Amsterdam has long been one of the world's top travel spots, but the capital of the Netherlands is fast becoming a preferred expat destination too. A culturally diverse city, rich in history and tradition, Amsterdam boasts pretty canals, jaw-dropping architecture and a phenomenal artistic heritage.

Living in Amsterdam as an expat

Of course, visitors are drawn to Amsterdam for more than just its Insta-worthy canals; tourists rarely leave before experiencing the illicit thrills of its Red-Light District and coffee shops. Be that as it may, those who choose to make the city their long-term home may have come for the edginess of this famously liberal city, but they tend to stay for the laid-back lifestyle. Along with a vibrant nightlife, the Dutch capital offers family-friendly activities, from museums and art galleries to scenic walks and excellent eateries.

Luckily, Amsterdam boasts a thriving economy in which expats can access job opportunities in the finance, media, IT, engineering and logistics industries. The city is also home to multinational corporations such as Uber, LinkedIn and Netflix, creating further opportunities for expats.

Amsterdam's well-developed public transport network consists of buses, trains and trams, but, given the city's bicycle culture, most people prefer cycling to work or school.

Cost of living in Amsterdam

Perhaps the only downside to life in Amsterdam is the cost of living. The city has a notoriously high cost of living, with accommodation taking the biggest chunk of expats' salaries. Accommodation in Amsterdam is limited while demand is high, driving prices up. City-centre apartments may also be smaller than some expats are used to. As a result, many choose to live in the surrounding areas and suburbs, rather than in the city itself.

Expats will get relief when it comes to public transport, as most people cycle for their daily commute, which is a free and healthy mode of transport. Eating out can cost a pretty penny, but groceries are generally affordable.

Expat families and children in Amsterdam

Expats moving to Amsterdam will children will find that the city is ideal for raising a family. Public schooling is free for all children until the age of 16, but the language of instruction is Dutch. Expat parents with older non-Dutch-speaking children may consider private or international schools.

That said, international schools can be rather steep and difficult to gain admission into, so parents should apply in advance. Healthcare in Amsterdam is also one of the best in the world. Expats who are from outside the EU and UK should secure private medical insurance to avoid incurring hefty bills.

Parents will be delighted to know there is plenty to keep the kids entertained during their leisure time. Amsterdam has an abundance of museums, interactive and fantasy-themed parks and green spaces for children to explore.

Climate in Amsterdam

The weather in Amsterdam is mild and damp, with lots of rainfall throughout the year. Winters are cold and frosty, while summers are warm.

Amsterdam's excellent quality of life, buzzing lifestyle and open-minded locals will soon have expats falling in love and staying far longer than they intended.

With a mild and damp climate, Amsterdam sees lots of rain throughout the year, particularly in the winter months from October or November to February. Needless to say, expats should invest in a good umbrella and keep it in hand.

The weather in Amsterdam can be highly unpredictable, with sudden drops in temperature even in summer. Summers are mild and warm with temperatures averaging between 68°F (20°C) and 71°F (22°C), while winters can be bitterly cold and frosty, with temperatures dropping to freezing.

For those looking to move to Europe, there are few destinations as exciting as Amsterdam. The city is diverse and international, and its unique culture and excellent quality of life make it one of the continent's most popular cities. Naturally, there are also some downsides to living in Amsterdam, like the fast-moving (and pricey) housing market and the high cost of living.

As with anywhere else, expats will need to weigh up the pros and cons of moving to Amsterdam before setting their plans into motion. We list a few of those below.

Lifestyle in Amsterdam

+ PRO: Rich in culture and history

Tourists flock to Amsterdam from all over to enjoy the city’s wide range of cultural and historical attractions, and expats living in Amsterdam will be lucky enough to have all this right on their doorstep. There will be plenty of time to explore the city and surrounding countryside, stroll through world-famous art galleries and unwind in one of the city's many parks. 

+ PRO: Shopping, eating out and nightlife

The lifestyle in Amsterdam is second to none. The quirky shops, world-class restaurants and legendary nightlife make the free-spirited Dutch capital one of the great European cities. 

Accommodation in Amsterdam

- CON: Demand outstrips supply

As a city with a high population density, it can be hard to find accommodation in Amsterdam. There’s a lot of competition, and rentals are often snatched off the market just as quickly as they're listed. This drives prices up.

Once expats do find a suitable new home, they shouldn’t expect much space, as apartments in Amsterdam are often smaller than what many expats from abroad (certainly from the US) are used to.

Getting around in Amsterdam

+ PRO: One of the world’s most cycle-friendly cities

Amsterdam’s reputation as a city of cyclists is well earned. Around 60 percent of the city’s population uses bicycles for their daily commute. The government has invested in extensive cycling infrastructure, making it a breeze to get around on two wheels. 

+ PRO: Good transport network

Getting around in Amsterdam is easy with many public transport options to choose from, including the metro, buses, trams and trains.

+ PRO: Easy to travel to neighbouring countries

Expats with a bit of wanderlust will be well positioned in Amsterdam. Trains are a popular and easy way of travelling to neighbouring countries such as France, Belgium and Germany. Even London is only five hours away by train, and even quicker by air.

Cost of living in Amsterdam

- CON: Expensive city

As a major European capital, Amsterdam has a high cost of living comparable to other large capital cities of the continent such as Rome and Vienna. The main expense for expats will undoubtedly be accommodation, but costs such as international school fees can also take a large chunk off an expat's budget.

+ PRO: Good quality of life

In Amsterdam, the old adage that a person gets what they pay for rings true. Pricey as it may be, expats in Amsterdam will be able to live well. In fact, Amsterdam has been rated one of the world’s top cities for quality of life.

Education and schools in Amsterdam

+ PRO: Free high-quality local schooling

With government-funded public schooling up to age 16, expat parents won’t need to worry about school fees for most of their child’s school career. Public schools in Amsterdam generally perform well based on international measures, so parents can rest assured that they aren’t compromising on quality.

- CON: Most public schools teach in Dutch

For expats with older children or those who are only in Amsterdam short term, the language barrier at public schools can be an issue. Young children pick up additional languages more easily, so the earlier they start speaking Dutch, the better. It’s also worth mentioning that there are a few public schools that teach bilingually in both English and Dutch. For many families, this is an ideal middle ground.

+ PRO: Wide range of international schools

As the capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is a hub for international schools. Parents looking to take this option will find that curricula offered range from Japanese to French to British and beyond. The International Baccalaureate is also popular.

Healthcare in Amsterdam

+ PRO: High-quality healthcare

Expats in Amsterdam will find themselves in a country with one of the world's best-rated healthcare systems. Everyone working in the Netherlands is required to have health insurance so that services can be easily accessed. Doctors are highly skilled the facilities are top-notch.

Major industries in Amsterdam include engineering, IT, logistics, fashion, finance and media. Expats with experience, qualifications and specialised skills in these areas have the best chance of finding a job in Amsterdam.

By and large, Amsterdam is a vibrant city with a healthy economy. As is the case throughout the Netherlands, its economy did take a knock during the pandemic, but the city is gradually recovering.

Note that those from outside the EU will need a work permit to legally work in the Netherlands. These can be tricky to obtain because they require the Dutch employer to prove that an EU citizen could not fill the role in question.

Job market in Amsterdam

Amsterdam's finance industry thrives on innovation and has bragging rights to numerous historic firsts, including establishing the world's first central bank and the first joint stock company. Today, finance continues to be one of Amsterdam's key industries. The spirit of innovation remains strong, and Amsterdam has become a leader in the field of financial technology. The industry draws on talent from around the world, recruiting professionals to take up high-level finance positions.

The field of IT is another strong industry in Amsterdam, with many major tech companies – including the likes of LinkedIn, Uber and Netflix – setting up shop here. Multinational corporations such as these provide a great opportunity for expats.

Finding a job in Amsterdam

Most expat workers in Amsterdam come to the city with a job already in hand, or as part of an intra-company transfer. Expats starting the job hunt from scratch will be in competition with numerous other experienced and well-qualified candidates, and it may take some time to secure employment.

Those able to speak Dutch as well as English will be in the best position to find a job. While speaking Dutch isn't a requirement for working in the Netherlands, candidates who can do so fluently will have significantly more opportunities open to them than those who can't speak Dutch.

When looking for jobs, a good place to start is major online job portals, including LinkedIn, Monsterboard and Indeed. Another good source is the UWV (Employee Insurance Agency). The UWV's website hosts job listings, and also has valuable information on work permits and other documentation requirements.

Contacting companies directly can also open up opportunities, and it can also be helpful to register with a reputable recruitment agency, which will be able to connect expats with suitable positions.

Work culture in Amsterdam

Work-life balance is valued in Amsterdam, and expats will notice that, while hard work is expected when one is at the office, the time outside the office is the worker's own.

Dutch labour law is favourable towards employees, with maximum working hours being nine hours a day or 45 hours a week. The minimum paid annual leave is at least 20 days, but most companies offer 30 in addition to public holidays.

Expats moving to Amsterdam will need to consider its relatively high cost of living on a global scale, as well as compared to other Dutch cities. Ranking 28th out of 227 cities in the 2023 Mercer Cost of Living Survey, Amsterdam is undeniably expensive for locals and expats alike. Although cheaper than cities such as London and Copenhagen, Amsterdam's cost of living is comparable to that of other European capitals such as Vienna and Paris.

Cost of accommodation in Amsterdam

Accommodation will likely be expats' biggest expense in Amsterdam. That said, where in the city expats choose to live will have a vast impact on costs, as rent in the city centre can be double or triple that of outlying suburbs, and the same applies to buying property.

Properties outside the centre will most likely be more spacious but, while expats may be losing the benefit of size in the centre, they will be close to attractions. The city centre also exudes much more character and charm. Electricity in Amsterdam is among the priciest in the world, so utilities are also exorbitant in Amsterdam and are not often included in rent.

Cost of transport in Amsterdam

The least expensive and often the quickest way to get around the Dutch capital is by bicycle. The city gets plenty of rain throughout the year, though, so this may not always be an option. In that case, there are trams, buses, trains and taxis.

While taxis will be the priciest transport option, ride-hailing apps such as Uber can be cheaper than traditional metered taxis. Public transport is a lot less costly, but is still not cheap. Getting an OV Chipkaart, on which travel credit can be loaded, can more than half the price of a trip and this is therefore highly recommended for anyone living in Amsterdam.

Cost of groceries in Amsterdam

The cost of groceries in Amsterdam may seem somewhat steep to newcomers, although shopping at local markets or choosing store brands in supermarkets can help mitigate these costs. Supermarkets in the city offer a range of products from budget-friendly to gourmet, allowing residents to adjust their grocery shopping to suit their budget.

Comparatively, the price of groceries in Amsterdam is moderately higher than in other Dutch cities, but noticeably lower than in London or Paris.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Amsterdam

As a vibrant, cosmopolitan city, Amsterdam provides an abundance of entertainment options which, while diverse, can come with a relatively high price tag. Eating out varies considerably depending on the venue, with a simple meal at a casual restaurant being quite reasonable, while a fine dining experience at a high-end establishment could be quite costly.

Similarly, the cost of a night out can range widely, from reasonably priced theatre tickets to costlier concert events. Overall, the cost of entertainment and dining out in Amsterdam sits slightly above the European average, but less than cities like London or Copenhagen.

Cost of education and schools in Amsterdam

Local public Dutch schools are subsidised by the government and are mostly free, apart from small yearly contributions towards school trips or activities. While most of these schools teach in Dutch, expats can usually find a government subsidised bilingual school that teaches an international curriculum in Amsterdam.

The fees for private and international schools in Amsterdam can be excessive, so expats wanting to send their children to one of these schools should attempt to negotiate this into their employment contract.

Cost of healthcare in Amsterdam

Healthcare in Amsterdam is of a high standard, but it is mandatory to have health insurance in the Netherlands. Insurance premiums, while regulated by the government, can be expensive and vary depending on the level of coverage chosen.

Expats from European Union countries should note that their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can cover them for necessary treatments on a short-term basis. For longer stays, they will need to invest in Dutch health insurance. The cost of healthcare, while not as high as in countries such as the United States, is still a significant factor to consider when planning a move to Amsterdam.

Cost of living in Amsterdam chart

Prices may vary depending on the product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Amsterdam in July 2023.

Affordable accommodation in Amsterdam can be difficult to find. There is a constant demand for property – even low-quality rentals are snapped up quickly. 

The cost of accommodation in Amsterdam continues to rise, particularly in and around the city centre. For this reason, many expats choose to look for property in outlying suburbs or smaller villages outside the city.

The best places to live in Amsterdam

Countless expats have been pulled in and swept up by Amsterdam's balance of old-world charm and cutting-edge modernity. The ’Venice of the North’ is a true melting pot of cultures, and each area has something unique to offer.

Here are some of the top areas and suburbs in Amsterdam offering prime expat-friendly accommodation.

Family-friendly areas of Amsterdam

Amsterdam Oud-West 

Oud-West is a highly sought-after area for expat housing. It claims all the fantastic leisure-based perks of the city centre and combines them with a touch of nature. Cafes, restaurants, museums and shopping streets – such as the Overtoom – are plentiful, and the famous Vondelpark is a beloved hangout for locals and tourists.

The residents are mainly students, educated locals and expats. Houses in the area are larger and more expensive than in the city centre, and expats shouldn't be surprised to find lush gardens hidden away here and there.

Amsterdam-Zuid 

Amsterdam-Zuid is recognised as the upmarket side of Amsterdam. It's popular with Western expats thanks to the nearby British School of Amsterdam and Vondelpark, as well as its great infrastructure. With a peaceful atmosphere and plenty of playgrounds and parks, Amsterdam-Zuid is a prime location for families. Though densely populated, this is a high-income area.

In terms of leisure and recreation, the area has much to offer. Rijksmuseum and the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art are located here, and there are plenty of shopping opportunities.

Watergraafsmeer 

Watergraafsmeer is one of Amsterdam's greenest residential areas. Whether expats prefer spending time outdoors in the garden, public parks or sports fields, plenty of space is devoted to each.

This neighbourhood is a relatively quiet area of town with a fairly large, cosmopolitan population. There are several good restaurants and bars in the vicinity. Watergraafsmeer also has a large ice-skating rink, the Jaap Edenbaan.

Westerpark 

Westerpark is home to a large expat population and is especially recommended for young families. It has several good schools and a few choice attractions, including the famous Westergasfabriek cultural district, the Het Ketelhuis art house cinema, cafes and designer boutiques. While some neighbourhoods within Westerpark are fairly quiet, others boast a lively nightlife. Be sure to look out for the markets and festivals that pop up in the area.

Areas for young and single expats in Amsterdam

Centrum

Centrum is the heart of Amsterdam, and a metropolitan favourite. Despite being the most populated area of the city, many prefer to live in its small, pricey apartments for convenient proximity to world-renowned attractions and great restaurants, as well as the ease of getting around.

One of the most loved destinations is the Grachtengordel, or Canal Belt, where expats will find the famous tree-lined canals associated with Amsterdam. The Singel Canal is widely visited because of the Anne Frank House and other museums. Perhaps equally famous, but for very different reasons, is De Wallen – the city's Red Light District.

De Baarsjes

This area is located within the city’s centre ring, which makes all the modern conveniences of Centrum easily accessible without the hefty price tag. Known for its good location and low crime rate, De Baarsjes is perfect for expats who prefer a quieter lifestyle. Outdoorsy expats will enjoy Rembrandtpark, popular for jogging and dog walking. Another highlight is the open-air market on Vespuccistraat.

Indische Buurt 

Situated in eastern Amsterdam, Indische Buurt has a long history of housing expats. More than half of the population in this area is foreign-born, with more than 100 foreign languages spoken by residents. Accommodation in Indische Buurt is more affordable than in the city centre and consists mostly of apartments.

There are numerous schools in Amsterdam for expats to choose from, and they generally offer high standards of education. There are a few private schools, but the majority of children attend public schools.

Both public and private schools are regulated by the Dutch Inspectorate of Education to ensure quality across the board.

Public schools in Amsterdam

Public schooling in the Netherlands is free for all children, including expats, until age 16. After the age of 16, there are certain annual fees payable.

Language is important for expat families to consider. If a child speaks no Dutch and is at least six years old, some schools run a special newcomer's class in which the focus is on learning the language in order to continue their studies in Dutch.

If the child is 12 or older when moving to Amsterdam, they may be placed in an international bridging class, where they study school subjects as well as Dutch. These classes are typically one year long, after which children will usually be integrated into the rest of the school.

Most high school classes are taught in Dutch, but some secondary schools in Amsterdam follow a dual-language curriculum where subjects are taught in both English and Dutch.

High school or secondary education in the Netherlands is typically chosen based on aptitude or future aspirations. The education system is arranged into streams offering practical and vocational programmes or academic programmes which prepare students for university.

Private and international schools in Amsterdam

There are various private and international schools in Amsterdam. Most of the city's international schools follow the American or British curriculum, while a number of them (including some local private schools) offer the International Baccalaureate programme.

As children in Amsterdam may be able to continue the same or similar curriculum as in their home country, international schools are often the best option for expats living in the city short term.

Parents should note that fees at these schools can be extremely high and space is limited. It's best that parents begin the application process well in advance.

Nurseries in Amsterdam

While education is only compulsory from age five, preschools abound in Amsterdam. Daycare centres, kindergartens and preschools are available, while childcare services, including playgroups, babysitters and au pairs, can also be found.

Toddlers from as young as three months can attend daycare, while kids aged two to four attend preschool. In Amsterdam, the fees for 16 hours of preschool a week may depend on parental income.

Special-needs education in Amsterdam

Expat families will find inclusive education is valued in both public and private schools. Newly arrived expat families in Amsterdam are advised to enquire with the local municipality on the best fit for their specific needs. Parents can also find support groups online or through schools and local organisations.

Many schools in Amsterdam offer specialised services to integrate students with disabilities or disorders into mainstream classes.

Additionally, two types of schools cater specifically to special education needs: speciaal basisonderwijs (SBO) and speciaal onderwijs schools. SBO programmes are similar to mainstream curricula, but provide specific support services. Speciaal onderwijs schools are split into distinct clusters, based on the student's type of care needs: visual impairments, hearing or speech impediments, physical or cognitive disabilities, and behavioural or social problems.

Homeschooling in Amsterdam

Children must attend school in the Netherlands from ages five to 16. Homeschooling is not legal in the country, other than under specific exceptions. We recommend parents address their concerns about distance learning and homeschooling with the local municipality. Reaching out via social media to the expat community in Amsterdam can also be helpful when looking for resources on homeschooling.

Tutors in Amsterdam

Finding a tutor in Amsterdam should not be too hard. Online platforms make the search easy, while expats can also go through private tutoring companies.

Foreigners, both children and adults, may benefit from the services of a tutor. While English is widely spoken in Amsterdam, expats may be interested in learning Dutch, and a private tutor can help new arrivals overcome any culture shock or language barriers.

Expats will have access to a good selection of international schools in Amsterdam. These schools offer the curriculum of a particular country or organisation, either in English or in the language of the school's country of origin. 

International schools give expat children the possibility of continuing with a familiar curriculum taught in their home language. This can go a long way in smoothing the adjustment period after moving to the Netherlands. Studying at an international school can also ease future transfers to other schools with the same curriculum, should the child return home or move to another country.

See some of Amsterdam's most reputable international schools below.

International schools in Amsterdam

Amsterdam International Community School 

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Ages: 4 to 18
Website: www.aics.espritscholen.nl

British School of Amsterdam 

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE and A-levels
Ages: 3 to 18
Website: www.britams.nl

Amsterdam offers a wonderfully diverse selection of leisure and lifestyle activities. With world-class restaurants and shopping, renowned entertainment options and annual events, expats will have no problem settling into their new lives.

Numerous nationalities make up the city's cosmopolitan atmosphere, but most people speak English, making communication much easier. Amsterdam offers plenty of entertainment for single expats and those with families.

Active expats and sports fans won't have trouble finding the right gym or perfect area for jogging, as sports and fitness are a big part of Amsterdam's lifestyle.

Shopping in Amsterdam

When it comes to shopping in Amsterdam, the city has everything expats could want, including international brand outlets, antique stores, exclusive boutiques, contemporary Dutch design and street markets.

Although the concept of shopping malls is not very popular in the Netherlands, there are a few compact shopping areas in Amsterdam. Many roads in the city centre are closed to cars, making the shopping experience even better.

Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat feature familiar high-street brands; The 9 Little Streets (De Negen Straatjes) are packed with vintage shops and boutiques; trendy Haarlemmerstraat and Haarlemmerdijk have a mixture of shops and restaurants; Pieter Cornelisz Hooftstraat, in the museum district, has luxury shopping; and Spiegelkwartier is good for art and antiques.

Those looking for an authentic experience can also explore independent designer shops dotted all over the city.

Eating out in Amsterdam

Although Dutch cuisine isn't as famous as French or Italian food, a mixture of international restaurants in Amsterdam reflects its diverse population. There is a great variety to choose from, with everything from Indonesian, Surinamese, Indian and Japanese to North African, Turkish and Eastern European cuisine.

The prices fit any kind of pocket, from affordable fast food chains and street-side herring shops to Michelin-starred restaurants. Expats may want to avoid the tourist areas when selecting a restaurant, since many have inflated prices without the quality to match, but there are a few gems among them.

Some of the best areas to search for food include Haarlemmerstraat, Nieuwmarkt, Utrechtsestraat, the 9 Streets area and Reguliersdwarsstraat.

The only downside to eating in Amsterdam is the famously poor service, which can be quite jarring for anyone used to the more polite treatment. With a few notable exceptions, most establishments provide good food but not much in the way of staff friendliness. As always, a smile and a nice word can go a long way towards warming up the atmosphere, but expats shouldn't take it personally if it isn't reciprocated.

Nightlife in Amsterdam

Amsterdam's nightlife is anything but boring, and expats can spend a night as quietly or as wildly as they wish.

There are many bars and traditional Dutch pubs known as 'brown cafés' which have a good selection of beers. Numerous clubs await dance lovers wanting to party until morning. The main spots to spend a night out include Leidseplein, Rembrandtplein, the Jordaan and the Red-Light District, although this last one can be overcrowded by tourists. These areas are packed with bars, live music venues and nightclubs.

Sports and fitness in Amsterdam

The Dutch value a healthy lifestyle, especially in the nation's capital. Fitness in Amsterdam is closely intertwined with the simple act of living. For instance, most people ride their bikes to work to start the day off with a boost of energy. For expat fitness fanatics that need more, there are many options. Expats in Amsterdam can join a gym, take up a team sport, dance, yoga or Pilates classes, or enjoy what nature has to offer in terms of outdoor sports.

Many gyms in Amsterdam cater to different clientele at different price ranges. High-end gyms offer group lessons, state-of-the-art equipment, swimming pools, saunas and even babysitting areas where members can drop the kids while they work out. They usually have several membership options which give variable access to their facilities.

The prospect of joining a team sport may be more appealing to expats who don't fancy joining a gym. Volleyball, football, field hockey and rowing are all highly popular in Amsterdam, but finding the right club may be difficult because the information is generally in Dutch.

The official 'I Amsterdam' website is a good point of reference, as it lists clubs that specifically cater to expats. Team sports are fun and can also be a good way to meet new people. Places such as the Amsterdam Dance Center offer classes in various styles from classical ballet and jazz to hip hop and breakdancing. Salsa and Zumba lessons are also popular.

Amsterdam offers many options for outdoor sports, mainly in the warmer months of the year. The Vondelpark and Westerpark are great for jogging, power walking or even inline skating. When expats settle into their life in Amsterdam, they may decide to buy or rent a bike. This is not only one of the best and most popular ways of getting around in Amsterdam but is also a way to keep fit.

See and do in Amsterdam

With so much to see and do in Amsterdam, expats will have a great time exploring and finding their way around the city's canal-lined streets. Below are some of the most popular attractions in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam coffee shops

An iconic part of the city. A trip to one of Amsterdam's coffee shops, where marijuana-based products are available, is an essential part of living in this city, even for expats who don't partake in any of the 'activities'.

Amsterdam Museum

Learn about the city's past as this museum covers Amsterdam's development from a small medieval settlement on the river to the modern, thriving metropolis it is today.

Anne Frank House

The older kids will enjoy stepping inside the home of Anne Frank, viewing the original diary she wrote over two years, and learning more about the horrors of World War II in Amsterdam, where anti-Semitism and Nazi persecution were part of daily life.

ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo

Expat families can have a fun day out at the ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo, with educational tours of the aquarium, planetarium and arboretum.

Red-Light District (De Wallen)

Most residents have visited the Red-Light District at least once, even if just to say they've seen it. It offers more than just bright lights, scantily clad ladies in the windows, throngs of tourists and canals. Expats and tourists are also recommended to pay a visit to the area's breweries and museums.

Van Gogh Museum

Housing several hundred paintings and drawings by Van Gogh, all new residents of Amsterdam should see the iconic artist's work in person.

What's on in Amsterdam

There are many great festivals and celebrations that have put the Dutch capital on the map. Here are just a few of the most popular annual events in Amsterdam.

Keukenhof (March to May)

Each year during the spring months, the world's largest garden and tulip flower park explode with colour and its beautiful tulips attract more than a million visitors. The themed gardens, sculptures and children's exhibitions provide a great day out for the whole family.

King's Day (April)

Expats shouldn't be alarmed when they see people wearing orange crowns in the streets; it's just the annual celebration of the King's birthday. Don a crown, dress in orange and enjoy the street party, jumble sales and festivities.

Holland Festival (June)

Each year, the country's most exciting dancers, artists and shows can be found at the Holland Festival. Expats who book a ticket will be supporting local artists while taking in some Dutch culture and artistic innovation.

Amsterdam Gay Pride (August)

Amsterdam is known for hosting one of the best Pride parties in the world. Celebrations take place over two weeks, with street parties, concerts, the Drag Queen Olympics and the Canal Parade.

Amsterdam Marathon (October)

This annual running event is known for its scenic course along the Amstel River and for passing famous Dutch landmarks before finishing at the Olympic Stadium.

Expats moving to Amsterdam often have various questions about their new home. New arrivals to the city are sometimes caught off guard by the liberal atmosphere, and learning the language can also be a concern. Read on for answers to the most frequently asked questions about living in Amsterdam. 

Is a car necessary in Amsterdam?

There is a plethora of public transport options in Amsterdam, including buses, trams and a metro system, so expats won't need a car. It's a cyclist-friendly city with numerous dedicated bicycle paths, and cycling is often the easiest and cheapest way to get around in Amsterdam.

Do expats need to speak Dutch in Amsterdam?

For expats staying for the long term who want to become friends with locals, learning the language is important. While most of the Dutch are able to speak English, speaking to them in their home language will go a long way to earning their respect. It's also important for people doing business to speak the local language, unless they're based in an English-speaking office.

Is Amsterdam safe?

Amsterdam is generally safe but expats should beware of people who brush against others in crowds – it’s possible that they're pickpockets searching for valuables. Bicycle theft is also a big issue and cyclists should make sure their bikes are securely locked when they park them. It's best to be sensible and take the same safety precautions as in any other large city.

What are Amsterdam's best neighbourhoods to stay in?

Most expats agree that most areas and suburbs of the city have something unique and special to offer. However, an expat's choice of accommodation may depend on budget, lifestyle and whether they moved as a family or on their own. Those who are keen for the hustle and bustle – and can afford it – may find an apartment in Amsterdam Centrum, while Indische Buurt presents more affordable options. Oud-West and Amsterdam-Zuid are popular among expat families.

Getting around in Amsterdam is easy thanks to its extensive public transport system consisting of buses, trams, trains and a metro.

The road signage is clear, abundant and helpful in traffic for pedestrians, drivers and cyclists alike. All bus and tram stations have maps, schedules and lists of stops.

Public transport in Amsterdam

Amsterdam's public transport is based on zones, and costs get higher with distance, especially when crossing zones. There is an equal base price for any trip, and additional costs are added to that.

The OV-chipkaart smartcard system can be used for payment on all kinds of public transport in Amsterdam. There are different types of subscriptions available, ranging from daily to yearly options.

It’s important that expats remember to check in and out with their cards when getting on and off public transport. This is done by holding their OV card up to the card readers when they board and get off.

With the help of an app such as Google Maps, navigating Amsterdam's public transport is made easy.

Trams and buses

An extensive tram network covers central Amsterdam, with trams arriving frequently and reliably. However, during peak traffic times, this can be a slow way to travel.

The bus network in Amsterdam mostly covers the city’s periphery and extends beyond it to other cities. Some streets are only covered by buses.

Day buses and trams stop running around midnight, after which night buses take over on some routes. Night bus tickets are pricier and waiting times are longer than for daytime transport.

Metro

The metro system in Amsterdam is well maintained, but isn’t as extensive as trams or buses and doesn't cover the whole city. It is, however, the fastest way to get around.

Train

Trains in Amsterdam are useful for regional and international travellers, with the line connecting central Amsterdam to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol being especially popular. There are also trains linking Amsterdam to surrounding Dutch towns as well as international destinations such as Belgium, France and Germany.

Taxis in Amsterdam

Cycling in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a bicycle-friendly city and cycling is one of the best ways to get around. The so-called bakfiets are popular – these cargo bicycles have an open or enclosed box that’s used to carry children, pets and shopping bags.

While bikes are available for rent, expats who choose to buy a bicycle usually agree it's a good investment. Both first and second-hand bikes can be found for sale.

Walking in Amsterdam

Walking around Amsterdam is easy. It isn’t a big city, and most of the time the distance between places can be covered on foot.

When they’re walking, expats should make sure they don’t confuse cycle paths with the sidewalk or pavement. This is a common mistake newcomers make. The difference between the two is always the colour used for the pavement. Cycle paths are usually crimson or marked with a bicycle sign. Expats should look out for these signs, as cyclists are generally in a hurry and don't stop for anyone, which leads to collisions.