Table Of Contents

1. Don't Take a Taxi From the Airport
2. Instead take the Train
3. Skip the Bloemenmarkt
4. Visit the Keukenhof instead!
5. Skip the Damrak
6. Instead, Wander the Jordaan Neighbourhood
7. Don't Rent A Bicycle Solo
8. Instead, Go on a Bike Tour
9. Don't Think you ONLY have to Eat Cheese & Herring
10. Instead, Try Indonesian Food!
11. Don't Take Recreational Drugs Lightly
12. Instead, Listen to Your Coffeeshop concierge
13. Skip the Hop-On Hop-Off
14. Instead, Go on a Canal Tour
15. Skip the Heineken Experience
16. Instead, check out Brouwerij de Prael
17. Skip the Beer Bikes
18. Instead, check out a "Brown Café"
19. Skip the tourist A'DAM Lookout
20. Instead, Go to The Central Library Rooftop Terrace
21. Skip Rembrandtplein and Dam Square
22. Instead, head over to Noordermarkt
23. Don't Be Dissapointed if you Miss the Anne Frank House
24. Instead, visit the Verzetsmuseum
25. Don't Underestimate the Weather
26. Instead, come prepared!
27. Don't Gawk at the Red Light District Workers
28. Instead, explore the Real 'De Wallen'
29. Forget Drinks in Leidseplein
30. Instead, head over to NDSM
31. Skip Vondel Park
32. Instead, Try Visiting Wertheimpark

Don’t Take a Taxi From the Airport

From the minute you arrive in Amsterdam, you’ll have your first chance to break away from the traditional transit route. Even with large bags in tow, don’t bother with expensive taxi rides. An Amsterdam airport taxi will charge you a fixed price of 39 Euros from the airport to the Amsterdam city center. For that price, you can pay for your public transit for the entire trip plus a few lovely meals to boot!

Instead take the Train

Unlike some cities where the trip from the airport to the centre city is either expensive, time-consuming or both, Amsterdam is home to one of the best public transport systems. The train from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Central Station is the fastest and cheapest way to get to the center of town. The train runs 24 hours a day, so it doesn’t matter when you arrive in town. Plus trains from the airport to the city run every 10-15 minutes during the day. Even if you come during off-hours, you’ll still be able to get a train within the hour. The 14km journey costs only €4.60 and takes just 20 minutes.

To save even more money, be sure to purchase a three-day travel card. For just €28 this will get you unlimited transport on trains, trams and buses. Including your airport transfer! To use the card, just tap on and off at the designated stations to register your rides.

Skip the Bloemenmarkt

Founded in 1862, the Bloemenmarkt is the world’s only floating flower market. When you hear the words “Floating Flower Market,” you’ll be just like me and imagine rows and rows of flower vendors floating beside the iconic gable houses along the canal. Bouquet of tulips in baskets and bundles being sold by the dozen. But when you arrive, the scene is markedly different. Today, the Bloemenmarkt is nothing more than souvenir stalls taking advantage of the prime historic location. The only real “flowers” on sale are tulip bulbs. So long as your country will allow them to be carried through customs you can bring home these Dutch flowers to plant in your own garden. At one point, the flower market was just that, an actual flower market. But sadly the vendors have moved out of the city center and over to larger warehouses out of town.

Visit the Keukenhof instead!

If seeing the famous Dutch Tulip is what you’re looking for, then you should instead make your way to the Keukenhof flower gardens! The gardens are open from March into Mid-May when the flowers are in bloom. The Keukenhof has over 4.5 million blooming tulips spread over the 32 hectares of green space inside. They create what can only be described as a blanket of fantastical aromas and ethereal colours. Since the Keukenhof is located just outside the city it’s also a great opportunity to see a bit of the Dutch countryside.

Aalsmeer Flower Auction

If you missed out on the Keukenhof open dates, another alternative to the Bloemenmarkt is the Aalsmeer Flower Auction. This is the largest flower auction in the world! It is located in the fourth largest building by footprint in the world, covering 518,000 square metres. All filled with flowers! Ticket prices to enter the market are €9 per person. Plus you can download the audio guide for free to get a personal guided tour of the market and learn all about the history of the market, the flowers, individual sellers.

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Skip the Damrak

The Damrak is the main street that runs between Amsterdam Centraal towards Dam Square. Since it is such a busy thoroughfare, this street has transformed from a quaint little alley into a raging tourist trap. Although it still seems to make the top of the ‘Where to go in Amsterdam,’ lists, I would definitely find ways to get around it. There is little more to see here than the crowds, American restaurants and cheesy, overpriced souvenir shops. Lots of people come here to visit the Damrak Waterfront but truly, you can find better and more beautiful canal houses outside of this area. Don’t assume this is the only place to get that iconic shot of Amsterdam’s Dancing Houses.

Instead, Wander the Jordaan Neighbourhood

If you’re looking for a more local, quiet street to explore that still gives you those iconic Amsterdam canal houses you should check out the Jordaan neighbourhood. The Jordaan is a neighbourhood bordered by the stunning Singel canal and upper-class Prinsengracht canals. The narrow canals here were initially home to the working classes of Amsterdam, but it is now one of the most vibrant and upscale neighbourhoods. Home to some of the most charming, lovingly created houses. The flower-lined canals are brimming with art galleries, chic boutiques and some of the best restaurants and cafes.

Don’t Rent A Bicycle Solo

Amsterdam locals have been riding bicycles since birth. The city is home to over 880,00 bikes. That’s about 1.9 bikes per person! But despite this, Amsterdam is not the cycling paradise you might think it would be. It actually has a long way to go in terms of biking infrastructure. Despite the staggering numbers of people who use the bike lanes and cycle to work every day it’s far from being at the top of safety rankings. This means that although renting a bike is one of the top things to do in the city, you shouldn’t go into it thinking you’ll have an easy go of it. Bikers in Amsterdam are confident, chaotic and cocky. They have known the rules of the road for ages, and you’ll be trying to slowly adjust to the speed of things.

Instead, Go on a Bike Tour

My advice for anyone wanting to ride a bike in Amsterdam is to book a bike tour. Bikes tours are great since they will give you a primer lesson on the rules of the road and any local tips for keeping yourself safe. Riding in a pack with your tour group is also a huge plus. You don’t have to worry about the directions, just follow the leader. It’s a beautiful way to slowly ease into the flow of riding. And as a bonus, you get to learn more about the city along your way!

Don’t Think you ONLY have to Eat Cheese & Herring

I’m prone to pushing myself while visiting a new city to solely dine on traditional local cuisine. And yet the real locals, who live in Amsterdam, aren’t eating just cheese and herring every day. That would be like me as a Canadian just eating poutine, maple syrup, butter tarts, and bacon all day. While you never want to travel to a new city and NOT experience unique traditional items, that shouldn’t be the ONLY thing you eat. After a week of eating only traditional Dutch food, I can tell you I was almost dying to eat a salad (something you’d otherwise never hear me say!)

Instead, Try Indonesian Food!

In Amsterdam, as in much of Holland, Indonesian food is one of the most popular forms of cuisine for locals to enjoy. The East Indies was a Dutch colony consisting of what is now Indonesia. When immigrants from the colonies came to Holland they brought with them spices and food from their home country. And even to this day, the locals love Indonesian food. The most popular kind of cuisine is called rijsttafel which means “rice table.” A rijsttafel meal consists of dozens and dozens of small plates filled with different traditional Indonesian dishes. It’s the perfect way to try a myriad of different varieties of food to see which is your favourite.

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Don’t Take Recreational Drugs Lightly

30 years ago, visiting Amsterdam to imbibe in the green leaf was something of a novelty you could only experience “legally” in the Netherlands. Today, states and provinces in North America have slowly started to change their laws around the legalization of marijuana. So Amsterdam isn’t the hub of pot-smoking hippies it once was. That being said, if you are interested in altering your state of mind, there are still dozens of “coffeeshops” where you can indulge. But never ever buy drugs on the street. Not only is this very dangerous as scammers are aplenty, but you run the risk of your joint being laced with something far more nefarious than weed. Even when visiting the real deal coffeeshops don’t go in guns blazing if you’ve never sampled marijuana before. A bad trip is a sure-fire way to ruin your vacation.

Instead, Listen to Your Coffeeshop concierge

There are so many well-priced and chic coffee shops that there’s no need to resort to street drugs. Always consult with the “cannabis concierge” across the counter. They will be able to best advise you on what strength or variety you should try. They know their stuff, so always listen to what they have to say. Start with a slow dose and then level up to your preference.

But NEVER feel pressured to try cannabis just because you’re in Amsterdam. The “when in Rome” trope really doesn’t apply here. Drugs aren’t for everyone and there are so many ways to enjoy your trip to the Netherlands outside of smoking up. Thankfully, so many of the coffeeshop in Amsterdam cater to non-smokers as well. And their menus consist of everything from smoothies to croquettes. So you can still enjoy your time inside these establishments without feeling the need to partake if that’s your choice!

Skip the Hop-On Hop-Off

Personally think travel influencers over-demonize Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours. Are Hop–On Hop–Off tours uber-touristy? Yes. But, for many people with disabilities or mobility issues, they are hugely helpful. Hop-On Hop-Off tours are almost always wheelchair accessible as they are a worldwide industry with high service standards. And wheelchair-using customers don’t pay extra for the service. Independent and private wheelchair-accessible tours are enormously expensive. So these buses are a fantastic service and people need to stop obsessively hating on them. But, in some cities, they just don’t make sense. And Amsterdam is one of those places. The Hop On Hop Off buses cannot enter the city center, so you’ll miss out on so many key historical sites along the canals.

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Instead, Go on a Canal Tour

The many canals of Amsterdam are what make this city so unique. And seeing the town from the water is the most authentic way of exploring it. There are dozens of companies to choose from. But if you can afford to book a canal tour with a local private guide that is really the way to go! These local guides can tell you all about the various buildings you’ll float on past and even little stories on the history of the city. The more generic boat tours are also great options and usually at least have a recording you can listen to which will give you some insight on the sights passing by.

Skip the Heineken Experience

Heineken is known as the “Beer of Amsterdam,” as it was developed here in the city in 1864. But the brewery that the Heineken family bought had been producing beer since 1592! So suffice to say, Heineken beer has been a big part of Amsterdam for hundreds of years. But, the Heineken Experience is expensive and overhyped. Plus, their beer tasting only offers you, Heineken, when the Netherlands has hundreds of amazing breweries. All of which are worth giving a try!

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Instead, check out Brouwerij de Prael

Brouwerij de Prael is a microbrewery located in the historic Red Light District. It is a beautiful local brewpub with over 3,000 different labels as well as its own microbrews. Here you can enjoy a tasting of 4 beers for €10,00 per person in the most enjoyable atmosphere! Far better than just heading to the touristy Heineken center.

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Skip the Beer Bikes

Speaking of beers, please, oh please, skip the Beer Bikes! If you’ve been to Amsterdam, you’ll have HEARD these raucous bikes travelling around the city. In fact, you’ll hear them far before you actually see them. They are extremely popular with frat boys or stag night groups. These travellers aren’t interested in the nuances of local beers and more focused on getting extremely drunk while driving the rest of the city crazy. They might look like a fun little novelty but are super overpriced for the mediocre experience. The bikes are so hard to control and often the locals find themselves flying into fits of rage trying to weave around these moving barf-mobiles.

Instead, check out a “Brown Café“

A “brown café” is a kind of like the Dutch version of a classic British pub. The nickname caught on, but no one really knows where it started. To be deemed a “brown cafe,” you must indeed have a dark brown interior. Dark wood is prevalent as is dim lighting. Vintage decor and bottles of liquor older than you are also a vital part of the experience. These places are an excellent spot to find locals and ask for recommendations and try something you’ve never even heard of before. So before you book your buddies on a hugely expensive beer bike tour, consider a “Brown Cafe Crawl” instead!

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Skip the tourist A’DAM Lookout

A new trend for visitors to Amsterdam is to head up to the A’DAM Lookout. The A’DAM LOOKOUT is an observation deck with an “unrivalled” panoramic view of Amsterdam. I would argue against that point but let’s carry on… In addition to the lookout, there is a small gallery and Audio guide about Amsterdam to enjoy for your €14.50! But what most people seem to be interested in is the ‘Over The Edge‘ swing that dangles a pair of daredevils 100 meters over the edge of the building for an extra €10. The whole experience is super touristy and overall not worth the considerable wait to get inside or the price.

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Instead, Go to The Central Library Rooftop Terrace

If you’re looking for a rooftop view for free, then you must check out the Central Library Rooftop Terrace. The library is located right beside central station so it’s easy to get to. The OBA Oosterdok, or Central Library, was built in the early 2000s and is one of the most impressive modern libraries in Europe. The building is spread out over ten floors. In addition to millions of books, the library includes an auditorium, an exhibition room, a museum, and 2000 parking spaces just for bicycles!

But the best place to visit for tourists is La Place Cafe. This is the library’s own rooftop restaurant terrace located on the 7th floor. From up here, you have a magnificent view of the whole of Amsterdam. To me, this is the best panoramic view in the city! And best of all, so many people don’t even know it’s even up here! As it caters to many students who come here to study, the restaurant is reasonably priced. And even serves alcohol to boot! It’s the ideal place to grab a spot of lunch and enjoy a Dutch beer in the sunshine while looking out over the city.

Skip Rembrandtplein and Dam Square

When I visited Amsterdam, I read a lot about their grand public courtyards and headed right to Dam Square. What I found were hoards of tourists all crammed into a relatively boring centre. Even when I tried again later in the day and earlier in the morning, when these places were quieter, I still was unimpressed. While the building surrounding the square were apparently historic they had been transformed into tourist monstrosities. Even the dreaded Madame Tussauds had her headquarters right here in the square! These large public squares really lacked that magic I found in other cities around Europe. They were pretty plain and didn’t have the sparkle that places like St. Marks or St. Wenceslas have where it makes the heavy tourist load worth it. There are so many other amazing places to visit in Amsterdam, these squares just aren’t worth the time.

Instead, head over to Noordermarkt

Yes, that’s right, we’re headed back to the Jordaan Neighbourhood for this next alternative activity! Despite being so close to the city centre, the Jordaan neighbourhood the perfect escape from the crowds. One such delight to be found here is the Noordermarkt. On Mondays, a large outdoor market is held where you can buy organic food, textiles, crats and yes, actual bouquet of flowers!

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And don’t think you’re missing out on any history by choosing to visit this square over the ones in the city centre. The Noordermarkt dates back to 1616! It was initially named Prinsenmarkt, after the Prinsengracht canal, which the square borders. And the Noorderkerk church that dominates the square was built in 1623! During World War II, it was here in this square that protesters arrived to oppose the deportation of Jews by the Nazis. One of the most famous scenes of resistance from the people of the Netherlands.

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Don’t Be Dissapointed if you Miss the Anne Frank House

Ok, now I know I’m going to cause quite the stir on this point! You might say, “But one of the main reasons I’m planning to go to Amsterdam is to see the Anne Frank Museum!” Well, if you have had your heart set on it for ages, obviously you should make your way there. But the museum is subject to huge lines even with advance tickets. And if you plan your trip something spur of the moment, you’ll often be disappointed to find you can’t get a spot. Tickets are known to book up months in advance and even though the afternoon is dedicated to walk-up admission the line often wraps around the canal. And many people find themselves to be almost inconsolable disappointed to miss it.

The story of Anne Frank is a harrowing tale for the ages, and something almost every schoolchild reads in their adolescence. And while visiting the house where Anne wrote her book and hid from the Nazis is a powerful experience there are actually other places in Amsterdam to learn more about the war and the experience of Dutch people during the occupation of the Netherlands. If you can nab a ticket to the Anne Frank House that’s great, but if you miss out on booking it in advance check out my recommendations for amazing alternatives!

Instead, visit the Verzetsmuseum

The Verzetsmuseum or “The Dutch Resistance Museum” was chosen as the best historical museum in the Netherlands! Here, you literally walk through history as the exhibition tells the story of the Dutch people in World War II. From May 14th, 1940 to May 5th, 1945, the Netherlands was occupied by Nazi Germany. Inside the museum, you step back in time and get to experience what life actually looked like in Amsterdam in the forties.

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There are “streets” you walk along, and the walls are full of photos and decor that help evoke the climate of the war years. You can read actual copies of the underground newspapers, discover escape routes and see how people went into hiding (just like Anne Frank). There are moving personal documents which tell the story of people who were confronted with life or death choices by the German forces. This museum makes you feel like you have lived through what Anne and her family had to live through in a more in-depth way. The Verzetsmuseum is a fantastic alternative to the Anne Frank house and one which immerses you into the atmosphere of life in Amsterdam during the war.

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Don’t Underestimate the Weather

When you think of Amsterdam, your first thought might not be of rain. You think of tulips and wooden clogs and maybe even rounds of cheese. But let me tell you, you should be thinking RAIN and WIND! The city is called the “San Francisco” of the Netherlands. The Netherlands has a temperate, oceanic climate with over 200 wet days a year! This results in an average annual rainfall of about 760mm!! But don’t let this rain on your parade! Rain just requires a little bit of advanced planning.

Instead, come prepared!

Bring a sturdy umbrella and always keep a lightweight raincoat in your backpack for those unexpected downpours. You can find lots of compressible raincoats that fold up to find into your pocket so you always have one on hand. I always tell people to keep a list of “rainy day places” where they can escape to. Since the city is packed full of museums, this is an excellent opportunity to head inside. Enjoy the safety and warmth of the Dutch masters arms and peruse some beautiful artworks while you await the sunshine.

Don’t Gawk at the Red Light District Workers

Amsterdam’s Red Light District is famous the world over. It consists of a network of alleys containing approximately three hundred, one-room suits. These rooms can be rented by the hour where sex workers offer their sexual services to paying customers. They advertise themselves from behind glass windows or doors, typically illuminated with red lights, hence the name. The area where the Red Light District is located was historically a large port where sailors would come into dock. Sailors on leave were prime customers for sex workers and the area slowly became a hub for this kind of activity.

Many tourists make the mistake of coming here thinking the working women are themselves sideshow. They whip out their cameras or phones and snap photos as they pass. This is tantamount to being illegal in the area, and some sex workers are known to have a cup of pee on hand to throw in the face of tourists who take their photos. These women are not a tourist attraction. They are just trying to make a living. And it’s sad to see so many tourists come down here to make a mockery of their lifestyle. And if you come down here just to gawk at the girls in the windows, you’ll miss out on the treasure hidden behind the red lights.

Instead, explore the Real ‘De Wallen‘

The Red Light District is located in the famous De Wallen neighbourhood. And surprisingly, this area just happens to be one of the most exciting and historic parts of town! If you know what you’re looking for. Local guides can take you through the deep history of the neighbourhood, along the narrow alleys, into “Chinatown,”, past the famous “Weigh House,” and of course give you some interesting information on the reality of the red and blue lights and the women who work there. It’s a fantastic opportunity to really learn about the area and not just see it for it’s superficial exterior.

Forget Drinks in Leidseplein

Leidseplein has become THE spot for tourists to grab a beer. But most locals look at this square as a giant crowded tourist trap. Leidseplein used to serve as a parking lot for horse-drawn traffic in the 19th century, but today is a large public square packed with loud restaurants and rowdy nightclubs. Personally, I have a sore spot about the place because it was where I was almost hit by a tram, but that’s a story for another time… Sure it’s central and popular but there are so many better places to get a drink in the city.

Instead, head over to NDSM

NDSM (Nederlandse Droogdok en Scheepsbouw Maatschappij) is located about 15 minutes away from the city centre. And the trendy area is only accessible by a free ferry which departs from the Central Station. The former shipyard, abandoned in recent years, has been transformed into a vibrant artist community. Here you’ll find incredible outdoor works of art that are constantly changing. The area started to drawn in so many tourists and local visitors that fabulous bars and restaurants started to move into the neighbourhood. Here you can dine and drink while immersed inside the most vibrant atmosphere. Sitting here enjoying a cafe or pint of beer is such a better experience than out in loud and touristy Leidseplein.

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Skip Vondel Park

Vondel Park is the Central Park of Holland. But with being so popular, you garner a lot of visitors, both locals and tourists alike. The park opened in 1895 and is spread out over 47 hectares of land! But amidst these 47 hectares are loud kids seemingly constantly screaming, lots of trash left behind by rude tourists and a seemingly never-ending stream of people. Overall, I found it felt too vast and unmanicured to feel overly cozy and relaxing.

Instead, Try Visiting Wertheimpark

Wertheimpark is the oldest park in Amsterdam. It opened to the public in 1812! The park really has an air about it that feels more local. Parents bring picnics to enjoy, old ladies stroll around with their friends and student comes to study under the shade of the trees. The park also comes packed with lots of history. It was named after Jewish banker and philanthropist, A.C. Wertheim, who died in 1897. Today, there is an Auschwitz monument here called ‘Nooit meer Auschwitz’ (Auschwitz never again) created by Jan Wolkers. Wertheimpark is also home to Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam, which is definitely worth checking out if you’re into plants. With so much to see and do, in addition to just lounging around, this is definitely the park I think you should check out.

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Hopefully, this tour gave you some insight into what you might want to skip or alternatives to the big-ticket items in Amsterdam. The city is such a treasure, and there are so many secrets to discover around even the canal. Let me know in the comments what your favourite hidden gem is or any other bit of advice you want to share with new explorers!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post 11 Things NOT to do in Amsterdam, and What Amazing Things to do Instead first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. Don't Ride the Gondolas
2. Don't Limit Yourself to Just the Island of Venice
3. Don't Expect (free) Public Washrooms
4. Don't Bring Heavy Luggage
5. Don't Stress About Getting Lost
6. Don't Visit on the Weekends or in Summer
7. Don't Eat in St. Mark's Square
8. Don't Dine using a 'Tourist Menu'
9. Don't Take a "Free Glass Factory Tour" in Murano
10. Don't Miss the BIG Attractions By Forgetting to Plan in Advance

Don’t Ride the Gondolas

Gondolas are one of the most iconic images of Venice, and watching the black and white striped Gondoliers cruise up and down the canals inside their red velvet-lined boats is not to be missed. What you can miss is riding inside of them. While the dream of riding inside a gondola might seem the ultimate Venetian bucket list experience, the reality is much less dreamy. Gondolas cost at least €80 ($90 USD) for 30 minutes, and the price only goes up after 7 pm. Sure, you can cram up to five or six people inside the gondolas to try to split it with another two couples on the search for romance in Venice, but trust me, the awkward 30 minutes jammed inside a small gondola with strangers isn’t as romantic as you think.

And it costs even more if you want a gondolier who will do all that beautiful singing you’ve heard so much about. Ultimately, those euros could be spent much better on a romantic dinner along a quaint canal. If you place yourself anywhere near these secluded canals, you still get to enjoy all that beautiful singing for yourself without paying a dime.

Instead: Jump on one of the local vaporettos

If you’re dead-set on stepping into a gondola to check it off your bucket list, try a ‘traghetto‘ instead. A ‘Traghetto‘ is Italian for ‘ferry,‘ and these small, black gondolas ferry passengers across the Grand Canal at seven different points. Just from one side to the other. These were used for generations before the construction of the Grand Canal bridges. They cost only €2 and are still used by locals who don’t want to waste their time walking all the way to a bridge to get across. Although the ride might be short, it’s a great way to experience riding inside a gondola without the enormous price tag. The boats are almost exactly the same as the private gondolas, just maybe missing the frills.

Don’t Limit Yourself to Just the Island of Venice

Many people arrive by cruise ship onto the island of Venice and never leave its shores. More people pour in from the train station and don’t think of heading outside the Grand Canal once they arrive. While there are many beautiful things to do in Venice, it’s a great shame to make it down here and not visit at least one other of the surrounding islands.

Instead: Explore the islands of Burano and Murano

Burano and Murano are accessible by a 45-minute ride across the water on one of the public vaporetto boats. Visiting the island is a treat, and the journey out there is a great way to experience the beautiful ocean and surrounding scenery. The islands are crucial to Venice’s art, food, history and culture. Each has its distinctive flair and feeling, vastly different from the glamour and grandiosity of central Venice. You trip won’t be the same without making it out to experience these amazing spots.

Don’t Expect (free) Public Washrooms

Public washrooms aren’t a thing in Venice. The city, now one of Europe’s most popular tourist spots, wasn’t built to be one. And as such, there is a significant shortage of public washrooms. The only truly “public” washrooms aren’t free of charge. Sometimes, they can cost up to €2. And while you can usually spare this the odd time, these costs can add up.

Instead: Find a local coffee or gelato shop

Head into a local coffee or gelato shop and spend that €2 on getting a delicious espresso or refreshing gelato. After making your purchase, ask to use their restroom, and they’ll be more than accommodating since you’ve already purchased something. Visiting these local restaurants is a much better use of your money than just flushing it down the toilet.

Don’t Bring Heavy Luggage

Many travellers will repeatedly be told not to bring roller bags or heavy luggage to small European towns. But this advice is never more valid than in Venice. Packing those heavy, rolling suitcases will be a nightmare here. There are no cars which you can throw your bags into to make their way to your hotel quickly. Walking down cobblestone streets with a rolling suitcase makes enormous noise. Which the locals are not a fan of. Even if you can get a private water taxi, unless your hotel is right on the Grand Canal, you’ll still have to walk a fair way from the nearest boat dock to your accommodation. And these private water taxis cost €13 upfront, plus another €1.80 for each minute of travel. Less reputable boat drivers will often charge you per piece of luggage. 

Instead: Travel Light or Store Your Luggage

Now I’m not a light packer by any means, but I know when it needs to be done! And choosing to pack light made all the difference in the world when visiting Venice. But there is another solution for those who are excited to bring back boatloads of souvenirs but don’t want to be limited to a small backpack. You can always store your large suitcase in the luggage lockers at the Venice train station when you arrive. And transfer the essentials into a small carrying bag and you’ll be on your way! This will allow you to shop to your heart’s desire but will give you the freedom of getting to and from your destinations without any stress or struggle.

Don’t Stress About Getting Lost

Following maps on paper or via google maps is very difficult in a city like Venice. Sometimes the pathways are quite literally underwater. During the wet season in Venice, vast portions of the city get flooded, and raised paths are used to get around safely. But not everywhere has these raised walkways, so often streets will simply shut down, and you must take complicated detours. Venice’s streets will notoriously change their name halfway along, sending tourists into a tizzy. But don’t stress. Venice is a small island. Walking from one end to the other only takes about an hour, so you’re never that far away from where you want to end up.

Instead: Embrace the Wander

Keep in mind if you’re headed in the right general direction, you’ll eventually make it there. Learn to love exploring and find little treasures along hidden passageways. These are the fantastic discoveries about Venice which make it so unique. I would even challenge you to spend an entire day without your phone guiding you. Use that simple paper map you get at tourist information and see how far that gets you. When you get “lost,” just ask a local for directions. While you’re at it, ask them for a dinner or food recommendation and see if you can start a conversation. Locals might bristle at tourists initially (they are, after all, overrun with them) but they LOVE their city. And are incredibly giving and kind when they see someone genuinely trying to engage.

Don’t Visit on the Weekends or in Summer

If you have the option of when you can visit Venice, try not to visit on the weekends. This is not only because there will be a massive influx of tourists but because many of the main tourist sights (like churches and cathedrals) are closed for local services. Hotels will also be much more expensive during the weekends as even Italians travel on these days a weekend mini-breaks.

If you want to enhance your experience, avoid travelling during the summer. Summers in Venice are incredibly muggy as it’s so close to the seaside. The crowds make the temperatures seem ten times hotter than it is really is. Cruise ships are in and out of the ports, and the weight of these daytrippers can be felt not only on the ground but in the local’s attitudes.

One of the comments I always hear about Venice is that it smells. And yes, those old swampy canals can smell in the summer heat. But that’s just like any other large city in the summer. New York’s piled-up garbage is no picnic in 40-degree weather, either. Don’t blame the city, blame the sun.

Instead: Visit Venice in its offseason

Pack warmly and visit Venice in the winter. You’ll be shocked to see how different the city is compared to the stories of those who came in the summer. Winter in Venice is a strangely magical place. The city’s locals seem to come alive, despite the colder weather. The silent side canals and ancient architecture shuddering in the brisk wind are hauntingly beautiful and well worth checking out. The spring and fall are equally stunning, but you’re better off coming in the fall when you can avoid flooding that plagues the springtime.

Don’t Eat in St. Mark’s Square

Restaurants in any big city, especially near those HUGE tourist attractions, are rife with scams. And many overcharge customers to a staggering degree. Those beautiful cafes in St. Mark’s square, which make for lovely photographs, should be avoided at all costs. Mainly due to those costs. These cafes are overpriced and tack on a “sitting” surcharge simply because of the location.

Anytime you enter a cafe, ask if there is a “cover charge.” If you ask, they must fess up to this, so never be embarrassed. If the cover charge isn’t too bad and you feel like the overpriced drinks are worth the view, then absolutely go right ahead. But to save yourself a surprisingly large bill, always check before sitting down.

Instead: Head down any small side street adjacent to St. Mark’s

It’s always incredible to me the fantastic places you can find just steps away from the crowded tourist traps. Look for locals migrating, and you’re heading in the right direction.

If you’re insistent on eating at one of those picturesque restaurants, ask for their “al banco” or bar menu. This menu is often a completely different price point compared to their “al tavolo” or table menu. The only caveat is you’ll have to sit or stand at the bar. But sometimes I find this the best seat in the house as you get to watch the cooks or bar tenders at work and decipher the most popular dishes you yourself might want to try.

Don’t Dine using a ‘Tourist Menu’

Venice was perhaps the city in Europe where I saw the most prominent use of “tourist menus.” It is no secret that Venice isn’t the place to come for the best Italian cuisine, but there are incredible meals. If you know where to look. But Tourist menus are truly the worst ways to experience Venetian cuisine. They are built up of easy-to-please, faux-Italian meals. It’s watered-down cooking and mediocre at best. Avoid menus printed in various languages; although this is very inclusive, it often denotes that it’s not a traditional or local restaurant.

Also, be wary of anything that comes for “free.” Venice has been notorious for putting platters of oysters down in front of customers who didn’t order any without saying a thing. Assuming it’s perhaps a free entree, tourists gobble them up. Then at the end of the meal, you get an unexpected bill. If anything arrives at your table that you didn’t order, question it immediately. If they bring up some unspecific cost, say, “no, thank you,” and send it back!

Instead: Look for Handwritten Italian menus

The key to finding a good restaurant in Venice is looking for one without a paper menu at all. Just a chalkboard where they write their daily specials, using only the fresh catch of the day. Even if you don’t speak Italian, there are always a few words you can learn to identify what different dishes contain. As you tour around Venice, check out what the locals are eating and be sure to order that. A few local specialties in Venice are deeply rooted in their proximity to the ocean. Try any seafood-based risotto like moleche (small green crabs), which are popular in the springtime. Or creamed dried cod spread across fresh bread. And ‘Bigoli in salsa‘ is an appetizer pasta made using only three ingredients; onion, anchovies and white wine. Simple and delicious!

Don’t Take a “Free Glass Factory Tour” in Murano

Venetian glass is renowned all over the world. But with popularity comes those trying to take advantage of just that. Throughout San Marco, you’ll see hawkers advertising “free trips” to Murano to visit glass factories. Remember: nothing in this world is free. These dodgy companies will take you to some less-than-reputable glass factories in Murano. Once you arrive, the salespeople will put immense pressure on you to purchase some of their glass. Often guilting you into it since they provided you with a 45-minute trip to Murano for “free.”

This is not only really stressful but also prevents you from buying a piece of glasswork you genuinely fall in love with. These places are also known for purchasing much of their glasswork from China, and the artisans you see working in the factory are often just there for show. The best way to be sure what you’re buying is real is to check the price; too good to be true is often just that.

Instead: Take the public ferry to Murano and explore for yourself

The public vaporetto from Venice to Murano costs around €10. Sure, it’s not a “free” trip, but you’ll definitely feel free by being able to explore this gorgeous island on your own. There are dozens and dozens of authentic glass shops in Murano. Each artisan has their own unique style and heritage. Many artists have had the trade passed down from generation to generation.

And not all glass from Murano has to be prohibitively expensive. Sure, there are chandeliers which cost upwards of $100,000, but there are also gorgeous glass earrings which cost less than €10. I bought a few pairs, which are my favourite souvenir of the trip. I even picked the colours and watched the artist make the earrings right before my eyes. A real memory to bring back with me!

Don’t Miss the BIG Attractions By Forgetting to Plan in Advance

Venice is a small but busy city. Tourism is booming in this historical hub, and no matter when you arrive, there will always be tons of people. If there are one or two attractions you have your heart set on, don’t be shy about booking these tickets in advance. St. Mark’s Basilica ticket MUST be booked in advance. And even advance bookings get sold out sooner than you’d think. Some of the more popular museums often face the same issue during peak season.

Instead: Book your tickets online in advance

Despite the city feeling trapped in the past, the Venetian tourism industry is smack dab in the 21st century. And all the big attractions and museums offer advanced ticket purchases online from anywhere in the world. This will not only secure the fact you’ll be able to visit a particular place when in town, but also means you’ll be able to bypass the huge lines. Yes, you can always wake up early in the morning to be the first ones at the gate, but it’s your vacation, and you deserve to sleep in and relax! I’d recommend booking these at least two months in advance just to ensure you aren’t disappointed, especially in the summer.

Venice is a city that demands careful planning and thoughtful exploration. By avoiding these 10 common mistakes and embracing the alternative activities suggested, you’ll be well on your way to having an unforgettable experience in this unique and magical city. Remember to take your time, soak in the beauty of your surroundings, and explore beyond the typical tourist hotspots to truly get a sense of what Venice has to offer. By doing so, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this incredible destination, and create memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready for an adventure that you’ll never forget!

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post Avoid These 10 Common Mistakes In Venice And Discover These Ultimate Activities Instead! first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. Don't go up Tokyo Tower or Tokyo Skytree
   • Instead, travel over to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
2. Don't get caught up looking up restaurants on Yelp or Tabelog
   • Instead, walk in anywhere with a line!
3. Don't go out of your way to visit only the popular shrines
   • Instead, skips the lines and find a hidden neighbourhood shrine
4. Don't Always Head to Coffee Shops in the Morning
   • Instead, head to your local conbini
5. Don't buy your souvenirs at souvenir shops
   • Instead, head to the nearest 100 yen shop!
6. Don't drink in the Golden Gai
   • Instead head down to Shinjuku's Omoide Yokocho
7. Don't get lured into going to a Maid Cafe
   • Instead, try visiting another experiencial themed restaurant!
8. Don't visit Takeshita Dori if you're looking for Tokyo's Underground Fashion Scene
   • Instead, head over to Shimokitazawa
   • And finally…don't spend all your time in Tokyo!

Don’t go up Tokyo Tower or Tokyo Skytree

A view from atop the city, especially somewhere as large and spread out as Tokyo, is always a valuable experience. But the lines and cost for Tokyo Tower or Tokyo Skytree far exceed the enjoyment you’ll get once you get to the top. If you’re only in Tokyo for a week, chances are you don’t want to spend some of that time, lined up for a trip up an elevator.

Instead, travel over to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Head on over to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and take the elevator up to the rooftop where you get an unbelievable view of the city, PLUS a view of the Skytree itself. If you’re looking for a view that comes with a stylish rooftop garden then header over to the Tokyu Plaza Omotesando in Harajuku where the 7th floor provides a stunning green space with ample room for relaxing. Despite the fact that there is a Starbucks which the gardens back out on, you can grab your own food and drinks up to the top. It really is the perfect place for a conbini picnic (“conbini” is a short term word for Japanese convenience stores).

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Don’t get caught up looking up restaurants on Yelp or Tabelog

Often when travelling, you want to make the most out of your experiences and don’t want to waste your money on a touristy or subpar restaurant. For this reason, even I find myself obsessively looking up reviews of where I want to eat whenever I’m travelling. Sometimes this is done in advance but when I’m stuck reading review after review in the middle of my adventure I can’t but help feel like I’m wasting precious travel time. In Japan, this is just not necessary. You can close your eyes and twirl around to walk straight into a restaurant with the best food you’ve ever eaten!  

Instead, walk in anywhere with a line!

Don’t waste your time trying to find the perfect place to eat, instead, wander until something calls your name and draws you in. If there is one particular restaurant you ABSOLUTELY have to find, then make sure to make reservations because popular joints in Tokyo often fill up in advance very quickly.

Don’t go out of your way to visit only the popular shrines

Meiji Shrine is often at the top of every traveller’s list, but honestly, there are so many other shrines just as impressive all over Tokyo that you will just happen upon. Although it is perhaps the biggest and most notable, there are so many other I would rate much higher. Don’t stress and go far out of your way or wait in long, long line for these so-called “must-see” shrines. 

Instead, skips the lines and find a hidden neighbourhood shrine

The best part of the Meiji Shrine are the sake barrels in front which can be visited before entering the shrine without waiting in a long line. The most beautiful shrine I found in Tokyo was one I had never heard of before all the way in Akasaka. I won’t tell you where (although I do talk about it in some of my other blogs) since I want you to go out and find your own unique place! If you do – let me know in the comments!

Don’t Always Head to Coffee Shops in the Morning

While there are some incredibly cool coffee shops in Tokyo, they are generally pretty expensive since coffee-shop coffee is considered a luxury. A Starbucks frappucino will run you about 9$ USD for a tall! 

Instead, head to your local conbini

There are dozens upon dozens of flavours and strengths inside hot and cold cans as well as gourmet brewed fresh coffee which you can buy at the front of the store. If you add milk to your coffee, it even comes out frothed and foamed! I think I prefer the coffee at 7-Eleven to Lawsons or Family Mart but they’ll all really good. There are even cold Starbucks coffees and blended drinks available in regular and specialty flavours at a fourth of the price you’d pay in Starbucks shops – so skip the lines and buy them here! 

Don’t buy your souvenirs at souvenir shops

I’m not talking about something unique like a handmade Kimono from Kyoto; I’m talking about the little knick-knacks you might find in those cheezy tourist shops purposefully placed right in front of popular attractions. They will always be priced for convenience, not value.

Instead, head to the nearest 100 yen shop!

100 yen shops are the coolest place to find all sorts of things to use both on your trip and when you get home. If you are a crafty person, you’ll find some adorable and CHEAP items here like notebooks, stickers, washi tape and more! It was honestly hard for me to hold back from buying up the entire section. But best of all are the things for sale here for our purposes are the souvenirs. You can find delightful Japanese themed magnetics, ceramic bowls with cherry blossoms, bamboo chopstick sets and more – all for only 100 yen (plus tax).

TIP: most 100 yen shops only take cash. If you don’t want to spend all your cash here, try the DAISO in Harajuku. Since they deal with such large purchases due to being in a tourist-traffic area, they are currently accepting credit cards.

Don’t drink in the Golden Gai

Golden Gai is one of those long talked about tourist attractions that is the only real “scammy” areas in Japan. Golden Gai is located in Shinjuku and is known for its narrow, winding alleys and teeny-tiny bars. They charge outrageous prices just to get in the door of some of these establishments. Each one has a different theme and fits about 6-8 people. Some of the bars roundly object to foreigners, so much so that they have signs outside saying “no nonnatives” or “For Japanese speakers only”. The ones that do let tourists inside have overpriced drinks, and any sense of authenticity has long since been lost.

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Instead head down to Shinjuku’s Omoide Yokocho

Omoide Yokocho or Memory Lane is a gritty little district also in Shinjuku, and has the funny English nickname “Piss Alley”. Despite the name, this place is happening! It is full of locals and tourists alike, making new friends and drinking delicious cups of sake and Japanese craft beer at reasonable prices! This is a great area to meet new Japanese friends who can introduce you to all sorts of hidden gems. If you’re looking for other great nighttime activities be sure to check out alltherooms’s blog! Valentina does a fantastic job at listing all the best Tokyo experiences from fine-dining to miniature-sized pubs to robot dinosaur battles!

Don’t get lured into going to a Maid Cafe

Maid Cafes are all over the place in neighbourhoods like Akihabara. You’ll see cute, young girls dressed in maid uniforms on the street handing out flyers, inviting you into their cafes. If this sounds a bit, well, sketchy then you might be right. Inside these maid cafes, you’ll find cutesy interiors where the maids putter about serving overpriced food and drinks. Some of the meals are decorated or moulded to look like adorable animals, but the food itself is rather bland and unimpressive.

Pictures with the maids are often an additional charge, and you can even pay them to sing you a song at your table. While they’ve fallen out of favour with locals, they are still gaining popularity with tourists for the weirdness of the experience. And while it’s not a total scam and is indeed a bizarre experience, there are plenty of other fantastically themed restaurants where you can find the same impressive theming without forcing women to dress in degrading uniforms.

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Instead, try visiting another experiencial themed restaurant!

If you’re looking for experiential restaurants there are lots of fun ones to choose from! The Zauo Fishing Restaurant is another unusual kind of eatery. Here you have to catch your own dinner. You get a rod and some bait and attempt to catch the exact fish you want to eat. If you manage to catch something, they’ll cook it up any way you like. If you don’t manage to catch anything, not to worry, there are still lots of menu items you can order as well! The LockUp is a haunting restaurant where you’ll be chased by monsters, drink spooky cocktails and dine on wild dishes – an experience you won’t soon forget.

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Don’t visit Takeshita Dori if you’re looking for Tokyo’s Underground Fashion Scene

Harajuku is still a wildly exciting place to shop, but the more avant-garde dressers and shops have been replaced with big brands and hoards of tourists. While I still have fun visiting Harajuku, don’t come here expecting to see Lolitas, goths and punks roaming the streets.

Instead, head over to Shimokitazawa

Shimokitazawa is where you’ll find some of the best-curated vintage shops in all of Tokyo. The fashionable kids who have fled Harajuku, away from the tourists, are now all set up in Shimokitazawa. There are dozens of eclectic restaurants, cafes and best of all – clothing shops, open up and down the hilly alleyways of this delightful district.

And finally…don’t spend all your time in Tokyo!

Even if you only have a week in this great city and can’t make it out to other cities like Kyoto, Hiroshima and Fukuoka (although if you can swing it, I highly recommend you do!), there are dozens of small towns only a few hours train ride away from Tokyo. These places which will transport you away from the hustle and bustle of the big city and into the peaceful countryside. Nikko, Enoshima, Hakone and Kamakura are just some of the beautiful cities which will give you a glimpse into another side of Japan. Perhaps something which will give you a taste of the other side of this magical island and force you to find time to return! 

And if you’re anything like me, it will be again, and again, and again, and again…

The post Navigating Tokyo Like a Pro: A Guide to What Not to Do and What to Do Instead first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

I hear it all the time. “I can’t go there! I don’t want people to think I’m a tourist!” Like that’s the worst thing in the world? There are hundreds of blogs and articles on the internet titled Non-Touristy Things to Do in Such and Such City. And fair enough, there probably are some on this blog too. Travellers want more and more to stand out less and less, which is understandable. No one wants to stick out a like a sore thumb or be that obnoxious visitor with their selfie stick swinging wildly in peoples faces. But what happens when you blend in too much or avoid places which you might think are “too touristy”?

Remember, most places are touristy for a reason! Attractions that are special, unique and one of a kind draw people in from all over the world because it’s something they can’t find at home. Sometimes the tourists visiting might just be from the town an hour down the road, but where they’re going feels like a different world to them. If all you want to do is find a dive bar or coffee shop frequented by locals, you might have a great time but miss out on something extraordinary.

And the truth is, despite new low-cost airlines, not everyone gets to travel frequently. Those “digital nomads” have the luxury of time to explore every inch of a particular country AFTER they’ve seen all the iconic sites. But some people don’t have the money to travel to the same destination every year or the vacation time to spend in one place for a month. Some people are lucky to get a week off all year, and they want to use it the best way they can. And if you’re only going to be able to visit Australia ONCE, you darn tootin’ should see the Sydney Opera House and go to a kangaroo zoo to pet one of those unique creatures! Yes, it’s the picture everyone gets, but once again – why do you think that’s the case?

I think we need to help redefine what it means to be a tourist instead of hiding from the term. Embrace it, but be a good one. Help make it less taboo. Be friendly and curious, yet respectful and trusting of the place you’re visiting. Find a balance between going to famous places and dipping your toe into a local hole in the wall where you can’t speak the language. Locals will help you navigate your way through new culinary treats!

In the age of Airbnb, there is a sense that staying in a hotel has become a pedestrian way of travelling. That is, by staying in a hotel, you aren’t embracing the city in the same way. Like you’re copping out. There are some fantastic rental apps out there where you can find some incredible homes or apartments to stay in while visiting, but more and more, these services are creating huge issues for the locals you’re trying to blend in with. Rent is skyrocketing in places like New York and San Francisco partially due to Airbnb. Hotels have never caused such issues. So while it might feel more authentic, you need to be aware that your “authentic, non-touristy” experience might be causing huge problems for the people you’re trying to engage with. 

Culture shock is real. If the comfort of a hotel with familiar amenities and a concierge who speaks English makes you more at ease, why pass that up just for the sake of looking cool? If you don’t want to stay at a chain hotel, there are hundreds of boutique or independent apartment-style hotels you can reserve instead. Often the draw of an Airbnb is that they’re located outside the dense tourist areas, but these days you can find incredible luxury accommodations in parts of the city you’d never expect (and usually for half the price of staying at a chain hotel in the centre of town).

If you want to avoid the feeling of being overwhelmed by other visitors, don’t just skip it all together. Try not to miss out on things that are meaningful to you just because you’re worried about doing something everyone else is too. There’s probably a good reason there are so many people there. What you can do is be strategic!

Tips on the best day/time to arrive to avoid the crowds or secrets to skipping the line altogether are all over the internet (a few of them right here on this very blog!). Some busy attractions have lesser known entrances with shorter lines. When I visited the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, we walked right past a queue of hundreds of people standing in the hot sun waiting to buy a ticket. All I had to do was buy my ticket in advance a month before we left for our trip. When we walked in, the crowds from outside were nowhere to be seen. Sure, there were tourists inside, but since they control the number of people who enter at any given time, it still felt peaceful and it was one of, if not THE, most incredible pieces of architecture I’ve ever seen.

Another great tip to be an engaged tourist is to hire a local guide! They will take you to all those iconic sites you don’t want to miss out on and tell you all about them based on their own experiences. Yes, you’ll be walking down the same Charles Bridge in Prague frequented by thousands of tourists every day, but no one gets to hear the same story you’ll be listening to as you walk down it. One of the most memorable guided tours I took was in Budapest with a very passionate guide who told us story upon story, including his family’s history and how all the political uprisings affected the people of Hungary over the years. You can’t get that kind of stuff in the guidebooks. Larger, organized guided tours are fantastic too, but having a 1-on-1 relationship with your guide for the day will allow you to ask more questions and learn more about the place you’re visiting.

So go ahead, be a TOURIST. Embrace the word. Fill it with all your own meanings and interpretation. Be inquisitive, fill that bucket list, don’t be afraid to ask questions or make mistakes. Engage with the city, the people and the culture. Take your photo holding up the Leaning Tower of Pisa, smooch under the Eiffel Tower and cross the street with friends on Abbey Road. Do it your way, for yourself and don’t worry about anyone else.

…Just don’t eat at the Hard Rock Cafe.

The post It’s Okay to Be a Tourist. first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.