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The Localist
How To Spend
Life

How To Spend: 47 Hours 58 Minutes in Amsterdam

The Hoxton has launched Flexy Time. You can now check in and check out whenever you like. For free. Don’t know what to do with all that extra time? Let a few of our fave locals show you around with our 48-hour city guide by Amsterdam Brand Manager Michel Bruynseels.

Everyone is probably familiar with all the big (and overcrowded) museums in Amsterdam. I am not saying that you shouldn’t visit them at all, but why not try out a new exciting one that is a bit more off-route. Head along to Het Hem situated in a former munitions factory in Zaandam – just outside of the city. It’s just a 20-minute trip on the ferry and they switch up their exhibitions every season, so there’s always something new to see.

 

When back in Amsterdam, take a stroll around the Red Light District. It might feel a bit touristy, but there are definitely some hidden gems to be found. Redlight Records is one such place. A record store housed in a former prostitution window next to the old church, it’s a must for vinyl junkies. Head here to pick up vintage disco and jazz gems.

Two people in Het Hem, Amsterdam
• Het Hem

If you need some fresh air and a recharge, follow the locals to Het Amsterdamse Bos AKA The Amsterdam Forest. It’s three times bigger than NYC’s Central Park, with zoos, a rowing course, playgrounds and many monuments. It’s especially pretty during cherry blossom season, but is great to visit all year round.

Amsterdam Canal Houses with light blue car in foreground
Amsterdam canal

Want to make a night of it? Avoid central spots such as Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein (unless you want to dance to the music of Jason Derulo) and instead head to Radio Radio in Westerpark. It’s Amsterdam’s hottest nightspot, set on a historical site which has been transformed into a lively cultural village. Every night’s the same deal: Two brilliant DJs play electronic sets all night long.

Sore head? Fix it with some good ol’ American pancakes. At MOAK, they have a deep understanding of what you need when hungover. Order up with a side of bacon while listening to throwback hip-hop and R&B. Make some Insta-worthy pictures of your pancake stack while throwing back fresh juices. And all will be well again.

 

For the final hours of your stay, visit Amsterdam North. This area changes so rapidly it’s hard to keep up. The old factories-turned-bars, great parks, and free ferry ride from Central Amsterdam are attractions all on their own. Along the bankside of Het IJ, you’ll find FC Hyena, a cute and super chill cinema screening all the best indie movies – in English! Plus, its restaurant has great views of the city.

 

Obviously, Amsterdam offers so much more than can be crammed into 48 hours, so consider this a taster.

FC Hyena front
• FC Hyena
Herengracht street sign
• Herengracht
Colourful chairs in the hotel lobby in Amsterdam Seen enough?

Why not book a stay in

Amsterdam?

Head to The Hoxton, Amsterdam

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