Traditional Dutch houses along the canal in Amsterdam.

Cruises From Amsterdam

Cruises from Amsterdam offer the chance to explore a dynamic, vibrant city with a laid-back vibe. Take it. Go to the city center and stroll through top art museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. At Dam Square, walk in the steps of royalty at the Royal Palace before boating or biking through the fairytale-like Canal Belt. As you make your way through Amsterdam’s famed waterways, pick up Dutch tulips at Bloemenmarkt, a floating flower market then wander and window-shop de Jordaan. Sample bitterballen (Dutch meatballs) and stroopwafel (caramel wafer cookies) from street vendors before you cruise from Amsterdam.

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Things To Do In Amsterdam

De Gooyer Windmill

A visit to the De Gooyer Windmill is a must. You don’t have to travel to the countryside to see this 1725 beauty, one of only a handful of historic windmills that remain in the area, and the tallest in the country. Though you can’t go inside, enjoy beers and snacks in its shadow on the terrace of a nearby brewery that was once a bathhouse.

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a statue at the Anne Frank Museum in Amsterdam

Anne Frank House

A visit to the Anne Frank House is emotional and powerful. Anne Frank, her family, and four others hid from Nazis in this house’s secret annex for two years during World War II. An informant betrayed the group and they were ultimately captured and sent to concentration camps. Only Anne’s father survived. Her diary is displayed in a glass case, and artifacts and exhibits give broader context.

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Eye Film Institute

If you love cinematography, pop into the EYE Film Institute before your cruise from Amsterdam. Not only is it an archive, it acts as a venue to show films and a museum for associated media like posters and books. Watch classic movies in the screening room or grab a bite at the restaurant and enjoy views of the bustling city and river.

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Lord in the Attic Museum

Ssshhh… this canal house has a secret in its attic. What is it? An entire catholic church. The Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder, or Our Lord in the Attic, was one of the city’s secret Catholic churches from the era when the religion was banned after the Protestant Reformation. The church was built on the top floor of a canal house during the 1660s and became a museum after the ban was lifted and Catholics could worship openly.

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Royal Palace Museum

Walk in the footsteps of royal guests in Amsterdam’s Royal Palace, a Golden Age icon and the official reception palace of the Royal House. When it’s not being used to receive world leaders or for galas and awards ceremonies, the public is warmly welcome. Its vast halls and tremendous art collections tell the story of Amsterdam as a global powerhouse in the 17th century. Book a guided tour from an art historian to gain an in-depth look.

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Pancakes being made at the Lanskroom Bakery in Amsterdam

Lanskroon Bakery

When it comes to things to do in Amsterdam, sampling stroopwaffle—two thin waffle cookies with caramel in-between (syrup waffle)—should place high on the list. Though it is one of those treats that is universally loved no matter who makes it, Lanskroon Bakery gets high praise. The space is snug and it’s popular, so plan on getting your stroopwaffle to-go. If you do luck out and get a table, linger and sample the chocolate cake and cream.

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Acropolis

It’s impossible to miss the Parthenon, the majestic ruin rising above Athens. You’ll catch glimpses of it as you travel around the city. But to truly understand the significance of this 2,500-year-old symbol of ancient Greece, a trip up to the Acropolis—the high hill it sits on—is a must. The crowds at the Parthenon will be thick. Plan to visit early or late in the day.

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More Details About Cruise from Amsterdam

When was Amsterdam founded? October 27, 1275

Where is Amsterdam located? Amsterdam is located in the western part of the Netherlands

What is the population of Amsterdam? It is estimated to have a population of 1,149,000 in 2020

What language is primarily spoken? Dutch

What is the time zone of Amsterdam, Netherlands?  Central European Time (CET) and Central European Summer Time (CEST)
        GMT/UTC +1h during Central European Time
        GMT/UTC +2h during Central European Summer Time

What currency is used in Amsterdam, Netherlands? Euro (EUR )

How do I book a flight to Amsterdam? At Holland America we offer cruise travelers low prices on their flights. Please see more information on our Flight Ease program here.

Where should I stay when cruising from Amsterdam? We offer hotel packages to our already booked guests. For more information, visit our hotel packages and pre- or post-travel arrangements.

What are some of the top places to see in Amsterdam? Visit our Amsterdam port page for more information on our top travel recommendations.

What should I expect boarding to like for my cruise departing Amsterdam? Please visit our cruise preparation FAQ for information on how to access or print boarding passes, how to check in online, and to see if you need a passport.

Can I book an airport shuttle to my cruise departing Amsterdam? Book an airport transfer from the airport to your ship after you book a cruise with Holland America Line. We make getting to and from your cruise comfortable, convenient and hassle-free. For more information on EXC City Stays & Overland Tours, please visit here .

Are you an already booked guest with Holland America Line? For booked guests, please log in to see our travel planning details on how to book an airport transfer.

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