Travel Guide: Amsterdam and Leiden
I’ve been lucky enough to spend a decent amount of time in the Netherlands, and honestly, it’s one of those places that just sticks with you. There’s something about the canals, the architecture, and the way everyday life seems so effortlessly charming. Amsterdam gets a lot of the spotlight, and for good reason, but I also love getting out of the big city and exploring towns like Leiden, which feels like a step back in time with its canals, cobbled streets, and relaxed pace. I’m half Dutch, both my maternal grandparents came from Holland after the war, and I still have a ton of extended family that lives over there. It’s been wonderful to get in touch with my Dutch heritage visiting them, and I’ve gotten to learn more about my grandparents too.
Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, here’s a mix of things I think are really worth doing, how to get around, what to pack, and a few seasonal ideas to help you plan your trip.
Amsterdam
If you’ve never been to Amsterdam, it’s easy to get swept up in the touristy stuff, and I say, embrace it a little. Start with a canal cruise. I know, it feels cliché, but seeing the city from the water gives you a perspective you can’t get from the streets. Some of the older canal houses are just stunning. If you go in the evening, the reflections in the water are unreal.
The Anne Frank House is a must. It’s emotional, but it’s such an important piece of history and really makes you reflect.
For art lovers (or even if you’re just vaguely curious), the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum are amazing. I’ve visited both more than once, and every time I notice something I didn’t see before.
But Amsterdam isn’t just about museums. One of my favourite things to do is just wander. Jordaan is perfect for that: tiny streets lined with boutiques, coffee shops, and little galleries. Grab a coffee, sit on a bench, and watch life go by.
Markets are another highlight. Albert Cuyp Market is huge, and while I don’t personally eat everything there because of allergies, it’s a blast to walk through and people-watch. Even just smelling the street foods and seeing all the colors is worth it.
If you’re into nightlife, or just a casual evening out, the Heineken Experience is surprisingly fun, even if you’re not a beer drinker. And if you want a view, head to the Sky Garden. The building is modern and lush inside, and the city views? Incredible.
And don’t forget the parks. Vondelpark is my go-to for mornings or a lazy afternoon. Rent a bike, bring a book, or just stroll around. Even if it’s gray out, there’s something calm about the canals cutting through the greenery.
Leiden
Leiden is completely different from Amsterdam, and that’s why I love it. It feels smaller, slower, and somehow more intimate. The canals are just as charming, but the pace is gentler. My friend Amy lives here, and I don’t think I would have known it was there without visiting here, but I’m so grateful for being able to experience it. It is a quieter town, but it has all the charm of Amsterdam with its canals, just way less busy and a younger less touristy vibe.
The Hortus Botanicus is gorgeous year-round. I love just wandering slowly through the greenhouses and gardens. It’s peaceful, and there’s a lot of hidden corners to stumble across.
If you’re into history, Leiden has a ton. The National Museum of Antiquities (Rijksmuseum van Oudheden) is worth a visit, and the city is full of historic churches like Pieterskerk that are really beautiful. Walking along the university buildings is also a treat—they’re old, elegant, and full of character. I was once wandering near the university and happened by a graduation where all of these people were running around the inside of the schools are beautiful,
For something more casual, just wander the canals or take a boat tour. The view of Leiden from the water is just as magical as Amsterdam but somehow more personal. And the Saturday market is such a great local experience, you can see what people actually eat and buy, which I always find fascinating. Points if you get yourself a warm stroppwafel.
Getting Around
Getting around in the Netherlands is pretty easy, which is part of the charm. Amsterdam is very walkable if you like wandering and discovering little streets. Otherwise, public transport is excellent—trains, trams, and buses all run efficiently. I usually recommend grabbing an OV-chipkaart (it’s like a public transport card) if you’re planning to use trains or buses a lot. It’s also a nice little momento for post-trip and I still have mine from the first time I went.
Biking is also a huge part of life here. Even if you’re nervous at first, it’s honestly one of the best ways to see the city. There are dedicated bike lanes, and you can rent bikes for just a few hours or a full day.
For Leiden, walking or biking is perfect. It’s small enough that you can see almost everything in a day, but the canals make it even more picturesque from a bike or a boat.
Packing Tips
The Netherlands has pretty mild weather year-round, but rain is always a possibility. Here’s what I usually bring:
Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be on cobblestone streets and walking a lot.
Layers: Temperatures can change throughout the day, so having layers is key.
Waterproof jacket: I always keep one in my bag, and its quite chilly when it rains so I recommend one you can fit a layer or two under.
Umbrella: Small and packable. Handy for those surprise showers.
Reusable water bottle: Tap water is clean and delicious.
Adapter plug: The Netherlands uses Type C and F plugs (230V).
Sunglasses & sunscreen: Even in cooler months, sunny days happen and can be strong.
Seasonal Tips
While Amsterdam and Leiden are lovely any time of year, a few things stand out depending on when you visit:
Spring: Tulip season! You can’t miss the Keukenhof Gardens near Lisse with millions of blooming flowers in every color imaginable.
Summer: Festivals, outdoor concerts, and terrace cafés come alive. I love grabbing a drink along the canal and just watching life unfold.
Autumn: The parks and canals turn golden, making for incredible walks or bike rides. Perfect if you want that cozy, quiet vibe.
Winter: Don’t let the cold scare you. Ice skating at the Museumplein or Leiden’s smaller squares is magical, and the winter markets feel festive without being overwhelming. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to duck into cozy cafés for hot chocolate or a cup of tea.
The Netherlands has this wonderful balance of bustling city life and laid-back charm. Amsterdam will sweep you off your feet with its canals, culture, and energy, but Leiden reminds you that there’s beauty in taking it slow and noticing the little details. Whether you’re wandering through markets, biking along canals, visiting museums, or just sitting in a café with a good book, the Netherlands rewards the curious traveler. Pack layers, bring an open mind, and enjoy getting lost in the streets of Amsterdam or the quiet charm of Leiden.
Even if you’re only there for a few days, it’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you could come back a hundred times and still find something new to love.
Love, M