JessIf you’re planning to visit Amsterdam in October or thinking about making a pit stop while traveling through Europe – don’t second guess it and just book it. The city is known for its coffee shops, canals, cannabis, architecture, and of course the red light district.
The architecture is one of the reasons why I wanted to visit Amsterdam even if I was there for a short amount of time.
Weather
Although I visited Amsterdam in October, the weather wasn’t the best. Out of the 3 nights I was there – there was not one night that it didn’t rain. The weather in Amsterdam varies, So make sure to pack an umbrella or make sure the hotel, hostel, or air bnb that you are staying in provides one. We were lucky enough that our Airbnb host warned us and provided us with umbrellas.
If you dream of visiting the tulip fields, (which I do) October is not the best time to go. The best time to visit the tulip fields is definitely in the spring, beginning in March-May.
Transportation
One thing to note, Amsterdam is very walkable! Our airbnb was located nearby Vondelpark which made getting to Central Amsterdam a breeze. Transportation in the city was not an issue, as taking a tram or bus was very accessible, all you need to purchase is a ticket depending on how many hours you’ll be in the city.
If you plan on visiting the city here are some things to add to your itinerary:
**Visit a Coffee Shop: Yes, they are your typical coffee shops that serve espresso, with a side of cannabis. To enter a coffee shop you must be 18 years old and show an ID. The coffee shop sells different types of items that can also be consumed inside of the shop.
**Visit the Red Light District: When you hear of Amsterdam several things can pop into your head– and the Red Light District might be one, as prostitution is legal in Amsterdam. While walking through the Red Light district, you’ll see of course – red lights along windows where women dressed in lingerie will be looking and pointing at you, calling you over.
**Bikes, Bikes, and Bikes: If you have the time to rent a bike and go for a ride in the city I highly recommend it. Bikes are the main form of transportation in the city, and if you want to feel like a local, check out a local bike shop and ride like a local.
**Anne Frank House: Amsterdam is full of history and museums. Located in the city is the home where Anne Frank and seven others hid from Nazis. The home is a museum, giving people a look at what life was like for her while in hiding. Slots to visit fill up quickly so I highly recommend buying tickets in advance here.
**Canal Ride: If you want to take a canal cruise and learn about Amsterdam’s architecture, homes, and boathouses, the canal ride is a great idea. You can sit and enjoy some drinks or tea while staying warm with the blankets provided. While doing so, the guides explain Amsterdam’s history, and why houses are narrow and crooked.
**Visit a museum: If you want to learn more about the city’s art history you can check out the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum.
**a’DAM Sign: If you want a picture of the popular iamsterdam sign, Unfortunately, it’s been removed. Now– there is an A’DAM sign that’s located at A’DAM Lookout. The building has a beautiful view of the city from 300 feet up in the air. If you like adrenaline, the lookout also has a swing that tips you right over the edge of the building.
Planning on visiting Amsterdam in October? Let me know in the comments!