Yes, I think Amsterdam is overrated.
If I were to write a letter to Amsterdam, it would definitely begin with an apology.
You see, I’m not the kind of person who doesn’t usually like places. And one which is such a hot destination around the world, no less. So I’m partly disappointed with myself for failing to conjure the mind to really appreciate Amsterdam for what it is.
But to me, the city was nothing beyond ordinary. It’s not like I hated Amsterdam; but it absolutely didn’t blow my mind like I was hoping for it to.
Why I feel Amsterdam is Overrated
If you’re looking for reasons to visit Amsterdam, this article might disappoint you. But these are honest and absolutely legit things you should know before visiting Amsterdam.
I tried collecting my thoughts about what I felt was amiss and why I found Amsterdam overrated, and I put them together in this list. So here goes!
1. Amsterdam is So Touristy
I can already see you rolling your eyes through the screen, and I understand it isn’t my place to make snap judgments, considering I visited Amsterdam as a tourist too. But I have to tell you, the city has way too many outsiders. Because it’s such a hit with tourists, you barely get a taste of the local life.
And the next two reasons below explain two things that happen when there are too many tourists in a very liberal city like Amsterdam.
2. It’s All About The Trip
So, marijuana is tolerated. And for most of the folks visiting Amsterdam, this is new and exciting. It’s one of the most sought after reasons to visit Amsterdam.
Why do people visit Amsterdam? More often than not, it’s for the thrill of getting high, no holds barred.
And that’s where the low point lies – Everywhere you go, you see scores of people flocking into coffee shops, buying cannabis seeds at parlors, or just blowing away smoke rings next to a canal. FYI, smoking weed in public is forbidden. No one seems to care, though.
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This is exactly what makes Amsterdam overrated. The stench of cannabis is pervasive and sort of putting off. And so is the mindless obsession of it. Even if you want to, it’s hard to look beyond all that smoke – It clouds your mind, pun intended.
3. The Locals Don’t Like You
And I don’t blame them either. They’re dealing with tourists day in and day out. These tourists blatantly invade their space. Sometimes they throw up in their backyards and plant boxes. Many local shops have given way to tourist-oriented cheese stores and food joints. One can only imagine what it’s like to live in Amsterdam as a local.
This dislike towards visitors makes itself most apparent in the demeanor of the cyclists. I saw this guy barge into a tourist blocking his way in the street. The cyclist didn’t do so much as even slow down a bit to apologize. And as he zipped by, he shot the poor man the nastiest look. The audacity!
I didn’t rent a bike, and chose to walk around Amsterdam instead. But a friend I recently spoke to told me about how the cyclists don’t like you coming in their way even if you’re on a bike. So, nope. Don’t tell me that the best way to see Amsterdam is on a bike.
4. The Architecture Doesn’t Inspire
Blame on it the fact that I saw the effortless blend of Neoclassical and Baroque styles in Budapest, right before I visited Amsterdam. Or that I witnessed the elaborate Victorian architecture in Manchester. Perhaps because I got to admire a zillion vivid colors in Curacao and Burano this year.
But, to me, the architecture in Amsterdam seemed confused.
Don’t get me wrong – I think Amsterdam is a very pretty city. I’m no connoisseur but I even noticed how all buildings are of nearly the same height and width. But there’s too much happening – There are crooked facades, way too many roof styles, very narrow buildings, street-level windows, and all the houses feel stacked together. Classic case of architectural overdose, if you will.
5. It’s Dirty
Of course you would probably not consider Amsterdam a dirty city if you haven’t been there, but one visit might surprise you. The canals, one of the main Amsterdam attractions, are strewn with litter. You’ll see bottles and joint buds and all sorts of crap floating away in the water. Half-smoked cigarettes and debris everywhere.
I even spotted a drunk tourist (I’m guessing and hoping he was a tourist) taking a piss in the street in broad daylight. Not a pretty sight, I’ll tell you that!
6. The History Didn’t Do It For Me
I’m from India and I’m currently living in Germany, both with tragic histories of being burnt to the ground and rising from the ashes. Even as a person, I’m instantly drawn to a place based on its past. I think scars tell stories – The deeper the scar, the more enchanting is the story.
From what I understand, Amsterdam has had a fairly comfortable past. The Dutch have always been known to be neutral in their values and alignments, and barring the Resistance, there really isn’t any wow element in the history of the city.
Again, this is a prima facie impression and my opinion may be inaccurate. Although I have to say, I recently chanced upon a fantastic piece by Cate from Sacred Wanderings about Amsterdam’s churches and religious heritage. And it got me thinking there’s a lot of ground I wasn’t able to cover, and would like to, whenever I’m in the city next.
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7. The Canals Are Overrated
Amsterdam is often called ‘Venice of The North’, and the canals are indeed as picturesque as they look on postcards.
From afar, they look gorgeous. Canal sighting, and the mandatory picture clicked in front of them (standing next to parked bicycles), definitely tops the list of reasons to visit Amsterdam.
But I’ll tell you something I’ve already said before: the canals are freaking dirty. The water is mucky and has irresponsibly discarded plastic and other waste strewn about. The whole take-a-boat-ride-through-the-canals scene in Amsterdam is overrated, too, to say the least.
8. It’s So Expensive
… * cue shock and horror * A dorm bed in a hostel will cost you a minimum of EUR 40 per night (it usually averages at EUR 15-20 at most places otherwise). Even more, if you choose to stay in the city center. Airbnb costs a whole lot more, and hotel prices are pretty much soaring through the roof.
While food and drinks are also priced higher than in most places in Europe, the difference isn’t as steep as it is in accommodation. Seriously you guys, if you have a friend or relative living in Amsterdam, be sure to bunk with them and save big bucks.
9. The Beer is Disappointing
You’re right: I sound like an arrogant wannabe beer whizz who’s being extremely hard to please.
And while that couldn’t be farther from the truth, I’ll have to admit that Germany has spoilt me. Ever since we moved, I’ve tasted some of the nicest and freshest brews, and Germany has definitely benchmarked beer in a certain way for me.
I think Heineken and Amstel are decent, and I also tried different samples at a brewery serving 100 Dutch craft beers on tap, while in Amsterdam. But with every sip, I thought to myself, “I’ve had better”.
10. The Weather is a Pain
My Airbnb host gave me a heads up shortly after we met. “In the Netherlands, there’s just one season: Rain.”
While, ironically it didn’t rain as much during my time there, and though I’ve seen my share of unpredictable weather in the UK, I’m putting this on record on the behalf of the locals: Dutch weather can be quite crappy. Weather Gods, are you listening?
Helpful tip: I really recommend carrying an umbrella when you visit Amsterdam (actually applies to the rest of Europe, too). Oh, and make sure you get a sturdy one. Winds are strong and a fragile umbrella won’t give you cover.
It’s easy to see that I had really high hopes before visiting Amsterdam. Perhaps that exaggerated expectation is what made the city fall short.
Honestly, I think the liberality and tolerance of the city would appeal enormously to a younger traveler. Perhaps I’d have loved Amsterdam, had I visited a few years ago. This time around, though, it was nothing more than a glib picture. The whole time I was there, I was just meh.
And as Amanda says in her breakup letter to the city: It’s not you, Amsterdam, it’s me. Perhaps we can still be friends?
To sum up my thoughts on why Amsterdam is overrated…
If you scrolled straight to the end, here are the 10 reasons at a glance (to save you time):
- Amsterdam is too Touristy
- It’s all about the trip(ping)
- Amsterdam locals hate tourists
- The architecture doesn’t inspire
- Amsterdam is dirty
- The history didn’t do it for me
- The canals are overrated
- Amsterdam is so expensive
- The beer is disappointing
- Dutch weather is a pain
Have you been to Amsterdam? What was it like? Did you love it/hate it/both? Tell me all in the comments below.
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41 Comments. Leave new
The articles you write help me a lot and I like the topic
Glad you do!
I could not resist commenting. Exceptionally well written!|
Thanks for this post. I live in Germany and only came to Amsterdam for a few days to see the museums. The smell of pot was pervasive and sickening and the bikers were really scary. Our last day here I just felt a mixture of disappointment and underwhelmed-ness, SO ready to go home to Deutschland. However, the Dutch food was very good. Let’s just say I’m very, very glad I live in Germany after this trip.
Visit Rotterdam, Breda or Maastricht
Putting all three on my list! Thanks for the tip 🙂
I disagree. Amsterdam is not overrated. in fact I think the city if anything, is underrated.
I’m going to address some of your various comments:
1) Amsterdam expensive? Well it’s the capital and largest city of a very prosperous nation, so it can’t be that cheap. But compared with other big cities in western Europe, London and Paris, it’s very reasonable. Scandinavia? Zurich or anywhere in Switzerland? Very reasonable. And even when you do have to pay..there’s a good chance you’re getting more for your money. The hostels will be clean and safe and have amenities.
2. The Dutch. The Dutch people are actually very nice people/ They just aren’t into small talk and superficial politeness. It is difficult for people from USA and Canada to adjust. But rest assured if you need help the Dutch people are going to help you. Also using Amsterdam to gage the typical Dutch is like using a London resident to gage the average Brit.
3. Beer? the quality of Beer is amazing, it’s difficult to be objective but Heineken is one of the best selling beers in the world and it’s always going to be fresh. Plus you can go into a good convenience store and choose from a fridge full of beers that will include Belgian beer. Finally there’s liberal drinking laws to enjoy. You can drink beer in movie theatres and in parks. The beer experience is terrific.
The Dutch are “selfish people who should be ashamed”, they “dig in behind their well-being”, are “ruthless money usurers”.
The Dutch are known everywhere abroad as a crude, impolite, thrifty, always prominent and boastful people.
If you see or hear a noisy and conspicuous behavior at any campsite, anywhere in the world, you can almost be sure that there is a group of Dutchmen there.
Also in foreign stores you immediately remove the Dutch because of their behavior.
The Dutch are by far the rudest people. With my own Amsterdam at 1. I already notice when I leave the Randstad. We can learn a lot from abroad
My answer may be clear, huh? The Germans, and with them many peoples, are considerably more customer-friendly than we Dutch.
They, the Germans, also show that they are better educated than we are … and therefore behave much more politely anyway ..
Stay away or be lucky to stay somewhere where they do accept u
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I’ve lived just out of Amsterdam for 16 years now and I make a point of never going there anymore. I think I enjoyed it on my first few visits back in 2003 / 2004 and I returned once in 2019 and was horrified how disneyfied it has become. I will never go back there again.
Glad I didn’t visit Amsterdam but let me tell you, Holland has my heart. We stayed in Wassenar for a convention held in Utrecht. We got to tour Rotterdam for a little bit & Den Haag. I enjoyed the culture (likely cos of the attendees of the convention), the environmental friendly decisions evident thru out Holland & scenery. I love it so much, its my inspiration for my New Horizons island haha. Creating a little Holland in my Animal Crossing game ???
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I completely agree. I’ve lived in Netherlands and I go to Amsterdam quite a lot either for work in the past,or training. It’s one of my least favorite cities in the world that I’ve been to. I find the city boring and bland. And apart from museums people get drunk and go to clubs that have shit music but that’s my opinion.
We are currently in Amsterdam. I couldn’t agree MORE! It is horrible here. We spent two glorious weeks in Austria. I was so looking forward to Amsterdam…it is filthy, the people are rude. If the city looks this bad with all the tourism dollars flowing through, I would hate to see it if tourism stopped! A true cesspool!
Daniela, after Austria Amsterdam can seem even more underwhelming. It really lacks character and depth from what I reckon. Honestly, the city’s this way because of all the tourism dollars. Classic case of overtourism.
Lived for 5 years in the city & owned a house on the Keizersgracht.
If you think amsterdam is bad as a holiday destination, wait till you buy a house there.
Fake socialism & separation of classes is so visible that it became a sense of “identity” to the people born there.
I’m glad I’m not the only one who feels this way! Thanks for dropping a line!
I wish I had read this before I visited Amsterdam. I have to agree with you I did not enjoy it at all, and it is indeed overrated. Canals and architecture did not impress me. I liked the canals of Brugge. And I also did not enjoy every now and then a camera popping in front of my face at Museum or canals, we must be considerate to each other. It’s so crowded.
I understand, it can get extremely annoying. I guess Amsterdam has hit an inflection point in that it has ceased to charm any further. It’s only a matter of time before travelers start calling that out.
Nonetheless, I’m glad you read this piece and it resonated with you!
I just got back from Amsterdam and agree 100% with all the comments. Rude bikers, trains that are seemingly everywhere, rain, repetitive and rather boring architecture, crowded museums and the feeling that the locals are fed up with tourists are just some of the reasons it was not a great location for me. Go to Prague instead!
Yeah I agree. I could not relate to the place at all.
Prague is such a delight!
Rude bikers ruin the city for me. A woman on her bike ran into a handicapped older gentleman and knocked him down right in front of my husband and me. She then proceeded to yell at him to “Be more careful!!” Did I mention he was handicapped?! Really put a damper on my feeling for that city. I was actually scared to walk the streets at times due to the bikes, trains, umbrellas and elbows banging into me. Ughh. Not planning to go back and I’m sure they’re happy if no tourists ever do!
So true. I think this is a fact which is overlooked and not mentioned.
That sounds awful! Bikers can really be a massive downer.
Amsterdam is the first European city that I visited, during my stopover to Iceland. So yes, it will always be a special place.
But my second visit to Amsterdam, was certainly an eye opener. The city is overcrowded, most tourist attractions have long queues. I was around during King’s day, and post the celebrations the whole city looked like a public bin ( these are harsh words but true). There were beer cans and broken bottles literally everywhere. And makeshift toilets everywhere made you feel like you are smelling piss all the time. The trains were littered too. In fact I couldn’t manage a single frame without getting any litter in the picture. The city is expensive – you pay a bomb for the b&b and then all of this is disappointing. In fact smaller towns like Maastricht, Harlem or Delft are better options. Staying away from the umpteen useless museums was a lesson learnt in my first trip thankfully. It’s hard to see and show this side of a city that attracts global crowds – kudos for putting up this post.
My God, that sounds awful! Particularly when you’re visiting a city on a day of national celebration with really high hopes, the ruckus tourists are capable of causing is astounding. Honestly, a lot of people told me they LOVED Amsterdam and I was blowing things out of proportion, but your description certainly makes me want to stay away from the city anytime I visit the Netherlands again. The Dutch countryside, though, is really as gorgeous as it’s said to be. I visited a small village called Zaanse Schans and it blew my mind. I’ve heard such wonderful things about Harlem, I’m definitely adding it to my list!
Thanks so much for reading, Sushmita! You’re amazing <3
Zaanse Schans was a dream. Touristy again. But beautiful. And unspoilt at least as of now. Truly the Dutch country side has far more experiences to offer. Try making it during the tulip season. U will love it.
Yes, planning that around April next year. Let’s see!
Yes. All yes. 4 days in the city was 3 too many. I would choose Paris, Venice, London or Rome every time over Amsterdam. Bicycle traffic is dangerous but scooter traffic is deadly. It isn’t even fun to wander the canal area for fear of an accident. Amsterdam is nothing like Venice.
So true. The bike traffic (and the arrogance of the bikers) kind of ruined it for me. Venice is really gorgeous and doesn’t stand to compare in the least.
Thanks so much for reading! 🙂
Nice to go through a critical view of this Dutch town thronged by tourists. Not been to this place but I feel long spell of rains and poor sanitation could be main reason which puts the town in poor light. Walking is definitely more safer mode than cycling. A sturdy umbrella is required for safety against rains and better grip on the ground.
Absolutely. The city remains extremely popular among tourists. This is just an opinion!
11th reason would be that they have museums for all the things in the world and most of them don’t even make any sense.
I agree the traffic because of the bicycles is bad there and I was pre-warned against hiring a bicycles as the accident rate is too high.
But, wherever I went with my friends, we were well received by the locals.
In the end, a very true post !
Omg that’s so true! There are a ton of tourist traps like the sex museum, for example. I mean what’s that about!
Also, I’m not commenting on Dutch people (who, I think, are nice and sweet). The locals hate the tourists because they wreck the place. Overtourism is a serious problem Amsterdam has been dealing with for a whil now.
Your perspective is interesting. I’m heading to Amsterdam next week and I’m sure I’ll notice all the things you have mentioned!
Oh that’s awesome. Although, I’d have loved for you to develop your own opinion by visiting first, and then tallying it with this article.
Nonetheless, I hope have a fabulous trip!
The place is a dump. Except for van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Vermeer.
Pretty disappointing city indeed. I felt like I was in survival mode against bikes, street cars and tourists. Architecturally it was just ok, the red light district was pretty cheesy. Bunch of dumbass tourists taking duckface selfies at the Anne Frank house was plain stupid, no wonder the locals hate them. I’m from New York and never thought I would hate a place more than I hate Times Square, but Amsterdam takes the cake and some more.
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