Surrounded by stunning mountains and filled with the best of everything that the country has to offer, Seville is a strong contender for our favorite city in Spain. With winding streets, delicious tapas and a vibrant culture, we’re pretty sure you’ll fall for it, too.

Seville is the birthplace of Flamenco, home to the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and boasts some of the most beautiful gardens and Moorish architecture in Spain.

Explore the highlights in our Seville to-do list, below.

Where to stay in Seville

Hotel Alfonso XIII

This is the crown jewel of Seville hotels. The style is classic and old, and it’s in pristine condition. You can’t find a better hotel breakfast.

Hotel Monte Triana

This stylish boutique hotel has named each room after a city the owners have visited, and decorated with art the couple has collected from their trips.

Where to eat & drink in Seville

Bar Alfalfa

The name of the game for breakfast in Seville is pan con tomate with cafe con leche. You can’t go wrong with that order – it’s as simple as it is delicious. Head here, get a seat by the window, and watch the beautiful Andalusians stroll by while sipping your coffee.

La Brunilda Tapas

This is the best restaurant in town for lunch – it opens at 1pm and takes no reservations, so get there early. If you can’t get a table, walk over to Triana market and pick up something from one of the many food stalls.

Cañabota

Cañabota is famous for its extensive fish menu and open all day, in case you need an earlier option that the usual post-8pm Spanish dinner.

Lobo López

This place is great for a late tapas dinner with a group of friends and jugs of sangria.

Arte y Sabor

For a traditional Seville experience, go to Plaza Alameda de Hercules. In the evening, the square is filled with young locals who come here to hang out. Arte y Sabor is our favorite restaurant on the edge of the plaza to soak up the atmosphere.

Best coffee in Seville

Torch Coffee Roasters

The street around this roastery can be hectic, but weave your way in as the coffee is worth it.

Ofelia Bakery

Everything here is homemade, and there are also some good vegan and gluten-free options. Get a coffee and a brownie, if there’s one on the menu.

Where to shop in Seville

There are tons of cute shops in the heart of Seville. Go to Calle Rioja, start with a mandatory visit to BIMBA Y LOLA, and then work yourself down the street from there.

Where to get a hit of culture

Real Alcázar

The is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it was used as a backdrop for Game of Thrones. Take the full tour – the botanical gardens are truly magical.

Parque de María Luisa

For more lush greenery, head to this park, rent a bicycle, stop off for an ice cream and enjoy.

Plaza de Espana

This square, in the above park, pays homage to Spain’s 48 provinces. Hire a boat and take in the view from the canal that runs alongside it.

Torre del Oro

Torre del Oro is an amazing old military watchtower. The tour focuses on how the city of Seville came to be.

Where to party

DadáBa

There is nothing fancy about this place, and that’s why we love it. Drink, chat and dance alongside the locals until late. Then, on your way back to the hotel, swing by one of Seville’s many churrerias for chocolate and churros – the Spanish way to end a good night (or early morning).

What else to do in Seville

For one of the best rooftop views over the city, head to the EME Catedral Hotel bar. Warning: there will be a few tourists here, but it’s worth it.

Museo del Baile Flamenco is our go-to for flamenco, with several one-hour courtyard shows each evening. Or, buy a ticket for one of the shows at Tablao Flamenco Los Gallos.

Where to get some R&R

AIRE Ancient Baths Sevilla

AIRE now have baths in cities around the world, from London, to Chicago, New York, Copenhagen, Barcelona and more. In Seville, it’s located in a former palace, with incredible interiors and equally impressive views from the rooftop jacuzzi.

Spend a good couple of hours between pools of various temperatures, before being collected by your masseuse, who will take you through to the main treatment room. A heads up: this is a shared space, rather than private room. That said, with dimmed lights, candles and soothing music, you’ll easily zone out.

Where to work

We love getting a start on the working day at Hotel Alfonso. Then, head over to Un Gato en Bicicleta for creative inspiration. Originally a bookshop, it now has a cafe where you can pitch up with your laptop, surrounded by magazines and books. There’s even a ceramic studio, tucked away at the back.

Sahara-warmed winds make the Portuguese capital the perfect city break all year round – it’s beautiful in the warmth of summer, and evocative in the mid-winter. While most of Europe beds down for the colder months, Lisbon is one of those destinations that always feels alive – whether you’re here for the art exhibitions, some of Portugal’s best restaurants, long riverside walks, late night rooftop cocktails, or all of the above.

Pastéis de nata, cobbled streets, contemporary architecture, indoor markets, and red roof vistas… what’s not to love? Come for a long weekend’s exploration and you’ll be tempted to check-in to a suite, plug in your laptop, and start living that digital nomad dream.

Where to stay in Lisbon

Memmo Alfama 

In this 42-room hotel, the showstopper is the red-tiled pool, which matches the red roofs of Lisbon. The best rooms look over the Tagus River. For breakfast, pastéis de nata are aplenty and the hotel offers a free daily guided-walk around Alfama. Time to learn those facts and impress your friends. 

Vintage Hotel & Spa

We love the leafy rooftop restaurant and there’s a great outdoor cinema, too. The hotel is just 25 minutes from the waterfront and offers a fantastic collection of wine. Most importantly: all guests get a complimentary gin and tonic kit and locally brewed Lince craft beer. Need we say more? 

Verride Palacio Santa Catarina

Found in the Bica neighborhood, this boutique hotel has just 18 rooms. Of all the hotels in Lisbon, this one offers the most personalized service with butlers and amazing attention-to-detail. There’s no spa or gym, but the royal interiors and Aesop amenities make up for it. 

Where to eat in Lisbon

Prado

Light pours into this farm-to-table favorite through the huge glass windows. The cabbage is amazing (I know, who would’ve thought) and they do a kombucha of the day. Very Los Angeles vibes, with a Lisbon spin.

Bairro do Avillez

Offering some of the best seafood by famed Portuguese chef José Avillez this is the more relaxed of his restaurants; or level up the sophistication a notch at Cantinho do Avillez. Either way, you won’t be disappointed. Reserve in advance. 

Taberna da Rua das Flores

Generous portions, the best mackerel in Lisbon, and a cozy vibe with just nine tables. Definitely one for date night. 

Taberna Sal Grosso

The classic dishes here are fun and inexpensive. It’s a small restaurant, seating 25, but this means the atmosphere is super friendly. There’s no website, so it’s full of people in-the-know.

Restaurant A Gina

Consider this hard to find and tough to beat. Cute and down-to-earth, a real hidden gem.

Praia da Princesa

This bar and restaurant is just off Costa da Caparica. The portions are generous and the fish is fantastic.

Atira-te ao Rio

Take a ferry or scooter ride across the bridge to Almada from Lisbon to get to this spot. They serve the best Aperol Spritz – enough said.

O Germano

Not many tourists know about this local favorite. Expect good, traditional food; try the sardines and the duck rice.

Where to get coffee

Tease

Cupcake heaven in the heart of the city – and something called a ‘Nutella coffee’. Hello!

Santini

Rumor has it the King of Italy said this was the best ice-cream he’d ever tasted. We wholeheartedly agree.

Pastéis de Belém

You can’t visit Lisbon without grabbing a nata at Pastéis de Belém, which has been baking since 1837. They also sell incredible breads, cakes, and tarts. 

Manteigaria

The more natas the better – Manteigaria is, arguably, the best in the city. With two locations, one in the Barrio Alto, and one in the Time Out Market (more about that below). They ring a bell when a fresh batch are just out of the oven. Heaven with an espresso.

Where to drink in Lisbon

Sky Bar

Since 1933, sunset seekers have been flocking to this glitzy hotel for the phenomenal views. Up on the ninth floor, it’s the perfect place for cocktails. 

Foxtrot

A classic Art Deco speakeasy with a pool table and extensive wine cellar. Go on Saturdays when the atmosphere is buzzing with visitors and locals alike.

Time Out Market

An absolute must, with delicious food of all sorts, for lunch or dinner. Right next to the ‘pink street’ bar area, so definitely check this out before heading out on the town.

Where to party 

Of course, begin with Barrio Alto, the most popular area in Lisbon. Start late, at around 11:30pm, and just hop between bars. Beers are around €2 and caipirinhas or mojitos are €7 (which is dangerous!). For those with stamina, head to Cais do Sodré or Rua Cor de Rosa around 1:30 or 2am.

Lux

A famous club with three floors: one for deep house; one for commercial music; and a rooftop, which is a great place to chill. The problem is, locals call it the ‘Portuguese Berghain’ (after the club in Berlin), which means the entrance is completely random! Give it a shot though – and wear converse and tees, not fancy stuff.

Where to workout 

Casa Vinyasa

This studio is beautiful, with a full schedule featuring Vinyasa, Nidra, and Ashtanga yoga. The views of the river help ease you into a state of calm. 

Holmes Place

This state-of-the-art fitness club includes a pool, sauna, hot tub, gym, fitness classes, and more. Sleek design and super-clean facilities makes working out all the more bearable. 

Where to shop 

Embaixada 

In the Príncipe Real neighbourhood, this concept store was built in a beautiful 19th-century neo-Moorish palace. Discover the best Portugese designers then check out the garden, restaurant and exhibition space. 

A Vida Portugesa

A cute shop full of Portuguese houseware, as well as soaps, ceramics, food, paper goods and jewellery. Support quality workmanship and grab a few gifts to take home. 

Stivali

One of the classics of the Lisbon shopping scene on the luxury fashion street, Avenida da Liberdade. Expect high-end brands like Fendi, Chloe and Dolce & Gabbana. 

What to do in Lisbon

São Jorge Castle

For sea views and a refreshing breeze, head up to the castle for a wander around this historic part of Lisbon. 

National Azulejo Museum

For ceramic fanatics (we know you’re out there) this is a must-see. Dating from the 15th century to the present, you’ll adore the rows of decorative tiles. Buy a few for your bathroom, go on. 

Best beach in Lisbon

Praia Portinho da Arrabida

This is one of the most stunning beaches in Portugal. It’s compact, but promises crystal clear waters. It tends to be quite windy though, so bring layers.

Book your trip to Lisbon with Safara, here.

Berlin is one of the coolest cities in Europe. It’s long been a pioneer of trends in music, design, fashion, art, and architecture. The nightlife has a reputation for good reason. There’s an abundance of historical sites, parks and galleries. And if you know where to go, there are some great local food spots.

Yes, it’s very grey – think Brutalist mood – but, the rainbow graffiti and street art add color on every corner. Here are a few of our favorite spots.

Where to stay in Berlin

SO/ Berlin Das Stue

Fun fact: this was the Danish Embassy prior to being a boutique hotel, which is why it’s called Das Stue, meaning “living room” in Danish. The perfect mix of sophisticated, new-age interiors and old-school historic bones, it’s a contrast that works well and attracts a fashionable crowd.

Michelberger Hotel

A more hipster option, typical of Berlin style, the vibe here is youthful and relaxed. It also happens to have one of the best restaurants in the area; and plays brilliant music, too.

Hotel Zoo Berlin

In the central area of Mitte, book a room facing the Tiergarten Park’s Zoo, and you’ll likely spot some real monkeys from your bed. Definitely spend an evening on the rooftop in the Monkey bar (yes, there’s a theme).

Soho House Berlin

You know what you’re getting with Soho House, but this place hits differently. In a Grade-II listed building, demonstrating Neue Sachlichkeit (New Objectivity) architecture, it’s a time capsule of history from pre-WWII, through to the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. The building was passed between political parties and then left dormant for 10 years, before Soho House scooped it up. We’re surprised that Wes Anderson hasn’t made a film here yet: there’s lots of delicious symmetry, one of the slickest rooftops in the city, a DJ decks in some of the rooms.

Where to eat & drink in Berlin

Paris Bar is the one place that’s mandatory when you’re in this city. Located in West Berlin, it’s not about one aspect alone, but the combination of art, food and people watching that creates the magic here.

Other than that, Katz Orange is a safe bet for a great dinner. Borchardt is especially worth a visit on a Friday night, when they host after-dinner parties upstairs. Or head to the Neue Odessa Bar for a good cocktail.

Best bar in Berlin

Go to one of the many speakeasy-style around the city – Buck & Breck is our top pick.

Best coffee in Berlin

Distrikt Coffee is ideal for coffee and something sweet – the bread pudding is legendary. While The Barn in the Mitte area is one for serious coffee heads – they roast their own beans on-site, and host free coffee tasting sessions every Saturday.

Where to shop in Berlin

Voo is an expansive store that manages to feel very exclusive, as if every piece has been handpicked for you. The Store also has a good selection of fashion and homeware – part of Soho House, when you’re done shopping, settle in for a coffee on the sofas.

Where to get a hit of culture

Berlin is a place that lives and breathes art. Download the Street Art Cities app and take yourself on a tour of the best graffiti with your headphones on. And, if you are here during the Gallery Weekend or Berlin Art Week, you’re in luck.

The modern art contrasts with the historical sights and monuments that are intrinsic to Berlin, such as the Holocaust Memorial, Berlin Wall Memorial, and Checkpoint Charlie. All important to see.

For photography, go to the Helmut Newton Foundation, which hosts exhibitions of some of the most influential photographers of our time. The gift shop has the best postcards ever.

Where to work out in Berlin

Badeschiff

Go swimming in this outdoor swimming pool in the river. The water is chlorinated, but it still feels like you’re out in the wild. Opening times are seasonal, so check ahead.

Sun Yoga

With two locations in Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, this is one for the hot yoga lovers – the heat is cranked up high.

Ride.bln

This studio is the best for spin, and the 50-minute classes will get you pumped and ready for a night of clubbing.

Where to work

Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin

The lobby here is a great place to sit with your computer, but it’s pricey to stay. Make sure to order the world’s best cheesecake while you work.

Where to party in Berlin

Berghain is Berlin’s most infamous club. There is this small issue of actually getting in (pro tip: never wear nice shoes, no dress shoes, no stilettos, just sneakers). But, it’s worth it once you’re in.

Otherwise, CDV is great, especially in the summer when you party outside. While Birgit und Bier has several dance floors, and is good for those who aren’t hardcore techno lovers.

What else to do in Berlin

Enjoy the outdoors with drinks! Bring a blanket, go to Weinerei and buy a good bottle of wine and sit in Weinbergspark. Or sit at Modersohnbrücke in Friedrichshain and watch the sunset on the skyline.

For more inspiration, check out Five Reasons to visit Berlin, by a founder and producer.

Montreal is the perfect blend of North American charm and European ‘je ne sais quoi’. From Little Italy to Mile Ex, each of the city’s neighborhood’s has its own distinct personality. The underground tunnels make navigating Montreal super easy, too – they’re air conditioned in summer and heated in winter.

Coffee culture is huge in Montreal, with the cafés providing a place to get warm in the colder months, and the terraces a place to socialize and soak up the atmosphere when it’s sunny. We’ll leave it to you to be the judge of the best long black in town – there are many contenders.

Once caffeinated, you’ll also need to try the other Canadian speciality, poutine: french fries and cheese curds topped with meat gravy (it tastes much better than it sounds, trust us). Think the best food you could possibly have after a night out, available at any time of the day.

Beyond that, there are also some brilliant hotels, bars, galleries, shops, parks and more to explore in Montreal. Let’s get into it.

Where to stay in Montreal

Hotel William Gray

The spa at Hotel William Gray is ideal. We like to rotate between the hot/cold thermal circuit with a Himalayan salt room, the Finnish sauna, steam room and herbal sauna. And breathe. The pool and terrace open during the summer; and when we’re not spa-ing, you’ll find us relaxing in a reading nook in the lobby.

Hotel Nelligan

In the heart of Old Montreal, Hotel Nelligan has cosy fireplaces and a rooftop terrace – it really is a hotel for all seasons. The restaurant serves a delicious market-fresh menu, so there’s no need to venture out as soon as you check-in. 

Auberge du Vieux Port

Right on the Saint Lawrence River, Auberge du Vieux Port was a 19th Century warehouse and still retains some of that exposed-brickwork charm. Of the 45 rooms, choose one with views of the river. This is as central as you can get, so the nearby restaurants are pricey – scroll down for some more in-the-know spots.

Where to get coffee in Montreal

Cafe Olimpico 

Cafe Olimpico has been going since 1970, and still stands the test of time. Located in Mile End, the atmosphere lives up to the hype, but you’ll have to wait for a space. 

Pikolo Espresso Bar

Near Downtown, Pikolo definitely has an Australian cafe vibe and the staff are super friendly. There’s no wifi and the food is limited, but we love the strong coffee. Definitely one for someone who’s fussy about their beans. 

Moustache Café

As for this Little Italy favorite, go for two reasons: the big coffee pours and the resident Saint Bernard dog. The interior is quite kitsch, with palm trees and monochrome tiles.

Where to eat in Montreal

Schwartz Deli

The best smoked meat sandwiches in town – Leonard Cohen himself was a customer. Get the ‘medium’, with dill pickles, and you’ll soon understand why no Montreal trip is complete without this classic.

Marche Jean Talon

This open-air market has been running in Little Italy since 1933. Snack kiosks serve crepes, cheese, coffee and everything in between. Plus as many spins on Canadian maple as you can think of, from fudge to butter.

Bouillon Bilk

Opt for the tasting menu deal here, which is around C$70 per person for five dishes. The foie gras and black cod are exquisite. Non-alcoholic drinks are great too – try the coriander lemonade. 

Olive + Gourmando

A boulangerie selling the best bread in the city. The chocolate brioche is to die for.

Where to drink 

Loic

This super-cool wine bar is on the western strip of Notre-Dame Street in St-Henri. The knowledgeable staff can suggest wine pairings to go with the dishes featured on the small menu – we always follow their lead.

The Coldroom 

Blink and you’ll miss this cocktail bar, which is hidden in a former industrial cold room. We love the award-winning cocktails and the interiors, serving industrial-meets-grandma’s-basement.

Where to shop in Montreal

Dime

The best in the city for menswear. Expect to find cool skate apparel and streetwear gold.

SSENSE

By far the biggest retail player in Montreal. The shoe collection alone is spectacular.

Les Etoffes

Found in Mile End, this upscale boutique sells clothes, accessories and beauty products. We love the Grown Alchemist cosmetics and Linda Farrow eyewear. 

m0851

A classic Montreal born-and-bred label that specialises in rich leather products and fabrics. 90% of items are crafted in the brand’s own workshops, so shopping here is a great way to support local.

Frank and Oak

You’ll find a few of these dotted around Montreal. The brand is a Canadian favorite for stylish outdoor essentials and has been featured by magazines like GQ and Esquire. There’s also a barber shop and cafe. 

Rooney

Since 2006, this local favorite has been championing quality manufacturing in Old Montreal. A great place to hunt for emerging designers.

Citizen Vintage 

Thrift shopping at its finest; the two owners Lara and Becky have a real eye for vintage curation. Promoting sustainable fashion is at the heart of Citizen, encouraging customers to think twice before they buy brand new. 

Where to workout 

Cadence Cycle 

If you’re traveling to Montreal during winter, there’s no better way to warm up than a quick spin session at Cadence. The instructors’ enthusiasm is contagious and a tough workout is always guaranteed. 

Studio Yoga Club

This beautiful little yoga studio is in the suburban neighborhood of Rosemont. Classes are taught in French, but English is mixed in if requested. The hot yoga is perfect when it’s cold out. 

What to do in Montreal

Cirque du Soleil

As the home of Cirque du Soleil, you can’t visit Montreal without checking out a show. Centre Bell is a good place to start, check online for tickets. 

MAC

From Leonard Cohen to photography and sculpture, if you only have time for one museum in Montreal, make sure it’s MAC. The permanent collection features 8,000 pieces from Quebec, Canadian and international artists, with temporary exhibitions rolling throughout the year, too. 

Mount Royal

If the weather allows, head up this extinct volcano for a solid 30-minute hike. At the top, you’ll find 470 acres of fresh air and skyline views. Fun fact: Mount Royal was designed by the same landscape architect behind New York City’s Central Park.

While you’re in Canada, check out our guide to Toronto, here.

While Bogota and Cartagena might be the first stops for travelers in Colombia, Medellín is definitely worth scheduling into your plan. Set in the Aburrá Valley, a central part of the Andes Mountains, it has been dubbed ‘the city of eternal spring’ for its year-round warmth – our favorite kind of weather.

Yes, for years it was the center of Pablo Escobar’s drug operation, but there’s a lot more to Medellín than that (and it goes without saying now that this is a safe and friendly place to travel). Expect to explore amazing architecture, botanical gardens, contemporary art galleries, and enjoy fantastic food. Plus, that renowned Colombian party spirit is strong in Medellín.

Read on for our tips on where to stay, eat, drink, dance and explore in Medellín.

Where to stay in Medellín

The Charlee

The neighborhood of El Poblado is where you want to be in Medellín. It’s walkable, or a short taxi ride, to most sites of interest, and full of bustling eateries, shops and places to go out, as well as lush parks to chill in. The Charlee hotel itself is design-forward and well appointed — each room has a private little atrium with sofas and a well-stocked ‘mega bar’ (beware the full-sized tequila). Breakfast is included, and served on an incredible rooftop with sprawling views of the city and mountains. The building is one of the highest in the area, so head back up to the roof for a pool dip and sunset cocktails to make the most.

Where to eat & drink in Medellín

Restaurante Mondongos El Poblado

The food and beer is really cheap (around $3), but substantial and tasty, at this traditional local cafeteria. The local tripe soup is known as one of the best delicacies; while the arepas and various meat and fish platters are also good, if tripe isn’t your thing.

OCI.mde

Go here for contemporary or fusion dishes. Chef Laura trained for eight years across Europe, Australia and Asia — and it shows. They specialize in slow (think 14 hours or so) cooking times, so dishes like the short ribs are properly delicious.

El Cielo

This is the gold standard for the fancy foodie – book ahead, and save up. Chef Juanma is in his 30s and already killing it, serving a tasting menu that will change your life. El Cielo now has outposts in Bogota and Miami, as well.

Alambique 

This restaurant and bar is tucked away above a storefront in El Poblado – only those in the know seek it out. The open-air space is decorated with mismatched lamps and charming farm tables. Order a couple of cocktails and the albondigas. 

Where to get coffee in Medellín

Pergamino

We’re calling it, this is one of the best coffee places in the world. Brewing with beans from their own farm, which is mere miles away, coffee has never tasted so damn fresh. The space is large and beautiful, filled with local hipster freelancers hanging out. If the red velvet cake is on the counter, definitely order a slice. And buy a bag of beans to take home.

Where to get a hit of culture

MAMM

While the modern art exhibitions here are good, for us, the building itself is the most interesting part of the experience. It’s an incredible copper lattice-worked structure, with living walls and sculptures throughout. Definitely check out the gift shop.

Crematorio Campos de Paz

Other guides will definitely tell you to go to Pablo Escobar’s final resting place, Cemetario Jardins Montesacro, in Itagüí. But, for a more off-the-beaten-path cemetery with incredible architecture and views of the city, go to Crematorio Campos de Paz at dusk. It reminded us of Richard Serra’s large copper sculptures at Dia Beacon, in the best way.

Plaza Botero

Come here to see Medellín-born artist Fernando Botero’s finest sculptures – 23 of them, in fact. Huge and round-edged, you might recognise their voluptuous forms from their counterparts on 49th St. in NYC, by the Rockefeller Center.

Where to work out

The gym at The Charlee

Like a mini Equinox in the heart of the city, here you’ll work out next to locals and visitors alike. The Charlee’s gym is two stories high and has all the equipment you might need (even a cycle room). Cool down with a drink at the rooftop pool after.

Where to hang out

Joaquín Antonio Uribe Botanical Garden

If you do just one thing in Medellín, make it a visit to these gardens. Colombia is a hugely diverse country when it comes to plant life, and the lush, colorful array here captures that perfectly. The restaurant, set on a pond and surrounded by bamboo forests, is amazing – complete with a small vintage train car that serves drinks. It’s straight out of a Wes Anderson film.

While you’re in Colombia, check out our guide to Cartagena.

A huge mix of cultures and an inclusive attitude to newcomers makes Amsterdam a city for all. It’s relatively small, which means there’s a strong community vibe here. Look out for cool collectives within music, fashion and art – we’ve rounded up a few of our favorites, below.

Where to stay in Amsterdam

Hoxton Hotel

This is one of our favorite Hoxtons. It’s buzzing with people throughout the day: whether that’s people getting a morning coffee, or having a breakfast meeting, to freelancers working at their laptops in the lounge, before grabbing a drink at the bar when it’s time to log off. Despite this, rooms are havens of quiet. And the design, as always, is on point.

Volkshotel

Volkshotel has a similar vibe to The Hoxton, but it really comes alive in the evenings. Located close to the Pijp neighborhood, where the cool kids hang out, the rooftop bar is filled with locals come sundown.

Pulitzer Hotel

For something a little more luxurious and sophisticated, the 5-star Pulitzer is the place. It’s a grand hotel, made up of 25 canal houses that are all interconnected. It also has the most soothing inner courtyard to have breakfast, or sit with your laptop or a book for an hour or two.

Zoku Amsterdam

If you’re planning a longer-term stay in Amsterdam, Zoku’s studio apartments are perfect. Each has its own kitchen, and is a lesson in chic, compact interior design. There’s also an app to connect with other digital nomads in the building. If you’re not staying here, but looking for a place to work remotely for the day, pitch up and plug in. 

Where to eat & drink in Amsterdam

Definitely head to Gs brunch boat for breakfast. Restaurant Rijsel in Amsterdam East is good for a casual lunch. While Lion Noir is a great example of a non-touristy, super local restaurant for dinner.

Mana Mana is our favorite place in the Pijp district, serving the most amazing Middle Eastern food.

Best bar in Amsterdam

Brasserie Bar Occo

A perfect setting for a late-night cocktail in the Nine Streets area, Occo is part of the 5-star Dylan hotel. In summer, sit outdoors in the courtyard, it’s bliss.

Best coffee in Amsterdam

Café de Pels

A low-key local favorite, come here to drink a leisurely coffee, while you leaf through a newspaper from somewhere else in the world.

Café George

Sitting canal-side downtown, this is a fancier option for coffee – or upgrade yourself to a glass of champagne. Great for people watching, too.

Where to shop in Amsterdam

Second-hand shopping in Amsterdam is great – try Episode or Laura Dols. The basement at Van Ravenstein sells designer brands from previous seasons that are heavily discounted (and only on Saturdays).

The coolest store in town is a small hole-in-the-wall sneaker shop called Patta, located on Zeedijk. And, across the road you’ll find SMIB, the brand store of a local music collective. Other local brands to visit include Daily Paper, The New Originals and Zoe Karssen.

Where to get a hit of culture

In the museum quarter, don’t miss the Rijksmuseum and, of course, the Van Gogh museum.

For something a little less obvious, head to Moco Museum just across the park, an independent museum of modern, contemporary and street art (there’s another outpost in Barcelona), which you can easily zip around in about half an hour. Over in De 9 Straatjes, Foam photography museum is also worth a look.

Where to work out

Go running in Vondelpark, and finish at the Vondelgym, for some strength exercises and a shower. Or book into Rocycle – the Soul-Cycle of Amsterdam – to spin out the legs and raise the heart rate.

Where to party

Radion

An industrial haven in the Nieuw-West district. One for techno lovers and an all-nighter option that should be top of your list.

NYX

A bastion for the LGBTQ community, this is the place to go if you want to check out Amsterdam’s drag scene. There’s even DJ decks in the bathroom.

Amsterdam Dance Event

If you want the best electronic music experience Amsterdam has to offer, be sure to come for this event (usually in late October).

Where to get some R&R

Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre

This spa at the 5-star Conservatorium Hotel offers 1000 square meters of wellness heaven.

Koan Float

Amsterdam’s first “floating spa”, come here to feel the benefits of floating in saltwater. The locals love it.

Where to work

The Hoxton, Pulitzer and Zoku hotels all make for great remote offices. If you’re not in full working mode, but just need to take care of some quick emails, go to Conservatorium Hotel and enjoy a glass of wine while you’re at it. Next level remote working.

Best place to buy gifts

Anna+Nina is the best place for gifts (for them, or for you). With quirky interior decorations, local handicrafts, and stunning jewelry, there’s a great selection whoever you’re buying for.

While you’re in Amsterdam, check out Five Reasons to visit Oud-West, by a digital content creator.