So I finally made it to Amsterdam! I was only there for three days, but the city has this chill, storybook vibe that makes it really easy to fall into step with. Think crooked houses, peaceful canals, and enough charm to make you forget your feet hurt from all the walking.

I went solo on this trip, but I met up with my friend who lives there now, which was such a nice break from solo wandering. We only had a day together, but having someone show me around like a local made the city feel a little more personal. The rest of the time? Just me, my camera, and Google Maps (which I still managed to ignore and get lost anyway).

Let me just say: Amsterdam is stunning in spring. The trees were just starting to bloom, and the whole city felt soft and alive. But the real showstopper? My day trip to Keukenhof. It’s basically a flower wonderland. Like… fields and fields of tulips in every color you can think of – red, purple, pink, yellow. I think I took about 500 photos and still feel like it wasn’t enough. It’s a bit touristy, yes, but totally worth it.

Back in the city, I pretty much just walked everywhere. I didn’t bother with the trams or try to rent a bike, I just wandered. And honestly, that’s when I had some of my favorite moments. I’d turn a corner and suddenly be in this super quiet street with the prettiest canal views, or stumble across some random little cafe or vintage shop. No real plan and it totally worked.

I spent a good chunk of one afternoon at the Rijksmuseum, which is this massive, beautiful museum that’s home to a ton of Dutch masterpieces. Even if you’re not a big art person, it’s worth going just to experience the space. I did the very touristy thing and made a beeline for The Night Watch. And wow, it’s huge. I knew it was famous but seeing it in person is something else. The whole room kind of goes quiet, like the painting just commands the space. I’m not usually one to linger at art, but I stood there longer than I thought, just taking it in. It really does feel alive.

Now… the food. I tried a bunch of local things – bitterballen, pancakes, even gave herring a go (once was enough 😅). While nothing really stood out as a new favorite, I’m glad I tried them, but let’s just say I leaned pretty heavily on fries and stroopwafels to get me through the day. No shame.

If I’m being honest, I’m still not quite sure how I feel about Amsterdam. It’s undeniably beautiful but maybe I just didn’t connect with it the way I expected to. And honestly, that’s okay. Not every place has to change your life. Sometimes it’s just about showing up, seeing something different, and letting the experience be what it is. Still, I’d 100% go back.

Maybe next time I’ll try biking. Though let’s be honest, I’ll probably still just walk and get lost again.