Derek Robertson

‘Overtourism’. It’s more than a buzzword – in the world’s most popular destinations, it’s a problem that affects almost every aspect of local life, from the environment to the cost of renting, transport and eating out. And when a place is overwhelmed by people, it’s not only locals’ quality of life that suffers; the quality of your trip does, too. But it’s not all bad. Destinations are coming up with ways to redistribute tourism from densely crowded hotspots to lesser-visited regions. Travellers are seeking cooler climes and embracing slow travel, allowing space to discover somewhere new. And they’re still riding the ‘destination dupes’ trend, where overrun holiday destinations are swapped out for less crowded, less expensive, but just-as-good alternatives. On our newly updated list of the world’s most underrated travel destinations, you won’t find your Bangkoks or your Balis, your Amalfis or your Amsterdams. What you will find is the hidden side of Yosemite, the French Riviera’s overlooked twin, a place where penguins outnumber people, and plenty more travel inspo where that came from.Why trust us? Because we’ve been to them all. Every spot on this list was picked by one of our expert editors and globetrotting travel writers, recommended because they offer great (or quiet) alternatives to the classics – and in many cases, because they’re places that actually want tourism. In other words, travelling to any of these 33 criminally overlooked destinations is a win-win situation.

For food, culture and some serious partying, there is nowhere quite like Amsterdam. This city will take you by surprise, and in no time, you’ll be hopping on a bicycle, soaring through the streets and soaking up the art. Chances are, you’ll have a pretty wild night out at some point too.  But when you wake up bleary-eyed from a full night of Amsterdam’s best bars and clubs, there’s only one thing for it: brunch. Brunch will soon save you and have you ready for another long day of exploring the city, and give you something good-looking to slap on your Insta story. From fermented chilli Bloody Marys and caramel pancakes to cafés selling only omelettes, here is Amsterdam’s best brunch.  RECOMMENDED:🌿 The best coffeeshops in Amsterdam🍴 The best restaurants in Amsterdam📍 The best things to do in Amsterdam🏨 The best hotels in Amsterdam Karin Engelbrecht is a food writer based in Amsterdam. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

Amsterdam, with its ridiculously picturesque canals, world-class museums and enviable nightlife scene, is something of a dream destination – the ‘Venice of the North’ is a very well deserved nickname. But for all that we love the Dutch capital for, there’s no denying a trip here can be (extremely) pricey. But believe me: visiting Amsterdam on a budget is entirely possible, you just need to know where to look, and – sometimes more importantly – what to avoid like the plague. From affordable eats to free attractions, off-season travel perks to budget-friendly nightlife, here’s my local’s guide to how to make the most of this great city, without breaking the bank. 📍 Discover the best things to do in Amsterdam Can Amsterdam be a cheap city break? In a word (or two), hell yes. You just need a bit of pre-planning. Accommodation and dining out here in particular adds up quick, especially if you leave it to chance, but the Dutch are notoriously parsimonious – they love a bargain and demand value (‘Lekker gratis!’, as we like to say). So there are plenty of ways to make your holiday cash go further; walking or biking instead of using public transport, eating at local markets, and exploring free museums and parks can help keep costs low – but we’ll get into all that down below. Bare with us.  What is the cheapest month to visit Amsterdam?  There isn’t really a simple answer to this, but typically, a cheaper time to visit Amsterdam is during the winter months, from November to Februar

Amsterdam in 2025: Summer in the city is in full swing, and Amsterdam is buzzing with a packed calendar of events as it continues its 750th birthday celebrations. And it’s far from over: Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) will light up nightlife in October, and Museum Night in November will open up the city’s top institutions after hours. Meanwhile, Amsterdam’s ongoing mission to create a more sustainable, welcoming city continues to shape a smarter, more authentic experience for visitors. Whether you’re here for cutting-edge festivals, world-class art, or just a stroopwafel by the canals, there’s never been a better time to explore the Venice of the North. Throughout 2025, a host of special events are commemorating its momentous milestone of 750 years: we’ve already seen the A10 ring road turn into a 15-kilometre parade full of music, dance, food and more. Yet to come, 24 Hours will see each district take turns to open up with workshops, tours, and exhibitions (September 6, October 11), and SAIL Amsterdam, which will return for the first time in five years for its 10th edition (August 20-25). Oh, and the city will even pay for your wedding if you ask nicely. More on all that below. And of course, there’s plenty to see and do year-round, too: here are its best things to do in Amsterdam, whenever you’re visiting.  📍 RECOMMENDED: Ultimate guide to what to do in Amsterdam What shouldn’t I miss in Amsterdam? You could stay here a week and not have time to see all the main attractions

Planning an autumn trip to Amsterdam? You’re right to. This city is magical all year round, but especially once the trees start showing their autumn leaves. While you’re here, you could spend your days queuing for TikTok-hyped restaurants all day, if you wanted. Or you can spend your life savings on (admittedly delicious) tasting menus at one of Amsterdam’s best restaurants.  Well, you’re welcome to. But not everyone coming to Amsterdam has funds to spare. It might just be that you’re interrailing, or you’re strapped for cash, or you blew all your money on the first night in one of Amsterdam’s best clubs. If that’s the case, you’re in the right place. Here are my best cheap eats in Amsterdam.  RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Amsterdam🥞 The best best brunches in Amsterdam☕ The best cafés in Amsterdam🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Amsterdam Derek Robertson is a writer based in Amsterdam. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

Ah, Amsterdam – the city of canals, cycling, and, of course, cannabis. The Dutch capital has become something of a mecca for stoners thanks to its famously relaxed attitude towards weed, but whiling away a few hours in a coffeeshop has also become a rite of passage for the curious, the adventurous, and ‘I’m-just-trying-it-once’ tourists alike. There are, however, several rules and an established etiquette for those wishing to indulge – and a little more nuance involved than just walking in and lighting up. Amsterdam’s relationship with cannabis is as iconic as it is misunderstood, so here’s what you actually need to know to smoke like a pro – and avoid offending local sensibilities.  Is weed legal in Amsterdam? Technically, no – but also, yes. Kind of. Cannabis isn’t legal in the Netherlands, but it’s tolerated under a policy known as gedoogbeleid. This means that while the sale and possession of small amounts (up to five grams) for personal use are technically illegal, it’s been decriminalised, meaning authorities won’t prosecute (the police can still confiscate your stash, though). And as the production, transportation, and (bulk) possession of weed will still land you in legal hot water, coffeeshops remain the only place to buy and consume cannabis – they must be licensed, and can only operate legally under strict regulations. It’s a uniquely Dutch approach: pragmatic, slightly bureaucratic, but ultimately pretty chill – especially compared to many of its neighbouring coun

Amsterdam’s restaurant scene is buzzing, with brand-new Turkish-international eatery Esra joining our list alongside long-loved Asian spots Hoi Tin and Namche. More exciting upcoming openings include Boon & De Koot, a wine bar and restaurant from the team behind Zoldering, plus Veneur by the ex-chef of De Juwelier and acclaimed Ghanese chef Joseph Odoom’s Momi, arriving hot on the heels of West African fine dining hit Kenneh. So there’s a lot happening in Amsterdam’s food scene. One of our top-ranked restaurants is still undergoing some serious renovations (don’t worry, they’ve launched a pop-up in the interim: more on that below). But whatever your vibe, we can promise you’ll find something for you on this list. We’re talking comforting Dutch classics, the freshest veg-led menus, creative Michelin marvels and a whole lot more – and the best bit? It just keeps getting better. Read on for our top picks for 2025.  📍 Ultimate guide to eating in Amsterdam, from cheap eats to brunch 🏘️ Ready to book? Here’s our guide to where to where to stay, and our favourite hotels and Airbnbs This guide was updated by Karin Engelbrecht, a food writer based in Amsterdam. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

Amsterdam might be trying to abandon its party girl image, but that doesn’t mean all the fun stuff has stopped. Far from it. Amsterdam’s best bars are open late, its best clubs are poppin’ as ever, and its notorious coffeeshops? Thriving. But lets get one thing out the way first: when we talk about coffeeshops, we mean licenced cannabis cafés (not normal cafés), where you can choose from extensive marijuana menus. And they’re more than that, too – these joints are social hubs, creative spaces, and they’re intrinsic to Amsterdam’s identity.  Coffeeshop opening hours in Amsterdam You might have guessed it – but just as raucous behaviour is not encouraged in Amsterdam, coffeeshops do not stay open until the early hours either. Coffeeshops here are designed to be chill, sociable venues, as appropriate for solo moments in the daytime as they are for a smoke with friends at nighttime. If you want coffeeshops open latest, head to the Red Light District, where you’ll find they might stay open until around 1am. Elsewhere, they might close at 10pm or so, or when things naturally quieten down. Remember, coffeeshops don’t sell alcohol, so if you’re looking for late-night drinks, you’re looking for a bar – and yes, those are open much, much later.    📍 RECOMMENDED: A beginner’s guide to smoking weed in Amsterdam   Can tourists still use coffeeshops in Amsterdam? In short, yes – tourists can still visit and purchase cannabis in Amsterdam’s coffeeshops. A locals-only system was implemented

We get it, there’s plenty of things to do in Amsterdam. Your itinerary for a weekend here might be crammed full already. But if Amsterdam’s best markets aren’t on your list yet, we’re afraid there’s a little bit more to add. Here in the Dam you’ll find markets to suit every taste; works by local artists, one-of-a-kind antiques, rails and rails of vintage clothing and of course, the foodie markets of your dreams (yes, there’s cheese). Whether you’re window shopping or ready to fill that suitcase to the brim, here are the best markets in Amsterdam.  What day is market day in Amsterdam? One of the best things about visiting Amsterdam? Market day is almost every day here. We take markets very seriously here, and there’s pretty much always a brilliant one to visit, whether you’re on the hunt for food, clothing, nick-nacks or (of course) flowers. The only day you should be wary of? Sundays. Most of the city’s most iconic markets shut down for the day, or operate with limited hours. But hey, if you read on, you’ll find there’s still a few around to visit on the day of rest. Here are the best markets in Amsterdam.  📍 Ultimate guide to what to do in Amsterdam🏨 Ready to book? Check out the best hotels in Amsterdam This guide is by Derek Roberston, a writer based in Amsterdam. Original photos by Amsterdam-based photographer Joao Costa. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial g

A guide to Amsterdam’s best attractions? Well, we could go on, and on, and on. This city packs a cultural punch, with more world-leading museums, galleries and weird cultural activities than you can shake a stick at. But on our list of its best attractions, we wanted to make sure we ticked every single box. That’s why you’ll find its bucket list-worthy museums alongside boozy, fun-filled canal tours,  stroopwaffel-making classes, seriously wacky museums and a whole lot more. For our more off-the-beaten-track recommendations, we’d suggest heading to our list of Amsterdam’s best things to do – but for proper, ultimate tourist attractions, you’re in the right place. Here are Amsterdam’s most unmissable sights and activities to book right now.  📍 Ultimate guide to what to do in Amsterdam Should I book attractions in advance? Lots of your Amsterdam trip you can do on the fly – its abundance of tours, classes, galleries and more lends itself to a fair bit of spontaneity. But heed our warning, if you want to visit the ‘Big Three’ (aka Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank Huis and Van Gogh), you’re going to want to book well in advance – for Anne Frank Huis, you’ll want to start looking at time slots about three months ahead. But hey, if you’re reading this on the day and you’re panicking, don’t fear: often queueing from the early hours should get you in too. Derek Robertson is a writer based in Amsterdam. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities

Everyone knows what great pizza means to them. It could have a paper-thin, crispy base or one so doughy it’s comparable to a pillow; it could be an abundance of vegetables and cured meats or simply a great, classic margherita (for the purists). Some of us even crave a bit of pizza-induced controversy (fans of a white base or those who opt for a pineapple topping, we’re looking at you).  But no matter your preference, whether it’s socially acceptable or totally unhinged to everybody else, you’ll find your perfect pizza pie somewhere in the world, and somewhere on this list, too. That’s because we’ve asked our travel writers and international editorial staff about their absolute favourite spots for when they’re craving a pizza, from Cape Town to Lisbon, Buenos Aires to Miami. We hope you’re hungry – don your napkin and read on for the world’s very best pizzas.  RECOMMENDED:🥪The best sandwiches in the world🥩The best steaks in the world🍝The best cities in the world for food This list was edited by Liv Kelly, a writer for Time Out Travel. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.

People who don’t live in cities will tell you they’re busy, lonely and expensive places. But there’s a reason so many people choose to live in them: with world-class art and culture, unbeatable food and nightlife, buzzing neighbourhoods and a dizzying amount of stuff to do and see, there’s simply no better place to be.  Every year, we take the pulse of city living by quizzing thousands of locals across the planet about life in their hometowns. This year, more than 18,500 city-dwellers shared their insights on everything from food, nightlife and culture to affordability, happiness and the overall city vibe. When urban living can sometimes feel isolating and costly, this year we wanted to get a sense of what, exactly, makes a city feel like home. Sure, the nightlife is great, but is the city safe and walkable? Is good quality food and art available at a reasonable price? Is it easy to make friends, find love, and access nature?  Livability was a key factor in our ranking this year. But a great city to live in is, naturally, a great city to visit. So, along with the thousands of responses from locals around the world, we asked Time Out’s global network of city experts to vote on the places they think are particularly exciting right now. After crunching all that data, here we are: Time Out’s definitive ranking of the world’s best cities in 2025. Read on to see how your hometown fared… RECOMMENDED:🛍️ The coolest neighbourhoods in the world right now🌎 The best things to do in the

The first hint that this is no standard hotel greets you the minute you step through The July – Boat & Co’s imposing wood and glass front doors: a cool, fully fledged barbershop, DOQ Barbers, where the snip of scissors and hum of clippers set the tone for the kind of place this is – lived-in, local, effortlessly stylish. It’s also typical of what Boat & Co does so well: blending everyday life with guest luxury.  Sitting quietly on the water in Houthaven, a redeveloped docklands area in Amsterdam’s northwest, the property feels calm yet full of life. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the lobby with light, elegant pendant lamps glow above warm wooden floors, and the open-plan ground-floor area – part bar, part restaurant, part co-working space – hums with guests working, chatting, or sinking into armchairs with an afternoon drink. It’s not quite a hotel, not quite a serviced apartment – but somehow, it pulls off the best of both. Why stay at The July - Boat & Co? Boat & Co is part of a growing breed of aparthotels that understand modern travellers want flexibility – the comfort of a city apartment with the service of a boutique hotel. It’s a clever mix, especially in Amsterdam, where hotel rooms can be charming but tiny (and often eye-wateringly expensive). Houthaven is a former timber harbour whose waterfront full of warehouses and cranes has been reborn as Amsterdam’s first climate-neutral city district, all wide pavements, sparkling water views, and bike lanes in every directio

What is it? Originally known as the Museum Amstelkring, this place was once a well-kept secret (not so much nowadays). It’s one of the oldest museums in Amsterdam, hidden away in an old canal house, and going to see it feels like discovering something quite special in the city – even if the secret is very much out.  What should I see there? The main attraction is upstairs, and goes by the name: ‘Our Sweet Lord in the Attic’. Built in 1663, this attic church was used by Catholics during the 17th century, when they were banned from worshipping after the Alteration. The altarpiece features a painting by the noted 18th-century artist Jacob de Wit. Meanwhile, the beautifully preserved rooms on the lower floor offer a realistic glimpse of what life was like during the 17th century. What’s there to do nearby? Well, there’s the rest of the Red Light District for starters. Or check out Little Saigon (a three-minute walk away) for a banh mi or bowl of pho if you fancy a bite to eat.  This review was fact-checked and updated in 2024. 

What is it? The Oude Kerk began life as a simple wooden chapel in 1306, but today rates as Amsterdam’s most interesting church. Is it worth visiting? It’s easy to imagine the Sunday Mass chaos during its heyday in the mid-1500s, when it had 38 altars, each with its own guild-sponsored priest. Now it serves more as a radical contrast to the surrounding Red Light District, but still holds lessons: the inscription over the bridal chamber states ‘marry in haste, mourn in leisure’. What should I see there? Keep your eyes peeled for the floor grave of Rembrandt’s wife Saskia, who died in 1642. Also note the Gothic and Renaissance façade above the northern portal, and the stained-glass windows, parts of which date from the 16th and 17th centuries. For shock value, check out the carvings in the choir benches of men evacuating their bowels – they tell a moralistic tale. Occasional art shows exhibit a range of fascinating subjects, from contemporary local art to the World Press Photo Exhibition. What’s good to visit nearby? If you fancy a bit of a museum crawl, check out Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder and Red Light Secrets after. Then find even more things to do on our list of the Red Light District’s top attractions.  This review was fact-checked and updated in 2024. 

What is it? An iconic gay club on Amsterdam’s equally iconic Gay Street with 850-person capacity. Although this is a club for the LGBTQ+ community, everyone is welcome at Club NYX. Is it worth visiting? Since being reborn as Club NYX (previously it was Club Exit), named after the Greek Goddess of the Night, this club has been pretty notorious on the city’s LGBTQ+ scene. Three floors offer distinct vibes – making liberal use of graffiti, glitter and concrete – and a toilet DJ keeps the party going while you wash your hands at a giant pink phallus. This page was fact-checked and updated in 2024. 

What’s the vibe? ‘Unique’ doesn’t come close to describing Dokter, a historic, classic Amsterdam brown café (and the city’s smallest). And with dusty brick-a-brac hanging above the bar, old, mellow jazz records providing the mood, and no end of colourful, chatty locals, it’s also an ‘experience’. But just soak up the charm and run with it – time will just float right by. What are the prices like? Reasonable for the centre of Amsterdam, and on a par with other brown bars. Their liqueurs, spirits, and jenevers start from €4 to €7, a house beer is €5, and their house jenever is a snip at just €4.25. Bar snacks are cheap too.  What should I order? It has to be Brand beer from the Limberg Brewery, alongside something a little harder. Try a jenever, or one of their many whiskies (they always have a Whisky of the Month on offer). What’s worth visiting nearby? Located in the heart of the Old Centre, there’s plenty of fun and mischief to be had in every direction. But head up to the Red Light District and the area around De Oude Kerk to experience an Amsterdam that is disappearing. 

What’s the vibe? When the sun’s out, there’s no better place to sip on something cold than Hannekes Boom’s huge, waterside terrace. But the actual bar itself, constructed out of scrap lumber, is pretty sweet too; rustic, bohemian, and featuring a proper wood burning stove, it’s been a hotspot since forever. Sustainable too – they focus on local, organic, fresh produce alongside a great range of beers, wines, and spirits. What are the prices like? For such a popular spot, very reasonable. Draft beers start at €3.40, spirits from €5.50, wines from €6 a glass, and cocktails around €11. For such an iconic, central spot, what’s not to like? What should I order? If it’s warm, and you’re sitting on that incredible terrace, Jupiler is the draft beer of choice for the locals. Or, if you’re splashing out, order a Hannekes Spritz – pure summer in a glass. What’s worth visiting nearby? Duck under the railway bridge, turn right, and walk down towards the Eastern Docklands. There are all manner of quirky, fun bars, restaurants, shops, and architecture to be discovered on Java-Eiland, KNSM-Eiland, and Cruquiuseiland. 📍 Discover the best restaurants in Amsterdam

What’s the vibe? Discreet yet stylish, this corner bar oozes class and impeccable taste. A favourite of cool young professionals and those who favour substance over style, the 1920’s style décor lends a slightly old-fashioned, Gatsby-esque sophistication to proceedings; the buzz here is studied, yet refined. When you know, you know.   What are the prices like? It’s not cheap, but with the mixology expertise on display, complimentary olives and mixed nuts, and refined ingredients such as sotol, rare mezcals, and fresh fennel, nor should it be – the quality here is top drawer. Expect to pay between €16 and €20 for most concoctions. What should I order? Their menu is somewhat seasonal, and so frequently changes, but if you have a fave classic, they’ll make it with care and skill. Alternatively, and if you’re feeling brave, order ‘The Walking Dead’ – limited to one per night per customer, it’s a deadly, secret concoction that’s set on fire and served in a giant glass skull. Danger never tasted so delicious.  What’s worth visiting nearby? Head north and you can walk around the Oosterdokseiland docks, home to numerous old boats and the famed NEMO Science Museum. Head south, and you’ll discover the Hortus Bontanicus, which dates from 1682, and the Artis Zoo.  📍 Discover more of the best things to do in Amsterdam

What’s the vibe? Rough and ready yet quintessentially Amsterdam, a visit to this venerated institution is essential. The diversity of the stalls is reflected by the visitors – you’ll see hip teenagers mingling with OAPs doing their weekly food shop and people looking to stock up on (cheap) basic household goods.  Is it worth visiting? The laid-back geniality makes wandering up and down the market’s length a fun, relaxing hour or two. And generally, prices are pretty good value too, particularly when it comes to meat, fish, fruit and vegetables – many locals do the bulk of their food shopping here. With everything else, wares tend towards the cheaper, more basic end of the spectrum, but there are a few stalls selling high quality, specialised products, like spice emporium De Peperbol at No. 150. 📍 RECOMMENDED: Discover the best markets in Amsterdam Which days is the market open?  Albert Cuyp Market is open 9.30am-5pm every day bar Sunday. It’s a great place to try herring, especially in summer when its flavour is at its best. Don’t fancy fish? Try some roast chicken from Chris Kip at No. 181, or grab a stroopwafel from any number of vendors.  What’s worth visiting nearby? Use the market as a starting point for exploring De Pijp. If the weather is nice, take your snacks and head two blocks south to Sarphatipark – it’s a gorgeous little oasis, and surrounded by yet more fine bars, cafes, and restaurants. 📍 Ultimate guide to what to do in Amsterdam