Explore Amsterdam
Restaurants
Cafes
Bars
Museums
Attractions
Parks
Coworking
Neighborhoods
Day Trips
Healthcare
Schools
Shopping
Amsterdam is home to more than 185,000 international residents, making it one of the most diverse cities in Europe and arguably the most liveable major city on the continent. Whether you have just arrived, are planning your move, or have lived here for years, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Population
921,000
Expat residents
185,000+
1-bed rent (central)
1,800-2,400/mo
Train to Schiphol
17 minutes
Train to Rotterdam
40 minutes
Train to Den Haag
50 minutes
The city
Why Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a city that gets under your skin. The canal ring, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built during the Dutch Golden Age in the 1600s, forms the backbone of a city that is simultaneously historic and forward-looking. Cycling is the primary mode of transport. English is spoken everywhere. The international community is large, well-established and genuinely welcoming to new arrivals.
The city divides naturally into distinct neighborhoods. The Jordaan is the most coveted address – a tangle of narrow streets and canal-side houses. De Pijp is the young and diverse neighborhood south of the centre, dense with cafes and one of the best restaurant scenes in the city. Amsterdam West is where many expats end up, with good schools and a strong local feel. Amsterdam Noord, reached by a free ferry across the IJ, has transformed into one of the most creative and affordable neighborhoods in the city.
The downsides are real. Housing is extremely scarce and expensive. Tourist pressure in summer can make the centre feel like a theme park. But for most expats who have lived here, Amsterdam is one of those cities that is very hard to leave.
Practical info
Getting around and settling in
Getting around: Amsterdam is a cycling city. A good secondhand bike is the single most important purchase you will make. Public transport is excellent – the GVB network of trams, buses and the North-South metro line covers the entire city. Tap in and out with OVpay using any contactless card.
Language: Dutch is the official language but English is spoken fluently by virtually everyone. Most official documents and government websites are available in English. Learning Dutch is still recommended for full integration.
Cost of living: Amsterdam is expensive by Dutch standards. Housing is the biggest cost. See our cost of living guide for a full breakdown.
Healthcare: Dutch health insurance is mandatory for all residents. Register with a local GP as soon as you arrive. See our health insurance guide.
Working: Amsterdam has one of the most international labour markets in Europe, particularly in technology, finance and creative industries. The 30% ruling tax benefit is available to qualifying skilled migrants.
Just arrived
Your first two weeks in Amsterdam
1
Register at the Amsterdam gemeente and get your BSN
Without it you cannot open a bank account, get health insurance or receive a salary. Gemeente guide and BSN guide.
2
Open a Dutch bank account
ABN AMRO, ING and bunq are the most expat-friendly options. Full guide.
3
Arrange health insurance within four months
Mandatory and backdates to your arrival date. Full guide.
4
Set up your DigiD
The digital identity system you need to access virtually all Dutch government services. Full guide.
5
Buy a bike
You are in Amsterdam. This is not optional. Waterlooplein flea market or Marktplaats for secondhand.