There’s a fleeting moment, shortly after you step foot in Amsterdam, when you find yourself standing on a picturesque bridge. The water ripples beneath the soft glow of golden light, and it hits you: Why didn’t I come here sooner?
Amsterdam is just that kind of city—both intimate and cosmopolitan, calm yet alive with energy. As a solo woman traveller, you won’t just feel safe here; you’ll feel seen. Not in a flashy, tourism-driven way, but rather in a genuine, accepting kind of way that makes you feel right at home.
Of course, solo travel is a journey that’s not solely about the destination; it’s about how you fit into it. Amsterdam, with all its charm, doesn’t coddle you. Instead, it invites you to discover your own rhythm—encouraging you to explore, adapt, and follow local wisdom when it matters most. (We’ll get into that shortly.)
So, what’s it really like to wander through Amsterdam alone as a woman? Here’s the good, the funny, and the beautifully unexpected.
You’ll Learn to Cross the Street With Your Life in Your Hands
Let’s get one thing straight: the Dutch do not mess around when it comes to bikes. Crossing the road here is no casual stroll—it’s a survival skill.
There are lanes carved out for cars, trams, mopeds, and, not to be forgotten, an endless stream of cyclists who will not stop for you. They ring their bells as they zoom by without a second thought.
You’ll learn quickly; it’s all part of the charm. But don’t let that scare you away from renting a bike yourself—just don’t attempt it right off the plane. Amsterdam’s bike lanes are like a ballet, and as a tourist, you might not be the star. Give it time.
The Hotels Feel Like a Second Skin
When you’re travelling solo, your hotel room takes on a new importance. It’s more than just a place to crash after a long day; it’s your sanctuary, your retreat.
Consider staying at The Dylan, nestled inside a historic canal house. Its wooden-beamed suites exude warmth and character, making it feel like your cozy home away from home. If you’re drawn to a more refined experience, the Waldorf Astoria offers a blend of understated luxury and an enviable location that puts you just a stone’s throw from major attractions.
And if you’re yearning for classic elegance, look no further than Hotel De L’Europe, a favorite among Dutch royalty. Enough said.
Whether you’re alone or not, sinking into crisp sheets with the gentle lull of the canal water nearby is a slice of heaven.
Your Credit Card Will Whisper, “Maybe Not”—Ignore It
Amsterdam is a treasure trove of temptation for the solo woman traveller. Those independent boutiques in the Nine Streets? They’ll charm you at every turn. Beautifully curated design shops that offer a scent of sandalwood will have you forgetting your budget.
You might find yourself eyeing a €200 linen blouse, thinking, Well, I am in Europe… so, why not?
That’s part of the adventure. In De Negen Straatjes, browsing becomes an experience in itself. Even if you don’t purchase anything, the shopkeepers will often let you meander through their spaces like a stylish ghost.
If you’re a book lover, don’t pass up Athenaeum Boekhandel. It’s a cornerstone of Amsterdam’s literary scene—an inviting space with multilingual offerings. Just next door you’ll find an impressive boutique magazine collection that could make any bibliophile swoon.
Dining Alone Here Feels Less Like a Pity Party and More Like a Power Move
Here’s a little secret: choose restaurants that whisper intimacy—not just in their seating arrangements but in their entire vibe.
Start at Beulings or De Juwelier. These small, beautifully run establishments feel like hidden gems, inviting you to savor every moment. For something truly fresh, Vis aan de Schelde is a seafood lover’s dream, while the Michelin-starred Yamazato (inside Hotel Okura) transports you to Japan with elegance and grace.
If you’re seeking solitude with stunning views, Restaurant De Mark in Durgerdam is a haven for relaxation, featuring an exquisite wine list amidst serene scenery. Want to spice things up? Reserve a spot at Vuurtoreneiland, a seasonal pop-up nestled on a remote island with a working lighthouse. Arrive by boat, dine by firelight, and momentarily lose yourself in a Nordic fairytale.
You Can Sip a Perfect Cocktail—and Still Hear Yourself Think
Amsterdam’s cocktail scene is a subtle art. No glaring neon signs or exclusive velvet ropes. Just perfectly crafted drinks served in beautifully designed spaces.
Door 74 is a speakeasy that embodies sophistication—hidden, refined, and inviting conversation. Don’t hesitate to ask for something off-menu; let yourself be surprised. Alternatively, check out the Conservatorium Hotel for their gin & tonic bar, where the drink menu reads like a botanical masterpiece and the glassware deserves its own Instagram shot.
Dining solo? Perfect! You won’t have to share a single delightful sip.
The Museums Don’t Just Entertain—They Soothe
When you’re travelling solo, museums transform into spaces for reflection and rejuvenation. They offer a sanctuary where you can breathe and simply exist.
Amsterdam strikes a balance between the classics and the quirky. The Rijksmuseum is a must-visit—its recent renovation adds to its world-renowned status—but if you can, plan your visit for Museumnacht, when museums open at night, turning into a vibrant, magical experience.
In the heart of the city, Begijnhof offers a serene escape once inhabited by a group of women known as the Beguines. Now, it remains a tranquil haven occupied solely by elderly women, where silence feels almost sacred.
And don’t miss the blissful Amsterdamse Bos, a swath of greenery at the city’s edge, home to a goat farm where, come spring, you can indulge in the joy of bottle-feeding adorable baby goats. Trust us, you won’t want to miss it.
You Might End Up on a Boat—and Never Want to Get Off
To truly understand Amsterdam, you need to see it from the water. Rent a boat—preferably a private one stocked with wine and a charming skipper—and allow the city to unfurl before you at a leisurely pace. The name “Amsterdam” actually comes from the dam built on the Amstel River back in the 12th century, and the canals still pulse with the city’s heartbeat.
Some luxury hotels, like Okura, even offer private culinary canal cruises that start right from their own docks. It’s a captivating way to see the city—up close, intimate, and free from the noise of traffic.
Pour yourself a glass of something cool. Let the city drift by. You’re not in a hurry.
You’ll Start to Trust Yourself in a New Way
Here’s the real kicker about solo travel: you can’t blame anyone but yourself. If you get lost, it’s on your shoulders. If the restaurant choice flops, well, that’s on you, too.
But guess what? That also means each small victory feels monumental. You navigated the tram system like a pro. You stumbled upon the perfect gallery. You enjoyed a three-course meal without constantly checking your phone.
If you ever feel out of your comfort zone, don’t hesitate to learn from the best—elite independent guides in Amsterdam who know the city like the back of their hand. They bring not just knowledge of the best spots but an understanding of people, offering a unique roadmap that helps you feel at ease.
Final Thought: It’s Okay to Be a Little Bit in Love
You’ll leave Amsterdam with more than just a few little souvenirs—perhaps a magazine left unopened and definitely a newfound appreciation for adorable goats. But above all, you’ll carry with you an awakened sense of self.
Solo travel isn’t about solitude; it’s an opportunity to reconnect with who you are when no one else is watching. In a city that radiates self-possession, wit, and a quiet rebellion, you may find yourself falling a little in love—with the place, with your independence, and with the remarkable woman you become when nobody else is around.
Image Source: Unsplash
