Hidden Gems for Amsterdam

1. Hidden Gem Amsterdam: Pllek

Pllek is a relaxed, open-minded, and surprising restaurant in Amsterdam. Located in a vibrant area, Pllek is all about “feel-good food” that stands for healthy, sustainable, and satisfying meals. Everything you eat and drink here is carefully selected, ensuring quality and taste. Whether you’re here for dinner, lunch, or just a drink, Pllek has got you covered. PLUS, every Tuesday evening from May to late September, you can enjoy the films on their beach, with the most beautiful view of the city.

2. Hidden Gem Amsterdam: De Ceuvel

This eco-friendly café is the perfect summer spot in Amsterdam. You can grab a beer plus local vegetarian food and hang out at the waterside deck in a hammock. Make sure to bring your bikini in case you want to jump in the water for a little swim. This is the place to be, and the best way to get there is by bike!

3. Hidden Gem Amsterdam: Foodhallen

This place is definitively heaven for food lovers and offers cuisines from all over the world! Most of the stalls are there permanently, but there are also some places with rotating food offers. So no matter how often you go there, you will always find something new. Our Holidu tip for Dutch food is the “De Ballenbar.”

4. Hidden Gem Amsterdam: Sissy-Boy

This unique store offers a wide range of items, from home decor to women’s, men’s, and children’s clothing. Each collection tells its own story, inviting you to discover and be inspired by the world of Sissy-Boy. Whether you’re looking for something stylish to wear or a special piece for your home, Sissy-Boy has something for everyone.

5. Hidden Gem Amsterdam: Noordermarkt

When you visit Amsterdam on the weekend, the Farmers Market at the Noordermarkt on Saturday is a must. There are amazing stalls offering a wide variety of seasonal healthy and delicious produce. You can find handmade cheeses, homegrown herbs, organic eggs, homemade cakes, magnificent flower boutiques and an assortment of other hand crafted goods. We suggest you grab a little of everything and have a little picnic at the nearby grachten. On Mondays you’ll find a small flea market here. Also worth visiting!

6. Hidden Gem Amsterdam: Benji’s

When you visit Amsterdam, a stop at Benji’s is a must. This place offers a peaceful, green oasis with an urban feel, perfect for escaping the high-paced city life. Their brunch menu, available throughout the day, features a wide variety of dishes inspired by cultures and cuisines from around the world, all with a tropical twist. You can enjoy excellent coffee from the local roastery LOT61, fresh juices, smoothies, and the best brunch cocktails from their cocktail bar.

7. Hidden Gem Amsterdam: Floor 17 Rooftop

The rooftop terrace on the 17th floor of the Ramada Apollo Hotel offers a breathtaking view of the entire city of Amsterdam. You may go to dine at Floor 17 or simply to enjoy a hand-crafted cocktail and hors devours while relishing in the beauty of the view. In addition, you can head to Floor 17 for a fun movie night and catch one your favorite films shown on a big screen. Finally, if your trip to Amsterdam falls during the winter you’ll be happy to know you can also come to Floor 17 for a little spin on the ice rink!

8. Hidden Gem Amsterdam: Coffee & Coconuts

The Pijp neighborhood, one of the most dynamic and vibrant in Amsterdam, is home to Coffee & Coconuts Café. Located in an old cinema built in the 1920s is this lively but quaint cafe with its welcoming and chic vibe to match the unique hipster – comfort menu, with plenty of coconut-containing items and a divine happy hour in the evening. The icing on the cake is that Coffee & Coconuts Cafe serves breakfast all day long!

9. Hidden Gem Amsterdam: Hortus Botanicus

Right in the middle of Amsterdam lies this beautiful botanical garden that is perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. You can spend hours here just admiring all the different plant species it holds. It is divided into halls with different temperatures for the different vegetation. Here, you will be constantly surrounded by the greens of cacti, palm trees or many other plants. There is also a nice outdoor area where you can sit, order something from their canteen, read a great book or just let your mind wander for a bit. Any nature lover owes it to themself to come here and admire the flora the Hortus Botanicus holds.

10. Hidden Gem Amsterdam: Coffee District

Coffee lovers and pastry lovers will not be disappointed by what Coffee District has to offer. Their coffee is of top notch quality imported directly from Brazil. Their baristas are really professional and extremely friendly. You can also book courses with them to learn more about the art of making delicious coffee. When it comes to their pastries, they are… how can we put it? Mind blowing. They offer carrot cakes, banana cakes, chocolate chip cookies and many more tasty treats. You can order everything to go and enjoy it in Vondelpark which is nearby or in their minimalistic but beautiful locale.

11. Hidden Gem Amsterdam: Lavinia Good Food

Since opening in 2014, Lavinia has been dedicated to serving fresh, vibrant, and nutritious foods and drinks. From breakfast through to late lunch, you can enjoy a variety of crispy, colorful, and tasty dishes. It’s the perfect spot for a nourishing meal that’s as delightful as it is healthy.

12. Hidden Gem Amsterdam: FACTORY GIRL

Since opening in Berlin in 2009, Factory Girl has grown from a cozy neighborhood gem into a beloved brand, thanks to the vision of Sofia D. Sözen. When you visit Factory Girl, you’ll find a space that’s all about eating, connecting, and feeling at home. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for enjoying delicious food and cozy vibes. After your meal, you might be inspired to bring a bit of the magic into your own kitchen, savoring the simple yet uniquely twisted flavors long after your visit.

Vacation rentals in Amsterdam