10 Things You Must Know: Amsterdam

Photo by Julia McGuirk

Amsterdam, Netherlands (Holland)

1. Name of city in its Native Language: Amsterdam
2. Official Language: Dutch
3. Currency: Euro (€)
4. Time Zone: Central European Time (CET)
5. Closest Airport: Schiphol Amsterdam Airport
6. Getting Around: Gemeentelijk Vervoerbedrijf or GVB operates the tram, bus, ferry, metro, and train (interactive map here); you must have an OV-Chipkaart or another valid travel card to ride metro. Amsterdam is walkable, and a great way to experience the city like a local is to rent a bike - or 'fietsen'.
7. Climate: Oceanic, both winters and summers are considered mild (more detail)
8. Tipping: Although a service charge is included at restaurants, it is nice to tip 5-10% for good service (but not required).
9. Entry Requirements: Valid passport required; Visa not required for stays under 90 days.
10. Culture Tip: When you greet shop owners, walk into a waiting room full of people, or get into an elevator, it is customary to say 'goedemiddag' (good day). Then be sure to wish 'fijne dag nog' (have a nice day) or 'dag' (goodbye) when you or another exits.

What did we miss? What kind of essential information do you look up while planning a trip? Tell us in the comments!