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Vondel Magazine

Spend 24 Hours in Hotel MAI Amsterdam – A Local’s Guide to Central Amsterdam

Situated along a tranquil canal in Amsterdam’s historic center, Hotel MAI Amsterdam combines Asian-inspired design with authentic local elements. It’s more than just a place to rest — it’s the perfect launchpad for exploring one of the city’s most dynamic neighborhoods: Chinatown and all central areas and landmarks. This local guide offers a curated 24-hour itinerary, packed with culture, cuisine, and canalside views, all within walking distance of your room.

Morning

8:00 AM – Wake up with a canal view
Start your day slowly with a cup of locally roasted coffee from the in-room espresso machine while admiring the peaceful waters just outside your window. Hotel MAI's Asian-inspired interiors offer a calming, boutique aesthetic that sets the tone for a relaxed and curious day ahead.

9:00 AM – Breakfast at a local favorite
Stroll over to Café de Klepel, a cozy spot for a French-style breakfast, or head to Toki for artisan pastries and specialty coffee. Both are just a short walk away and loved by locals for their quality and ambiance.

10:00 AM – Explore the canals by boat
Hotel MAI Amsterdam is located just steps from popular canal cruise departure points. Choose a small electric boat tour for a more intimate experience, or rent your own if you're feeling adventurous. Glide past historic merchant houses and hidden courtyards as you absorb Amsterdam’s rhythm from the water.

For more information, visit these websites: Lovers Canal Cruises, Amsterdam Canal Cruises, and TripAdvisor.

Afternoon

12:30 PM – Lunch at Chinatown
Try one of the many restaurants in nearby Chinatown for hand-pulled noodles or dim sum.

Some recommendations:

Toko Dun Yong: Amsterdam's oldest Asian shop, Toko Dun Yong, has been a community staple since the late 1950s. Here, you can find everything from groceries to decorations and even take cooking classes.
Amazing Oriental Amsterdam: This expansive Asian supermarket is a go-to for Eastern specialties, offering a wide range of products for those seeking authentic ingredients.
Fo Guang Shan He Hua Temple: Known as the Zeedijk Buddhist temple, this is the largest Buddhist temple in Europe, built in traditional Chinese style. Since its opening in 2000, with Queen Beatrix performing the inauguration, it’s become a serene retreat amidst the city’s hustle.

Click here to see our full Chinatown guide.

2:00 PM – Culture and shopping in the Nine Streets
Spend the early afternoon exploring De Negen Straatjes (Nine Streets), a charming shopping area full of vintage boutiques, independent concept stores, and galleries. Stop by The Otherist for quirky local gifts, or Kringloop de Lokatie for a unique thrift find.

4:00 PM – Art & history break
Pop into Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder, a 17th-century canal house with a hidden Catholic church in the attic, or Foam, a photography museum showcasing both Dutch and international talent. Both are easily walkable from the hotel.

You're also invited to visit the hotel’s in-house art gallery, Gallery MAI Amsterdam, which features rotating exhibitions of photography, painting, and other creative media.

Evening

6:30 PM – Dinner by the water
Enjoy dinner at De Silveren Spiegel, a fine-dining Dutch restaurant housed in a 17th-century building, or opt for The Seafood Bar for a more laid-back yet delicious gastronomic experience. Both offer locally sourced menus.

Alternatively, pay a visit to Bonboon, a fine-dining restaurant offering a seasonal vegan menu, in a setting adorned with contemporary artworks.
Click here for more recommendations on Dutch cuisine.

8:30 PM – A canal-side nightcap
End your evening at Bar Oldenhof, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar known for its inventive drinks and unique concept.

Or visit one of Amsterdam’s numerous brown bars for a taste of authentic Dutch culture. Click here to explore the city’s most renowned brown bars.

Night

10:00 PM – Return to Hotel MAI Amsterdam
Wind down in our stylish lounge, decorated with distinctive design and curated art pieces, and enjoy a variety of quality snacks and drinks from our honesty bar.
With the buzz of the city just outside and comfort inside, Hotel MAI is the perfect ending to your one-day local adventure.

Ready to turn 24 hours into a weekend?

Hotel MAI Amsterdam offers a central base for longer stays too. Book your room today and explore the soul of the city like a true local! Hotel MAI Amsterdam offers a variety of stays, including executive, canal-side, loft, and family rooms.

Explore our rooms and suites