A travel guide for those interested in adventuring off the beaten path with us.
De Reiger – Our go-to relaxed dinner spot, tucked into our old block in the charming Jordaan neighborhood. Get the fish special or the ribs, and say hi to Binky the cat for us.
Ô Bistro – A cozy French spot serving some of the best food in Amsterdam. Order the côte de boeuf marbrée off the chalkboard, sip Amaro, and admire the wonderfully risqué paintings from a local artist.
De Kas – Dine in a greenhouse in the middle of the city — their veggie-forward dishes are harvested in the morning and on your plate in the afternoon. A beautiful garden-to-table experience.
Toscanini – Light-filled, fresh flowers, fresh pasta, unforgettable burrata, and craft spritzes. The perfect fun lunch spot.
Vuurtoreneiland – Take a historic boat to a private island with wild goats, a bunker, and a lighthouse. It’s like being in the movie The Menu without the murder. Book far in advance — it’s a 5-hour experience, and absolutely worth it.
GlouGlou – Candlelit natural wine bar in De Pijp. It’s a little divey and it’s our favorite spot. Don’t miss it!
Café de Nieuwe Lelie – We used to live nearby and came here daily. Order biertjes (little beers), bitterballen, and oude kaas with mustard. Sit outside and enjoy the people-watching, or play a game of pool with locals in the basement.
Kikkie – Sip natural wine with the hip young crowd. Get the smash burger. Then hop across the street to Twee Prinsen for more good wine and small bites.
Wynand Fockink – Historic genever tasting room hidden just off Dam Square. Sip from tiny tulip glasses and “bow” with the locals. Our good friend Merijn will show you the ropes.
De Drie Fleschjes – Old-school brown bar with walls lined with barrels. Settle in for a cozy drink and sausage.
The Noordermarkt – A 400-year-old market. Pick up Terschellinger (the best gouda), flowers, and vintage tiles.
Rent a boat – You can do it! They top out at 6 mph. Bring wine, cheese, and a spliff. Float past crooked houses and queue up an On Holiday Spotify playlist. We rented from Sloepdelen Merkscada and Eco Boats Amsterdam Centrum.
Paradiso – Go to a concert in a former church. With its stained-glass windows, historic architecture, and world-class acoustics, it’s one of Amsterdam’s most iconic live music venues.
De Twee Zwaantjes – Legendary local haunt for late-night singing and dancing to André Hazes songs.
The Frozen Fountain – A beautifully curated design shop for lovers of clever and quirky Dutch design. Furniture, ceramics, and gifts you’ll want to ship home.
Museums – Visit the Moco for modern art. Head to the Rijksmuseum for Dutch Masters — admire the fancy men’s shoes in the portraits and stunning glassware in the still lifes.
After a few unforgettable visits, we packed our bags and spent a year living in Amsterdam in 2022. It was during that time — biking along the canals, sipping sparkling wine on sun-drenched terraces (aka terrasjes pakken) — that the idea for On Holiday came to life. We hope you feel the same magic we did. Clink! Clink! McCabe & Kiernan
