Blog

5 Unique Things to Do

12. September 2018/in /by David

5 Unique Things to Do In Amsterdam are prepared by our team for your unforgettable stay in Amsterdam Teleport Hotel! Check it out.

1. Kayaking in Amsterdamse Bos

Amsterdam is famous for canals and culture. However, it also offers great outdoor experiences. In addition, the Amsterdamse Bos in the south of the city is perfect for families and adults. Visitors can run, zip-line, swim, paddle, or kayak. Among these, kayaking is especially relaxing.

There are three kayak routes. For example, one popular route lasts 1.5 hours. Paddlers can enjoy the quiet waters and green surroundings without much effort. Overall, this forest combines nature and activity. Consequently, it shows a side of Amsterdam that many visitors do not expect. Kayaking does not require prior booking.

2. Plastic Fishing

How can visitors help the environment while exploring Amsterdam? Correspondingly, Plastic Whale offers Plastic Fishing. The tour starts near Westerkerk. Then, participants receive nets and instructions. After that, the adventure begins.

People often find lots of waste: beer cans, cups, food packaging, and more. As a result, the collected plastic is turned into furniture. Besides, participants enjoy the beautiful canals and learn about the city. In conclusion, more participants mean a greater positive impact.

Book here: website

3. Electric Ladyland

Amsterdam is full of culture. Not only can visitors explore the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum, but also they can visit Electric Ladyland. This gallery is in the Jordaan district and focuses on fluorescent art.

Moreover, visitors can touch, walk into, and interact with the exhibits. At the same time, the staff shares their stories and answers questions. Consequently, the museum offers both visual enjoyment and personal interaction.

Book here: website

4. Mystery of A Secret Sender

Both puzzle-solving and exploration are combined in the Mystery of a Secret Sender. Additionally, visitors learn hidden stories from Amsterdam’s Golden Age. The activity begins at Dam Square with a map. Then, participants follow the route to historic buildings and sights.

During the game, visitors solve puzzles instead of walking aimlessly. If someone wants more challenge, they can compete against a time limit. Overall, this activity combines learning, sightseeing, and problem-solving.

Book here: website

5. Eat With A Local – Delicious Dutch Dinner Overlooking the Canals

Above all, home restaurants give visitors a unique way to experience Amsterdam. Not only do Martine and Olav cook delicious Dutch dishes from local ingredients, but also they share stories about Amsterdam.

Additionally, they provide personal recommendations for bars, cafes, and restaurants. During the dinner, guests can meet other visitors and enjoy a homely atmosphere. Afterwards, everyone can admire stunning views of Amsterdam’s canals. In conclusion, this is a perfect way to enjoy Dutch cuisine and culture.

Book here: website

Which one from 5 Unique Things to Do you like the most?

Green spots of Amsterdam

19. July 2018/in /by David

Best Parks in Amsterdam

There are a lot of green spots of Amsterdam where you can relax, have fun, and enjoy nature. Colorful flowers, ponds, fountains, and parks make the city lively and fresh. Visiting parks in Amsterdam is perfect for families, couples, and friends, especially on sunny days. The city has around 30 parks, offering festivals, picnics, art events, and more. Here are some top parks to explore!

1. Vondelpark

Vondelpark is the most famous park in Amsterdam. It is located in the city center and always full of people, music, and art. Visitors can enjoy green lawns, ponds, cafes, restaurants, and creative sculptures.

Additionally, Vondelpark has an open-air theatre every weekend in summer. Free concerts with Dutch music are performed while small stalls sell snacks and drinks. The park is big enough for everyone to find something to do.

2. Rembrandtpark

Rembrandtpark is a calm oasis in Amsterdam’s Old-West. Unlike Vondelpark, it is quieter. Families, friends, and locals enjoy picnics, barbecues, reading, walking dogs, or sunbathing.

Therefore, it is ideal for a relaxed afternoon, enjoying the sun and calm surroundings.

3. Amsterdamse Bos

Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest) feels like a small national park. Here, leafy trees, sandy paths, and quiet forest routes provide a peaceful escape from the city.

Visitors can kayak, try zip-lines, stand-up paddling, rowing, and swimming. There is even a forest theatre with plays and summer concerts. As a result, it’s perfect for those who want to connect with nature while staying close to Amsterdam.

4. Westerpark

Westerpark is a mix of green space and culture. Visitors can relax on the grass, barbecue, or enjoy music. Moreover, the park has urban art pieces, including a floating headless woman sculpture. Westergasfabriek hosts events, breweries, and restaurants.

Consequently, it is a great spot for both relaxation and cultural experiences.

5. Amstelpark

Amstelpark is unique because bicycles are not allowed. Thus, it feels calm and safe for families. The park hosts festivals, such as food truck events with music and street food. Visitors can even see kangaroos!

In conclusion, Amstelpark is perfect for festivals, picnics, and enjoying nature.

All of these parks are free to visit and each has something special – concerts, animals, kayaking, or calm areas. Using a city map, you can explore all the green gems Amsterdam has to offer.

Book room in Amsterdam Teleport Hotel and enjoy Amsterdam! Which one of Green spots of Amsterdam do you like the most?

Urban Beaches in Amsterdam

3. July 2018/in /by David

Urban Beaches in Amsterdam

Throughout the whole year, Amsterdam offers plenty of attractions – world-class museums, vibrant nightlife, and canals with flower-covered bridges. But in summer, there’s something extra special: Urban Beaches in Amsterdam! These city beaches bring a real holiday vibe with festivals, food, drinks, music, and relaxing spots by the water.

1.Roest

Roest, located in the east near Brouwerij ’t IJ, is one of the most popular Urban Beaches in Amsterdam. Set in an old industrial area, it combines a café, bar, and restaurant with a sandy beach and lively events – from parties to cultural gatherings.

2.Strand Zuid

Strand Zuid, just a short metro ride or scenic cycle away, feels cozy and fresh with lanterns and greenery. You’ll find terrace tables by the water, sandy spots for barefoot lounging, and a relaxed vibe perfect for summer days.

3.Dok

Only 13 minutes cycling from Teleport, Dok is another favorite. With palm trees, beach volleyball, and a laid-back atmosphere, it truly feels like a holiday. Events like food festivals make it even more fun.

4.Sloterplas

For swimming, kayaking, yoga, or just relaxing on the grass, Sloterplas is a great option. This lake combines nature, sports, and a sandy beach just 9 minutes from Teleport.

5.Het Stenen Hoofd

Just 5 minutes from Central Station, this small city beach has a casual charm. Order a refreshing lemonade at the café and enjoy the view towards the A’dam Tower and NDSM.

As a non-local I definitely recommend these places for the people who are interested in doing something a bit different on their holiday to Amsterdam. After visiting some museums, I can’t think of anything better than relaxing on an urban beach with good music, tasty food and cold drinks or even enjoying a festival!

On this map you can check out all the places I mentioned and find the most convenient one![:]

Terrace hopping in Amsterdam

19. June 2018/in /by David

Terrace hopping in Amsterdam is one of the best ways to experience the city like a local. When the sun is shining it is really popular among the Dutch to pick up their cycle and go to the parks or have a drink on Amsterdam’s many terraces; rooftop, canal, waterside, historical or just a terrace by a restaurant who puts some chairs outside for the summer. So when traveling to Amsterdam, between all the activities and attractions, visitors definitely need to stop by a terrace to get a little extra piece of the city’s lifestyle. Guests staying at Teleport Hotel can make terrace hopping even easier, as the hotel offers bike rentals that allow quick and fun access to many of these spots.

1. Pllek – end your Noord tour here

Pllek is the perfect place to finish a tour around Amsterdam Noord. This popular restaurant and bar ticks all the boxes: seats by the beach, a spacious terrace, two floors inside, and excellent service. The waiter even recommended me a local beer that became my all-time favorite! Best of all, you can enjoy stunning waterfront views and sunsets. The atmosphere is extraordinary – groups of friends drinking, couples dining, and solo visitors just relaxing.

📍 Address: Tt. Neveritaweg 59
🕒 Opening times: Sun–Thu 9:30am–1am, Fri–Sat 9:30am–3am
⏰ Busiest times: 7pm–9:30pm

2. Hannekes Boom – near Central Station

Hannekes Boom is another great spot for terrace hopping in Amsterdam. Located just a short walk or bike ride from Central Station, it feels like a hidden escape from the busy streets. Instead of crowds, you’ll see boats passing slowly by. Even when tables are full, you can sit by the water with a local Brouwerij ’t IJ beer in hand.

📍 Address: Dijksgeracht 4
🕒 Opening times: Mon–Thu 10am–1am, Fri–Sun 10am–3am
⏰ Busiest times: 5pm–9pm

3. Café Zurich – discover the West

Only 13 minutes by bike from Teleport Hotel, Café Zurich is a cozy terrace in Mercatoplein. It looks like a secret garden hidden in the West. While smaller than some central terraces, it feels less crowded and less touristy. With stylish decoration and a relaxed vibe, it’s a perfect place for lunch, dinner, or just a refreshing gin tonic in the sun.

📍 Address: Mercatoplein 2b
🕒 Opening times: Mon–Thu 9am–1am, Fri–Sun 9am–3am
⏰ Busiest times: 6pm–8pm

4. Haven van Texel – canals and island beers

This terrace is a real gem in the heart of Amsterdam. While enjoying canal views and the city’s historic buildings, you can also try award-winning beers from Texel, an island 100 km north. Haven van Texel is a convenient and tasty stop during sightseeing.

📍 Address: Sint Olofssteeg 11
🕒 Opening times: Mon–Thu 4pm–12am, Fri–Sun 2pm–1am
⏰ Busiest times: 7pm–9pm

5. Schreierstoren – history in every sip

For a hidden gem with history, Schreierstoren is a must. This medieval tower was once part of Amsterdam’s city wall, and legend says women waved goodbye to their husbands here as they left for sea. Today, you can enjoy a cold beer in the same spot, surrounded by centuries of stories.

📍 Address: Prins Hendrikkade
🕒 Opening times: Mon–Thu 10am–1am, Fri–Sun 10am–3am
⏰ Busiest times: 6pm–9pm

So where are they located?

To make your life a little easier I made a small map for you of Amsterdam with the terraces of this article. Just look up the number of your favorite terrace and you know how to get there!

From beach vibes at Pllek to canal views at Haven van Texel, terrace hopping in Amsterdam offers something for everyone. Whether you prefer urban spots like Hannekes Boom, relaxed terraces like Café Zurich near Teleport Hotel, or historic locations like Schreierstoren, you’ll always find the perfect place to enjoy a drink.

Besides these examples, there are countless other terraces – Nemo, A’dam Tower, Lion Noir… Just walk around and you’ll see how every restaurant tries to bring summer to the streets. Terrace hopping in Amsterdam is truly the best way to taste Dutch summer!

Rainy Amsterdam: What to do?

26. December 2016/in /by David

Plan Your Amsterdam City Trip Without Worrying About Rain

Cold and Rainy Amsterdam: What to do? Imagine this: you booked a fun city trip to Amsterdam. Flights are confirmed, and your stay at Amsterdam Teleport Hotel is booked! Now the excitement begins. In the evenings, you sit on the couch, browsing the internet, and check all the places you want to visit. The list of must-see spots can quickly feel overwhelming. There is so much to do and see!

Check the Weather Before You Go

Then you realize one thing: the weather! You add Amsterdam to your favorite weather app. You refresh the page a few times. Can it be true? Every day of your trip will be gray and rainy! Don’t worry. Amsterdam has a mild sea climate with warm winters and cool summers. The city gets around 800mm of rain a year, spread over 184 days. Locals are used to this. Even in the rain, there is so much to do!

Cultural Hotspots Near Teleport Hotel

First, check out Westergasfabriek and De (Food) Hallen, both not far from the hotel. These are popular cultural hotspots with activities all year round. Westergasfabriek has shops, cafés, galleries, restaurants, and bars. Additionally, they organize a large indoor fashion, design, and art market once a month. Definitely worth a visit!

If you go a bit further by tram, you reach De Hallen. This former tram depot is now a cultural complex. Here you will find one of Amsterdam’s largest food courts, galleries, and unique shops. Film lovers will enjoy the largest independent cinema in the Netherlands. One hall, Hall 7, is even on the UNESCO heritage list because of its historical art-deco interior.

Activities in the Historic Center

Even in the old city, there is plenty to do in the rain. In the Red Light District, check out TonTon Club, a retro arcade with pinball machines and classic racing and shooting games. After playing, enjoy local beer at Brouwerij de Prael, or for a more touristy experience, visit Brouwerij ’t IJ, located in a classic Dutch windmill.

For a relaxing activity, take a canal cruise. You stay dry and hear interesting historical facts. In winter, you can enjoy a special Amsterdam Light Festival cruise at night

Museums and Cultural Trips

After the cruise, visit one of Amsterdam’s many museums. Get a skip-the-line ticket at the hotel desk and go straight in while others wait outside. Some options include: Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Eye Filmmuseum, Nemo Science Museum, Anne Frank House, Tropenmuseum, Hermitage, and Foam Photo Museum.

Fun Indoor Activities

Escape rooms are also perfect for a rainy day. Sherlocked is under the Beurs van Berlage in the city center. Other great options are Claustrophobia and Zombie Escape.

Spots a Bit Further Away

Across the IJ river, behind Amsterdam Central, you’ll find the IJ-hallen, Europe’s largest flea market. Be careful—it only opens once a month. Another great spot is The World of Food in the Bijlmer (Amsterdam Zuidoost). Here you can try dishes from around the world at affordable prices.

Cold and Rainy Amsterdam: What to do? No problem! All in all, there is always something to do in Amsterdam, even when it rains. And if you are still worried, Teleport Hotel provides free umbrellas for guests!

Amsterdam Light Festival

23. December 2016/in /by David

Discover the Amsterdam Light Festival

The Amsterdam Light Festival for the 2025-2026 edition is scheduled to run from November 27, 2025, to January 18, 2026.

If you have been exploring Amsterdam, you might notice colorful art installations around the city. Moreover, the city hosts the annual Amsterdam Light Festival. This year’s edition celebrates the city itself with the theme “A View on Amsterdam.” Artists use the city as their canvas. Additionally, they bring fresh ideas and show different visions of Amsterdam through stunning light art.

Water Colors of the Canals

What do the canals look like during the festival? Until 22 January 2017, the water comes alive with rainbow colors. Some artworks can be seen from the shore. For example, Wolfert’s dog marks the legendary foundation of Amsterdam. Another example is a nest inspired by organic architecture. Meanwhile, other pieces are better seen from the water. These include three-dimensional houses that appear flat from a distance, or the “dangerous love zone” highlighting modern love. Also, the most spectacular pieces include brightly lit tulips in the middle of the canal, a strip of lilacs floating on the water, and bicycles falling into the canal. The bikes symbolize the 15,000 bicycles fished out of Amsterdam canals every year.

Experience the Festival on a KINboat Tour

We joined the festival on a KINboat tour. The smaller boats create a personal experience. Guides are friendly, funny, and passionate about the city. Furthermore, if you are introverted, a cup of hot gluhwein or chocolate helps break the ice. The boat offers a 360-degree view of the canals and leaning Dutch houses. You can choose inside seating to stay warm or outside for perfect photos. Best of all, the boat is 100% electric, making the experience eco-friendly. The 75-minute tour flew by and left us wanting more.

Walking the Illuminade Route

If you prefer to stay on land, the Illuminade route is perfect. It is a free evening walk through the city with 23 outdoor light art pieces. This year, the theme is biomimicry, using nature to solve human problems. For example, you can see green flying pigs in trees as a symbol of positivity and recycling. In addition, you can interact with an illuminated glass house that responds to your voice. Also, you can dance with light trees connecting nature and art. Each installation surprises and inspires. For instance, a flowering phantasm opens its petals with your movement, and light waves respond to the wind.

Fancy a walk?

If you’re not into looking at Amsterdam from below the ground level (although it’s stunning!), then Illuminade is the right part of the Light Festival for you. Enjoy a long evening walk around the magical city admiring the outdoor exhibition presented to you by local and international artists. 23 light art pieces are waiting for you to see Amsterdam in a different dimension (sometimes you can even walk through them!). This year walking route’s theme is biomimicry that brings nature to solve problems of humans. The best news is that you can enjoy this charming walk for FREE till 8 January 2017, just grab your map and good company.

Watch the green flying pigs in a tree (no, you don’t need to smoke to see them!) being a symbol of positivism and recycling, or find an illuminated glass house activated through your voice that would make you feel surreal, or dance with the light trees connecting with nature and art. Your opportunities are endless and will surprise you with each artwork you pass: just think about the flowering phantasm opening its petals with you movement or light waves that operate with the help of the wind and make you think about sustainable energy.

The Amsterdam Light Festival is a magical experience. Whether on a KINboat tour or walking the Illuminade route, the city transforms into a vibrant art gallery. From colorful canals to interactive light installations, there is something for everyone to enjoy. It is only 15 min from Amsterdam Teleport Hotel to city centre!

Amsterdam’s Best Gifts

13. December 2016/in /by David

Creative Christmas Gifts from Amsterdam

If you are staying at Teleport Hotel in Amsterdam this Christmas, we have some great gift ideas for you. Instead of the usual Dutch cheese, stroopwafels, tulip bulbs, or Delft blue pottery, why not choose something more creative? Amsterdam has so much to offer for original presents. Here are some of our favorite ideas.

Scratch Maps and Quirky Gifts from By Popular Demand

A scratch map is an original Christmas gift idea. Your friends can scratch the countries they have visited. By Popular Demand also has quirky lamps, funny socks, tote bags with an Amsterdam map, and unique pillows. This shop is full of creative surprises.

Address: Raadhuisstraat 2

Moustache Wax and Special Knives from Concrete Matter

Concrete Matter is a stylish store with gifts for men. You can find whiskey disks, moustache wax, radiometers, or high-quality pocket knives. Any gentleman will appreciate these items. Focus on what your friend likes, and you’ll leave the store with something special.

Address: Haarlemmerdijk 127

Wall Vases and Paper Animals from Store Without a Home

If you want a creative gift for a cozy home, visit Store Without a Home. They offer wall vases, 3D puzzles, story tiles, porcelain monkey masks, and more. The shop is full of interesting shapes and conceptual designs. You might even want to keep something for yourself!

Address: Haarlemmerdijk 26

Gluhwine Chocolate from TONY’s Chocolonely

No Christmas is complete without chocolate. TONY’s Chocolonely offers a 100% slavery-free chocolate bar with a story. This year’s special flavor is milk chocolate with gluhwine. It is delicious and makes a unique gift.

Address: Polonceaukade 20

Coloring Book of Amsterdam at Athenaeum Boekhandel

Coloring books are now popular with adults. A coloring book of Amsterdam is a fun and stress-relieving gift. Your friend can bring the city to life with colors. The book features famous streets and landmarks.

Address: Rijksmuseum, Museumstraat 1

Colorful Mugs from Blond Amsterdam

Skip the boring mug and choose a bright one from Blond Amsterdam. These mugs show the owner’s personality, profession, or interests. The signature blond girl makes it a fun and memorable gift, perfect for any lady.

Address: Gerard Doustraat 69

[:]

Beyond the usual sights

20. November 2016/in /by David

Alternative Amsterdam: Off the Beaten Tourist Track

If you are staying at Teleport Hotel, Amsterdam is famous for its canals, museums, coffee shops, and red light district. There is so much to see and do. Get beyond the usual sights!

Even after a few days exploring, you might feel you didn’t see it all. And that’s true! Although Amsterdam is smaller than cities like Paris or Berlin, it offers more than the usual tourist spots. While the classics are great, you really get to know the city once you go off the beaten path. This guide will help make your trip more unique, local, and interesting.

NDSM

NDSM is a former wharf on the other side of the IJ river, behind the central station. Getting there is already an adventure. Free ferries connect the city centre to Amsterdam North. Take the ferry on the left side of the station to reach NDSM in about 10 minutes.

Once there, you’ll see the iconic crane and an old submarine in the water. Since the wharf went bankrupt in 1984, creative people have transformed it. Today, NDSM is full of street art, small workshops, galleries, and cool bars like Noorderlicht, Plekk, and KEBEC.

Ruigoord

Ruigoord is a small artistic village about 8 km from Teleport Hotel. In 1973, squatters turned it into a free haven for artists. Surrounded by greenery, it’s a peaceful place to work and live creatively. The village hosts big art projects and communal events. Many parties and festivals happen in the old church, making it a unique cultural spot.

Westergasfabriek

Westergasfabriek is an old gas factory in Westerpark. It closed in 1967 but was transformed into a popular cultural hub. Here, creativity and innovation thrive. The best way to experience it is by bike or on foot from the hotel, just 3 km away.

You can enjoy a coffee at Espressofabriek, a candy bar at Tony Chocolonely, a sandwich at Bakkerswinkel, or a local beer at Brouwerij Troost. Eat at Pacific Parc, dance, and try old-school arcade games at TonTon club. There is truly something for everyone.

Amsterdamse Bos

Many tourists don’t know Amsterdam has a beautiful forest. Locals walk their dogs, swim, attend concerts, festivals, or go for a run here. Visit the forest’s centre first to get maps of all trails and learn more about the area. Kids will love the educational centre on the second floor.

Other Local Gems

Even in autumn or winter, there are great local spots. Enjoy a drink at Hanneke’s Boom, Café Sound Garden, or Waterkant.

Markets like Albert Cuypstraat, Dapperstraat, and Noordermarkt are perfect for tasting local treats, including stroopwafels or herring.

For an even more local experience, try DinewithDutch, where you can have dinner at a Dutch family’s home. It doesn’t get more authentic than that!

Magic Mushroom tripping

26. October 2016/in /by David

Amsterdam, Drugs & Freedom

More Than Just Canals

Have you ever thought about Magic Mushroom tripping in Amsterdam?

Let’s be honest: not all tourists visit Amsterdam only for its canal belt, museums, or Anne Frank’s house. On the contrary, many come for the coffee shops, smart shops (mushrooms, truffles, and more), and the Red Light District.

Having lived here my whole life, I sometimes forget how unique it is to enjoy this level of freedom, tolerance, and open experimentation. While working with tourists, I’ve noticed their excitement — but also their confusion. Many don’t know what to expect from (soft) drugs. That’s why Amsterdam Teleport decided to share some of our own experiences.

9788448206_b2f557d4d2_k

What to expect?

What to Expect From a Trip

Before You Start

Trying something new always brings both excitement and anxiety. With drugs, it’s even stronger: you don’t know how your body will react, and scary “bad trip” stories don’t help.

For me, my last magic mushroom trip was 5 years ago. Since then, a lot has changed in the way they’re sold and which types are available. But let’s get to the important part: what happens after you eat them.

The First Stage – Eating

I was never a big fan of mushrooms, so eating them wasn’t something I looked forward to. Unfortunately, you can’t just swallow them fast. You need to chew them well to release the psilocybin.

For faster effects, eat them on an empty stomach. Don’t expect immediate results, though — it usually takes 30–60 minutes before things start happening.

The Trip Begins

At first, you’ll notice sharper contrasts and details. Your senses become more intense: everything looks, sounds, and feels more beautiful.

Some people like to close their eyes and dive into colors, thoughts, and euphoria. Others prefer to keep their eyes open and watch the world transform. Shapes shift, colors play, light behaves in strange ways. It’s usually soothing, not frightening.

Trips last over 4 hours, with waves of intensity. The good part? You stay aware of what’s happening and keep a sense of control.

$Frame of Mind series. Composition of human face wire-frame and fractal elements with metaphorical relationship to mind, reason, thought, mental powers and mystic consciousness$

Almost Banned

In December 2008, the Netherlands banned magic mushrooms after a few tragic incidents were linked to them. Later, investigations showed mushrooms weren’t actually the cause.

Still, politicians banned certain mushroom types — but not psilocybin or psilocin themselves. That loophole left space for something new: truffles.

2282893093_26789ac2dd_o

Magic Mushrooms or Truffles?

When you visit one of the smart shops in Amsterdam you will see different types of truffles. A couple of the well know ones are: Mexicana’s, Hawaiians, Dragon’s dynamite, Mushrocks and Tampanensis. Some of them quite obviously named after their banned cousins! :) All of them provide the same intense colorful psychedelic trip and feelings of euphoria. Some of them are stronger and require more experience than others. In general smart shop re-sellers are very helpful when it comes to explaining all the different types and give you some decent beginner advise. Don’t be afraid to ask!

magic_truffels1

Magic Mushrooms or Truffles?

When you walk into a smart shop, you’ll find different types of truffles: Mexicana’s, Hawaiians, Dragon’s Dynamite, Mushrocks, Tampanensis. Some are named after their banned mushroom cousins.

They all offer colorful, euphoric trips, though some are stronger than others. Shop staff usually give good advice, especially for beginners — don’t be afraid to ask!

When nature calls: Very decent and beautiful shop on the corner of Leidsestraat and Keizersgracht. Great variety of different products and very helpful staff.

Magic mushroom gallery: Cool shop in Spuistraat. Hard to miss the Mario look a like sign outside their shop!

Kokopelli: Very close to the red light district in the Warmoestraat you will find this very curious smart shop. Even if you are not interested in tripping this shop is worth a visit.

Do’s and Don’ts

No drug is 100% safe. From my own experience, mushrooms were warm, natural, and positive — but only when used wisely. Keep this in mind:

✅ Be with people you trust.
✅ Choose a safe, comfortable place.
❌ Don’t take them if you feel sad or anxious.
✅ Get close to nature for the best experience (forest, park, beach).
✅ If it gets too intense, eat or drink something sugary.
✅ Always ask the shop staff for advice and start light.

Street art in Wijdesteeg

16. October 2016/in /by David

The Lost Glory of Street Art in Wijdesteeg

For many people, Amsterdam means alternative culture, creative energy, and freedom of expression. Years ago, anti-capitalist youth with an anarchic spirit filled the city with life. They painted walls, created communities, and gave the streets a unique soul. At that time, squatting was huge in Amsterdam, shaping its liberal and artistic identity. Among the most iconic places were Spuistraat and Wijdesteeg, two symbols of Amsterdam’s squatter movement.

What Is Squatting?

Some people already know what squatting is — maybe you even tried it yourself! It means living in an abandoned building without legal permission, not renting or owning it. But squatting was never just about free housing. It carried a rebellious attitude and turned into a global movement of people sharing the same ideas. Today, around one billion squatters live across the world, and their number keeps growing.

Squatting in Amsterdam

As you might expect from Amsterdam, the city had a large and creative squatter community. These people were free-minded artists and activists with strong beliefs. They even organized kraakspreekuur — meetings where newcomers could learn how and where to squat safely.

Everything changed in 2010, when the Netherlands banned squatting. What used to be a lifestyle suddenly became a crime. The ban led to protests, arrests, and the demolition of squatted buildings. As a result, Amsterdam lost many cultural centers, galleries, and walls of street art. The city became cleaner — but also less colorful.

The Snakehouse on Spuistraat

One of Amsterdam’s most famous squatted houses was De Slang, also known as The Snakehouse. A huge, colorful snake mural covered its façade, and locals loved it. Artists lived and worked there, hosting art events full of energy and creativity. Their work spread to Spuistraat and Wijdesteeg, turning these streets into open-air galleries admired by tourists and locals.

Wijdesteeg became one of the most photographed alleys in Amsterdam. But eventually, the municipality took over the buildings, and most of the art disappeared. The long fight between the squatters and the city ended — and Amsterdam lost part of its creative heart.

Hero de Janeiro — The Local Street Art Hero

One artist who brought life and color to Amsterdam’s walls was Hero de Janeiro. He became famous for painting bright puzzle pieces on gray concrete. Although many of his large works vanished with demolished buildings, some still brighten Spuistraat.

Hero creates his art by pasting framed pieces on walls and using stencils for bigger murals. His most iconic characters include Jip & Janneke, Karl Lagerfeld with a ghetto blaster, the Dutch milkmaid, Andy Warhol, and a tough penguin. His mission is simple — to make people smile and add color to their everyday life.

Street Art Lives On at Teleport

Hero de Janeiro’s art can be found not only in Amsterdam but all over the world. Recently, he created his latest masterpiece right in front of Amsterdam Teleport Hotel. The sidewalk now features his signature artwork, adding a splash of color and creativity to our entrance.