A solo female traveler's guide to Amsterdam

Solo female travel in Amsterdam

While there are so many amazing destinations for female solo travel, Amsterdam has to be up there with some of the best. It’s a relatively straightforward city for women to navigate on their own, not simply because of its easy-going, friendly culture, but also because it’s consistently rated as one of the safest cities in the world. Plus there’s so much to see and do in Amsterdam, solo female travelers often find themselves coming back time and time again. So whether you’re a first-time solo female traveler or a seasoned adventurer, let’s take a look at what’s in store!

Best time to visit Amsterdam

If you’re planning a solo trip to Amsterdam, your first step will be deciding when to go. There’s really no right or wrong answer to this question, and with an abundance of activities in every season, Amsterdam enjoys a steady influx of tourists all year round. 

The winter months of December to February are classed as low season, so you can generally expect reduced prices and fewer crowds, along with some festive fun, of course. The lead-up to Christmas is a magical time to visit, as the city is filled with markets, ice rinks, and twinkling lights (don’t forget to bring a warm coat though!). 

Spring also has its fair share of festivities, with King’s Day street parties and the infamous tulips coming into bloom. It may be a beautiful time to visit, but it’s not the cheapest or the quietest as the springtime flowers bring hoards of visitors looking for the perfect photo op.

The summer months from June to August will give you the best of the weather and longer days, but prices are higher and tourists are out in full force. It’s still a great time to visit Amsterdam, especially if you want to spend your time basking in the sun (which is generally a comfortable 73°F (23°C)) or attending a music festival. 

Finally, visiting Amsterdam between September and November can be riskier weather-wise, but it’s also when the city starts to become quieter again. Don’t let a little bit of drizzle dampen your parade if you want to enjoy the cobblestone streets and cozy cafes without the crowds.

Must-see places in Amsterdam

Rijksmuseum

Art meets history at the Rijksmuseum, where you’ll be whisked back in time to the Dutch Golden Age. Enter, and you’ll be greeted by none other than The Night Watch by Rembrandt, before making your way through the galleries to find other Dutch masterpieces such as Vermeer’s The Milkmaid and Van Gogh’s Self Portrait. 

The Anne Frank House 

Tucked away on a quiet canal-side street is the home where Anne Frank and her family hid during the Second World War. In her well-known diary, Anne documented her experience as a Jewish girl living in Amsterdam during the Nazi occupation, and the museum is dedicated to telling her story.

De 9 Straatjes (The 9 Streets)

Right at the heart of Amsterdam, this patchwork of picturesque alleyways crisscrossed with canals is hard to miss. Stumble across independent little boutiques, quaint cafes, and rows upon rows of iconic townhouses as you wander through this area with no particular destination in mind. 

Van Gogh Museum

From swirling skies to sunflowers and self-portraits, the largest collection of Vincent Van Gogh’s paintings is brought to life here at the museum. Unless you’re an art history buff, get an audio guide to gain a greater understanding of the artworks and Van Gogh’s life. 

Vondelpark

Grab a picnic and a book and stroll through Vondelpark, the green lungs of Amsterdam. You’ll find locals and visitors alike lounging on lush green lawns and walking, jogging, and cycling along winding paths. When you’re done with people-watching, visit the Openluchttheater (open-air theater), wander through the beautiful rose garden, and try to find all 69 sculptures throughout the 116-acre park.

Things to do in Amsterdam

Join a tour

Part of the charm of being in Amsterdam is simply taking in the everyday sights. It’s easy enough to make your own way around the city, or you could join one of the many walking or cycling tours that take place daily. Not only will you get to visit some of the must-see spots, but you’ll also learn about the history of the city, and possibly make some friends along the way!

Museum hop

There are plenty of museums to keep you busy in Amsterdam, from the aforementioned Rijksmuseum and Anne Frank’s House to the modern art collection at Moco Museum and the Eye Filmmuseum for film lovers.

Enjoy local delicacies

From warm waffles filled with caramel (stroopwafels) to herring freshly prepared at a Haringkar (herring stall), be sure to get a flavor for the local cuisine. 

Shop till you drop

If you’re looking for something a little different from the typical chains found on Kalverstraat, make your way to the boutique stores on De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets) or go thrift shopping in one of the many stores dotted throughout the city. If you’re in Amsterdam at the weekend, take the free ferry across the river to find IJ-Hallen, the biggest flea market in Europe. 

Get on a bike

With over 400km of paths dedicated to those on two wheels, Amsterdam is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world. If it’s safe to do so, get a real feel for what it’s like to be a local here by pedaling your way along the bike lanes - be sure to brush up on Dutch cycling etiquette before you begin. 

Hop aboard a canal cruise boat

Seeing as so many of Amsterdam’s historic sights lay along the banks of the canals, what better way to enjoy a scenic tour of the city? Opt for an open-top boat if the weather permits, and sit back and relax as you glide under bridges, along the Gouden Bocht (Golden Bend), and past the dancing houses (you’ll have to take a tour to see what we mean!).

Get out of the city

Amsterdam solo female travel isn’t just about seeing the city, there are loads of places to explore just a stone’s throw from the center:  

• Hop on the train for 30 minutes to visit the charming city of Utrecht.
• Take a five-minute train to Zaandam to see the famous Stacked Houses, then continue for another 15 minutes to see the windmills of Zaanse Schans. 
• If you want to go to the beach, both Zandvoort and IJmuiden aan Zee are less than an hour from Amsterdam.
• Take a 30-minute cycle ride out to Het Amsterdamse Bos, a beautiful woodland area. 
• The second biggest city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam, is just 45 minutes from Amsterdam (it’s well worth an overnight trip though). 
• 30 minutes from Amsterdam you’ll find Edam, the home of the infamous cheese that’s “made backwards” (we hope you get the joke!).
• The Keukenhof Botanical Gardens in Lisse are said to have some of the most beautiful tulips in the world - and they’re just an hour from Amsterdam. 

Getting around Amsterdam

It’s easy to get around Amsterdam, and most places are within easy walking distance if you’re staying in the center. If you’re used to traveling on two wheels, cycling around the city is a great way to get from A-B, and there are numerous bike rental companies around. 

Amsterdam’s public transport system is extremely efficient - you can also get around the city using trams, buses, and the metro, and trains are a fast and inexpensive way of traveling further afield. This will be news to every solo female traveler’s ears, as it means you don’t have to fork out on expensive taxis all by yourself! 

Weather in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has a relatively mild climate, meaning it’s neither swelteringly hot nor bone-chillingly cold. As the winter settles in, December and January bring cold temperatures that hover around 43°F (6°C) with an average of 10 days of snow each month. When the summer rolls around in July and August, temperatures usually climb to a comfortable 71°F (22°C), but don’t forget to unpack your umbrella - these months also have the highest amount of rainfall. From May to August, sunshine showers the city for about 7 hours a day, a welcome contrast to the winter months when the sun shines for a mere 2 hours (on average). 

Accommodation for solo female travelers in Amsterdam

Where’s the best place to stay in Amsterdam for solo female travelers? The city is well set up for visitors, with plenty of hotels, hostels, and B&Bs to choose from. However, these tend to fill up quickly during high season, so you’ll need to book early to bag yourself a bunk. 

Accommodation for a solo female traveler in Amsterdam can be on the pricey side, which is just one of the reasons why house sitting is a such great idea. Not only does it help you save on accommodation costs, but it also provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture. Explore the city's hidden gems and experience it from a fresh perspective while taking care of the pets that call Amsterdam home. 

Is Amsterdam safe for solo female travelers?

Amsterdam is generally regarded as a safe destination for solo female travelers and has consistently ranked among the top ten safest cities in the world according to The Economist’s Safe Cities Index. 

Although crime occurs in every city, the most common crime in Amsterdam is bike theft, which is usually not a concern for tourists. Pickpocketing can be more prevalent in tourist hot spots like the infamous Red Light District - to keep your belongings safe, avoid having your phone on show and keep an eye on your bags, even when dining. No matter where you’re traveling, it’s a good idea to leave your passport at your accommodation and ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance. As always, if you’re exploring the nightlife, be extra vigilant after dark and steer clear of dark alleyways and dimly lit areas.

Meeting people and connecting with locals

Just because you’re traveling solo in Amsterdam doesn’t mean you won’t be able to hang out with friends. The city has a bustling social scene, and whether you spark up a conversation with the local barista or make friends with someone on a walking tour, all you’ve got to do is pluck up the courage to do so! English is widely spoken amongst the locals, but if you really want to make a good impression, why not learn a bit of Dutch? It’ll definitely impress them and could open up more doors for you, so here are some useful phrases:

• Yes → Ja
• No → Nee
• Thanks → Bedankt
• Hello → Hoi
• Bye → Doei
• What’s your name? → Hoe heet je?
• How much is it? → Hoe veel kost dat?
• I need directions → Ik heb richtingen nodig
  

Tips from a local

• Visit local neighborhoods like De Pijp, Amsterdam Noord, and Amsterdam Zuid, which will be super easy to do if you’re already house sitting in one!
• Rent a bike - it’s the best way to get around.
• On that note, watch out for cyclists! Look both ways before crossing the road, and always listen out for the ding of someone’s bell.
• Take a day trip - it’s too easy not to, and there are so many amazing places on the city’s doorstep.

Amsterdam for solo female pet sitters

Sunlight streams through your window like a true Dutch masterpiece and there’s a cat purring on your bed, ah, you’re house sitting in Amsterdam. Escape the run-of-the-mill tourist experience and become a temporary resident in the city where bicycles outnumber cars - simply slow down and take the time to enjoy your Amsterdam adventure. 

Things to do with dogs in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is extremely dog-friendly, and pooch pals are often allowed inside bars, cafes, and restaurants (although always check with someone who works there before walking on in!). Of course, there are loads of outdoor activities for you and your furry friend to enjoy together, from walks along the canal to a day spent at Het Amsterdamse Bos. Vondelpark, Rembrandt Park, and Oosterpark are great spaces for dogs to run around, and what’s more, your pooch pal can ride for free on trams, metros, and buses in Amsterdam (so long as they’re kept on a leash and sit on your lap or the floor).

Dog-friendly bars and restaurants in Amsterdam

While most bars and restaurants allow dogs inside (!), here are some of our favorite dog-friendly places:

• Woof & Me 

Address: Verbindingstraat 3H, 1073 TJ Amsterdam, Netherlands

• DroversDog Heemstedestraat

Address: Heemstedestraat 25, 1059 CX Amsterdam, Netherlands

• The Black Dog 

Address: Spuistraat 223a, 1012 VN Amsterdam, Netherlands

• Bar Botanique

Address: Eerste Van Swindenstraat 581, 1093 LC Amsterdam, Netherlands

• Cuddle Pub

Address: Nieuwe Nieuwstraat 20, 1012 NH Amsterdam, Netherlands 

House and pet sits

Experience the unique joy of pet sitting in Amsterdam and create unforgettable memories with furry friends as you explore this beautiful city!