5 Ways to Experience Amsterdam Like a Local

1. Rent a bike.

“Act like the city is yours,” says Eef Sparla, head concierge at Hotel de l’Europe, “and ring your bell a lot.”

2. Spend the day at Vondelpark.

The city’s largest park, with 120 acres, was opened in 1865 and is named after Dutch poet Joost van den Vondel.

3. Stroll through the Jordaan neighborhood.

This area may not have many canals, but its low-key atmosphere, compact houses, charming restaurants and bars, and quirky shops make it popular with the locals.

4. Explore the Albert Cuyp Street Market.

This market was originally opened in 1905. Today, more than 250 stands offer fruits and vegetables, fish, flowers, clothes, jewelry and more.

5. Tour the canals.

Spend a day on the canals in a sloep (open boat) with a bottle of wine.

Excerpt from the July 2012 Traveler.