After seeing how stressful it was for our dog one year, we decided to find an alternative — somewhere calm, safe, and (mostly) firework-free new year. It took a bit of research, but I’m happy to report that there are good options around Amsterdam where you and your furry friend can have a peaceful New Year’s Eve.

Here’s what worked for us, and a few other places to consider that worked for our dog friends if you want to skip the fireworks next year.

Firework-Free Holiday Parks and Hotels in the Netherlands

If you’d rather completely leave the city behind, there are several firework-free holiday parks and hotels around the Netherlands where you can stay with your dog over New Year’s Eve. These book up really fast (sometimes as early as September or October), so it’s best to reserve well in advance.

Here are a few great options to check out:

•  Hilton Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
•  Radisson Blu Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
•  Topparken Firework-Free Holiday Parks
•  Hotel met Hond – Firework-Free Hotels
•  Lekker Weg Tips – Firework-Free Parks
•  Landal GreenParks Firework-Free Options
•  Dutchen Firework-Free Holiday Homes
•  Hof van Salland Holiday Park
•  Europarcs Firework-Free Holiday Parks
•  Hofparken Firework-Free Holidays
•  Glampings Firework-Free Escapes

Whether you prefer a cozy forest cabin, a glamping tent, or a full-service hotel, these places offer quiet surroundings where your dog (and you) can actually relax.

Staying at the Hilton Schiphol Airport with Your Dog for a Firework-Free New Years

After trying to find somewhere in or around the city that wasn’t in the middle of fireworks madness, we ended up at the Hilton at Schiphol Airport — and it turned out to be a great option!

When I was researching beforehand, there wasn’t much info online about what it’s like to actually stay there with a dog during New Year’s Eve, so hopefully this helps someone else looking for a quieter option.

What It’s Like

You pay an extra €55 for your pet (you don’t get any extras for that — just the ability to bring them). Technically, the hotel allows up to two pets with a combined max weight of 35kg, but no one checked during our stay. The woman at reception even mentioned that about 50 dogs were registered at the hotel that night — so clearly we weren’t the only ones with the same idea!

Eating Out (or In) with Your Dog

You can take your dog to the lobby bar and the ground-floor restaurant. They just ask that you book ahead and let them know you’re bringing a dog, so they can seat you in the dog-friendly section off to the side.

If your pup is nervous around other dogs or you’d rather keep things calm, the Hilton offers 24/7 room service, and there’s a small self-service shop downstairs with snacks and drinks.

Walks & Toilet Trips

Out the front of the hotel, there’s a grassy area with bins for doggie bags — perfect for quick toilet breaks.

Noise Levels

We had a corner room on the 8th floor, and honestly, we barely heard the fireworks. You could occasionally hear the big ones, but it was a distant, dull thud rather than the sharp explosions you get in the city. Our dog didn’t seem to care at all.

The only noise we did notice was when another dog barked while walking past the door — that, you could definitely hear! 

All in all, it was a restful, stress-free night, and we’d absolutely go back again next year.

 Final Tips for a Firework-Free New Year with Your Dog

• Book early. Many pet-friendly and quiet places sell out months in advance.
• Bring familiar items. Your dog’s bed, blanket, and toys help them feel secure.
• Don’t go outside at midnight. Even in quiet areas, there may still be the occasional firework.
• Check reviews from other pet owners. They’ll often mention whether it was truly quiet or not.

Whether you stay at the Hilton Schiphol, escape to a countryside holiday park, or find another quiet corner of the Netherlands, it’s possible to make New Year’s Eve peaceful again — for you and your dog with a firework-free new years!

The post Firework-Free New Year Hotels around the Netherlands – How to Avoid Fireworks in Amsterdam with Your Dog on New Year’s Eve appeared first on JUST TRAVELOUS.

We spent one full month exploring Patagonia’s Chilean and Argentinian sides, and our Patagonia Itinerary was absolutely perfect. Enough time for the iconic hikes, time to rest and recover, and space to just be in one of the world’s most remote and beautiful corners.

Here’s exactly how we did it:

• Day 1–2: Puerto Natales (Arrival + Gear Up)
• Day 3–10: The O Trek in Torres del Paine
• Day 11–12: Puerto Natales (Recovery Mode)
• Day 13–17: El Calafate
• Day 18–24: El Chaltén
• Day 25–27: Punta Arenas
• Day 28: Return to Puerto Natales

Day 1–2: Puerto Natales (Arrival + Gear Up)

We started (and ended) our Patagonia itinerary loop in Puerto Natales, the quiet little town that serves as the jumping-off point for Torres del Paine. Give yourself two days here before the big trek—not just for gear check and snack runs, but also to soak up some calm before the wild.

Go for a walk along the fjord and watch the sunset over dinner at La Escondida.  

Day 3–10: The O Trek in Torres del Paine

This was the highlight of the whole trip. The O Circuit is a full loop around Torres del Paine National Park, and it’s truly next-level. For 8 days, we hiked through forests, over mountain passes, past glaciers, and along turquoise rivers, carrying everything we needed on our backs.

The John Gardner Pass was brutal and breathtaking, and seeing the Grey Glacier stretch endlessly into the horizon is something I’ll never forget. You’ll need to book your campsites in advance (it’s mandatory and fill up even a year in advance), and you’ll want to pack light but smart.

Compared to the W Trek, the O is quieter, longer, and more remote. It’s a real adventure; if you’re up for the challenge, it’s 100% worth it.

Especially for this part of the journey, make sure that you have good insurance coverage. Every time we travel, we rely on SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance. I love how it covers unexpected medical needs, protects my gear, and even helps with travel delays. We use it on all our longer trips for coverage. The flexibility and price make it a no-brainer. If you want the same peace of mind, check it out SafetyWing here.

Day 11–12: Puerto Natales (Recovery Mode)

After the O, we returned to Puerto Natales for two very important things: laundry and food. The second time around, we were smarter—we booked a place with a kitchen, stocked up at the grocery store, and took it slow.

Go get your legs back with another stroll along the waterfront. Sit in a café. Do nothing for a day or two. You’ve earned it.

Day 13–17: El Calafate

Next stop: Argentina. We rented a car, which required an international permit to cross the border, which is checked throughly. The crossing into Argentina did not include a food check but the crossing back into Chile was very strict on any fresh food in your car.

We made our way to El Calafate, home to one of the most surreal sights in all of Patagonia—the Perito Moreno Glacier.

This glacier moves—like, you can actually hear it groaning and see chunks falling into the water. It’s massive, humbling, and 100% lives up to the hype.  You can walk along the viewing platforms or book a boat trip to get up close.

The rest of the town is laid-back, with cozy cafés, a nice little lagoon walk, and a few solid restaurants. Five days was a good balance of activity and downtime before our next hiking chapter.

Day 18–24: El Chaltén

El Chaltén is a dream for hikers. It’s tiny, rugged, and surrounded by jagged peaks. We stayed for a full week and were so glad we did because the weather here is unpredictable. Some days, it poured sideways; others were crystal clear—and those were the days we hit the trails.

The big three hikes:

• Laguna de los Tres (Fitz Roy) – Save this for your best weather day. It’s tough but jaw-dropping.
• Laguna Torre – A little easier, with an incredible view of Cerro Torre and floating icebergs.
• Loma del Pliegue Tumbado – The most underrated hike in town with 360° panoramic views.

Pro tip: Stock up on groceries in El Calafate before you come. The grocery stores in El Chaltén are rough. We stayed in a place with a kitchen, which saved us a ton. El Chalten is very expensive since it is a town mostly for tourists.

Day 25–27: Punta Arenas

We closed the loop by heading back to Chile, stopping for a few days in Punta Arenas before flying home. When crossing back into Chile, make sure you do not have any fresh food in your car (fruit, veggies, eggs, etc.); they will require you to throw it all away at the border.

The town is surprisingly charming, and there’s more to do here than you’d expect.

We visited the Nao Victoria Museum to climb around life-sized replica ships, checked out the cemetery (yes, really—it’s famous for a reason), and ate our weight in seafood and Chilean craft beer.

But the real highlight? The penguins on Isla Magdalena.

Even though it was the end of the season, we still got to walk among thousands of Magellanic penguins as they started to gather courage and head out to sea. It was one of those wildlife experiences that feels like a dream.  Definitely worth the early wake-up and cold wind. We booked our Punta Arena Penguins tour with Solo Expediciones, which I would absolutely recommend. The tour starts at 6:30 a.m. in the center of Punta Arenas. The bus will take you to the port, where a private enclosed boat will take you to Isla Magdalena.

Day 28: Return to Puerto Natales

We drove back to Puerto Natales for one last night before flying home. That final sunset over the water hit differently—tired legs, full heart, and a head full of mountain memories.

Final Thoughts on One Month in Patagonia Itinerary

A month in Patagonia itinerary felt like the perfect amount of time. Long enough to see it slowly, wait out bad weather, challenge yourself with a real trek, and recover from it. We had space for adventure and quiet.

Here’s what made it work:

• A balance of hiking and rest days
• Stocking up on groceries and gas whenever possible
• Booking key things in advance (O Trek campsites and rental car)
• Staying flexible with the weather

Patagonia isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it. If you’re thinking about going—go. You won’t come back the same.

The post One Month in Patagonia Itinerary – The Ultimate Southern Adventure appeared first on JUST TRAVELOUS.

Set on a fjord with snow-capped mountains in the distance, it’s one of those towns that quietly grows on you. It’s not flashy, and it’s definitely not warm, but after a few days, you’ll be kind of obsessed with it.

How many days in Puerto Natales?

If you’re just using it as a launchpad for Torres del Paine, two nights is enough to sort your gear, stock up on snacks, and catch a bus to the park. But if you have more time, stay for three or four. There’s enough to do and a good place to recover post-trek.

We stayed two days before the O Trek and two days after and were so glad we did.

Important things to know before visiting Puerto Natales

It’s a small town, but not tiny. You’ll find outdoor gear shops, good restaurants, cozy cafés, and even a wine bar or two. The weather changes by the minute—bring layers and a windproof jacket, even if you’re just walking to dinner.

Almost everything is within walking distance, and the vibe is super chill. Think backpackers, couples, older hikers, and the occasional dog trotting solo down the street.

Things to Do in Puerto Natales

Walk the Waterfront at Sunset

The waterfront is just beautiful in Puerto Natales. We took daily walks/runs here. There is a great bike path the entire way so it is easy to walk, run or bike along. The old pier skeletons jutting into the water, the mountains glowing in the distance, and the wind that makes you feel alive (and a little cold)—it’s magic. There is a great restaurant, La Escondida, right on the water that has a spectacular view.

Bring a beer or a coffee and just sit. Patagonia has a way of making you slow down whether you like it or not.

Get Ready for Torres del Paine (or Recover From It)

If you’re doing the O or W Trek, this is where you get organized. There are tons of gear rental places, supermarkets, and shuttle companies. After a week in the wilderness, you can also drop your laundry off, which feels like a luxury.

For winter gear – the cheapest and best place we found was Menos Pesos. We bought thicker winter jackets and better gloves as soon as we felt that Patagonian Wind.

For groceries, we liked the Unimarc in the center of town. It is a bigger grocery store that has popular hiker items like protein bars.

The town feels like it is split in two; if you are at a restaurant or store where you do not see any locals or hear any Spanish, you will probably end up overpaying. Our Uber driver from the airport was super helpful, so we asked him for everything that we needed.

If you’ve just finished your trek, congrats. Go find a warm pub and order literally anything hot and cheesy.

If you are just looking to do a day hike to Torres del Paine, there are wonderful guided options that will pick you up from Puerto Natales and take you to the park. Hiking Intensive option and Easy Tour Option.

Day Trip to the Mylodon Cave

If you’ve got a spare afternoon, this is a fun and very chill outing. The Cueva del Milodón is a massive cave where they found remains of an extinct giant sloth. The cave is cool, the walk is easy, and the legend is fun. You can drive there yourself or take a tour. It’s 30 minutes from town. You will see the Mylodon statues throughout Puerto Natales as well.

Where to Eat + Drink in Puerto Natales

This town is surprisingly great for food. Here are a few of our favorites:

• La Picada De Carlitos– One of the best value-for-money restaurants, we found excellent food at excellent prices with locals eating around you
• La Escondida – this restaurant has incredible food and a fantastic sunset view right on the water. The lamb was just unbelievable, and so was the carrot cake. The owners were so lovely; we went back twice before and after the hike.

Where to Stay in Puerto Natales

There are excellent budget options here, plus mid-range places with cozy fireplaces and oversized windows for watching the wind do its thing.

• Best Small Hotel: Xalpen B&B – Great location in town and the owner was so friendly. We loved it here before and after our trip.
• Best Hostel: Yagan House – Social but calm, helpful staff, good common area
• Best with a Kitchen: Apartments by Toore Patagonia – Cute apartments with kitchens, great for saving money on food

How to Get to Puerto Natales

You can fly directly into Puerto Natales Airport, or fly to Punta Arenas and take a 3-hour bus. Uber works in Puerto Natales so it is easy to get into the city from the airport.

Buses also run from El Calafate in Argentina if you’re crossing the border. Make sure you have your passport and your Chilean customs form ready—Chile’s border agents are strict, especially about fruit and veggies.

If you are renting a car and crossing the board between Chile and Argentina, you will need an international permit to cross that is attached to the rental car. Make sure you request it beforehand. It will cost around 200 dollars. Another thing about the border is that when crossing into Chile from Argentina, they are very strict on no fresh groceries (no fruit, vegetables, eggs, etc.) crossing the border. They will check your car and make you throw out everything fresh at the border.

How to Get to Torres del Paine Puerto Natales

Book your roundtrip bus from Puerto Natales to Laguna Amarga or Pudeto, depending on your route. Two main companies:

• Bus Sur
• Buses Gomez

We used Bus Sur, which had many options each day. Book at least a few weeks in advance.

Final Thoughts on Puerto Natales

It’s not a headline destination like Torres del Paine or El Chaltén, but that’s kind of the beauty of it. Puerto Natales is where you pause, load up on snacks, beer, and sunsets, and reconnect to the idea that adventure also needs recovery time.

Come for the logistics, stay for the recovery.

The post Puerto Natales – The Calm Before (or After) the Storm appeared first on JUST TRAVELOUS.

You hike for eight days in a loop that takes you behind the famous towers and deep into the raw, rugged heart of Patagonia. This is the kind of place where the wind can knock you off your feet (literally fell into a bush), where your feet stay wet for days, and the views are some of the best in the world. It is our favorite hike since Tour de Mont Blanc.

If that sounds miserable to you, maybe stick to the W Trek. But if you’re still reading, I’m guessing you’re the kind of person who thinks a good day is one that ends with sore legs, a full heart, and a ridiculous view. Welcome to the O.

Can you do the O Trek Patagonia without a guide?

Absolutely. The O Trek is well signalized. Download the GPS ahead of time to follow the daily trek but very easy to do without a guide.  

What to Expect from the Refugios and Campsites

There are two companies that run all the campsites. Vertice and Las Torres. The Las Torres camps are nicer, but the infrastructure across the entire trek is impressive. If you’ve never done a multi-day trek like this, the refugios and campsites might surprise you—in both good and “oh wow, this is rustic” ways.

The O Trek Patagonia has a mix of options:

• Refugios (mountain lodges) are available at some camps like Dickson, Grey, Paine Grande, and Central. You’ll get a bunk bed in a shared dorm, showers, flushing toilets, and hot meals if you pre-book. There is very limited availability, so book when you can.
• Campsites range from full-service (you can rent a tent that’s already pitched, plus meals) to very basic (like Los Perros without hot water). All of them have toilets and running water.
• Showers? Most places have them. Hot water? Not always.
• Bathrooms? Every site had flushing toilets that were well stocked; we just might need to wait in line in the morning.
• Shops? Some camps (like Grey and Paine Grande) have small shops with overpriced snacks, wine, beer, and ramen. Prices are steep, but when you’re starving or craving a beer, it’s worth every peso. Every campsite took credit cards.
• Wifi? Most of the campsites offer wifi for pricey fee. It was $10 per hour or something ridiculous. We paid once in the middle of the trip but it was honestly nice to disconnect for a few days.

No matter where you stay, don’t expect luxury. Do expect incredible views, tired legs, and a shared sense of camaraderie with every other hiker you meet.

How to Book the O Trek Patagonia (Without Losing Your Mind)

There are many companies that will make all the bookings for you, so if that is within your Budget, it will save you the headache. Full O Trek Tour.

However, it is possible and cheaper to book the O Trek on your own. Booking the O Trek Patagonia can feel like solving a puzzle with missing pieces, as the websites are not great, and you need to book the campsites across multiple websites. Campsites are managed by two different organizations, and you’ll need to book each night individually, even though it’s one continuous trail. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Pick Your Dates, Route, Tent plan, and Food Included

• Duration: Decide how many days you want to take—8 is typical, though some squeeze it into seven or stretch it to 9. If you are reasonably fit, eight is very possible.
• Route: Hike the O in clockwise, starting at Serón and finishing at Torres. It is really nice to hike with your fellow O trekkers and meet friends a long the way.
• Tents: I highly recommend booking the campsites with the equipment. It was so nice to have everything set up when we arrived. It also was super helpful to have a lighter backpack across the 8 days of trekking. If you are on a strict budget, then you can hike with your tent, sleeping bag and mat and only rent the campsite each night, however, this is heavy on your back to hike for 8 days and setting up your tent after a long day hiking is exhausting.
• Food: At most of the campsites, there is a option for a full or half board menu. It is very expensive but after a long day of trekking, the hot meal just feels fantastic. I would recommend at least a few days with some food included to break up the freeze dried food. Most of the campsites are accessible by boat so the food was surprisingly very good at most campsites. Los Perros does not offer food so you need to a least hike with some food. The lunches included in the full board, were large enough to feed you through the day. Again, if you can afford, I recommend adding at least some stops with food.

Step 2: Book Your Campsites

There are two different operators:

1. Las Torres – for Central, Serón, and Chileno → https://www.lastorres.com
2. Vertice Patagonia – for Dickson, Los Perros, Grey, and Paine Grande https://www.verticepatagonia.cl

You’ll need to book every campsite in order and show proof of booking at the park entrance. Camps fill up quickly—especially between December and February—so try to book at least 6 months in advance.

If you are doing the trek in 8 days: The order of the campsites is Seron, Dickson, Los Perros, Camp Grey, Paine Grande, Frances, Chileno (can also book Central). Important to book them in the correct order across the two sites.

Step 3: Reserve Transportation and the Park Entrance

Book your roundtrip bus from Puerto Natales to Laguna Amarga or Pudeto, depending on your route. Two main companies:

• Bus Sur
• Buses Gomez

We used Bus Sur, which had many options each day. Book at least a few weeks in advance.

Book the Park Entrance in advance as well. Take screenshots of all your bookings so you can access it without internet.

Step 4: Make sure you are covered with Insurance

Every time we travel, we rely on SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance. I love how it covers unexpected medical needs, protects my gear, and even helps with travel delays. We use it on all our longer trips for coverage. The flexibility and price make it a no-brainer. If you want the same peace of mind, check it out SafetyWing here.

How Much Does the O Trek Cost? (And How to Do It on a Budget)

The O Trek Patagonia isn’t cheap—but it doesn’t have to break the bank either. Here’s a rough breakdown of what we spent (per person):

Park Entrance Fee:

• ~$45 USD (reserve in advance on the official park website. Just make sure to book the >3 day Foreigner Pass.

Camping (with equipment vs. without):

• If you bring your own tent and cook your own food, campsites cost around $10–15 USD per night.
• If you rent equipment at the camps, prices jump to $100-130 USD per night, depending on the company.
• We rented a tent/sleeping bag/mat at all the locations and I would highly recommend this. Carrying your equipment for 8 days is heavy, and setting up your tent after 10 hours of hiking is exhausting.

Food:

• We got the full board at all the campsites with availability. It is expensive but a hot meal to end and start your day was worth it for us.
• Most campsites will have a prep area with a sink if you bring your own food. I would at least mix in some meals to breakup the freeze dried meals. Get all your food in Puerto Natales before you enter the park.
• Budget about $10 USD per day if you’re doing it all yourself and $100 per day if you are doing full board.

Transport:

• Bus to the park (from Puerto Natales): ~$20 USD round trip
• If you’re starting at Laguna Amarga, factor in the shuttle to the trailhead at Central (~$5 USD)

Total Budget (for 8 days):

• DIY budget version: ~$400 USD
• Comfort version (with rented tents/meals): ~$1,500 USD+

Booking tip: do it early, especially for peak season (Dec–Feb). Campsites for the O Trek are split across Vertice Patagonia and Las Torres, so you’ll need to coordinate bookings through multiple sites (yes, it’s annoying but doable).

O Trek vs. W Trek: Which One’s for You?

If you’re torn between the W Trek and the O Trek, here’s the deal:

• The W Trek is the shorter, more popular, more comfortable option. It hits the highlights—Grey Glacier, French Valley, and the Torres—over 4 or 5 days. You’ll find more people and more infrastructure, and if you book Refugios, you can do it with just a daypack and a camera.
• The O Trek Patagonia is for those who want to go deeper. You still get all the W Trek views at the end, but the first half—Serón, Dickson, Los Perros, the John Gardner Pass—is remote, quiet, and feels more like an expedition.

If you want a big adventure, go for the O Trek Patagonia. If your time is tight or you’re not up for hauling a backpack for 8 days, the W is still incredible. Either way, it’s Patagonia—you’re going to see some of the most beautiful landscapes on Earth.

O Trek Wrap Up

If you like hiking, do not hesitate to book this trip. We did it as the first week on our month long Patagonia adventure. It was just incredible with new vistas every single day. I can not recommend it enough. Follow it with trips through-out the region to El Chalten, El Calafate, and Punta Arenas. It is one of the most beautiful regions in the world so what are you waiting for?

The post 8 Days on the O Trek Patagonia in Torres del Paine appeared first on JUST TRAVELOUS.

Unlike the O trek in Torres del Paine, all the hikes from El Chaltén are day hikes, so you get to sleep in a bed and see incredible views from day hikes. The town is in the middle of absolutely nowhere, so make sure you go to the grocery store and stock up before arriving in El Chaltén.

How many days in El Chaltén?

The weather in El Chaltén is very unpredictable. To get three good days of hiking, you probably need to stay a week. We stayed a week there, and it was perfect. We had rest days when it was raining, and when the clouds cleared, we did the three best hikes.

Important things to know before your visit to El Chaltén

The town is very small and 300 kilometers from any larger town. The grocery stores were some of the worst I have seen in my life. If you are coming from El Calafate, make sure you stop at the grocery store and stock up for the week.

The town is only for tourists so everything was very expensive. Book a hotel with a kitchen so you can cook some of your meals at your accomodation.

If you are driving, have a full tank of gas before you start the journey to El Chaltén. We drove to El Chaltén from Puerto Natales; the journey was five full hours without a gas station and only one place that had coffee the entire journey. Only you and the llama for miles around.

The three best El Chalten hikes in the area:

All three hikes are easy to follow along a gps so there is no need to book a tour for any of the hikes. Use an app like AllTrails and you will be fine self-guided.

Laguna de los Tres – Fitz Roy Base Camp

This trek is hands down the best El Chalten hikes, leading to one of Patagonia’s most iconic viewpoints—Laguna de los Tres, right at the base of Mount Fitz Roy. Save the hike for the best weather day in the forecast.

• Distance: 20 km round trip
• Time: 8–10 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (steep final ascent)

The trail starts gradually, passing through forests and the scenic Río Blanco valley. The trail is relatively easy until the last 1 km, a wall of a steep climb, but when you reach the top, the view of Fitz Roy towering over the turquoise lake is unreal.

Make sure you pack lunch to enjoy by the lake and take in the views.

Starting from the end of 2024, a ticket to the Los Glaciares National Park is required for this hike. It was 45 dollars per person when we went. No need to book in advance. You can book a pass to enter the park 3 times within 6 months, if you are visiting El Calafate, it is the same park so worth getting the three visit pass.

Laguna Torre – Cerro Torre Viewpoint

This trek is easier as it does not have the final steep climb of Fitz Roy. This hike has view of another legendary Patagonian peak—Cerro Torre, famous for its impossible-looking spire. It is incredibly beautiful and does not require any fee to enter if you are on a budget.

• Distance: 18 km round trip
• Time: 6–7 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

This trail is less steep than Laguna de los Tres but equally stunning. You’ll walk through forests and open valleys before reaching Laguna Torre, where Cerro Torre rises dramatically behind the lake and floating icebergs.

Loma del Pliegue Tumbado – The Best Panoramic View

For some reason, this hike is not very popular, which means you have this incredible nature all to yourself. Sometimes there are rangers there checking the tickets but not always so you have to get a bit lucky or buy the 3 visit pass.

This trail has a 360-degree view of the whole Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre range; this is the hike. It was just as spectacular as the Fitz Roy hike because you had it to yourself with stunning views.

• Distance: 22 km round trip
• Time: 7–8 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

The trail climbs above the valley, giving insane panoramic views of Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre, and even Viedma Lake in the distance.

Where to stay in El Chaltén

Hostels are common in El Chalten, but still expensive. If you are a solo traveler, it is a great way to meet people. Book a hostel with breakfast included as the grocery stores are rough in El Chalten.

• Best Hostel: Hostel El Salto

I would recommend getting a place with a kitchen here if you come prepared with a car full of food from El Calafate. The food in town was expensive.

• Best Accommodation with a Kitchen: Aparts Complejo Ricanor

How to get to El Chalten

Patagonia is well connected by bus. You can take a bus easily from El Calafate, Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales to El Chalten. All the El Chalten hikes leave within walking distance of the town so a car is not needed while you are in El Chaltén.

If you are driving, make sure you get gas before starting the journey to El Chaltén. We rented a car, and it was very nice to have the flexibility throughout the trip.

If you are renting a car and crossing the board between Chile and Argentina, you will need an international permit to cross that is attached to the rental car. Make sure you request it beforehand. It will cost around 200 dollars. Another thing about the border is that when crossing into Chile from Argentina, they are very strict on no fresh groceries (no fruit, vegetables, eggs, etc.) crossing the border. They will check your car and make you throw out everything fresh at the border.

Final Thoughts on El Chalten and El Chalten Hikes

El Chaltén is a paradise for hikers. The weather is very temperamental so try to stay a week to ensure you have three sunny days to do the best El Chalten hikes in the area. Also ensure that you come to El Chaltén prepared as the grocery stores are terrible there.

The post El Chalten Hikes and a complete guide to make the most of El Chalten appeared first on JUST TRAVELOUS.

It’s touristy, yes, but a much bigger town, and after a few days in the middle of nowhere (looking at you, El Chalten), it was actually kind of nice to come back to a place with real grocery stores and proper cheese.

How many days in El Calafate?

If you only want to see Perito Moreno, you can get away with two nights. But if you want to do a glacier trek, kayak, or explore more of the area, plan for 4–5 days. We had seven, and honestly, it was exactly what we needed to recover from the O trek. The tours are very expensive, so keep this in mind as you are choosing the length of your stay.

Important things to know before your visit to El Calafate

El Calafate is a much larger town. That means you’ll find everything you need—proper grocery stores, ATMs, pharmacies, shops, fancy chocolate, overpriced sweaters.

It is an excellent place for a recovery week. The grocery stores are a dream if you’re coming from El Chalten, and there are great restaurants if you want to treat yourself.

It is a much bigger town, so getting around is easier if you have a car. If not, you will need to book more tours to see the sites around.

The Best Things to Do in El Calafate

Perito Moreno Glacier

The main event. If you’ve seen photos of a bright blue glacier towering over a lake, it was probably this one. The cool part is that you don’t have to hike to get to it—just walk the boardwalks and stare in disbelief. It’s incredibly accessible and absolutely stunning.

You’ll hear the glacier groaning and cracking as it calves into the water. It’s nature’s fireworks show. We stayed for hours, just walking from platform to platform.

Cost: Around $45 dollars for park entry (if you are going to El Chalten, the park is the same, so book the ticket with three entrances to save)

Getting there: Easy day trip with any tour or your own rental car

Tips: Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds. We got there right when it opened, and we had the park to ourselves before the tour buses started rolling in. The Red Trail always has fewer people, so go there first. There’s also a surprisingly decent café in the park if you don’t want to pack lunch, but of course it is very expensive.

Mini-Trekking on the Glacier

If you want to walk on Perito Moreno, this is your chance. It’s a half-day tour in which you strap on crampons and hike over the ice with a guide.

It’s not a challenging hike, but it’s surreal—blue crevasses, meltwater streams, and silence, except for the crunch of your crampons. They even give you a glass of whiskey with glacial ice at the end. Because Patagonia.

If you are on a budget, there are guided hikes that take you right next to the glacier instead of on top of it.

Cost: About $400 dollars (book in advance, especially in high season)

Company: Hielo & Aventura and Patagonia Chic are the two main companies that operate the tour.

Note: There’s also a more extended version called Big Ice if you’re feeling extra adventurous (and have the extra budget).

Boating/Kayaking Lago Argentino

For a different view of the area, there are boats and kayaks that get pretty close to the glacier.

For boating, there are two types of boat tours: a quick one to see Perito Moreno and a longer one that will sail up through the other glaciers. Both vary wildly in price, from about 70ish for the shorter one to about 180ish for the longer one. The pricing also varies by season so check the latest prices below:

Solo Patagonia also offers a kayaking tour. It will cost around 400 dollars.

Walk the Waterfront

One of our favorite things to do in town? Just walk along the lake at sunset. The sky does ridiculous things here—pinks, golds, purples—and the air feels so clean it almost hurts.

The best restaurant for the sunset was Parrilla Don Pichon. The views were incredible and they are famous for the Patagonian lamb.

Where to Stay in El Calafate

There are tons of options, from hostels to boutique hotels. If you want a kitchen to cook your meals, you’ll have no trouble finding an apartment-style place.

Best Budget Choice—We stayed with HomeExchange here, which made our stay free. Given the budget-busting cost of the tours, it was super helpful to stay for free.

Best Budget Stay: Calafate Hostel – Social, clean, great views.

Best Mid-Range Stay with a Kitchen: Patagonia Hope Suites – Would definitely recommend something with a kitchen so you can use your budget for the tours.

How to Get to El Calafate

There’s an airport outside town with regular flights from Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, and Bariloche. You can also take a bus from El Chalten, Puerto Natales, Punta Arenas or Torres del Paine.

If you’re driving, El Calafate is one of the few towns on any Patagonian Itinerary where you can actually fuel up, get groceries, and feel semi-civilized again. Especially if El Chalten is your next stop, buy all the groceries in El Calafate that you will need for your time in El Chalten.

Final Thoughts on El Calafate

Most people think of El Calafate as just a stopover for the glacier—but it’s more than that. It’s a town that knows how to welcome you. You’ll eat well, sleep well, and stare at things that make you feel tiny in the best way.

Whether sipping wine by the lake or trekking across the ice with crampons, El Calafate delivers. Don’t just rush through—stay a while.

You’ll be glad you did.

The post El Calafate – Glacier Gateway and a Surprisingly Cool Town appeared first on JUST TRAVELOUS.

Walk along the Strait of Magellan and Explore Old Town

We spent our first hour here walking along the waterfront, where the Strait of Magellan crashes against the shore, and rusted shipwrecks sit just offshore like forgotten relics. The path along the water is beautiful and long enough for a nice but cold run.

Next wander around the town and make your way to the memorial to Ferdinand Magellan in the city square. There is a legend has it that if you kiss the foot of the statue, you’ll come back to Patagonia someday. So, of course, we kissed the toe.

After walking around town, we were ready for some warmth and a beer. We ducked into Rústico Restobar, which was exactly the kind of cozy, wood-paneled hideout we were craving. Cold craft beer, friendly locals, and a wood stove made it the perfect place to thaw out. They had a great cocktail menu, which was a nice surprise.

And just when we thought the day couldn’t end on a better note, we wandered over to Marzolo Gelato e Café—because, yes, even in Patagonia, you eat gelato. The flavors were surprisingly inventive (the Calafate berry one was a favorite), and the vibe was all soft lighting and sweet smells. I love gelato, and this was by far the best we had tried in Patagonia. It’s not a bad way to wrap up a day at the edge of the world.

Tour to Isla Magdelena to see the Penguins, Dolphins & Sea Lions (Best things to do in Punta Arenas)

No trip to Puenta Areans is complete without a boat trip to Isla Magdalena and Isla Marta to see the penguins. It is the best things to do in Punta Arenas.

The penguins are on Isla Magdalena from October to March each year. We visited Isla Magdalena at the end of the season in March when the penguins started heading back to sea. Watching them psych themselves up to plunge into the waves was hilarious, adorable, and oddly moving.

We booked our Punta Arenas Penguins tour with Solo Expediciones, which I would absolutely recommend. It starts very early at 6:30am; we returned mid day but just napped and took the rest of the day easy.

If you want the full story, I wrote a full post about it Patagonia Penguin Tour. It’s a must-do if you’re in Punta Arenas during the right season.

Nao Victoria Museum

For our last day in Punta Arenas, we headed to the Museo Nao Victoria, a quirky outdoor with life-sized replicas of historic ships. It is just a bit outside the center of town, but one of the best things to do in Punta Arenas to learn about the history of the area.

The star of the show is the Nao Victoria, an exact replica of one of Magellan’s ships—the first vessel to ever circumnavigate the globe. Standing on the deck, hearing the creak of wood and the wind howling around us, it was weirdly easy to imagine what it must’ve felt like to sail into the unknown.

There are other ships, too—the James Caird from Shackleton’s Antarctic voyage, the HMS Beagle (Darwin’s ride), and even a replica of the Goleta Ancud, the ship that claimed Patagonia for Chile.

You can buy the tickets at the museum when you arrive – it was something around 10 dollars per person. No need to prebook.

They have poster boards explaining the three exhibitions and the famous people on each boat. After seeing the famous FitzRoy Moutain a few days before, it was cool to learn about Robert Fitzroy, Captain of the HMS Beagle (Darwin’s ride).

If you’re even slightly into history or boats or exploration (or just like climbing on cool stuff), it’s worth a stop. Plus, it was practically empty when we went, which made it even better. They have free coffee as well to warm you up. The museum is entirely outside, so dress warmly.

Recommended time in Punta Arenas

2 or 3 days is plenty of time in Punta Arenas. The penguins make it a necessary stop on any Patagonia Trip. There are enough things to do in Punta Arenas to keep you busy for 2-3 days. There are buses from Puerto Natales, Torres del Paine, El Chalten or El Calafate Regularly.

Where to stay in Punta Arenas

If you took the bus to Punta Arenas, the town is very walkable but make sure you get a hostel or hotel in town:

• Almasur Punta Arenas – Best Budget Hotel – This budget hotel is a great value and location. The breakfast is good as well offering fresh fruit.
• Hostal Micalvi – Best Hostel – Great Breakfast and good location in town.
• Alojamiento en Punta Arenas – Best Budget with a kitchen – If you have a car, this one a little farther out of town is perfect for the super budget. It is simple but has everything that you need. Patagonia is expensive so having a kitchen to cook helps with the costs a lot. We stayed here to bring down the costs at the end of our trip.
• There are also a few homes on HomeExchange in Punta Arenas. This is our favorite platform for home sharing and helped us so much in expensive Patagonia. We used it in El Calafate on this trip but you can use it throughout Patagonia.

The post Things to do in Punta Arenas: Wind, Penguins, and the Edge of the World appeared first on JUST TRAVELOUS.

The penguins are on Isla Magdalena from October to March each year. We visited Isla Magdalena at the end of the season in March when the penguins started heading back to sea. Watching them psych themselves up to plunge into the waves was hilarious, adorable, and oddly moving.

Magellanic Penguins

Magellanic penguins are medium-sized penguins, about 60–70 cm/ 24-27 inches tall and weighing up to 5 kg. They come to Isla Magdalena every year between September and March for one important reason: to breed and raise their chicks. The island offers ideal conditions—soft soil for burrowing, few predators, and access to nutrient-rich waters for feeding. Little burrows cover the island, where the penguins hide inside from the wind and rain.

Penguins here are monogamous, often returning to the same nesting site and the same mate year after year. They dig burrows or nests under bushes, where the female usually lays two eggs. Both parents share the job of incubating and feeding the chicks, taking turns going out to sea for food. By late March, once the chicks have grown strong enough, the colony starts to disband. The penguins then migrate north, spending the winter months at sea off the coasts of Uruguay and southern Brazil before returning again the following spring.

Getting There: The Windy Way to Isla Magdalena

We booked our Punta Arena Penguins tour with Solo Expediciones, which I would absolutely recommend. The tour starts at 6:30 a.m. in the center of Punta Arenas. The bus will take you to the port, where a private enclosed boat will take you to Isla Magdalena.

It started with a chilly, early morning ride from Punta Arenas to Bahía Laredo, where we boarded a speedboat that would take us across the Strait of Magellan. The sea was a bit rough that day—true to Patagonia’s dramatic nature—and we all clung to our seats as the boat crashed through the waves. No one got physically sick on our boat, but I definitely recommend eating a light breakfast just in case.

End-of-Season Penguin Behavior Is Something Else

When we arrived at Isla Magdalena, the first thing that hit me—besides the wind—was the sound. The island buzzed with the squawks and chatter of hundreds of Magellanic penguins.

I had high expectations of how cute the penguins would be but they exceeded every cuteness expectation. Full cuteness overload.

At first glance, they were doing typical penguin things: waddling down dusty paths, poking their heads out of burrows, standing awkwardly still in the wind like little sentinels. But then I started noticing something unusual.

Many of the penguins were lined up along the water’s edge, pacing back and forth like nervous children at the deep end of the pool. Some would walk right up to the waves, stare for a while, then turn around and waddle back. They would squawk back and forth with their little penguin friends to psych each other up to go back into the cold sea.

Our guide explained that by this time of year (we were there in late March), most of the chicks were grown, and the adults were beginning to leave the island after their months-long stay.

Watching them hesitate at the shoreline, gathering in small groups as if whispering, “You go first,” was oddly touching. Every so often, one would suddenly flop forward into the surf, followed by a few more—a comical yet courageous penguin conga line into the ocean.

It felt like we were witnessing the very edge of a season—a transition. The island was still full of life but quieter than peak season, and the penguins seemed to know it was almost time to go.

The visit to Magdalena Island lasted one hour, with plenty of time to take in all the adorable penguins. We were the only boat on the island, which is definitely an advantage at going at the end of the season.

A Quick Visit to Isla Marta

After our hour-long stroll with the penguins (not nearly enough time, by the way), we got back on the boat, where they served warm coffee and hot chocolate. We headed to Isla Marta, home to a massive sea lion colony.

We didn’t land there but circled the island slowly while hundreds of sea lions barked, groaned, and sprawled across the rocks. There were both Patagonia Sealions and Walrus Sealions that you could spot from the boat. Our guide mentioned that sometimes the water is too rough to visit Isla Marta. We got lucky that we could get quite close, but it was definitely the section, I got the most sick to my stomach on the Punta Arenas Penguins Tour.

Things to know before your Punta Arenas Penguins Tour

• The boat will rock a lot on the Punta Arenas Penguins Tour, so eat a light breakfast before going. Take medicine for motion sickness if it something you usually struggle with.
• It will be very windy on the island —bring layers, gloves, and a windproof jacket.
• March is less crowded, our boat was the only one on the island, which helped bring you closer to nature.
• Bring binoculars or a great camera—the penguin expressions are pure gold. They will also be close enough for you to see with your naked eye but the binoculars are great for a close up view.

Final Thoughts

We spent a month in Patagonia, and this Punta Arenas Penguins Tour was one of our favorite things. It is expensive but cheaper than some of the other tours from Punta Arenas (like the whales). Waddling with the penguins was so magical. Their social nature to do everything with a few friends was adorable. Highly recommend!

The post Walking with Penguins on Magdalena Island in Patagonia: A Day Trip on the Punta Arenas Penguins Tour appeared first on JUST TRAVELOUS.

I know, biking in Amsterdam can be intimidating: even the people who use the bike regularly feel overwhelmed sometimes. On top of having to be careful of the traffic, it’s easy to get distracted by the beautiful surroundings and not pay attention to the road. But honestly, it’s the best way to visit the city and would make you feel like a true local! That’s why I always recommend my friends and family visiting to start with an organized bike tour Amsterdam if they are not ready to explore on their own!

6 best bike tour Amsterdam and surrounding areas:

Best Guided Bike Tour Amsterdam:

This guided bike tour with AmsterBike is a great tour of the city. The 3 hour tour is a great thing to do on the first day to get an overview of the city and the history of the Netherlands. The easiest way to learn your way around the city is to follow a local. A guided bike tour will take riders along the UNESCO-listed canal ring, with various stops to must-see places throughout the city. In addition, it’s the best way to get comfortable with biking, as the guides will take you only on official bike paths and cycling-friendly locations. The company does tours in English, Spanish, German and French. 

Best Tour of the Dutch Country Side

Who said bike tours are limited to the city center? E-Bike Tour to the Dutch Country Side is an excellent tour with Mike, who takes you through the Dutch Countryside to see a windmill and sample such Dutch Cheese. He has opens in both manual bike and E-Bike. He provides the bikes! No particular skill level is required since the flat topography of the Netherlands makes cycling accessible for everyone!

Bike Tour of the Tulip Fields

Bike Tour of the Tulip Fields – Of course, only available at specific times of the year in April/May. This guided tour will take you from Keukenhof by bike to some of the surrounding tulip fields. Important to spot the bike area in the Keukenhof parking lot. This is the meeting point. They also stop at the Keukenhof Castle on the tour. If you are in town during the tulip season, it is definitely a great trip!

Best Bike Tour to Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans Windmills E- Bike Tour – Zaanse Schans is especially popular with tourist who want to see all the windmills together. The most local way to visit this tourist stop is by bike! The area around Zaanse Schans is just beautiful so it is lovely to bike around the area.

Self Guided Bike Maps

For those spending enough time in Amsterdam, there is plenty of bike paths through the surrounding Dutch countryside. You can ride through cute little villages, experience the hospitality of bed and breakfast accommodations, and enjoy the tranquility of nature. The best way to go on this tour is to rent your bike and follow your preferred route. You can check the routes through Bike Map. 

Boozy bike tour Amsterdam:

Are you in Amsterdam for a bachelor or bachelorette party? Or are you simply looking for something fun and unusual to do? The Bar on Wheels is the perfect solution, and you can choose between beer and Prosecco (or both!). 

8 reasons you should have a bike tour Amsterdam

1. Live like a local: as soon as you arrive in the city, you’ll realize how much the Dutch love their bikes. It’s ingrained in their culture, and as long as they have breath in their lungs, they’ll bike everywhere. 
2. It’s good exercise. It’s easy to indulge when in Amsterdam, so biking through the city is a great way to burn off some of that beer and fries.
3. Cost-effective: Renting a bike for a full day costs less than €10, which is much more economical than taking taxis or even multiple trips with public transport. 
4. Flat as a pannenkoek: the Netherlands is one of the flattest countries in the world, and Amsterdam’s elevation is about −2 m (−6.6 ft) below sea level. This makes the city easy to bike around and accessible to every fitness level. 
5. Eco is the way to go: visiting the town on a bike is the greenest solution. The city offers an extensive public transport network, but why not go fully green and explore the city at zero emission? 
6. It’s convenient when on a short visit: biking around allows you to see much more of the city than walking, as well as using the metro or taxis. You can pass through parks and small streets and reach your destination faster. 
7. Allow more spontaneity in your trip: We often plan a trip a lot and rarely leave time for spontaneity and surprises. But if you plan on exploring the city on a bike, then you can easily take a break whenever something catches your attention, whether a lively food market, a cozy café, or any of Amsterdam’s hidden gems. 
8. Safety is not a problem: in December 2023, the long-awaited 30 km / h speed limit finally came into effect in Amsterdam. This makes the city super safe! Please note that the speed limit also applies to (electric) bikes, in case you plan to rent one. 

Can you go on a bike tour Amsterdam every time of the year?

Short answer? Yes, you can. Amsterdam is never too cold or warm to bike. Cycling is a very good way to keep warm when visiting the city during winter months, and stopping for a drink is an excellent excuse to cool down in case it gets warm during summertime.

Remember to check the weather forecast before you go on your bike tour. It’s surprising how fast the weather can change in Amsterdam, and you want to avoid being taken off guard by the rain. Biking under the rain with an umbrella is nearly impossible (although you see some heroes through the city managing it), so make sure to have a cap and rain jacket with you. That’s the real Amsterdam experience!

Things to Know before Biking in Amsterdam!

Exploring the city without a guided bike tour Amsterdam and renting your bike is also possible. You should keep in mind:

• Type of bike: Amsterdam is flat (apart from the occasional bridge), so a city bike will do just fine. If you want to have a little extra support, an e-bike or hybrid bike can be fun! 
• Speed limit: As mentioned at the beginning of the article, a new speed limit of 30 km / h has come into effect in Amsterdam. This makes biking around town safer, but it also applies to e-bikes and hybrid bikes, so be careful. You wouldn’t want to get a speed ticket when riding a bike.
• Rental duration: Make sure you rent it for a little longer than you think you’ll need. You might want to make stops along the way, and a two-hour bike ride can easily transform into a full day of sightseeing and cafe hopping. 
• Lock your bike! Everyone in Amsterdam has a bike, but they still get stolen somehow! Make sure to get a good lock from the bike rental shop, and always, ALWAYS lock your bike. 
• Be aware of the tram lanes: Biking in Amsterdam is easy until you have to cross a road with tram lanes. Be careful when you ride across it to avoid getting stuck and risking going straight face down.

The post 6 Best bike tour Amsterdam appeared first on JUST TRAVELOUS.

Here is our interactive google map so you can easily find something close to you!

Best Brunch Places in Amsterdam West and Jordaan, Baarsjes:

Farine

Our favorite new bakery in West. The coffee is excellent and the French croissants are so dreamy that you will be thinking about them for days. The bakers are always trying new things and the staff are super friendly. It is worth a stop and a great day when combined with one of Amsterdam’s hidden gem museums: Fabrique or Westerpark.

Fort Negen

One of the best bakeries in Amsterdam. The bread is fantastic and the pastries are outstanding. Every pastry is worth standing in line. The coffee is excellent and it is my go-to place for coffee and Saturday morning extraordinary pastry. Try all the pastries and enjoy stuffed croissants that send you to the heavens.

No Man’s Art Gallery

Very cool vibe to this restaurant that is not very crowded. You can usually book a table with just a day or two of notice which makes it my go-to for delicious food and drinks when the rest of the brunch places are too crowded. The service is super friendly and the food is great. It is also very close to Westerpark so it is great to brunch and go for a walk in the park. It is also a full restaurant and bar so you can check it out after brunch hours.

Staring at Jacob

Chicken and waffles for Amsterdam! The cocktails are great as well at this canal side excellently located spot. Take a look at reservations ahead of time as it tends to book out.

Koffie ende Koeck

Koffie ende Koeck is a lovely, cozy neighborhood all vegan café. Their quiches are fantastic and it is right on the edge of Westerpark, which is perfect for a Sunday brunch and then walk around the park. Definitely worth a stop.

Dignita

The Dignita Westerpark location is my new favorite go-to brunch place. It is great for brunch with a friend followed by a walk around the park. They have a vegan brunch forest dweller sandwich that is excellent and matcha fig pancakes that are amazing. Definitely recommend.

Flo’s Appetizing Amsterdam

As an American, I am always on the hunt for a great bagel. These are the best I have found in Amsterdam. Super fresh with great toppings. Their cinnamon rolls are also awesome if you are craving something sweet. They can get busy on weekends so expect a line or head there early.

Ted’s All Day Brunch

Popular since they serve decent brunch food and great cocktails all day until 17:00.  Teds is a great stop for a quick brunch.  They run the restaurant very efficiently to turn tables faster so great for a quick brunch but you will only have the table for an hour and a half so plan accordingly. Definitely need to book ahead.

Best Brunch De Pijp, Amsterdam:

Miri Mary

For some of the best Indian in Amsterdam, check out Miri Mary in De Pijp for brunch or dinner. We love the smoked eggplant Shakshuka for a vegetarian option or the butter chicken benedict for the meat eaters. The foot is just outstanding here and they have a large terrace in a quiet square if the weather holds to sit outside. The homemade spiced chai is also fantastic so make sure to order. 10/10 recommend.

Scandinavian Embassy

Best coffee De Pijp and try their famous cinnamon buns with your excellent coffee! Definitely worth stopping in for a coffee and pastry.

Bakers and Roasters

A Kiwi and Brazilian couple created an inventive and delicious menu. I get the huevos rancheros every single time but my husband has explored their whole menu. It was our weekly go-to when we lived in this neighborhood. At both locations, you can track their waitlist online. De Pijp location can get a bit crowded. Check out their Kadijksplein location too.

Little Collins

One of the most popular places for locals in De Pijp. It is definitely worth the hype. The food is delicious with a small rotating menu of excellent food. It is definitely worth a visit. Go early or reserve ahead of time. The cocktails are excellent and the service is very friendly.

Bali Brunch 82

Bali Brunch is a must-visit if you can get a spot. The Indonesian fusion food is incredible and the service is impeccable. It also has a great vegan brunch selection! Go for the banana pancakes!

Coffee & Coconuts.

Very cute place in the center of De Pijp that has great food, pastries, and coffee. The restaurant has a great design which leads to a great relaxed vibe. Try the almond croissant and the coconut coffee. Of course, coconut is in a lot of their dishes like the coconut pancake with coconut whipped cream. A hip spot worth stopping by.

LOCALS All Day Brunch 

Locals has a few locations across the city but the Pijp one is my favorite. They have a great menu of mixed vegan and vegetarian food. Their Acai Bowl is great and so is their vegan breakfast sandwich. They have delicious pancakes, a friendly staff, and fantastic food overall. Try the vegan chocolate cake! Make a reservation though as it can get busy on the weekends.

Best Brunch Amsterdam Central

Bakers and Roasters – My favorite brunch spots in Amsterdam

A Kiwi and Brazilian couple created an inventive and delicious menu. I always get the huevos rancheros every single time but my husband has explored their whole menu. It was our weekly go-to when we lived in this neighborhood. At both locations, you can track their waitlist online. I like the Kadijksplein location more since it is less crowded and they have a large outdoor seating section on a canal if the weather permits. It is my favorite brunch spot in Amsterdam.

Box Sociaal

Great spot for good food and friendly service. It is next to the zoo so if you are over in that area it is a great choice! The staff is super friendly, the service is quick, and the food and cocktails are all delicious. Quite a few options for vegans/vegetarians as well. They have two locations in Jordaan or right next to the Zoo/Resistance Museum, one of the recommended stops in our Amsterdam Itinerary.

Dignita

Definitely one of the best brunch Amsterdam. They serve brunch all day and have a few locations across the city. They have plenty of vegan/vegetarian options. Brunch dishes are tasty and well prepared, and the service is friendly. The venue is lovely and worth coming to regardless of the weather. On sunny days, sitting outside is a must to enjoy the cozy garden.

Gs Brunch Boat – Best Amsterdam Brunch Places for Tourists

G’s Brunch Boat rides around the canals while serving brunch! It is only open on Saturdays and Sundays and is great for tourists to enjoy brunch while riding around the canals. The food is great and they offer a bottomless brunch. Definitely recommend for tourists!

Greenwoods

Greenwoods is a great choice in the center for a full English breakfast. The food is excellent and they have great service, especially for the center of the city.  Even if it is busy, the service remains excellent and fast.

Bagels & Beans

If you want a quick breakfast, check out any of the Bagels and Beans locations across the city. Great for a quick breakfast the bagels are good and they pile onto the ingredients for excellent sandwiches. The Van Baerlestraat location is a great stop before visiting Van Gogh or Rijks since it is right next to Museumplein.

Cut Throat

Just off Dam Square, Cut Throat Brunch is great and well-located. They have great cocktails and excellent Caribbean Jerk Chicken. They have a bottomless brunch option which is always a group favorite.

Best Brunch Amsterdam Oost

Coffee Bru

Coffee Bru has some of the best coffee in the city. Their cakes are excellent and pair very well with their coffee. They have outdoor seating which is great in the summertime. Kids and dog friendly which is always great for a weekend morning. The place is cozy and the coffee keeps me going back.

The Cottage

The Cottage is as expected very British. They have all the English classics and a full English breakfast with normal, veggie or vegan options. They have a Sunday roast on Sunday, which is excellent. Definitely recommend it if you are a Brit missing home.

Drovers Dog

Drovers Dog is a very cute spot with great brunch options and tasty food. The service is excellent. Try the ricotta pancakes and the Aussie breakfast. Delicious food with fresh ingredients in a great setting. The terrace is great weather permitting for a brunch in Amsterdam.

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