How To Do Amsterdam in Style
From cozy hotels to must-visit vintage, here’s the Local Hype.
Welcome to Local Hype, a travel diary where we compile a curated list of our “Hometown Heroes” for you to enjoy. Featuring the buzziest hotels, restaurants and local treasures that we’ve experienced for ourselves, with suggestions from the city’s locals.
Next on the agenda? Amsterdam. The ultra-cool city is the perfect place to explore all year round, no matter what type of holidaymaker you are. Filled with buzzy wine bars, eclectic galleries and vintage shops, Amsterdam is definitely a must-visit for fashion fans, art lovers and foodies.
In terms of getting there, Eurostar is undoubtedly the easiest option. In fact, the travel company recently launched its new terminal in Amsterdam, reintroducing direct services to and from London with a total journey time of just over four hours.
Opting for a last-bit-of-summer getaway, we set our sights on the cultural city for a spot of sunshine, swimming and sightseeing, kicking off our weekend trip at the luxurious Soho House. Complete with a rooftop pool and restaurant, it’s the perfect resting place for tired travelers who want a hint of indulgence during their stay.
Read on for more of our top picks across accommodation, shopping and food.
Hotels
Soho House Amsterdam
One of our favorite things about a Soho House stay is the stunning bedrooms and the Amsterdam locale was no exception. Offering an incredibly spacious room with a bathroom of an equally generous size, the room came complete with a cozy reading nook by the window and lounge area in front of the TV. We were also treated to a range of Soho Home products, from shower gels, and body lotions and face serums and exfoliators. Located on the edge of the Singel canal, it was the ideal place to rest and recuperate without being too far away from all of the action.
Shops
AVC
Probably one of our favorite vintage stores ever, AVC is a stunning canal-side boutique that specializes in designer vintage. Stocking traditional designer brands like Prada, Gucci and Burberry alongside the likes of JPG, Stone Island and Vivienne Westwood, the store has an impeccably curated selection at surprisingly affordable prices.
Concrete Store
Similarly, Concrete is a multi-brand retailer that stocks some of the best collaborations and special launches. Including brands like Marni, Wales Bonner and Rick Owens, the ready-to-wear and footwear store also sells a whole host of special-edition accessories, homeware items and one-offs.
Muze the Store
Finally, Muze the Store is a boutique located on Amsterdam’s The Nine Streets, specializing in indie brands, emerging labels and other European favorites. Stocking it-girl brands like LAAGAM, House of Sunny and Susmie’s, the fashion-forward selection is a little more feminine than its streetwear counterparts, offering a vibrant range of dresses, tops and accessories.
Restaurants
De Willem
De Willem is a cult-loved cafe, restaurant and wine bar overlooking the canal. With a menu that “changes more than the seasons,” the artisanally-crafted dishes pair well with the De Willem’s curated list of natural wines, offering a tasting experience that is perfect for romantic dining or special occasions with friends.
Caffe Pico
Caffe Pico is a modern Italian restaurant located in De Pjip. With dishes like pumpkin pizza, pistachio pasta and red shrimp spaghetti, the vibrant spot offers a contemporary twist on traditional favorites. What sets Caffe Pico apart though is actually its buzzy bathroom decor, with one special WC complete with a disco ball, tiled walls and funky tunes.
Bottleshop
Finally, the ultimate spot for fans of natural wine and small plates. Bottleshop is located a little away from the city’s centre, in Wibautstraat, but it’s well worth the visit. Complete with a chef’s counter and inventive dishes, the friendly staff pair worldly wines with plates like smoked tomato, fermented habanero, beef tongue and an ever-changing “fish of the day.”
