Amsterdam feels exactly how it looks in photos.
But being there in person hits differently.
It’s slower, more relaxed, but at the same time, everything feels intentional.
Where I Stayed
I stayed at St Christopher’s Inn at The Winston, near Amsterdam Centraal.
First time ko mag-hostel.
Good location, walking distance to most places, and easy access to transport.
For Amsterdam, location matters more than anything.
What I Did
I didn’t rush the trip.
Mostly walking, exploring, and just being in the city.
Canal walks were automatic.
You don’t even plan it — you just end up walking beside them.
I also joined:
Bike tour around the city
Free walking tour (Who Is Amsterdam)
Both helped me understand the city better, not just see it.
Food was simple:
Manneken Pis fries in Damrak
Stroopwafel from street stalls
Nothing fancy, but it fits the city.
I also went to De Pijp.
Street market, local feel, less tourist-heavy compared to the center.
Museums
I visited Rijksmuseum.
Seeing The Night Watch by Rembrandt in person felt different.
The whole museum itself is already an experience.
You don’t just go there for one artwork — you stay because everything around it is just as good.
I skipped Van Gogh Museum since I already saw the exhibition in Singapore.
Anne Frank House — I just saw it from outside.
The line was long, and tickets were expensive.
Getting Around
Mostly bus and walking.
I tried the tram as well.
Transport is easy, but honestly, walking is still the best way to experience Amsterdam.
What Stood Out
Amsterdam is expensive.
Even water is expensive.
But at the same time, the city feels calm.
No rush. No pressure to “maximize.”
It’s one of those places where you don’t need a packed itinerary.
You just move.
And the city does the rest.
