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.
Included
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3 nights of accommodations in Amsterdam, Netherlands
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All accommodations in a shared room with one other person with the option to upgrade to a private room (limited availability)
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Canal cruise and welcome drinks
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Trip to Zaanse Schans Windmill Village
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Tasting at Traditional Cheese Farm
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Wooden Shoe Making Demonstration
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Dutch wine tasting
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Traditional Dutch cheese-tasting
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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
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Flights to & from Amsterdam
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Mandatory trip insurance
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Meals not mentioned (budget around $200)
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Incidental expenses
upcoming dates
apr 3 - 6, 2025
Tulip Season
may 22 - 25, 2025
Tulip Season
Jul 3 - 6, 2025
Aug 28 - 31, 2025
4 days/3 nights
starting at $2,299 USD
Limited single room upgrades starting from $599 are available and can be added during booking, subject to availability.
Payment can be broken down into a $199 deposit + 3 additional installments.
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. Skinny canal houses line cobblestone streets, and a never-ending stream of bicycles pop out from every bend.
You’ll spend your first day in town on a luxury canal cruise with your new crew taking it in as you get a glimpse of it all—there's no better way to say hello to the capital. Welcome to Amsterdam!
That night, we’ll all sit down to a welcome dinner and dine like the Dutch Dukes. Then, head out for a drink; even if beer’s not your go-to, a Heineken’s in the cards tonight.
Explore
Day 2 - Amsterdam
beyond the canals
With more bicycles than people, Amsterdam is a clean, smog-free city ripe for riding, and today's all about navigating like a local.
With our expert guide leading the pack, wind through the hip and trendy Jordaan neighborhood. Snake through peaceful cobblestone streets and over centuries-old bridges. Discover cafe culture, laid-back vibes, arts, and a society famous for tolerance and acceptance. And then head off on your own for lunch: consider a picnic in leafy green Vondelpark!
After lunch, we’re off to the picturesque windmill village of Zaanse Schans. Here we will tour the town and witness the unique art of crafting wooden shoes at a traditional Wooden Shoemaker's Shop. Then, we'll visit an authentic Dutch Cheese Farm where you can satisfy your cheese cravings with unlimited tasting. That evening, we’ll keep the good times rolling and head out to hit the bars and clubs—local nightlife is famous for a reason, and in the summer, the excitement spills out onto terraces and outdoor patios.
devour
Day 3 - Amsterdam
Sip and Savour
If that night on the town went a little late, take the morning for some R&R before you meet up with the rest of the crew around midday.
Now, let’s dive into something that’ll really excite your taste buds: the Netherlands' wine scene! We’ve got a fabulous wine tasting adventure lined up that will take you on a flavorful journey featuring a selection of delightful local wines, perfectly paired with some of the best bites around. After indulging in some tasty sips and bites, the rest of your afternoon is wide open for exploration! Stroll through the vibrant streets of Amsterdam and uncover its artistic treasures and cultural wonders.
That evening, we’ll all get together to cap off our Amsterdam escape over a farewell dinner and perhaps a Heineken or Amstel to celebrate in local style.
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
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Dutch is the predominant language in Amsterdam.
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The Euro is the official currency of the Netherlands.
Trip notes
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There are limited single rooms available on our Amsterdam trips. Book early if you prefer one, as they usually fill up.
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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.
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More information regarding visa requirements and Covid restrictions on the Amsterdam trip can be found here.
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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 12:30pm local time and plan to arrive at the hotel by 2pm. You can take a taxi to the hotel which should take about 15 minutes. You can also 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.