We will be in Amsterdam starting in the afternoon of May 7 and leaving early morning on May 11. So, we have 3 days to tour the city. Already bought tickets to the Vermeer and Van Gogh. Waiting to buy tickets for Anne Frank House. Looking at going to the Keukenhof Garden on May 8. Planning to buy bus combo tickets but also saw the Tulips Festival bus pass for about $20 more per person. Is that worthwhile if we are planning to use public transportation around Amsterdam? We will be taking the Thalys from Paris to Amsterdam, so will be taking public transportation to our hotel (The Muse), which is around the museum quarter. Since we will be there for three days, should we get the festival pass? Also would welcome advice on taking a canal cruise in the city. Thanks!
Posted by
The Netherlands
1300 posts
Whether or not a pass is worth it depends on how much you plan to use it. Amsterdam has a small and compact city center, by far the best way to get around is on foot. Depending on your level of fitness, you may not need public transport at all inside Amsterdam. It seems you plan to only take 1 day trip out of Amsterdam and stay in Amsterdam for the other 2 days. In that case, the 3 day Tulip Festival card, probably isn’t worth the money.
I’m not sure what advice about canal cruises you want. If you’re asking whether or not to take one, the answer is yes. I’m a very firm non-believer of “must do’s” and “must sees”, because everyone has different interests and different likes and dislikes. I however gladly make an exception for a canal cruise; I think that every first time visitor of Amsterdam should go on one, preferably as soon as they arrive.
Posted by
OP
20 posts
Dutch Traveler, thank you for your feedback! Sounds like I do not need a festival bus pass. Regarding the canal cruise, I will definitely plan on taking one. Would you recommend any practical cruise company or route?