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December 2, 2015updated Jun 12, 2019

Useful Information for your Stay in Amsterdam

By Chris Boyle

WHEN BEST TO GO

Useful Information on Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s generally mild temperature means the city is a great place to visit all year round.

The different seasons each bring a change to the city, from the snow-tinged beauty in the winter to the lively summer atmosphere. Temperatures in the summer average around 20°C while the winter is much colder, with average temperatures around 3-4°C.

LOCAL CUSTOMS

Amsterdammers are known for their liberal toleration; prostitution is legal and certain drugs such as cannabis have been decriminalized, although recent laws have banned the sale of hallucinogenic drugs and the local council has attempted to clean up the red light district. Many Dutch customs are similar to those in the other parts of Western Europe, and you can expect locals to be helpful and friendly.

ATTIRE

Western-style dress is the norm, and many of the bars and clubs welcome a relaxed approach to clothing. That said, some of the classier restaurants may require more formal dress so it’s best to check with your concierge.

LANGUAGE

Dutch, though English and other European languages are widely spoken.

CURRENCY

Euro

EXCHANGE RATE

$1 = €0.70
£1 = €1.11

COUNTRY DIALLING CODE

+31

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24 HOUR EMERGENCY CONTACT

Ambulance: 112
Fire: 112
Police: 112

EMBASSY CONTACTS

US Consulate General +31 20 794 0808
British Consulate General +31 20 676 4343

TIME ZONE

GMT +1

POPULATION

780,152

RELIGIOUS DEMOGRAPHIC

Christian

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

January 1 – New Year’s Day
April 22 – Good Friday
April 24 – Easter Sunday
April 25 – Easter Monday
April 30 – Queen’s Day
June 2 – Ascension Day
June 12 – Pentecost Sunday (Whitsunday)
June 13 – Pentecost Monday
December 25 – Christmas Day
December 26 – Boxing Day

TYPICAL OPENING HOURS

Opening hours tend to vary in Amsterdam, although most shops are usually open from 9am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and 12pm to 5pm on Sundays.

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