9 Sneaky Amsterdam Tourist Traps: Don’t Fall for These!

Amsterdam, a city renowned for its picturesque canals, vibrant culture, and rich history, can sometimes be a labyrinth filled with tourist traps. To truly enjoy your visit, you need to know what to avoid. For instance, the Red Light District might catch your eye, but it’s often overcrowded and can be a letdown with its overpriced eateries and tacky souvenir shops.

Another spot to approach cautiously is the Anne Frank House. While it holds immense historical value, the lines can be unbearably long if you arrive mid-day.

Instead, consider booking tickets online or visiting early in the morning to skip the wait. Finally, be wary of dining options in heavily tourist areas like the Canal District. Many eateries there are overpriced and cater primarily to tourists, lacking authentic Dutch charm.

Exploring Amsterdam can be far more enjoyable when you sidestep these common pitfalls. By choosing less crowded, more authentic experiences, you’ll get a genuine feel for this magical city. Keep reading to discover more insider tips to help you navigate Amsterdam like a savvy local.

Amsterdam Tourist Traps to Avoid

1. Overpriced Restaurants

Amsterdam has its fair share of restaurants that cater to tourists by charging sky-high prices. It’s easy to fall into these traps if you’re not careful. Here are a few tips on avoiding the most overpriced spots.

Restaurants in the Canal District

The Canal District is beautiful, but it’s also a hotspot for overpriced meals. Many restaurants here cater to tourists who are willing to spend top dollar for a view. Instead, explore side streets and find local eateries that offer better value.

Leidseplein’s Neon Lit Barsv

Leidseplein is filled with flashy bars and restaurants. Most of them are quite expensive and offer little in return. If you find yourself there, opt for De Balie, an exception to the rule with reasonable prices.

Dam Square Eateries

Dam Square is a central and very touristy area. Restaurants here often mark up prices significantly. Walking a few blocks away is better for finding reasonably priced dining options.

Rembrandtplein Restaurants

Rembrandtplein is another popular spot with many premium restaurants. Avoid these traps and instead look for charming brown cafés with wooden interiors. They are more authentic and less expensive.

Practical Tips

• Ask the Locals. Locals can point you toward hidden gems where you can get a decent meal without the tourist markup.
• Check Menus: Many restaurants display their menus outside. A quick check can save you from overpriced meals.
• Use Apps: Apps like Yelp or Google Maps can be great for finding well-reviewed but affordable places to eat.

See Related: Amsterdam on a Budget: Free and Low-Cost Activities for Travelers

2. Canal Boat Tours

When you’re in Amsterdam, canal boat tours seem like a fantastic idea. I get it—you envision picturesque canals, charming houses, and that quintessential Dutch vibe.

These tours typically last 1 to 2 hours. Basic sightseeing cruises run for about 60-75 minutes, while those with food or drink onboard can last 90-120 minutes.

There are pros and cons. The unique view from the water is definitely a plus.

You can see the beautiful canal houses and understand some of Amsterdam’s rich history. But, many of these tours can be expensive. They might also involve listening to pre-recorded, often dull commentary blaring through speakers.

Some Tips

1. Check Reviews: Make sure you choose a highly-rated tour to avoid boredom.
2. Avoid Peak Times: Try to go early in the day or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds.
3. Smaller Boats: Choose smaller, more personal boat tours for a better experience.

Alternatives

If crowded boats and generic commentary don’t appeal to you, consider exploring the canals in other ways. Renting a small boat or joining a private, quieter tour can be a great way to see the city more intimately.

Consider local breweries like Brouwerij de Prael or Brouwerij ‘t IJ, which offer fantastic tours and tastings, and you can always hop on a canal cruise later if you still feel like it!

3. Souvenir Shops

Walking around Amsterdam, you’ll see tons of souvenir shops everywhere. Most sell similar items like magnets, T-shirts, and wooden clogs. It feels like they’re practically on every corner, right?

Resist the urge to buy from the first shop you see. These tourist-centric shops often have higher prices and lower quality. Picture this: You grab a “handmade” windmill keychain and later find a “Made in China” sticker on the back.

Look for authentic stores that offer unique Dutch items. The Mouse Mansion store is one example.

It’s whimsical and full of character, and you can find delightful dioramas. The products feel special, something you don’t get with mass-produced trinkets.

A little tip: Head to local markets like the Albert Cuyp Market. Here, you’ll find better prices and truly Dutch handmade goods. Plus, bargaining makes the whole experience much more fun and interactive.

If you’re on a tram, take it to less touristy areas. Neighborhoods away from the city center often have hidden gems—shops selling authentic, stylish souvenirs.

Consider taking a tram ride to De Pijp or Jordaan. These areas have a more local vibe and unique finds.

Lastly, always check the quality before you decide to buy. Don’t be shy. Touch the items and inspect them.

Cheap plastic flowers? No, thanks. Handmade ceramics?

Much better. Keep your souvenir shopping savvy; you’ll bring home memories, not just stuff.

4. Nightlife Spots

Be wary of well-known tourist traps when searching for a place to enjoy Amsterdam’s nightlife. The Red Light District is often touted as a vibrant nightlife area. However, it’s mostly full of overpriced bars and subpar fast food, making it more of a spectacle for tourists than a place locals genuinely frequent.

Another spot to avoid is Leidseplein. While it might seem fun with its flashy lights and street performers, many bars and clubs here charge high prices for average experiences. It’s also crowded, making it hard to fully enjoy your evening.

Instead, try heading to De Pijp. This area is less touristy and full of local bars where you can truly experience the city’s culture. A personal favorite of mine is Cafe Lounge. Here, you relax in a cozy setting with friendly locals.

If you’re looking for live music, check out Paradiso or Melkweg. These venues offer performances from various genres and have a more authentic vibe than the tourist-heavy spots.

For a more relaxed evening, the Jordaan neighborhood is filled with charming pubs and small cafes. A place worth visiting is Cafe Thijssen. Tucked into a quieter area, it provides a calm atmosphere perfect for a laid-back drink.

Ask locals where they like to hang out to make the most of your Amsterdam nightlife. This way, you’ll find hidden gems and avoid the places designed to trap tourists.

And remember, it’s about quality, not just what looks trendy. Enjoy exploring!

See Related: A Local’s Guide to Amsterdam’s Seasonal Highlights: What to Do Year-Round

5. Street Performers

Street performers are common in Amsterdam, especially in areas like Dam Square and Leidseplein. You’ll see everything from musicians and magicians to living statues. While this can add to the city’s charm, some performances are set up to be tourist traps.

Many performers depend on crowd donations. They might put on a dazzling act to draw you in, only to aggressively ask for money afterward. This can feel uncomfortable if you’re not prepared.

Living statues are a big one here. Some will hold super still until you drop coins in their hat, then move slightly or pose for a photo. It’s a neat trick, but often not worth what they try to squeeze out of you.

A tip: If you’re interested, watch from a distance first to gauge whether it’s worth staying for. If they start passing a hat around or asking for tips too aggressively, it’s probably best to move on.

Musicians can be another mixed bag. You might hear beautiful melodies, but sometimes, they aim to sell CDs or snag large tips. Again, it’s fine to enjoy them but keep a wary eye out if they get pushy.

Some of these acts can be fun and add to the city’s experience. Be mindful, and don’t feel pressured to stay or contribute if it’s not your thing. Your time and money are valuable—spend them wisely.

6. Museums

Amsterdam has its share of tourist traps when it comes to museums. To help you make the most of your visit, here are a few to think twice about:

1. Madame Tussauds: Sure, it has wax figures of celebrities, but you can find them in many big cities. It’s often crowded, and the tickets are pricey. You’re better off spending that money on something uniquely Dutch.
2. Amsterdam Dungeon: This place promises a spooky historical experience but feels more like a theme park attraction than a genuine historical tour. Plus, the lines can be long, and the scares are mild.

3. The Sex Museum: This one often gets mixed reviews. It might seem quirky, and it’s certainly unique, but it can be a bit gimmicky. You might find exploring the city’s history and culture more fun.

Not every famous spot is a trap.

Alternative Museums Worth Your Time:

• Van Gogh Museum: Stunning. You get to see the world through Van Gogh’s eyes.
• Rijksmuseum: A true classic. Art and history lovers can spend hours here.
• Anne Frank House: The lines are long but worth it. A deeply moving experience.

Here’s a quick table to summarize:

When visiting Amsterdam, choose places that offer genuine experiences over tourist traps. Enjoy the city’s rich culture and history!

7. Bike Rentals

Renting a bike in Amsterdam can be a fun way to explore the city, but watch out for a few pitfalls. First, bike rental prices vary a lot. You can expect to pay around €11 for nine hours or €15.50 for 24 hours. These prices can add up if you plan to rent over multiple days, so keep that in mind.

If you’re uncomfortable biking in busy cities, think twice before renting. Biking in Amsterdam is intense, especially during rush hour (8:00 AM-9:00 AM and 5:00 PM-6:00 PM). The streets can get crowded with cyclists, making it tricky for newcomers.

Bike equipment matters, too. Ensure your rental has a good lock, lights, and a bell.

These are crucial for navigating safely and securing your bike. Remember, bike theft is a common issue in Amsterdam.

Most rental shops are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, so plan accordingly. For example, a popular shop is located at Valkenburgerstraat 210. Knowing the opening hours can save you from last-minute frustrations.

One neat trick is to look for bike rental shops further away from major tourist spots. They often offer better prices and less crowded pick-up points.

Lastly, keep an eye on tram tracks. They can be dangerous for bikes, causing you to slip if you’re not careful. Always cross tram tracks at a sharp angle to avoid accidents.

Renting a bike can be enjoyable and convenient, but you should be cautious and prepared. Happy cycling!

8. City Tours

Amsterdam offers many city tours, but some can be total traps. Big tour companies often promise an authentic experience, but you might end up feeling like you’re just another tourist in the herd.

Walking tours in the Red Light District can be especially disappointing. They often skim the surface and drag you through crowded streets. Plus, they can feel a bit intrusive to the locals.

Consider local guides for a more personal touch. Websites like Withlocals connect you with Amsterdam natives who offer private tours. This way, you get interesting stories and hidden gems without the mass-tourist vibe.

Bike tours can be hit or miss, too. Large groups with dozens of bikes make it hard to navigate. Also, watch out for the companies that just take you to the popular spots.

Instead, look for small group tours or even rent a bike and explore at your own pace. Amsterdam is best seen when you’re free to wander off the beaten path.

Some tours offer boat rides through the canals. The big, flashy boats can be overcrowded with pre-recorded audio guides. Opt for smaller or private boat services for a more personal touch.

To get a genuine feel of the city, think like a local. Public transport, such as trams and buses, can be a fun way to see the city while avoiding the touristy crowds.

Every choice changes your experience, so think about what matters and make the most of your visit!

See Related: Solo Travel in Amsterdam: A Guide to Exploring the City Alone

9. Flower Market

In Amsterdam, the Flower Market might look like a colorful dream. It’s famous, yes, but often for the wrong reasons.

Most of the bulbs sold there are old and just won’t grow if you plant them. It sounds surprising, right? In 2022, the Amsterdam council tested the bulbs and found over 90% were too old.

It’s easy to be tempted by those beautiful rows of tulips. Just remember, tulip bulbs are only ready for sale from September onwards. Any time before that, you’ll likely be buying something past its prime.

Here’s a pro tip: Find a reputable garden center or a farmer’s market if you want quality flower bulbs. They usually have better options.

Alternatives to Flower Market:

• Albert Cuyp Market: Offers a mix of flowers, food, and other goods.
• Bloemenmarkt on Singel: While it also can be touristy, look for shops with fresh, seasonal stocks.

Trusting the wrong vendor might land you with bulbs that never bloom. So, watch out, and don’t be afraid to ask locals for their favorite spots. It might take a bit more effort, but finding fresh flowers can be much more satisfying.