 4911

Lost property - trains

Stationsplein 15, Amsterdam

Tel (020) 557 8544

Lost property - police

Waterlooplein 11, Amsterdam

Tel (020) 559 3005

Emergency

Tel 112

EMBASSIES & CONSULTATES

British Consulate

Konigslaan 44, 1075 AE Amsterdam

Tel (020) 676 4343

United States Consulate

Museumplein 19, 1071 DJ Amsterdam

Tel (020) 664 5661

INTERNET ACCESS

The following hostels have free wireless internet access: Flying Pig Downtown, Flying Pig Uptown, Hostel The Globe Centre, Hotel Annemarie, Hotel Linda, Inner Amsterdam, International Budget Hostel, Meeting Point Youth Hostel, Orfeo Hostel, St Christopher's at the Winston, Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark, the Bulldog and White Tulip Hostel.

 

You can also find free Wi-Fi access at some branches of the Bagels & Beans cafe chain. The cafe at Waterlooplein (Waterlooplein 2, Amsterdam) near Rembrandthuis is the most central although the one near the Heinekin Experience (Ferdinand Bolstraat 70; tram 16, 25 (stop: Albert Cuyp)) is also convenient for many travellers.

 

If you don't have your own computer, you can use the internet at your hostel or the following internet cafe:

Underworld C@fe

Voetboogstraat 7, Amsterdam
Tel (020) 638 1388
Website www.underworld-amsterdam.page.tl
Open noon-10pm

 

 

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