WHEN BEST TO GO
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
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
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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.
