I was pumped to be able to visit Amsterdam for the first time at the tail end of our Greece trip this summer. We had 3 just our family and it was glorious. The city is easy to navigate, gorgeous, vibrant, and all around fun. My only caution is when crossing the street – the bikers OWN the streets so all hail the bikers.
We stayed at the Marriot Amsterdam near Vondelpark an it was a fantastic location – not that you can really go wrong! Below is a snapshot of what we enjoyed!
Amsterdam Eats
Dakduif – Corner cafe in Dej Pijp. We popped in for what was an exceptionally delicious apple pie, not too sweet and i would describe the crust as more hearty and whole wheat flavored. Perhaps I am not doing the description justice, but it’s known for it!
Moeders – A family owned spot that specializes in local Dutch food (think meat and potatoes) with a quaint feeling as the restaurant is covered in pictures of mothers and grandmothers. Very cool experience and tasty but the food was a bit heavy on a hot summer night!
Miuz Gelato – There are several locations and we attempted to get in but the line was too long. I have heard its the best gelato in the city.
De Carrousel Pannenkoeken- Fun spot with the breakfast classic
De Vondeltuin – Casual bar with a playground in the middle of Vondelpark. An afternoon here on a Sunday is fantastic.
Kartika – Amsterdam is known for Indonesian food and this was close to our hotel so we enjoyed. Cash only!
Amsterdam Sites
Natuurspeelpark Sarphatipark – If you are in the area, we highly recommend a stop at this playground with a zipline. We spent a few hours here and the kids could have stayed longer. We love how it embeds natural elements.
Van Goh – We visited the VG Museum and did the audio guides. Absolutely worth the stop.
Anne Frank House – You need tickets in advance and they will not, no matter how nicely you ask, let you in before your ticketed start time. We brought the boys and it made for a very important afternoon.
Tulip Museum – When we arrived early to Anne Frank (see note above), we had time to spend in the area so popped over without any tickets to the Tulip Museum and absolutely loved it. You can stay for 30 minutes or more and it was vibrant, informative and a fun stop.
Pure Boats – Canal cruise was a perfect way to explore the city with an informative tour guide and a slice of apple pie.
A’Dam tower – Take a 5 minute free ferry ride from the main train station and check out the touristy, yet enjoyable and not too crowded, tower. Half our family rode the famous swing overlooking the city.
The Nine Streets – Adorable neighborhood for cute shops
Lena's Traveler's Talk 
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