The
amsterdam
trip
For the love of
VAN GOGH & REMBRANDT
SMELLING THE TULIPS
CANALS AND CAFE CULTURE
LIFE ON BIKES
SIGNATURE STROOPWAFELS
PROGRESSIVE SOCIETY
COLORFUL NIGHTLIFE
VINTAGE MARKETS
amsterdam
WHAT TO EXPECT
When it comes to Amsterdam, the Red Light District and legalized substances may get the lion’s share of the headlines, but the city’s way more than that. It’s a masterwork of urban planning and architecture, a hive of culture and cuisine, a center of art and history, and a global leader in progressive thought.
Kick things off outdoors with your new friends on a luxury boat cruise through the canals before you cycle through the bike capital of the world. Spend your days diving into Dutch cheeses or sweet stroopwafels and your nights hitting up world-famous bars and clubs. Get lost in flea markets overflowing with antique goods, marvel at timeless architecture, and explore museums, quiet backstreets, and buzzing central squares with a group of brand-new friends.
If you’re after a quick solo travel escape to one of the most atmospheric cities on the planet or even a warm-up to a longer FTLO adventure, Amsterdam’s the culture trip for you.
2025 dates
apr 3 - 6, 2025
2 Gal spots + 2 Guy spots + 1 private room
Tulip Season
may 22 - 25, 2025
Aug 28 - 31, 2025
oct 2 - 5, 2025
4 days/3 nights
starting at $2,399 USD
Limited private room upgrades starting from $599 are available and can be added during booking, subject to availability.
Payment can be broken down into a $500 deposit + 3 additional installments.
Included
-
3 nights of accommodations in Amsterdam, Netherlands
-
All accommodations in a shared room with one other person with the option to upgrade to a private room (limited availability)
-
Canal cruise
-
Welcome drinks
-
Stroopwafel-making workshop
-
Trip to Zaanse Schans Windmill Village
-
Tasting at Traditional Cheese Farm
-
Wooden Shoe Making Demonstration
-
Dutch wine tasting
-
Traditional Dutch cheese-tasting
-
FTLO Trip Leader
*Activities are weather-dependent on all Amsterdam tours; in the unlikely event that we are unable to run an activity, we will have a suitable alternative in place.
not included
-
Flights to & from Amsterdam
-
Mandatory trip insurance
-
Meals not mentioned (budget around $200)
-
Incidental expenses
day by day
Trip itineraries are subject to change. For more information, check out our FAQs HERE.
discover
Day 1 - Amsterdam
Cruising through Town
Getting into Amsterdam feels a bit like stepping back in time with way better vibes. Skinny canal houses line cobblestone streets, bikes zip by in every direction, and the city hums with that effortlessly cool energy.
This afternoon, we’re diving straight into Dutch culture with a wine and cheese tasting. Get ready to sample some seriously good gouda and more while sipping on perfectly paired wines. It’s the ideal way to settle in and get to know your new crew. Welcome to Amsterdam!
At night, we’ll all sit down for a welcome dinner and toast to the adventures ahead. Afterward, grab a drink and soak up the city’s buzzing nightlife. Whether it’s a cozy canal-side bar or a lively pub, the first night in Amsterdam is always one to remember.
Explore
Day 2 - Amsterdam
beyond the canals
Rise and shine, it’s time to experience Amsterdam the way it was meant to be seen: from the water. This morning, we’ll hop on a classic canal cruise and float through the city’s charming waterways, taking in centuries-old architecture, iconic bridges, and the effortlessly cool energy that defines this place.
Afterward, you’ll have free time to grab lunch, maybe a picnic in Vondelpark or a cozy café in the Jordaan? Then, we’re heading out of the city to the ridiculously picturesque windmill village of Zaanse Schans. We’ll wander through this storybook-like town, check out a traditional Wooden Shoemaker’s Shop (yes, clogs are still a thing here), and visit an authentic Dutch Cheese Farm where you can sample as much gouda and edam as your heart desires.
We’re keeping the energy high at night and hitting Amsterdam’s legendary nightlife scene. Whether you’re into laid-back bars, dance-y clubs, or vibey terraces under the stars, this city knows how to bring the fun.
devour
Day 3 - Amsterdam
Sip and Savour
If last night went a little late, take the morning to recharge before meeting up with the crew for something sweet.
Today, we’re getting hands-on with a Stroopwafel-making workshop. You’ll learn how to craft this iconic Dutch treat, pressing thin, caramel-filled waffles just like the pros. And of course, there will be plenty of warm, gooey goodness to taste along the way.
After class, the rest of the afternoon is yours. Wander through the city’s charming streets, hit up a museum, or find a cozy café to soak in the Amsterdam vibes one last time.
That evening, we’ll all come together for a farewell dinner to wrap up our Amsterdam adventure. Maybe raise a glass with a Heineken or Amstel and toast to an unforgettable trip.
connect
Day 4 - Amsterdam
DAM that was fast
Well, that went by a bit too fast. But that’s not so surprising; after all, when you’re having fun, time flies. And Amsterdam’s just about as fun as they come.
In four short days, you’ve cruised through miles of UNESCO waterways and cycled the city. You’ve tried Dutch specialties in trendy tree-lined neighborhoods with a whole crew of amazing new friends and soaked up local life all along the way.
If you’ve got more time to travel, Europe’s got a lot to show you. Consider three more capitals in three different nations on FTLO’s Copenhagen, Oslo & Stockholm trip, or head south for epic natural beauty in Slovenia.
cruise
about amsterdam
Amsterdam’s origins trace back to the 13th century when it emerged as a fishing village along the Amstel River, before growing into a global trade hub by the 1600s. The city is renowned for its artistic legacy, and is home to the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Rembrandt House Museum. With a diverse culinary scene, from traditional Dutch dishes to global flavors, and eclectic nightlife, spanning Leidseplein's bustling clubs, Jordaan's intimate bars, and the historic ambiance of the Red Light District, the city today is as dynamic as it is timeless and beautiful.
Good to Know
-
Dutch is the predominant language in Amsterdam.
-
The Euro is the official currency of the Netherlands.
Trip notes
-
There are limited private rooms available on our Amsterdam trips. Book early if you prefer one, as they usually fill up.
-
The museums in Amsterdam are incredible, which make them incredibly popular. If you’d like to visit any of them, it’s best to book tickets at least a few weeks in advance.
-
More information regarding visa requirements and Covid restrictions on the Amsterdam trip can be found here.
-
If you'd like to visit the Anne Frank House, you'll need to book at least 6 weeks early. It's best to visit on arrival day, departure day, or around 4pm on day 3. Tickets with an introductory program can be purchased directly from their website.
flight information
Fly into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)
Arrive at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) by 1 pm local time and plan to arrive at the hotel by 2:30 pm. You can take a taxi to the hotel, which should take about 15 minutes, or you can take public transportation to the hotel, which should take about 30 minutes.
Fly out of Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)
Fly out at any time on the last day. We recommend a later flight so you can enjoy a bit more exploring before heading back home or to your next adventure.
alumni reviews
Interested in learning more about our Amsterdam trip?
Have a question? We're here to help! Whether you're curious about accommodations, accessibility, group vibe, or dietary needs, fill out the form below, and we'll get back to you ASAP.