Nieuw-West

Amsterdam may be a picturesque city, but rooftop hangouts in the city are few and far between. So climb to the 17th floor of the Ramada hotel for a bird’s eye view. The rooftop terrace is open year-round, but really comes into its own in the summer. Expect DJs, fitness classes and alfresco movie nights alongside tantalising tipples and locavore cuisine.

Buzzy and youthful, this cheerful hangout spans the ground floor of the Student Hotel. International travellers gather here for round-the-world food, drinks and music. Work up an appetite with a game of ping-pong, then tuck in to a crowd-pleasing menu of expertly made burgers, pasta and pizza.

Just outside the Sloterdijk train station, Bret has good vibes down pat. From the outside, the shipping-container structure screams industrial cool. Inside, the decor takes a turn for the rustic with an attractive timber mezzanine. In fine weather, grab a spot on the outdoor benches or the rooftop. Drop in for organic bar snacks, DJ nights and the occasional beer festival.

London and New York may need no introduction on the street-art scene, but Amsterdam is starting to get something of a reputation, too. Founded as a way to foster the local art community, the Street Art Museum Amsterdam maintains a collection of more than 200 pieces. A guided tour of Nieuw-West takes in works by Dutch and international artists in striking urban locations.

Escape rooms have gained enormous popularity in the city, and for a taste of Amsterdam’s first and finest, head over to the Room of Riddles. There’s no need to be locked indoors, though, thanks to its new outdoor experience. Turn a city tour into an interactive game: the longer you play, the more unmissable landmarks you’ll see.