The 5 Best Biscuits You Must Try in Amsterdam

More than just canals...

Amsterdam isn’t just about canals and bicycles—it’s also a paradise for biscuit lovers. From classic Dutch recipes to indulgent modern creations, the city’s bakeries offer treats that will leave you wanting more. Here are our top five picks for the best biscuits in Amsterdam, guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Triple Chocolate Cookie – Van Stapele Koekmakerij

Hidden in a quaint alley, Van Stapele Koekmakerij has earned legendary status for its iconic triple chocolate cookie. Imagine a rich dark chocolate dough with a molten white chocolate center that oozes with every bite. Even better: if you buy five, you get one free. This irresistible deal makes it hard to stop at just one. The shop itself is an experience, with the smell of fresh-baked cookies luring passersby inside.

Salted Caramel & Red Velvet Biscuits – Melly’s Biscuit Bar

Tucked behind the historic Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), Molly’s Biscuit Bar is a hidden gem for biscuit aficionados. Their salted caramel biscuit is pure perfection—soft, buttery, and balanced with just the right amount of saltiness. Plus, Molly’s is one of the few places in the city where you can find a red velvet biscuit, making it a must-visit for anyone who loves a twist on a classic.

Honey Stroop Biscuit – Lanskroon Bakery

Located along the picturesque Singel canal, Lanskroon Bakery has been delighting Amsterdam locals and visitors alike with their traditional Dutch biscuits. Their honey stroop biscuit stands out—a chewy, syrup-filled wonder that pays homage to the classic stroopwafel but with a delightful honey twist. It's the perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea as you gaze out over the canal.

Belgian Chocolate Chip Cookie – Het Koekemannetje

Made daily with 100% natural ingredients like Dutch flour and real vanilla, it’s a treat you won’t soon forget

White Chocolate Biscuit Croissant – Lourens

If you’re looking for something truly unique, Lourens has created a game-changer: the biscuit croissant. This decadent creation layers a crunchy white chocolate biscuit on top of a warm, flaky croissant filled with creamy white chocolate. It’s part biscuit, part pastry, and fully addictive. You won’t find anything quite like it anywhere else in Amsterdam.

Celebrating Amsterdam's 750th Anniversary in 2025

Amsterdam's Rich History and Its 750th Anniversary

In 2025, Amsterdam will celebrate its 750th birthday, marking a significant milestone in the city's long and vibrant history. The origin of this anniversary traces back to 1275, when the area now known as Amsterdam was first granted city rights by Count Floris V of Holland. This act was a crucial moment that set Amsterdam on its path to becoming one of the most important cultural and economic centers in Europe.

The City's Evolution Over 750 Years

From its modest beginnings as a small fishing village on the banks of the Amstel River, Amsterdam has transformed into a global metropolis. Throughout the centuries, Amsterdam has been a hub for trade, art, and innovation. By the 17th century, during the Dutch Golden Age, the city became one of the wealthiest and most influential cities in the world. Today, it is a modern, cosmopolitan city, celebrated for its diversity, innovation, and culture.

Honoring the 750th Anniversary: Celebrations and Events

To mark this monumental year, Amsterdam has planned a series of events throughout 2025, celebrating its heritage and its future. The city will host art exhibitions, live performances, cultural festivals, and historical reenactments. Highlights include a grand exhibition at the Rijksmuseum showcasing Amsterdam’s history, a concert by the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, and a spectacular light festival that will illuminate the city's iconic canals.

The Legacy of 750 Years: Reflecting on the Past, Embracing the Future

As Amsterdam celebrates its 750th year, it also reflects on its continued growth and the challenges it faces. The city remains a symbol of resilience, from surviving floods to becoming an international leader in sustainability and innovation. Amsterdam's future will be shaped by its commitment to sustainable development, technological progress, and maintaining its rich cultural heritage. The 750th anniversary serves not only as a time to honor the past but also to look forward to a bright and sustainable future.

Protests at the Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum and Its Place in Dutch Society

The Rijksmuseum is one of the most important cultural institutions in the Netherlands, home to masterpieces like Rembrandt’s The Night Watch. However, its history is not without controversy.

Notable Protests in Recent Years

Throughout its history, the museum has been a site of various protests. Activists have used its visibility to bring attention to issues such as colonialism, climate change, and cultural representation.

For example, in 2022, environmental activists staged a sit-in at the museum, urging the institution to sever ties with fossil fuel sponsors.

Art and Colonial History

One of the most debated aspects of the museum is its collection of artifacts from the colonial era. Activists have called for the return of looted objects and a more transparent discussion about Dutch colonial history.

The Future of Activism at the Rijksmuseum

As museums evolve, so do the conversations surrounding them. The Rijksmuseum continues to be at the center of discussions about ethical curation, sponsorships, and historical accountability.

Can Amsterdam cope with over tourism?

The Impact of Tourism on Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the most visited cities in Europe, attracting millions of tourists every year. While tourism is vital to the local economy, it also presents challenges for residents and the city's infrastructure.

Overtourism and Its Challenges

With its picturesque canals, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife, Amsterdam draws visitors from all over the world. However, overcrowding in popular areas such as the Red Light District and Dam Square has led to concerns about the sustainability of tourism.

City Regulations and Sustainable Tourism

In response to these challenges, the city has introduced regulations to manage the flow of tourists. Measures such as limiting Airbnb rentals, banning new tourist shops in the city center, and promoting off-the-beaten-path attractions aim to create a more balanced tourism experience.

Signs about tourist regulations in Amsterdam

The Future of Tourism in Amsterdam

As the city looks ahead, authorities and local businesses are working to ensure that tourism benefits both visitors and residents. Initiatives to promote sustainable tourism, such as eco-friendly transportation and cultural exchange programs, are becoming increasingly important.