As for someone living in this city it was for me quite surprised when I realized how often people search on google for “Is Amsterdam in Europe” For me, it has always been so obvious, but then I realized that I also have no idea where are some major cities in the world. That’s why I write this article. I would like to give you more insight into where is Amsterdam and how living here look like. So, is Amsterdam in Europe?
Yes, Amsterdam is located in the Northwest part of Europe. Amsterdam is a capital of the Netherlands and a city known for its culture, architecture, and tradition. Netherlands borders with Germany in the east and with Belgium in the south. On the north and west of the Netherlands, there is a Northern Sea.
So probably you are planning to visit Amsterdam. That’s why I would like to give you some overview of this city. I will explain some things that may be a bit confusing. For example, what is the difference between Holland and the Netherlands? I would also like to share how living in Amsterdam look from my perspective.
What is Amsterdam Known For?
Amsterdam is known for its architecture, these beautiful narrow houses, little streets, canals, and bridges. There are famous museums, such as the Van Gogh museum, Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank museum, Moco, Nemo, Tropenmuseum. For sure you’ve heard about legal cannabis and prostitution. Yes, that’s right, it’s here, but don’t get high immediately after you come to Amsterdam. There are plenty of cool things to do here and to be honest, you can have some weed anywhere in the world. That’s nothing fancy about it anymore. Amsterdam is also known for tulips, cheese, and bicycles. Did you know that there are more bicycles then habitats? Yes, there are few interesting facts when it comes to bikes in Amsterdam – Here you can find my article about fun facts about Amsterdam.
For sure you have heard about Dutch windmills. There are 8 windmills in Amsterdam and they are definitely worth visiting. Search for windmills on this blog and you’ll find an article where I describe all 8 windmills of Amsterdam.
Holland or Netherlands?
Yes, This may be a little bit confusing. Amsterdam is a city in the Netherlands, so-called Holland. Often you can see both of these names. It’s because they mean exactly the same. The Netherlands is the official name of the country, and the Netherlands is colloquially called Holland. You can use both and it’s totally fine.
You may wonder where the name Holland come from? Holland is actually a province in the Netherlands. There are two parts: North Holland and South Holland. Amsterdam is a city of the North Holland, but it’s not a capital of North Holland. The Capital of North Holland is Haarlem, a beautiful medieval city 15 minutes from Amsterdam. It’s one of my favorite cities in the Netherlands. If you plan to spend some more time in the Netherlands, Haarlem is definitely a place to be. Here you can read about my favorite things to do in Haarlem.
Amsterdam Weather
Most of the people will tell you that the weather in Amsterdam is terrible and it’s raining all of the time. I think Amsterdam has its image because Dutch people complain the whole time. In fact, they have over 20 words which mean rain… ;p Actually I like the Dutch weather a lot. In the summer, even when there are 30 degrees you can feel a fresh northern sea wind. Winters are not that cold and in general, it’s not raining as much. I would say, that the weather in the Netherlands is just perfect. There is never too warm and there is never too cold. The only complain I may have is wind. Sometimes, when it’s not even that cold, wind can make you freeze. It especially isn’t funny when you cycle. Then you have a feeling that you put all your energy into pedaling but you don’t move at all.
Amsterdam Population
In Amsterdam, there are people from over 180 countries. Isn’t that crazy? It’s especially surprising for me, a guy, who comes from the country where ethnic diversity doesn’t exist. Living in that diverse society is a great experience. It’s a learning experience every day. There are also many travelers coming to the Netherlands and this makes living here even more interesting.
What is Amsterdam Like?
Do you remember times when you were a child and you didn’t have to worry? Life was easy and people were kind. That’s how I feel when I cycle along canals, I meet people from all over the world or I drink my warming coffee in one of my favorite cafes. Amsterdam is a very unique place, which is a magnet for interesting people. Especially in the age of internet, it’s super easy to get to know new people, organize meetings and learn about cool places.
Are you coming to Amsterdam? I am sure it will be one of a kind experience. I came to the Netherlands for 3 weeks. It was 6 years ago. In short, I forgot to come back home. Still, after that long time, I smile like a child when I ride my bike. Maybe I am just different, but this is a place to different people, and for people who want to live, live to the fullest.
It depends what you like to do, how do you spend your free time and what do you do for a living, but this city is so diverse that anyone can find something for himself. It’s a city of students, artists, business, nightlife, freedom. Yes, freedom, that’s what I like the most. From my childhood, I remember that I was judged very often, actually most of the time. That’s what I like about Amsterdam. Noone judge you, you can be yourself, and that’s very important.
Where to Stay in Amsterdam?
I have a few favorite places to stay in Amsterdam, which get the best reviews and I know they provide high-quality services for a long time. So I can recommend you the following 4 places to stay.
- Vondelpark House B&B – I like B&B and this one if my favorite in Amsterdam. It has a perfect location in the city center LINK
- Mokum Suites – Canal ring is one of the most beautiful places in the Netherlands and these suites are located just there. These suites can be a little pricey, but a view on Herengracht is definitely worth it LINK
- Zoku – Zoku is my choice when it comes to work-life balance. It’s a hybrid between a hotel and a workspace. I believe that’s the future of working. If you work online, if you are a traveling nomad, or you just need to get some work done when traveling it’s a place to go LINK
- Flying Pig Downtown – My favorite hostel in Amsterdam. It’s very close to the city center and the prices are decent. There is a bar on the bottom floor. If you search for budget accommodation this is a place to go.LINK
Things to Do in Amsterdam
Everything depends on what you like to do in your free time. Because there are plenty of cool things to do in Amsterdam I created this ultimate list of 67 things to do in Amsterdam. Here is a Link. If there are some cool things that you can recommend, please share them with us, so we can try them and update this list.
Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting?
What do you expect me to say? I write a blog about this city, of course, I recommend you come to Amsterdam. For me, it’s one of the best places in the World. I haven’t been everywhere, but I just like it a lot, as you probably can see;)
This city is living and you can feel it. There are cool events happing each day, and you can meet very interesting people. I create content on a daily basis and for me the number of cafes, co-working spaces and other spots where you can sit, drink your coffee and get some work done is astonishing. You could go every day to another place and never get bored. I have some recommendation when it comes to co-working spaces in Amsterdam – LINK
Sum Up
So now you know that Amsterdam is a Dutch city in Europe. You have learned also some more information about this city. On this blog, you will find much more, and if you have any question please do not hesitate to ask me. I feel more than happy when I can share with you my experience about this city. If you have ever had a chance to visit Amsterdam, please share your experience!! 🙂
