The City That’s More Than Canals and Coffeeshops

This was my second time to Amsterdam, accompanied now by my Brother and our friend - Charlotte.

Between the stroopwafels, boutique pilates studios, and the quiet hum of a city that somehow feels both historic and youthful - we were hooked.

If you’re heading to the Dutch capital soon, here’s your go-to guide for where to stay, what to do, what to eat, and where to sweat it out.

Must-Dos

Make your own Tony’s Chocolate Bar – €7.99
Yes, it’s as fun (and chaotic) as it sounds. Choose your fillings, your chocolate base, your sprinkle magic — then watch your personalised, planet-friendly bar come to life. A sweet souvenir that actually makes it home? Rare.

Freeze your fingers off at the Ice Bar – €24.99 (includes 3 drinks)
It’s minus 10 degrees and somehow still one of the coolest (ha) things we did.
Think neon lights, fur-lined coats, and sipping vodka from a glass made of ice.

Visit the Anne Frank House
A sobering but powerful experience. Walking through the secret annex is a reminder of how lucky we are to live freely
— and how important it is to never forget. Book well in advance.

Where to Stay

St Christopher’s Winston
Right in the heart of it all. Think hostel energy with boutique vibes.
Great bar, clean rooms, good people.

Book Here

Feed Your Soul (and Your Stomach)

Albert Cuyp Market – It’s chaos, colour, and comfort food rolled into one.
You must try:

Fresh Stroopwafels – gooey, warm, melt-in-your-mouth heaven
Taste of Vietnam – the Banh Mi here? Life-changing.
Frites, frites, frites – Crispy. Golden. Drenched in mayo. Stop at literally any stand, you won’t be disappointed.

Move Your Body

Because walking 25,000 steps a day still somehow leaves room for more:

CORE40 – Amsterdam’s Lagree studio. It’s a full-body shake-fest and your abs will scream. But like, in a good way.
K/C Move Pilates – A zen little haven. Holistic, mindful, and just what your body craves post-flight.
Saints & Stars – The bougie gym dreams are made of. Think nightclub lighting meets serious sweat.
Run the city – No route planned? Even better. Just lace up and see where the canals take you. Best done at golden hour.

The Best Things in Life are FREE

Seriously, just walk. Wander the streets, cross the bridges, breathe in the magic.
Amsterdam’s charm isn’t just in its attractions — it’s in its slow moments, tiny details, and the way it invites you to simply be.

Whether you’re chasing chocolate, a cold beer, or just a damn good coffee in a canal-side café — Amsterdam delivers. And then some.

Go with an open heart, pack a warm coat, and don’t forget to look up — this city has a way of surprising you when you least expect it.