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Amsterdam

Posted by (Slidell, LA) on

We are flying into Amsterdam on October 31 to join a Viking river cruise on November 3. For a variety of reasons, I decided to book our flights directly through United instead of Viking, arriving around 9:00 AM. I am looking for reasonably priced hotel recommendations in close proximity to the dock where we will board the ship, as well as information about getting from the airport to the hotel I end up booking. We have a list of "must sees" from Rick's guidebook but would appreciate hearing any of your experiences that we may also consider. Also, how did you get around Amsterdam and is a side trip to Haarlem that a friend suggested worth the time? Many thanks,

Jim

Posted by
10264 posts

Depending on your hotel location, you will either take the train or a bus into Amsterdam. Train if central , bus if Museum District. Train to Haarlem. All sorts of public transport available.

Hint: stay out of bike lanes as a pedestrian. This is very important.

Posted by
3577 posts

Hotels within close proximity to where you disembark are further from Amsterdam’s sights. Sleep in the Jordaan neighborhood where you’ll be able to enjoy its surroundings. If you stay near the dock there will be no ambience and no place to go unless you do a lot of walking or arrange a driver.
You also asked if Haarlem is a good place to visit. I was disappointed with Haarlem since I felt there was little to do compared to Amsterdam.

Hint: stay out of bike lanes as a pedestrian. This is very important.

Couldn't agree more! Make sure you know what's going on around you at all times. Bikers ride unbelievably fast and wear no helmets.

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