Netherlands’ capital city charms with picturesque canals, bridges and more bikes than people. A dreamy tourist destination, Amsterdam offers world-class art and rich history. Agriculture, energy, chemicals, technology, tourism, logistics, and life sciences and health are key industries.
Airports
Amsterdam Airport Schipol (AMS) is the Netherlands’ main international airport and is located approximately 22 km (13.6 miles) from the city center.
Know before you go
Time zone: Central European Summer Time (CEST)
Currency: Euro (€) (US$1=€0.91)
Languages spoken: Dutch
Getting Around
Taxis are readily available outside of the airport’s arrivals hall. By taxi, the trip into the city takes 15 minutes. Expect to pay €40 –€50 (US$43.92-54.90) for the ride
Getting to the city by train takes 15-20 minutes. The station is located directly under the airport and trains run 24 hours a day. A one-way ticket from the Schipol station to Amsterdam Central is €4.50 (US$4.94). Visit the NS train website to plan trips beyond the city center.
Ridesharing is an option. Uber is typically cheaper than a taxi in Amsterdam.
Accommodations
Kimpton De Witt Amsterdam
Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 5, 1012 Cc Amsterdam; Ph: +31 (0)20 620 0500
Live like a local in this city center location. Step outside to start exploring canals, scenic streets and historic buildings.
Workspaces
Work efficiently and hassle free at Tribes Amsterdam Amstel Station, which boasts fast Wi-Fi, an outdoor terrace and an onsite barista and café. A day pass is just €15 (US$16.47).
StartDock is a short walk to public transportation. A day pass is €15 (US$16.47).
Anne & Max serves up coffee and snacks at several locations around the city. Check out the Zeeburg shop for a great water view.
Top things to see
Interested in fine arts? The works of master painters Rembrant, Verneer and Van Gogh are displayed at the Rijksmuseum. Adult entrance is €19.00 (US$20.86)
Less than 2 kilometers from the museum, Vondelpark is the largest, most popular park in the city. Take time away from the office for a walk or rent a bike and ride in true Dutch fashion.
For a historical experience, visit the Anne Frank House. An adult ticket is €10.50 (US$11.53).
Learn the art of beer making during the interactive Heineken experience. Touring is thirsty work, so be sure to stick around for the beer tasting at the end. Tickets are €21 (US$23.06). Advance tickets booked online are €18 (US$19.76).
A canal cruise is a lovely way to see Amsterdam by boat. . Helpful on-board guides usually share brief history lessons.
Food & Drink
Amsterdam’s cuisine reflects its large international population. Indonesian restaurant Kartika has served diners for decades and is known for its elaborate meal presentation rijsttafel, or “rice table.”
Located in De Hallen cultural complex, Foodhallen is an indoor food market and bar. It’s home to De BallenBar, which is famous for their unique culinary twist on the original Dutch Bitterbal.
Head to Tales & Spirits in Lijnbaanssteeg for an evening cocktail in a cozy atmosphere. Their motto is, “We like you the way you are!”
Business etiquette tips
For business meetings, a traditional handshake upon arrival and departure is proper. Close acquaintances may greet one another with a triple kiss on the cheeks: left, right, left. Dutch people most often use first names instead of titles.
The Dutch appreciate negotiations that get down to business quickly and without much banter, preferably in a relaxed atmosphere. Only present a business card if asked to do so. Business dress is nice but understated.
Business meals are usually held in restaurants at lunchtime, and the bill is usually split. Invitations to get coffee are also common. It is considered polite when guests say goodbye after the second cup at the latest.
