Basic facts about Amsterdam

Although the seat of Netherlands government is in The Hague, Amsterdam is the nominal capital. It is also the country's largest city, with a population of more than 851,000, and the most visited, with over 3,5 million foreign visitors a year.

The Netherlands is a country situated in Western Europe, bordering Belgium to the south and Germany to the east. To its north and west is the North Sea. Although the Netherlands is the country's official name, people often call it Holland. The provinces of North Holland and South Holland form only part of the Netherlands.

Amsterdam in numbers

Some interesting figures on how many bicycles, bridges, canals, cinemas or markets one can find in Amsterdam, as well as some statistics about the tourists and day visitors to Amsterdam.

Population: 851 000 (January 1st, 2017);
Amsterdam urban area population: 1,3 million
Country: The Netherlands 
Time Zone: GMT/UTC +1
Telephone area code: 020

Dutch courses in Amsterdam

An overview of institutions providing Dutch lessons in Amsterdam. Prices, duration of the courses and quality of the courses vary, however, they are nevertheless all helpful for acquiring the native language of the Dutch.

Amsterdam Municipality

City of Amsterdam is run by the city council and a college of aldermen. The council is the highest authority in the city of Amsterdam and is responsible for all important decisions.

Money and currency

The currency in the Netherlands is the Euro ( € , EUR), which is used in almost all countries within the European Union. For details on changing money and methods of payment see our tips for visitors.

Climate in the NetherlandsAmsterdam, Weather, Forecast

The warmest weather is from June to August, with temperatures between 21 - 26 degrees Celsius. There are rarely extreme temperatures. The air is relatively humid and fog is common in autumn and spring. There are stronger winds from October to March. Click for weather forecast.

History of Amsterdam

Amsterdam, probably the most planned city of northern Europe, has long been a well-known city. In the 17th century Amsterdam was the centre of world economy, and nowadays the city is known for its tolerant character.

Dutch holidays

A Dutch holiday can add a festive note to your trip, particularly if it involves a parade or special observance somewhere in the country. But expect banks, shops, and most museums to be closed, and public transportation to operate on Sunday schedules for the listed holidays.

Architecture of Amsterdam

Amsterdam is where modern architecture developed organically between facades of historical buildings. Since it is not a big city, all sites of interest are within an acceptable distance. This is why Amsterdam is so popular with lovers of architecture.

Amsterdam Coat of Arms

The symbol of Amsterdam are three x shaped Saint Andrew crosses.

Studying in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has two research universities and several schools of higher professional education offering programmes from Dentistry to Arts and Design. Follow our guide to student life in Amsterdam dealing with the fields of study and admissions requirements to Universities, student organizations, grants and scholarships, student hotspots and, most importantly, finding a place to live and employment in this cosmopolitan city.

Getting work in Amsterdam

To find a job in Amsterdam might be a difficult task, especially for a non-Dutch speaker. Now there are several agencies intermediating jobs for the international companies, where knowledge of Dutch language is not required. Learn here what you need before you apply for a job and see some job vacancies.

Amsterdam Community Information

Studying, working and living in Amsterdam. Information about finding a job in Amsterdam, housing, enjoying art and culture. Amsterdam communities.