Amsterdam - Prepare

Remember these tips for an enjoyable stay: bring a wide-open mind, watch out for bicycles, and always give at least 50 cents to toilet attendants. They’re fierce and they’ll come after you.

In spring, see millions of tulips bloom at Keukenhof garden, just a short train ride away. Join a conga line down the street on Queen's Day, a massive street party in late April. Watch renowned world music artists at the Amsterdam Roots Festival in June. Enjoy free theatre, dance and classical music performances during August's Uitmarkt cultural festival. Be loud and proud during Amsterdam Pride, one of the biggest gay festivals in Europe, and then chill out for the Grachtenfestival with its five days of classical concerts.

New Year’s Day (1 Jan), Good Friday (Mar/Apr), Easter Monday (Mar/Apr), Queen’s Day (Apr 29/30), Remembrance/Liberation Day (May 4/5), Ascension Day (40 days after Easter), Pentecost (seven weeks after Easter), Christmas Day (25 Dec), Second Day of Christmas (26 Dec).

The Netherlands has a temperate maritime climate with cool winters (average 8°C) and mild summers (average 18°C). Big freezes are not unknown in winter, and this is a good time to visit. Amsterdam’s cosy cafés come into their own, and when the canals freeze, skating around the city is a magical experience.

220-240V AC, 50Hz, two-pin plugs are standard.

+31 (national), (0) 20 + seven-figure number (Amsterdam).

Euro (€) is the currency.

GMT +1 (GMT +2 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October)

Amsterdam Tourism and Convention Board website

Amsterdammers have seen it all before. It’s not unusual for someone to rollerblade around town wearing little more than a pouch. As long as you’re not causing trouble, you can wear pretty much what you like.