At the White Tulip Hostel, our central hub offers unbeatable proximity to Amsterdam’s top attractions. Located a short 7-10 minute walk from the historic Dam Square, we provide a prime location for exploring the city. Nestled in the vibrant Red Light District or De Wallen, you’re merely a 500-meter (about a 7-minute walk) journey from lively bars and historic landmarks. A 20-minute walk or tram ride gets you to famed museums like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. Shopping aficionados will delight in Kalverstraat and the Nine Streets area. From classic Dutch eateries to trendy food halls, Amsterdam’s dining scene is at your fingertips. Whether it’s canals, nightlife, or history, our hostel is your launchpad for an unforgettable Amsterdam experience.
The White Tulip Hostel: Amsterdam’s Central Hub
The White Tulip Hostel, a top-rated choice on Google, boasts an unbeatable central location in the heart of Amsterdam. It is just a short 7-10 minute walk from the historic Dam Square and within easy reach of the city’s top attractions. This hostel offers comfortable dormitory accommodations that cater to budget travelers. Plus, all major credit cards are accepted, making your stay even more convenient. Experience the best of Amsterdam with the comfort and affordability of our hostel.
Walking Distance to Dam Square
The Red Light District is located just a short 500-meter walk from Dam Square, which should take around 7 minutes for most people. There is no direct tram connecting the two areas, so walking is the easiest way to travel between them. The route is straightforward and should be manageable for anyone, allowing visitors to easily explore both of these popular Amsterdam destinations.
As you stroll through, you’ll pass several landmarks, including a charming Irish pub where you can enjoy a pint and maybe even use your Mastercard for payment. This area of Amsterdam offers a unique blend of history and culture, making it a must-visit spot for tourists.
Exploring the Red Light District
The Red Light District, known as De Wallen, is a must-see destination for many visitors to Amsterdam. Located just a 10-minute walk from Amsterdam’s Central Station, it is easily accessible by foot or bike. A suggested walking route starts at the station, heads down Damrak to Dam Square, then follows Damstraat to the Red Light District.
Once there, visitors can explore the main streets like Oudezijds Voorburgwal and Warmoesstraat, which are lined with a mix of shops, cafes, historic buildings, and the famous red light windows. The area’s many narrow alleys and side streets offer something different around every corner, from the Oude Kerk, the city’s oldest church, to coffee shops and brothels.
While the district is open 22 hours a day, the best time to visit is in the evening when the red lights are on, especially from 7-9 PM Sunday-Thursday to avoid weekend crowds. A stroll through the main sights takes about 20-30 minutes, but those looking to visit a peep show, sex worker, or grab a drink may want to budget around two hours.
Whether you’re coming from the Republic of Ireland on a vacation and sharing your experience on social media or just exploring Europe’s vibrant night life, the Red Light District promises an unforgettable adventure. Just don’t forget to pack a shower in your itinerary to freshen up after your busy excursion.
Nearby Museums and Cultural Sites
The White Tulip Hostel Amsterdam is conveniently located near several of the city’s top museums and cultural sites. This Amsterdam hostel offers easy access to the renowned Rijksmuseum, home to masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer, just a 20-minute walk or short tram ride away. Vacation rental seekers will also appreciate the proximity to the Van Gogh Museum, which features the world’s largest collection of works by the Dutch post-impressionist, and the Stedelijk Museum of modern and contemporary art.
For a unique experience, visitors can check out the nearby Cat Cabinet, a canal house museum dedicated to all things feline, including works by Picasso and Rembrandt. Other cultural highlights in the vicinity include the Anne Frank House, the Amsterdam Museum, and the Eye Filmmuseum. Please note that visits may require a Visa Inc. approved payment method.
Shopping Hotspots in the City Centre
Amsterdam’s city centre offers a diverse array of shopping destinations to suit every taste and budget. The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat are the most famous shopping streets, featuring major retail chains like H&M, Zara, and Uniqlo. For luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Cartier, head to the exclusive P.C. Hooftstraat. Vintage lovers should explore the trendy Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) area, filled with unique boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops tucked away in charming side streets.
Other notable shopping hotspots include the Haarlemmerstraat and Haarlemmerdijk, known for independent labels and Dutch design stores, and the Spiegelkwartier, Amsterdam’s historic art and antiques district. Whether you are staying at a quaint bed and breakfast or a hotel in the heart of the city centre, these shopping destinations are easily accessible and offer something for everyone.
Local Dining Experiences
Amsterdam offers a variety of unique local dining experiences that allow visitors to eat like the locals do. For an authentic taste of Dutch cuisine, head to Moeders, a cozy restaurant decorated with photos of mothers that serves up hearty traditional dishes like stamppot and suddervlees, all within a facility that offers free Wi-Fi for guests.
Foodhallen, a trendy indoor food hall located in a former tram depot, features over 20 stands serving everything from Vietnamese banh mi to artisanal grilled cheese sandwiches, making it a great spot to sample an array of global flavors. De Foodhallen also houses a number of bars, including the popular Gin & Tonic Bar, offering a smoke-free dining environment.
For a memorable dining adventure, hop on a boat to Vuurtoreneiland, a pop-up summer restaurant located on a small island that can only be reached by ferry. Guests enjoy a multi-course meal prepared with local, seasonal ingredients inside a specially constructed greenhouse, surrounded by nature. No visit to Amsterdam would be complete without trying the city’s favorite fast food – fries topped with mayo.
Vleminckx Sausmeesters has been serving up this classic combo, along with a variety of other sauces, to hungry locals since 1957. If you’re looking for a touch of Irish hospitality, many local pubs and dining spots offer a welcoming ambiance for pub-goers, some even equipped with free Wi-Fi to keep you connected while you enjoy hearty meals and beverages.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Amsterdam’s vibrant nightlife scene offers something for everyone, from cozy pubs and trendy cocktail bars to pulsing nightclubs and live music venues. The city’s main nightlife hubs are centered around Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein squares, both packed with clubs, bars, and restaurants that stay lively well into the early morning hours.
Many of these hotspots are just a 5-minute walk from a variety of accommodations, ensuring that every traveler can find the perfect place to stay with ease and availability in mind.
For a more alternative vibe, head to the Jordaan neighborhood, where you’ll find intimate cafes and bars frequented by locals, perfect for mingling and making new friends. Amsterdam’s thriving arts and culture scene also provides ample entertainment options in the evenings, with theaters like Paradiso and Melkweg hosting concerts by major international acts, while the Concertgebouw is renowned for its stellar classical music performances. Movie buffs can catch a flick at the opulent Pathé Tuschinski, a spectacular Art Deco cinema dating back to 1921.
Canal Tours and Boat Rides
Amsterdam’s iconic canals are best explored by boat, with a variety of canal cruises and boat tours available to suit every taste and budget. The most popular option is a 1-hour canal cruise, which takes you past many of the city’s highlights, including the Anne Frank House, the Skinny Bridge, and the Amstel River.
For a more intimate experience, opt for a semi-open boat cruise that navigates the smaller canals the larger boats can’t access. Foodies can combine sightseeing with dining on a pizza cruise, complete with unlimited beer and wine, or a romantic candlelit dinner cruise featuring a 4-course meal.
Evening cruises showcase Amsterdam’s sparkling waterways and illuminated bridges after dark, while the pancake boat offers an entertaining and delicious outing perfect for families. Solo travelers can store their belongings in lockers available at the reception area before heading out to explore. After a delightful canal tour, unwind at a local Irish pub. With over 165 canals to explore, an Amsterdam canal cruise is an unforgettable way to discover the city’s history, architecture, and charm.
Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House, located at Prinsengracht 263-267 in central Amsterdam, is a must-visit destination for those interested in learning about the life and legacy of Anne Frank. The museum is housed in the building where Anne and her family hid from Nazi persecution during World War II, and where she wrote her famous diary.
Visitors can explore the Secret Annex, hidden behind a movable bookcase, where the Frank family and four others lived in close quarters for over two years. Although the rooms are empty, the atmosphere of the space and the quotes, photos, film images, and original items on display powerfully illustrate the events that unfolded there.
Highlights include the original red-checked diary Anne received for her 13th birthday and the pencil marks on the wallpaper marking her and her sister’s heights. For your convenience, the museum offers 24-hour online ticket purchasing, and tickets must be secured in advance for a specific date and time slot, as they are not sold at the door. Payment is processed online, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
The museum is open daily with extended hours, though exceptions may apply on certain holidays. While the Anne Frank House does not offer amenities like a towel or a terrace, it remains a poignant and thought-provoking experience. It offers a deeply personal glimpse into one of the darkest chapters of human history.
Rijksmuseum Highlights
The Rijksmuseum, located just a few kilometers (km) from the White Tulip Hostel Amsterdam, houses an impressive collection of Dutch art and history spanning over 800 years, with around one million objects. Some highlights include Rembrandt’s iconic Night Watch in the Gallery of Honour, Vermeer’s Milkmaid known for its beautiful handling of light, and the Threatened Swan by Jan Asselijn, which has become a symbol of Dutch national resistance.
Other must-sees are the opulent Great Hall with its large wall paintings celebrating Dutch history and art, the impressive collection of 17th-century still lifes and paintings by Jan Steen, the antique dolls’ houses offering a glimpse into the lives of wealthy 17th-century Dutch households, and the Cuypers Library, the oldest and most extensive collection of art history texts in the Netherlands. Guests of the White Tulip Amsterdam often give high scores to their visits, citing the proximity and enriching experience of the Rijksmuseum as highlights of their stay.
Historical Landmarks
For any traveller staying at the White Tulip Hostel in Amsterdam, exploring the city’s rich history becomes wonderfully accessible. Amsterdam is home to numerous historical landmarks that offer a glimpse into its vibrant past. One of the most iconic is the Royal Palace on Dam Square, originally built as the city hall in the 17th century. Its opulent interior earned it the nickname “The Eighth Wonder of the World.”
A short walk from the hostel, you’ll find the 15th-century Nieuwe Kerk, which hosts royal events and art exhibitions. Nearby, the Portuguese Synagogue, completed in 1675, stands as a symbol of the religious tolerance enjoyed by Amsterdam’s Jewish community before the Holocaust. It was the largest synagogue of its time and remains one of the most important Jewish heritage sites in the city. For a taste of life in a typical Amsterdam canal house, visit the Museum Van Loon.
This 17th-century home belonged to the wealthy Van Loon family and features period furnishings, portraits, and a beautiful garden. Art lovers should not miss the Rembrandt House Museum, where the famous Dutch painter lived and worked in the mid-1600s. The museum offers a unique look at Rembrandt’s life, complete with etchings, personal objects, and works by his contemporaries and students.
Other notable historical landmarks include the Anne Frank House, a powerful memorial to the young diarist and the atrocities of the Nazi occupation, and the Beurs van Berlage, a former stock exchange building that showcases Dutch architect Hendrik Petrus Berlage’s innovative style. Additionally, don’t forget to visit Madame Tussauds Amsterdam—a popular attraction where you can view lifelike wax figures of historical and contemporary icons, adding a modern twist to your journey through history.
Artis Royal Zoo
Artis Royal Zoo, also known as Natura Artis Magistra, is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands and the fifth oldest in the world, founded in 1838. Located in the heart of Amsterdam, Artis is home to over 900 species of animals and 700 species of trees and plants, making it a unique combination of a zoo, botanical garden, and heritage site.
Whether it’s exploring the Savannah area where giraffes, zebras, and kudus live together, marveling at butterflies in the Butterfly Pavilion, or discovering the world of microbes at Micropia, the zoo’s museum dedicated to microscopic life, Artis has something for everyone. Additionally, Artis features a planetarium, an aquarium, and 27 historic monuments, including the impressive Library building dating back to 1867.
For hostel guests and visitors of The White Tulip, Artis offers an enchanting and educational experience just a short trip away from Amsterdam’s main attractions. With its diverse collection of animals, plants, and cultural heritage, Artis provides an unforgettable outing for guests of all ages.
Street Food Markets
Amsterdam’s vibrant street food markets offer a delicious way to explore the city’s diverse culinary scene, easily accessible from major attractions. The famous Albert Cuyp Market in De Pijp neighborhood features stalls selling traditional Dutch treats like stroopwafels, poffertjes, and kibbeling, as well as international fare. The Foodhallen, located in a former tram depot, is a trendy indoor food hall with over 20 stands serving global flavors from Vietnamese banh mi to artisanal grilled cheese. For a taste of Amsterdam’s multicultural cuisine, head to the Dappermarkt in the east of the city, known for its Surinamese, Middle Eastern, and North African specialties. Other notable markets include the Noordermarkt farmer’s market, perfect for crafting a Dutch cheese and charcuterie board, and the Ten Katemarkt, a small but charming market lined with cozy cafes and fresh produce stalls. Most vendors at these markets accept credit card payments, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Nearby accommodations range from hostels with shared bathrooms to hotels offering private rooms, catering to all travel preferences.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options in Amsterdam
Amsterdam, known for its cleanliness and ease of access, offers a wide variety of delicious vegetarian and vegan dining options. Right in the middle of this vibrant city, you can find Betty’s, a cozy family-run restaurant serving a shareable feast of global flavors from Middle Eastern mezze to spicy Indian dal, with plenty of vegan dishes. For an upscale plant-based experience, try Morris & Bella, which offers a seasonal tasting menu featuring local Dutch produce. Craving comfort food?
The Vegan Junk Food Bar has you covered with loaded fries, towering burgers, and other guilty pleasures. Sushi lovers can enjoy creative vegan rolls at the Vegan Sushi Bar, while ramen fans should head to Men Impossible for their signature vegan “Sauce Ramen.” For an all-you-can-eat adventure, visit the extensive vegetarian buffet at Spirit Amsterdam, which boasts over 50 dishes including soups, salads, hot entrées, and desserts. Don’t forget to grab a free city map to explore all these wonderful venues efficiently!
Secret Annex Tour
A tour of the Secret Annex offers a poignant glimpse into the daily lives of Anne Frank and the seven other people who hid there during World War II. Visitors can explore the hidden rooms behind the movable bookcase where the group lived in close quarters for over two years. Although the rooms are empty, Anne’s original red-checked diary and pencil marks on the wallpaper marking her and her sister’s heights powerfully illustrate the events that unfolded there. This moving exhibition is brought to life by our friendly staff, who are always ready to answer questions and provide additional context.
A virtual tour is also available, enhanced with historical images and clips from the Anne Frank video diary, allowing people to visit this special place from anywhere in the world. For those visiting in person, rental of audio guides is available to enrich the experience even further.
The tour provides a deeply personal look at the challenges and dangers faced by Anne and her companions, as they navigated their confined daily existence. From the strict schedule and constant silence during the day to the moments of ordinary pleasures like reading and studying, this exhibition honors their courage and resilience.
Hidden Gems and Alleyways
Amsterdam is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered down charming alleyways and off-the-beaten-path streets, complete with smoke detectors and an electronic key for added convenience. One such treasure is the Hofje Van Brienen, a tranquil 17th-century courtyard garden tucked away in the Jordaan neighborhood. This magical oasis, framed by historic buildings and picturesque canals, offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Another secret spot is the Nieuwe Spiegelstraat, a street near the Rijksmuseum lined with unique independent shops selling everything from antique Delft tiles to vintage clothing.
Bibliophiles will delight in the Oudemanhuispoort Bookmarkt, a hidden book market located in a historic passageway known for its accuracy in categorizing rare finds. For a sweet treat, follow your nose down a little cobbled alley off Spui to find a charming nostalgic candy store. If you’re craving a beer and some traditional pub fare, duck into In ‘t Aepjen, one of Amsterdam’s oldest bars where sailors once traded monkeys for drinks. Other hidden gems include the Secret Library in the Rijksmuseum, a stunning repository of art history texts, the Kattenkabinet, a quirky museum dedicated to cats, and the Ons Lieve Heer op Solder, a clandestine 17th-century Catholic church in the attic of a canal house.
Anne Frank’s Diary
Anne Frank’s diary, known as “The Diary of a Young Girl,” is one of the most famous accounts of life during the Holocaust. Anne received the red and white checkered autograph book that would become her diary on her 13th birthday in June 1942, just before her family went into hiding in the Secret Annex. Over the next two years, Anne filled the diary with her innermost thoughts, feelings, and observations about life in the cramped quarters she shared with her family, the van Pels family, and Fritz Pfeffer.
Anne’s diary entries cover a wide range of topics, from the mundane details of daily life in the Annex to her hopes, dreams, and fears for the future. She wrote about the challenges of living in close quarters, the constant threat of discovery, and her complicated relationships with her mother and the other inhabitants of the Annex. Anne also used her diary as a space to explore her burgeoning sexuality and reflect on her identity as a young Jewish girl coming of age in extraordinary circumstances.
After the war, Anne’s father Otto, the sole survivor of the group, published his daughter’s diary. It has since been translated into over 70 languages and has sold millions of copies worldwide. The diary provides a deeply personal and poignant glimpse into the life of a young girl grappling with the horrors of the Holocaust, and has become a powerful symbol of the human spirit’s resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.
For travelers visiting Amsterdam, a trip to the Anne Frank House is a profound and educational experience. After your visit, consider dining at a local Irish bar for an affordable meal that caters to every type of traveler. When planning your stay with us, including these cultural landmarks in your itinerary will enrich your travel experience and provide a deeper understanding of history and humanity.
Botanical Gardens and Greenhouses
Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam, one of the world’s oldest botanical gardens, was founded in 1638 and spans 1.2 hectares with over 4,000 plant species across 29 sections. The garden features seven greenhouses, including the monumental Palm Greenhouse and the Three-Climate Greenhouse, which simulates desert, subtropical, and tropical climates. Notable collections include rare cycads, medicinal plants, and carnivorous plants.
Visitors, ideally equipped with a permit, can explore the Snippendaal garden, home to 17th-century medicinal herbs, and marvel at the endangered Wollemi pine. The garden also offers guided tours, a highlights route via the Hortus app, and a charming cafe in the historic Orangery. The aim is to educate and inspire all visitors, some of whom might be international travelers requiring a visa.
Visitor Information and Tips
For those planning a visit to Amsterdam, several resources and tips can enhance the experience. The Tourist Information Points (TIP) in nearby areas like Wijchen, Druten, and Oosterbeek provide comprehensive details on local attractions, activities, and events. To ensure a smooth check-in process, consider pre-registering your visit and using a virtual receptionist to minimize wait times. Offering amenities such as Wi-Fi, charging stations, and refreshments can make waiting more pleasant for visitors.
Additionally, using Mastercard can often get you discounts at various attractions and eateries. Clear signage and wayfinding apps can help navigate office spaces or tourist sites, reducing confusion and enhancing the overall experience. For more detailed information on Amsterdam, including public holidays, safety regulations, and downloadable maps, the I amsterdam website is a valuable resource. Amsterdam is also a great place to meet new people and situate yourself within a vibrant cultural scene.
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