Amsterdam, Netherlands Cruise Port Guide & Information - Maps, Transportation, Attractions, & More
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a top destination for ocean and river cruisers. Its historic canals, world-renowned museums, and vibrant culture make it an ideal place to explore, even for those on a short stopover. The city is well-connected and offers plenty of attractions within a short distance from the cruise terminal. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply enjoying the charm of the Dutch capital, Amsterdam has something for every visitor.
About Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a city known for its unique canal system, historic architecture, and lively atmosphere. Established in the 12th century as a small fishing village, it grew into a major trading hub during the Dutch Golden Age. Today, it is home to a diverse population and boasts a rich cultural scene, with attractions ranging from the Anne Frank House to the Van Gogh Museum. The city is also famous for its coffee shops, Red Light District, and extensive cycling infrastructure, making it a fascinating destination to explore.
Download the full PDF Map of Amsterdam
Where is the Cruise Port Located in Amsterdam?
Cruise Port Amsterdam, also known as Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA), is conveniently located near Amsterdam Centraal Station. Large ocean liners and smaller river cruise ships dock here, providing easy access to the city. The port area is a short 20-minute walk from the Royal Palace, a central landmark in Amsterdam. To reach the city center, passengers must pass through Centraal Station, which serves as a major transportation hub.
Getting Around in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a compact city with many attractions within walking distance. While cycling is a preferred mode of transport for locals, it may not be suitable for visitors unfamiliar with the city's heavy bike traffic. Instead, the public tram system is a quick, efficient, and convenient way to get around. Trams run frequently and connect major tourist spots, making them an excellent choice for those on a time-sensitive schedule. For those looking to explore on foot, the city is pedestrian-friendly, with many scenic streets and canal-side paths to enjoy.
Click here to learn more about the GVB Tram system | Tram line map
What is the I Amsterdam City Card?
The I Amsterdam City Card is a convenient pass for travelers who plan to visit multiple attractions and use public transport. It provides free entry to more than 70 museums and attractions, including the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and ARTIS Royal Zoo. It also includes unlimited use of the city’s trams, buses, and metro, as well as a canal cruise and bike rental for 24 hours. The card is available for different durations, making it a great option for day-trippers looking to maximize their visit. It can be purchased online or at various tourist information centers throughout the city.
How to Get to the Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is one of Amsterdam’s most visited attractions and is located in the Jordaan district. From the cruise terminal, take tram line 13 or 17 from Centraal Station to the Westermarkt stop. The museum is just a short walk from there, or you can walk directly from the cruise port in about 30 minutes. Tickets can only be purchased through the museum’s official website, and they become available every Tuesday at 10 AM CET for visits scheduled six weeks later. The museum offers an emotional and educational experience, showcasing the secret annex where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II, as well as exhibits on the Holocaust and human rights.
Click here to learn more and get tickets.
How to Get to the Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum, located in the Museumplein area, houses the world’s largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh. To get there from the cruise terminal, take tram line 2 or 12 from Centraal Station to the Van Baerlestraat stop. From there, it's a brief walk to the museum entrance. Walking directly from the cruise port takes about 45 minutes, so taking the tram is recommended unless you are already exploring the city nearby. The museum features iconic paintings such as Sunflowers and The Bedroom, along with personal letters and artifacts that provide insight into the artist’s life and struggles.
Where to Go During Tulip Season in Amsterdam
Tulip season in the Netherlands typically runs from mid-March to mid-May, with peak bloom occurring in April. While the best tulip fields are outside Amsterdam, there are still several places in the city to enjoy these iconic flowers:
Amsterdam Tulip Museum: Located in the Jordaan district, this museum explores the Netherlands’ horticultural history, including the 17th-century “Tulipomania” craze.
National Tulip Day: Held in January in Dam Square, this event marks the beginning of tulip season, allowing visitors to pick their own tulips from a temporary garden.
Amsterdam Tulip Festival: Throughout April, tulips are displayed in parks and public spaces, including the Rijksmuseum, Vondelpark, and Rembrandtplein.
Open Garden Days: In mid-June, select canal houses open their private gardens to the public, showcasing hidden green spaces.
Parks and Gardens: Vondelpark, Amstelpark, and Hortus Botanicus offer beautiful floral displays year-round.
Bloemenmarkt: The floating flower market on the Singel Canal is the perfect place to buy tulip bulbs and flowers.
What is the Red Light District?
The Red Light District, known as De Wallen, is one of Amsterdam’s most famous and controversial areas. It is located in the city center, just a short walk from Centraal Station. This historic neighborhood is known for its illuminated red windows where legal prostitution takes place, as well as its nightlife, bars, and coffee shops. While some tourists visit out of curiosity, others appreciate its historical significance and unique atmosphere. Despite its reputation, the area is generally safe, but visitors should remain aware of their surroundings and respect local laws.
Coffee Shops and Cafés in Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s “coffee shops” are not the same as traditional cafés. In the Netherlands, a coffee shop refers to an establishment that legally sells cannabis for personal consumption. These places typically have a relaxed atmosphere where patrons can purchase and consume cannabis products. If you are looking for a regular coffee or tea, you’ll want to visit a café instead. Traditional cafés serve espresso drinks, pastries, and light meals and are found throughout the city. To distinguish between the two, coffee shops often have signage with green and white logos, while cafés look like standard coffee houses and bakeries.
Things to Do in Amsterdam
Amsterdam offers a wide variety of activities for travelers, whether you're interested in culture, nature, or simply exploring the city’s unique atmosphere.
Click here to view shore excursions available in Amsterdam.
Small Group Canal Cruise
Experience Amsterdam’s scenic canals on a boat tour, passing historic landmarks and charming bridges while learning about the city’s rich history. We loved this tour!
Rijksmuseum
This world-renowned museum showcases Dutch masterpieces, including Rembrandt’s The Night Watch, along with historical artifacts and decorative arts.
Rembrandt House Museum
Visit the former home and studio of Rembrandt, where you can explore his work, see restored interiors, and watch etching demonstrations.
NEMO Science Museum
A family-friendly museum with hands-on exhibits exploring science and technology, featuring interactive displays and a rooftop terrace with city views.
ARTIS Royal Zoo
One of Europe’s oldest zoos, offering a mix of wildlife, botanical gardens, an aquarium, and a planetarium, all within a historic green oasis.
Keukenhof Tulip Gardens Tour
Travel from Amsterdam to the famous Keukenhof Gardens with a fast-track ticket and enjoy millions of vibrant tulips in a breathtaking floral display.
Jordaan District Food Walking Tour
Discover Amsterdam’s Jordaan district with a guided food tour, sampling Dutch specialties like herring, cheese, stroopwafels, and more from local vendors.
Conclusion
Amsterdam is a city rich in history, culture, and charm, making it a fantastic stop for cruisers. With its well-connected transportation system, numerous attractions, and walkable streets, visitors can make the most of their time even on a short visit. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or simply enjoying the scenic canals, Amsterdam offers an unforgettable experience. Planning ahead, using public transport, and booking key attractions in advance will ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
