Lifestyle Hal in South Holland and Utrecht

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Amsterdam

Must-try foods in Amsterdam

• Stroopwafel
  StroopwafelAmsterdam's most iconic sweet treat consists of two thin, waffle-like wafers joined by a warm, gooey caramel-like syrup (stroop). For the ultimate experience in 2026, locals head to the Albert Cuypmarkt to get them freshly pressed and warm, though upscale versions dipped in chocolate and sea salt are trending at boutiques like Van Wonderen.
• Indonesian Rijsttafel
  Indonesian RijsttafelReflecting the Netherlands' colonial history, this 'rice table' is an elaborate feast of 10 to 40 small side dishes—like rendang, satay, and gado-gado—served with rice. It remains a must-eat splurge in Amsterdam, with long-standing favorites like Kantjil & de Tijger and newer, refined spots like Long Pura leading the scene.
• Haring (Raw Herring)
  Haring (Raw Herring)A traditional Dutch delicacy often served at 'haringhandels' (fish stalls). The fish is cured in salt and served with chopped raw onions and pickles. In 2026, the 'Hollandse Nieuwe' (the first catch of the season) remains a major culinary event, typically eaten by holding the tail and tilting your head back.
• Patat met (Dutch Fries)
  Patat met (Dutch Fries)Thick-cut, double-fried potatoes served in a paper cone. While 'Patat met' implies mayonnaise, the 2026 trend focuses on 'Patatje Oorlog' (War Fries)—a chaotic but delicious mix of peanut satay sauce, mayonnaise, and raw onions. Top-tier spots include Vlaams Friteshuis Vleminckx and Fabel Friet.
• Appeltaart
  AppeltaartDutch apple pie is distinct for its deep-dish structure, crumbly pastry, and generous chunks of cinnamon-spiced apples, raisins, and currants. It is traditionally served with a massive dollop of 'slagroom' (whipped cream). Cafe Winkel 43 in the Jordaan remains the gold standard that no local would ever skip.
• Kibbeling
  KibbelingA popular street food consisting of battered and deep-fried chunks of white fish (traditionally cod, but often hake or pollock). It is served hot with a side of creamy garlic or tartare sauce. Fish stalls at the Ten Katemarkt are currently favored by locals for the freshest, crispiest bites.

Trip guide

• About Amsterdam
  About AmsterdamAmsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, originated in the 13th century as a settlement near a dam on the Amstel River. By 1306, it was granted city rights, and it transitioned into a global trade hub during the 17th century, a period historically identified as the Dutch Golden Age.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Amsterdam is from April to early June or September to October, when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded than in mid-summer. Spring offers the iconic tulip blooms and King’s Day festivities, while autumn provides pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage along the canals. For the lowest prices and fewest tourists, visit during the off-peak winter months (November to March), though you should prepare for cold, rainy, and windy conditions.
• Getting around
  Getting around Amsterdam

  • Schiphol Airport and International Rail Fly into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, a major global hub located 15km from the city, or arrive via high-speed Eurostar and Thalys trains at Amsterdam Centraal station.
  • GVB Public Transport Network The city features an extensive GVB network of trams, buses, and metros; use a contactless debit card or an OV-chipkaart to tap in and out across all vehicles.
  • Bicycle Rentals Amsterdam is the world's most bike-friendly city; rent a bicycle from local shops to navigate the dense network of dedicated paths and iconic canal-side streets.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Always stay out of the red-paved bike lanes to avoid accidents and local frustration, as cyclists have the right of way and move quickly.
  • Remember to tap your card or ticket both when entering and exiting public transport to ensure you are charged the correct fare.
  • Tipping is not mandatory in restaurants, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is a common local gesture.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Amsterdam

  • WorldPride 2026: A massive 15-day festival in July and August featuring over 500 cultural activities and events across the city.
  • Stedelijk Museum Expansion: The completion of a major renovation doubling the museum's capacity with new interactive digital galleries.
• Visit Utrecht Region↗
  Visit Utrecht RegionThe official tourism portal for Utrecht, providing information on historic sites like the Dom Tower, museums, canals, and regional travel tips.