The Fam Conquers Amsterdam
✈️ Tips & Tales from a New Year’s Adventure
If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam—especially in winter—don’t let the rain scare you off. We visited over New Year’s as a family with 2 teens, and despite the daily drizzle, we were completely charmed by the city.
🛬 Arrival & Where to Stay
We arrived in the morning and took an Uber from Schiphol Airport, which was quick and easy—but taxis were also readily available. For clients, I highly recommend having a private car service arranged ahead of time. After a long flight, it’s just easier—especially with luggage and jet lag.
We stayed in the Museumplein area, right next to Vondelpark, and found it a perfect base. If you’re more interested in the Jordaan district’s charming canals and cafes, you might consider staying closer to that side of town—it was the furthest walk we had during the entire trip.
🚤 Easing Into Day One (Jet Lag & All)
After dropping off luggage around 10 AM, I chose a 90-minute covered boat tour to ease into our first day. It was a cozy, low-effort way to get oriented (even if I can’t remember much of what the guide said—thank you, jet lag).
Next up: a food tour. I had high hopes, thinking it would ease the burden of navigating unfamiliar menus, but unfortunately, it missed the mark. More on that below.
🎆 Pro Tip: If you're visiting over New Year’s Eve, be aware that fireworks are everywhere and go off at all hours. We were back at the hotel before midnight, but the street celebrations made sleep a challenge. Steve found some bubbly in the mini-bar, and we had a quick family toast at midnight before attempting to get back to sleep.
🧭 Planning the Days
I kept the next morning quiet with only one major activity: Anne Frank House at 2 PM. It was a smart move. Everyone appreciated the slow start, and Avery and Steve ventured out early to find coffee and pastries.
⭐ Trip Highlights (Don’t Miss These!)
Light Festival Boat Cruise (Nighttime): An absolute highlight. The winter light installations are stunning, and our captain made the evening extra memorable. I’ll be recommending him to future clients.
Rijsttafel at Kartika (Indonesian Feast): Phenomenal! A must-try. Let me know if you need the address.
Local “Brown Cafe” Experience: We loved relaxing in a cozy neighborhood pub just a few steps from our hotel. Steve tried a “kopstootje” (beer + genever shot)—bonus if you find a spot serving it the traditional way.
Albert Cuyp Market: Worth a half-day wander. Tons of local street food. Fresh stroopwafels changed my mind about this snack for good!
Anne Frank House (with Intro Lecture): Book early—tickets sell out quickly. The optional 45-minute pre-tour talk provided important context and made the visit more meaningful. Be aware: the space is small, crowded, and includes steep staircases.
👎 What We’d Skip Next Time
Food Tour: Sadly, this wasn’t a fit for us. Too many sweets, not enough substance, and awkward meal timing. A pub-food style tour might’ve been better. That said, the group and guide were great—just not the right vibe for us.
Late-Day Rijksmuseum Visit: Big mistake. It was packed by the time we arrived. Crowds made it hard to enjoy the art, and we were too tired to really take it in. Also, only two audio guides for four of us was plenty—we wouldn’t have gotten much more out of having one each.
🧳 Final Thoughts & Travel Agent Tips
Amsterdam is a walkable, welcoming city with great public transport, but strategic planning can make your visit far more enjoyable:
Book Anne Frank House early (exactly 6 weeks out)
Schedule lighter activities for arrival day
Reserve dinners at popular spots ahead of time
If traveling over New Year’s, be aware of firework intensity
Consider staying near Museumplein or Jordaan depending on interests
As always, I’m happy to help with flight bookings, hotel recommendations, transit tips, and curated tours. Amsterdam is a city we’d happily visit again—and I’d love to help you make the most of it.