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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?

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!

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

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The Street Art of Amsterdam

9. October 2016/in /by David

Discover Amsterdam’s Street Art

Now that the Banksy exhibition has left Amsterdam, it’s the perfect time to explore the city’s street art, available year-round and for free. At first glance, Amsterdam might seem to have only a few murals, graffiti, stencils, and stickers. But don’t be fooled — the city is full of hidden treasures. You just need to pay attention, know the hotspots, and keep your eyes open. Let us guide you to the best spots.

Even the Amsterdam Teleport Hotel is a kind of street art object itself, featuring colorful murals and creative details for visitors to enjoy.

The NDSM Wharf

The northern part of Amsterdam is bursting with creative energy. Walk around the NDSM Wharf, and you’ll see stunning graffiti, stencils, old cranes, trams turned into art, metal containers, and huge ship halls. The colors of street art pop against the rusty background. Artists often work right in front of visitors, bringing old walls to life.

Take the free ferry behind Central Station to reach NDSM. On arrival, you’ll be amazed by a gigantic mural of Anne Frank (240 m²), painted by Brazilian artist Eduardo Kobra. The waterfront and street art here are unforgettable.

Space Invaders in the Jordaan

The Jordaan may seem historic and quiet, but it hides countless charming street art pieces. Look for murals by the London Police, spreading love with their joyful LADS characters.

You can also find Space Invaders mosaics scattered across the neighborhood. Now, you can collect them through the Flash Invaders app, similar to Pokémon. For constantly updated colorful graffiti, don’t miss Marnixstraat.

Spuistraat — Past Glory

Not long ago, Spuistraat hosted countless artworks on squatted buildings in the city center. Creativity felt limitless, and the rebellious vibe filled the air. After the municipality took over De Slang, much of the iconic art disappeared.

However, you can still find brightly painted garage doors, squatted bars with graffiti, and millions of small stencils and stickers along the street. Spuistraat remains worth exploring, but you need to look closely and check side streets.

Schellingwoudebrug — Roots of Street Art

To trace the roots of Amsterdam’s street art, head to Schellingwoudebrug, under the bridge near Flevopark. Take tram 14, and you’ll reach a graffiti paradise at the end of the line. The bridge overlooks the IJ and witnessed the crazy 90s, when street artists from around the world showcased their work in Amsterdam.

Downtown Street Art Map

How about turning your day in Amsterdam into a street art quest? Just use this map to locate the best pieces in town, see how many invaders you can detect and what gallery turns out to be your favorite. Amsterdam’s street art goes way beyond some cool graffiti in the hidden spots, it becomes a trend of the city, worth exhibiting in museums and galleries. Even the local municipality realizes the importance of alternative art for the cultural life, providing the street artists with legal opportunities to create and present their pieces to all the guests to enjoy.

Unusual Experiences

1. June 2016/in /by David

Unusual Experiences in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is high on many people’s bucket lists, thanks to its craziness, unique atmosphere, and free spirit. The city is one-of-a-kind, offering experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Beyond the usual attractions, Amsterdam also has some truly unusual activities. There’s something for everyone, no matter your taste.

Real Human Bodies

Some people find it creepy, others exciting. Body Worlds Amsterdam exhibits real, plastinated human bodies, letting you explore the mysteries of human anatomy. Surprisingly, even this eerie museum fits Amsterdam’s Happiness Projecttheme. Special events and activities run throughout the summer, offering a unique way to learn about happiness and health.

Sex Museum

For another unusual museum experience, visit the Sex Museum, located next to Body Worlds. It showcases sculptures, pictures, and objects related to human sexuality. Some exhibits might make you blush, while the overall atmosphere sparks curiosity and laughter. Combine it with Body Worlds for a full “weird museums day.”

Xtracold Icebar

Amsterdam’s coldest bar offers an unforgettable experience among 60 tons of natural ice at -10°C. Drinks are served in glasses made of ice. Don’t worry about the cold — you’ll get a thermal coat and gloves. The bar is perfect for epic photos, and few would guess it’s right in Amsterdam.

Escape Rooms

Escape rooms are popular in Amsterdam, with options for every taste:

Sherlocked: Two (soon three) challenging rooms. Be among the first to try the new one launching June 10th.
The Vault: Feel like a thief breaking into Amsterdam’s most secure safe. Watch out — you can get caught!
The Architect: Explore a mysterious room once used by the secret Society of the Crossed Keys. Not easy to enter.
Escape Through Time: Time travel during WWII with actors and puzzles at Boom Chicago.

No matter your preference — scary, funny, or history-based — Amsterdam’s escape rooms will keep you engaged and entertained.

Stay at Teleport Hotel

When visiting Amsterdam, consider staying at Teleport Hotel. It’s a comfortable and convenient base, close to major attractions, restaurants, and canals. After a day of exploring unusual experiences — from Body Worlds to escape rooms — you can relax in your room or order food from nearby restaurants. The friendly staff is happy to give tips and help you plan your day. From here, you’re never far from iconic sights, local gems, or hidden corners of Amsterdam.

Bicycle-Friendly Amsterdam

18. May 2016/in /by David

Cycling in Amsterdam – The World Capital of Bikes

Bicycle-Friendly Amsterdam is waiting! One of Amsterdam’s best-known features is its incredible bicycle-friendliness, which makes it the true world capital of bikes.
Getting around on two wheels is so easy that most people don’t even need other transportation. Cycling is deeply rooted in Dutch culture — more than half of the traffic movement in Amsterdam’s city center happens by bike.

Traffic education, special cycling routes, traffic lights for bikes, and endless bike lanes make it simple and safe to ride. Free bike parking (versus extremely expensive car parking) encourages both locals and visitors to choose bicycles over cars. Let’s take a closer look at this unique and essential part of Amsterdam life!

Friendly Numbers

There are more bicycles than people in Amsterdam — around 881,000 bikes for 800,000 residents. You can see this clearly at the four-story parking near Central Station, in underground garages, and at countless packed racks all over the city.

About 83% of locals use their bikes at least once per week. With so many cyclists, you might wonder how there’s enough space for everyone. The answer lies in the excellent cycling infrastructure, which includes around 500 kilometers of dedicated bike paths just within the city.

Of course, bikes don’t last forever. Each year, the municipality fishes 12,000 to 15,000 old bicycles out of Amsterdam’s canals — quite an unusual sight! Maybe next time, you’ll think twice before dreaming of a swim in one of them.

Outstanding Bike Types

Amsterdam is full of different bike styles, from the classic to the quirky. Here are some of the most popular ones you’ll spot around the city.

Omafiets

The most common bike in Amsterdam is the “omafiets” (grandma bike). It’s a simple, sturdy model with pedal-back brakes, no gears, and often a front basket or rear panniers. Nothing fancy — just practical and less likely to be stolen.

Bakfiets

Stylish and functional, the bakfiets is popular among families. It can carry several children in its large front box, making it perfect for parents on the go. It’s not cheap, but it makes daily life easier — and it’s a common sight to see happy moms pedaling with toddlers in front.

Tandem Bikes

Tandem bikes come in all shapes and combinations — for two adults, one adult and a child, or even three riders. They’re a great solution for couples or friends when one person feels less confident cycling in city traffic. One person steers, while the other pedals and enjoys the ride (and maybe takes some pictures).

Fixies

Minimalist and trendy, fixies (fixed-gear bikes) are a favorite among Amsterdam’s hipsters. They’re lightweight, fast, and stylish. Although some riders prefer brakeless fixies, the Dutch law requires at least one working brake — safety first!

Beer Bikes

Ever dreamed of cycling and having a beer at the same time? In Amsterdam, that’s possible thanks to the famous beer bikes — the perfect choice for a bachelor party or a fun group ride. Don’t worry, a sober driver from the rental company always takes care of steering safely.

Experience Amsterdam on Two Wheels

We’re located just a few minutes from Sloterdijk Station, which makes it super easy to reach any part of Amsterdam by bike.
Sleep well, start your day with good coffee, and get ready to discover Amsterdam — the Teleport way: on two wheels.