A Fairy-Tale Day in Amsterdam
- Dirk van Oosten
- Dec 25, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 5
Once upon a day in Amsterdam…
🌅 Morning – A Gentle Beginning
Start the day with a stroll through the historic streets as the city slowly wakes up. Find a cozy café for a Dutch breakfast with fresh pastries, strong coffee, and maybe your first stroopwafel. Let the canals guide your way as bicycles glide past like clockwork.
🚤 Late Morning – Sailing Through a Storybook
No fairy tale in Amsterdam is complete without a canal cruise. Step aboard and drift through the city’s famous waterways, passing narrow houses, hidden courtyards, and bridges that have witnessed centuries of stories. It’s the perfect way to see the city from its most magical angle.
🧀 Lunch – A Kingdom of Cheese
For lunch, visit the famous Cheese Bar, where cheese arrives by conveyor belt straight to your table. Sample a variety of Dutch cheeses, pair them with a glass of wine or beer, and discover why cheese plays such a royal role in Dutch culture.
🏛️ Afternoon – Art, History & Hidden Corners
Spend the afternoon exploring Amsterdam’s cultural treasures. Visit the Rijksmuseum, the Anne Frank House, or simply wander through neighborhoods like Jordaan or De Negen Straatjes, where small shops and hidden gems await around every corner.
🌆 Evening – A Golden Ending
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner along the canals or in a traditional Dutch restaurant. Watch the city lights reflect on the water, and end the day knowing you’ve stepped into a fairy tale of your own — one filled with charm, history, and unforgettable memories.
🍴 Monica & Dirk’s Amsterdam Favorites
Where to eat like a local (with a sense of adventure)
Amsterdam is a city best discovered one bite at a time. From comfort food to iconic Dutch snacks, these are some of Monica and Dirk’s favorite places to eat — all personally tested and highly recommended.
Yes, the name really does translate to “Brothel Fries.”Located in the heart of the Red Light District, this spot serves loaded fries that are absolutely worth the visit. Crispy fries, bold toppings, and a fun atmosphere — perfect for a quick bite while exploring one of Amsterdam’s most famous neighborhoods.
A cozy Italian restaurant known for its incredible pastas and excellent wines. It’s warm, intimate, and full of flavor — but fair warning: it gets very busy, so get there early. A perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a long evening of good food and conversation.
A must-visit for cheese lovers.This conveyor belt cheese bar brings different Dutch cheeses straight to your table. Pair your selections with wine or beer and discover why cheese is such an important part of Dutch culture.
If you’ve never had a freshly made stroopwafel, this is the place. Watch them prepare the waffle right in front of you — warm, gooey, and absolutely irresistible. One bite and you’ll understand why this Dutch treat is world-famous.
Classic Dutch pancakes, both sweet and savory, served near Amsterdam Central Station. A great option for breakfast, brunch, or lunch — and a perfect introduction to one of Monica’s favorite Dutch dishes.
This one needs a little explanation. FEBO is a Dutch fast-food institution where snacks come from a vending-style wall. Monica lovingly calls it the “spinning wheel of death” — but don’t worry! Strict Dutch food laws ensure everything is fresh and safe.
Pro tip: Try the kaassoufflé (cheese pastry).But don’t blame us if you’ve just discovered your new favorite late-night snack.
Whether you’re craving fries, pasta, cheese, or something completely new, these spots offer a taste of Amsterdam through Monica and Dirk’s eyes — playful, delicious, and unforgettable 🤍
