ABOUT
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is renowned for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. The city is characterised by its 17th-century canal ring, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is home to some of the world’s most famous museums.
Amsterdam is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and cycling culture, with over 800,000 bicycles in the city. The lively districts of Jordaan and De Pijp offer a variety of trendy cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, while Vondelpark provides a peaceful green space for relaxation. The city’s renowned nightlife, particularly around Leidseplein and the Red Light District, draws in visitors from around the globe, offering everything from cozy "brown cafes" to modern bars and clubs.
Amsterdam’s mix of historical charm, artistic heritage, and progressive spirit makes it one of Europe’s most dynamic and captivating cities.
Ajax
There are two routes to buy official tickets for an Ajax fixture, through the original sale or the resale. All tickets are sold via the Ajax website and it’s not advisable to use third-party ticket sites. You will need to register with your passport, link your accounts with others in your group, and buy tickets. Follow our step-by-step guide to registering and buying tickets for an Ajax match.
TOP TIP
If you miss the initial sale, use the ticket exchange in the week leading up to your trip. Nearer the game (if it's not a big game) it gets a bit easier to buy a ticket.
THE PROCESS
Registration:
Create an account at Ajax.nl
Verify your account via iDin – this is a way of proving your identity online in the Netherlands. You will need your passport details to authenticate your identity.
Once you complete these steps, and your group completes these steps, you will be able to link your accounts to friends and family here.
Fans can also apply to join the Ajax Supporter Association for €32 per person for priority access to ticket sales
Buy tickets:
All tickets are sold via Ajax.nl – they cost anywhere between €28 and €90.
Tickets go on sale in two halves – for the first half of the season they are on sale in July and the second half of the season they go on sale in December.
Some fixtures are restricted unless you are a season ticket or club card holder including versus Feyenoord.
If you miss these windows, there’s still the opportunity of the resale from season ticket holders or via ticket booths at the stadium (which are open on matchdays)
The resale site is found through the same site as the official ticket site. Resale tickets usually increase in availability nearer the date of the fixture
If you’re willing to stump up the cash, corporate hospitality options are available from €150
There isn’t a bad seat in the house of the 55,000 capacity Johan Cruyff Arena so it’s mainly a matter of preference.
However, there are a few sections to note:
126 – 128 should be avoided as these are for the loyal hardcore fans who won’t take kindly to tourists but sitting near these sections will provide a great atmosphere – however, you likely won’t be able to get a ticket here.
416 – 417 are the designated away areas so may not be on sale – but should be avoided if supporting Ajax
424 – 425 are the family stands so there is no alcohol sold here. You can drink beers at your seat in the rest of the ground
The Ajax Stadium Tour at the Johan Cruyff Arena offers an immersive experience, taking visitors behind the scenes of one of Europe’s most famous football stadiums.
The tour includes access to the players' tunnel, dugout, press room, and the Ajax Museum, which displays the club's rich history and trophies. Guests can choose between guided tours, offering insights into Ajax’s heritage, or self-guided tours using an interactive app. VIP tours, with additional access to hospitality areas and prestige seats are also available. You can do a tour on a match day but availability is more limited and you need to have a valid ticket for the game.
The tours last about 75 minutes, with tickets priced at approximately €16 for adults and €11 for children. Tours are available in multiple languages. For more information or bookings, visit the official website.
Address: Johan Cruijff Boulevard 1, 1101 AX Amsterdam, Netherlands
The official Ajax site also has a journey planner function - simply input your address for directions to the stadium: https://www.johancruijffarena.nl/en/visit-the-arena/in-de-arena/
Generally, the best way to travel to the Johan Cruiff ArenA is by Metro or Train.
Metro
From central Amsterdam take subway lines 50 or 54 heading to Gein. Get off at station Bijlmer ArenA for the south side, or at Strandvliet if you have a ticket for the north side. Google Maps has each block included to select and will tell you which the best route is for your entrance.
Train
If you decide to go by train, you can exit at Bijlmer ArenA as well, or at Duivendrecht. From Duivendrecht you can either walk or change for a short metro journey onwards. For public transport timetables, check www.9292.nl/en
Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam is one the most highly sought after hotels in Europe, and the central Amsterdam property scores a tremendous 9.5 rating on Booking.com
The Hendrick’s Hotel is another central hotel which boasts four stars with a lounge, hotel bar and full English buffet breakfast on offer for guests.
There is a Holiday Inn Amsterdam (and a Holiday Inn Express) located a stones throw from the stadium for affordable prices and a four star experience.
Via Amsterdam is located near to the stadium and dorms are available on Hostelworld from 41 euros per person.
TRADITION MEETS INTERNATIONAL INFLUENCES
The city is famous for its stroopwafels, thin waffle cookies filled with caramel syrup, and pannenkoeken, Dutch pancakes often topped with sweet or savory ingredients. Herring, served raw with onions and pickles, is a local favorite, particularly at street stands. Amsterdam also offers bitterballen, deep-fried meatballs often enjoyed with mustard, and patat, thick Dutch fries, typically served with mayonnaise or various sauces.
The city’s culinary scene has expanded with diverse international offerings, from Indonesian rijsttafel (rice table) to Surinamese and Turkish cuisine. Markets like the Albert Cuyp Market are great for sampling local snacks and fresh produce
Dutch-food restaurant Wilde Zwijnen (Wild Boar) is a modern yet rustic dining experience, good for dinner but a short tram ride outside the centre.
In the city centre, Blue Amsterdam is a sleek, glass-fronted café at the top of a shopping centre with panoramic city views and centrally located.
A stone's throw from the ground is Oma letje, offering international cuisine with different lunch and dinner menus.
If you are going straight to the ground then there are many fast food options in the shopping complex next to the stadium and attached to Bijlmer Arena stop.
DUTCH ROOTS AND COSMOPOLITAN FLAIR
Traditional Dutch beverages like Jenever, a juniper-flavored gin, are a must-try, especially in the city's old "brown cafes," which are cozy, atmospheric pubs with dark wood interiors. Beer is also central to Amsterdam’s drinking scene, with local favorites like Heineken, Amstel, and craft brews from local breweries like Brouwerij 't IJ and De Prael.
For a casual experience, head to a brown cafe or beer garden, where locals gather to relax with drinks. More modern bars offer a wide range of craft beers, cocktails, and international wines. The Red Light District and Leidseplein are lively nightlife hubs with bars and clubs that stay open late, while Jordaan and De Pijp offer a more laid-back atmosphere.
Australian-themed bar well-known for showing a variety of sports, including Premier League. It has a large outdoor seating area and a fun, international vibe.
This fan-favourite spot is well known for its passionate Ajax supporters, and is packed on matchdays.
Every Ajax international game is shown on the big screen in this traditional pub with a vast beer selection.
Satellite has a screen for just about every sport, so is popular with locals and tourists alike. They also serve food - their unlimited spare ribs for €21 has lined many a stomach.
Ajax Amsterdam's ultras, known collectively as 'F-Side' and 'Vak 410', are some of the most passionate and intense supporters in Dutch football.
The F-Side, founded in 1976, occupies the southern section of the Johan Cruyff Arena and is known for its fierce loyalty, choreographed displays, and chants. Historically, they have a reputation for creating an intimidating atmosphere during matches, especially during rival games like 'De Klassieker' against Feyenoord.
Vak 410, established in 2001, was a newer group located in the north side of the stadium but shared a similar reputation for their vocal and visual support. Both groups are known for pyro displays, large tifos, and unwavering backing of the team, contributing to the unique matchday experience at Ajax.
While deeply loyal to the club, the ultras have also been involved in controversial moments, including clashes with rival supporters. However, their influence on Ajax's atmosphere and identity is undeniable, representing the beating heart of the club's fan culture
One of Ajax's famous chants is “Wij zijn Ajax, wij zijn de beste”, which translates to "We are Ajax, we are the best" in English.
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a city known for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Famous for its art museums, including the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam offers a rich experience of Dutch history and artistic heritage. The Anne Frank House, a poignant reminder of World War II, draws visitors from around the world.
The city is also known for its liberal atmosphere, cycling culture, and green spaces like Vondelpark. Whether exploring its narrow streets or canal-side cafés, Amsterdam seamlessly blends history with modern urban life.
CURRENCY: EURO
One of the most famous museums in the world, the Rijksmuseum houses an impressive collection of Dutch art, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh.
A museum dedicated to the Jewish diarist Anne Frank, who hid here during World War II. Visitors can explore the annex where Anne and her family lived and learn about her life.
This museum boasts the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh's works in the world. It provides an in-depth look at the artist’s life, struggles, and impact on the art world.
The perfect place to relax, have a picnic, or enjoy a bike ride. It’s a vibrant green space with lakes, walking paths, cafes, and an open-air theatre during the summer months.
Greetings and Basics
Hallo – Hello
Hoe gaat het? – How are you?
Dank je wel – Thank you
Alsjeblieft – Please / You're welcome
Waar is de wc? – Where is the toilet?
Hoeveel kost dit? – How much does this cost?
Ik spreek geen Nederlands – I don’t speak Dutch
Spreekt u Engels? – Do you speak English?
Transportation
Waar is het station? – Where is the station?
Ik wil een tramkaartje kopen – I want to buy a tram ticket
Ik ben verdwaald – I’m lost
Welke tram gaat naar het stadion? – Which tram goes to the stadium?
At the Stadium
Ik heb een kaartje voor de wedstrijd – I have a ticket for the match
Hoe laat begint de wedstrijd? – What time does the match start?
Waar zit de F-Side? – Where is the F-Side?
Wie speelt er vandaag? – Who is playing today?
Doe mee, Ajax! – Come on, Ajax!
Wat is de stand? – What’s the score?
Ajax scoort! – Ajax scores!
Nog een biertje, alsjeblieft – Another beer, please
Wat een geweldige sfeer! – What a great atmosphere!
We zijn kampioen! – We are the champions!
Ga Ajax! – Go Ajax!
Kom op, jongens! – Come on, boys!