Your Essential Ferry Travel Guide To Amsterdam

DFDS ferries offer an unparalleled on board experience that gets you in the holiday mood, so taking the ferry to Amsterdam is the perfect start to your trip. Enjoy a stress-free journey with no baggage restrictions and safe and secure parking for your vehicle. Plus, there is a selection of fantastic bars and restaurants, on board entertainment and duty free shopping to keep you occupied during your ferry crossing.

Book a cabin for extra space to relax so you're fully recharged for your onward journey. For a smooth trip, arrive at the ferry terminal 30 minutes before check-in to allow yourself plenty of time to board with your vehicle.

Amsterdam is known for its distinctive canal network, artistic heritage, buzzy nightlife and beautiful green spaces. The city's cultural offering is second to none, thanks to its famous art galleries and museums.

Also, Amsterdam has many a world-famous bar and restaurants to explore. Whether you’re looking for live music or cocktails, you’ll find it in the Dutch capital!

You'll never be short of things to do in Amsterdam with other famous attractions including the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum and Amsterdam Ice Bar - all within walking distance of each other. Wander the cobbled streets and you’re sure to find something to take your fancy.

Amsterdam is famous for its many breweries and delicious local delicacies. There's no better place to try traditional Dutch food than Amsterdam – sink your teeth into these famous snacks during your trip:

• Bitterballen – Deep-fried crispy balls served with mustard for dipping – the ultimate Dutch pub snack!
• Stroopwafels – Two thin waffles sandwiched together with syrup, best enjoyed warm.
• Frietjes – Thick-cut fries served with a range of different toppings.
• Poffertjes – Buttery and delicious pastries made from pancake batter – find them at street markets and pancake restaurants.

Amsterdam is also home to several famous breweries, including the former Heineken brewery, where you can discover the history of the world's most loved beer. Alongside beer, try other local tipples during your trip, like Advocaat, Vieux and Jenever.

There are plenty of hotels in Amsterdam, so you have lots of choice when it comes to finding accommodation. No matter your budget, you can make the most of your time in Amsterdam with centrally-located hotels that will place you in the heart of everything this wonderful city has to offer.

• citizenM Amstel Amsterdam (££)
  This stylish and modern hotel is a stone's throw from some of the city's major attractions.
• Huygens Place (££)
  This chic, plush hotel with striking interiors is a short walk from Vondelpark and several museums.
• Pulitzer Amsterdam (£££)
  This luxury hotel within a restored 17th-century building is bursting with character and located right on Amsterdam's famous canals.

Amsterdam boasts a full calendar of events that make it an exciting destination year-round. From experiencing the beauty of Amsterdam's famous gardens in full bloom in spring to soaking in the festive spirit at the best Christmas markets in Europe, there are plenty of seasonal events to enjoy. Here are some of the best festivals in Amsterdam to keep in mind when you're planning your trip:

• Keukenhof Gardens – March-May
• Amsterdam Tulip Festival – April
• King's Day – 27th April
• Amsterdam Light Festival – November-January
• Winter Festival Amsterdam – December-January

Despite Amsterdam being a modern capital city, there are large green areas and park spaces in the city where you can spend a summer’s day lazing in the sun, or getting active if you prefer. It is a beautiful city with wonderful parks, a famous cycling culture, great sporting heritage and a number of annual festivals making it perfect for an activity filled city break.

With regions like The 9 Streets and a range of amazing marketplaces all around the city, Amsterdam is a great place to shop ‘til you drop. Why not end your busy day in one of Amsterdam's many cafes? Take in the atmosphere with a local beer or an expertly brewed coffee.