visit of amsterdam

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Amsterdam. Capital of the Netherlands. With its famously scenic canals, rich history and iconic cultural scene, Amsterdam is one of the world's most vibrant cities. This page offers top tips to see our capital city like a local. Read about the city's hidden gems, sustainable travel tips and off-the-beaten-track adventures.

See Amsterdam like a local

As one of the most famous cities in the world, Amsterdam is synonymous with vibrant culture, rich history, inclusiveness and beautiful canals. Since its construction in the 17th century, the Amsterdam canal ring has grown into one of the most unique urban landscapes in the world. It’s not for nothing that it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Go on a canal cruise or hire a boat or kayak to see the city from a different perspective. Het Grachtenmuseum canal house museum is also a great way to learn more about this special aspect of Amsterdam.

With over 800 years of history to discover, Amsterdam is rich in fascinating attractions and sights. From old castles to beautiful museums and from charming secret courtyards to picturesque, cobbled streets, our capital city is a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent guest, no trip to Amsterdam is complete without a visit to icons of art and culture such as the world-famous Rijksmuseum , the Van Gogh Museum or the Anne Frank House . Get a glimpse behind the scenes during events such as the Open Garden Days and Open Monument Days Amsterdam , when historic canal houses and monuments in the city centre open their doors to the public.

Amsterdam is for everyone, regardless of origin, gender identification, religion or sexual preference. The Pride & Queer Festival , one of the largest celebrations of LGBTQ+ equality in the world, lights up Amsterdam every year with dance parties, film screenings, sporting events, debates, exhibitions and much more. Join the Pride Walk, discover the festivities during Pride at the Beach and show your support during the famous Canal Parade. Everyone is welcome to the party.

Finally, the Netherlands is known for its dance music. We have world-class DJs and exceptional music festivals. Especially in and around Amsterdam, lovers of dance music will have the time of their lives. The annual Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) is a celebration of that culture, bringing more than 2,500 of the world's most prominent artists to stages across the city. From underground bunkers to newly renovated warehouses and from rooftops to museums – you’ll always be able to find a party that suits your style in Amsterdam.

Flavours of Amsterdam

Exceptional culinary experiences

When it comes to eating out in Amsterdam, there is always something new and unique to try. But if you're looking for something really special, check out this selection of unusual, wonderful restaurants in the capital.

Sustainable and low-waste dining

In Amsterdam, the number of sustainability enthusiasts among entrepreneurs is growing fast. They combat food waste and work with seasonal products and local suppliers to reduce the impact on our planet. Here’s a list of a few of these heroes.

Now a popular restaurant, this towering former drilling platform in the port of Amsterdam was once a pirate radio station. It’s cosy in the winter and a wonderful place to dine in the summer, when you can enjoy a meal on the roof terrace.

Try some traditional Dutch delicacies

From pancakes and zoute drop (salty liquorice) to vending machine kroketten (croquettes) and Dutch herring, Amsterdam offers the hungry traveller plenty of tasty snacks and unique culinary experiences. An absolute must when visiting the capital.

Michelin Star restaurants in Amsterdam

Fancy a truly special gastronomic experience? Visit one of the many Michelin Star establishments in Amsterdam. These top restaurants are as diverse as the city itself.

One of the most sustainable cities in Europe

With its beautiful, tree-lined canals, famous parks and no less than 400 kilometres of bicycle paths, an environmentally conscious attitude is deeply rooted in the Amsterdam way of life. Our capital city is known around the world for its art and culture, but did you know that it’s ranked 10th among the most sustainable cities in the world? The municipality of Amsterdam aims for a completely emission-free city by 2030 and wants to be circular, climate-neutral and climate-adaptive by 2050. This means that there are numerous options for a pleasant, sustainable holiday .

Amsterdam's clean air and lush greenery are helped by the locals' favourite mode of transport: the bicycle. Cycling is a way of life for locals of all ages and walks of life, and the well-designed cycle paths and level streets make it safe and easy. If you want to explore the region by bike or look for hidden gems in your neighbourhood, these cycling routes will ensure that you return home with unique stories.

Green tips in the capital

The Plantage

This neighbourhood is a lush, leafy urban haven. It’s the perfect place to go to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre and is home to highlights such as the ARTIS zoo, the Hortus Botanicus garden and the secret courtyard of H'ART Museum.

Interested in excellent food and a crash course in sustainability? The Ceuvel is an award-winning, innovative community project built on what was once an industrial plot along a canal. In addition to vegan food and cocktails, it’s home to artists and entrepreneurs focusing on urban regeneration. The Ceuvel showcases cleantech and you’ll find phyto-remediating plants, a floating B&B, heat exchangers and even composters for kitchen and toilet waste.

Best parks in Amsterdam

Whether you want to work on your fitness, let the kids run free or just chill out in the sun, Amsterdam's parks offer a surprising amount of beautiful places to hang out. Each with its own unique charm and history.

This atmospheric waterfront restaurant breathes new life into plant-based dining with inventive dishes that showcase locally sourced ingredients, most of which are grown in the kitchen's own greenhouse.

One of the largest parks in Amsterdam, Sloterpark has something for everyone. From young families to sports enthusiasts to people who just want to have a relaxing picnic on the cosy beach, it’s a fantastic spot to enjoy the outdoors.

The NDSM Wharf as a cultural hotspot

The NDSM Wharf is a great place to visit if you want to see a different side of Amsterdam than the well-known canals and tulips. Transformed from an industrial shipyard into a vibrant social space, you'll find urban art , eco-conscious restaurants and spectacular waterside cafes for chilling out among the shipping containers and graffiti-decorated hangars. The wharf is easy to reach: two free ferries, accessible to pedestrians, cyclists and mopeds, go directly to the NDSM wharf.

The Westerpark is one of those places where there’s always something happening. From unique culinary festivals to art of the highest level, there are plenty of ways to discover this historic Amsterdam district. The Westerpark is home to the Westergas cultural complex, which is a hub for festivals, art events and even flea markets all year round. An adventurous environment where inspiring collaborations come to fruition, best described as quirky but at the same time typically Amsterdam in character.

Visiting Amsterdam with your family? Then don’t miss out on a ferry trip to Fort Pampus , a UNESCO World Heritage site . An artificial island and former sea fort, Pampus is a true oasis of tranquillity and relaxation. The island is characterised by sun, wind and water, which are even a source of green energy and make Pampus one of the first self-sufficient World Heritage sites.

Hidden gems

Performing arts at unique locations

Deep in the woods, near a historic church or in a sea container: you will find unexpected places for the performing arts everywhere in Amsterdam. Here’s an overview.

Nxt Museum is the first museum in the Netherlands entirely devoted to New Media Art. Think immersive audio-visual projections and incredible art installations, all in a colossal industrial space.

Follow the Local route

Experience Amsterdam and the surrounding area like a local while following this Local route. You'll cycle along cobblestone streets, nibble on savoury snacks and enjoy the art and culture that have made the city so famous.

Unusual museums in Amsterdam

Many Amsterdam museums are world-famous, such as the Rijksmuseum, the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum. But anyone interested in venturing off the beaten track should definitely visit these little-known but beloved museums.

Distillery 't Nieuwe Diep

Located in a renovated pumping station in Amsterdam Flevopark, 't Nieuwe Diep produces about 100 different gins and liqueurs and you can sample them all in the Proeflokaal tasting room.

Discover more cities as a local

Rotterdam: The premier port of Europe

Rotterdam is a dynamic city with its own unique character. Find out why the city is well worth a visit.

Almere: The youngest city in the Netherlands

The newest city in the Netherlands might just surprise you with all it has to offer. ‘Ally’ is an open-air museum of modern architecture.

Utrecht: The most cycle-friendly city

Find out why Utrecht is regarded as a cozier alternative to Amsterdam.

Amsterdam   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Greg Gibb Photography | Getty Images

28 Best Things To Do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers a lot more than vice. There's the world-class Van Gogh Museum , the eye opening  Rijksmuseum and shopping on Nine Little Streets for culture hounds. Lesser known cultural must-dos abound. At IJ Hallen flea market, you'll find

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Vondelpark Vondelpark free

Located southwest of the city center, Vondelpark is the favorite leafy retreat of just about everyone. Not only is it the largest city park in Amsterdam, but it's also one of the most revered in all of the Netherlands. Ponds, greenspaces and playgrounds are connected by winding paths, which also run by an open-air theater, a restaurant and a range of statues and sculptures. Most recent travelers said they enjoyed people-watching and picnicking at the park; other reviewers recommend avoiding a late-night visit as the park can be a little frightening once the sun sets. During the day, though, the park is filled with couples, families and friends, and is definitely worth a visit.

Open 24/7, you can take trams 1, 2 or 5 to the Leidseplein station, and you'll have just a quick walk (less than 5 minutes) to reach the park's entrance. The park is free to visit.

Canal Ring Canal Ring free

Architecture and history buffs will delight in Amsterdam's Canal Ring area. This half-moon of canals dates to the 17th century. Today, it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The elaborate gables notable in Dutch architecture are on full display across hundreds of brick houses. Places of particular interest include Rembrandtplein (a prominent public square, named for Rembrandt, who owned a home nearby), historic warehouses, Protestant churches and formerly clandestine Catholic and Mennonite churches. Look up sites of interest online to determine opening hours.

The built environment is the big draw here, although recent visitors found plenty to enjoy within the historic buildings too – there are plenty of shopping, dining, and drinking spots. Visitors come for the views as much as the fare, so consider planning to eat at one of the scenic restaurants here (Incanto and Brasserie Ambassade are particularly well-reviewed). Many noted that this is a good area from which to embark on a bike or boat adventure.

Oud-West Oud-West free

Bordered by must-see attractions like Vondelpark and the Rijksmuseum , Oud-West is a refined Amsterdam neighborhood bursting with shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. Come to Oud-West during the day to visit stylish boutiques and design stores after visiting Vondelpark. Or, plan a trip into the neighborhood for dinner – there's De Hallen (a food hall and cinema), street food and endless restaurants and cafes. Upscale Restaurant Adam is exceptionally well reviewed, as is the more affordable option, Staring at Jacob. After a meal, you can dance the night away at one of Amsterdam's alternative music venues.

Oud-West, like many of Amsterdam's neighborhoods, is bursting with quirky urban touches. Consider a stop by the Boomzagertje statue (a humorous little sculpture of a man cutting into a real tree branch) or the Gevelbibliotheek – an homage to a former library in the area. Recent visitors to Oud-West particularly enjoyed the less touristy feel, abundance of beautiful architecture, and kid-friendly spots.

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Jordaan Jordaan free

If you love history, culture and food, then you'll want to save time for a stroll or a guided tour through Amsterdam's Jordaan area. Located a few blocks west of the city's main train station and bordered by the Brouwersgracht, Prinsengracht, Leidsegracht and Lijnbaansgracht canals, this scenic neighborhood is packed with eateries, specialty shops, bars and art galleries. Plus, you'll find the Anne Frank House and the Nine Little Streets just east of the neighborhood.

Travelers highly recommend walking around the Jordaan, adding that its cool vibe, beautiful setting and top-notch cafes and restaurants more than justify a visit. Don't forget to bring your camera, since visitors say the area offers ample photo opportunities. For a more in-depth look at the neighborhood's food scene, consider signing up for Eating Europe Food Tours ' Jordaan Food Tour. Or, visit on a Saturday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to enjoy the Jordaan's Biologische Noordermarkt (a market with vendors selling baked goods, produce, local cheeses, crepes and more).

Anne Frank House (Anne Frank Huis) Anne Frank House (Anne Frank Huis)

Inside the Anne Frank House, travelers will see the location where not so long ago the 15-year-old Anne Frank penned a journal that would become a best-seller. Frank was a Jewish girl who went into hiding after German Nazis invaded the Netherlands and began forcibly transporting Dutch Jews to concentration camps. Today, the home is a museum and travelers can imagine what it'd be like to stay hidden away from the Nazis for more than two years, only to be betrayed and taken to a concentration camp.

Artifacts inside the museum include historical documents, photographs, film images and belongings from people in hiding and those who assisted them. Frank's original diary and other notebooks are also on display, though original objects from the annex are not on display, as it was stripped of its contents during World War II. A free audio guide – available in nine languages – is included with admission.

Dam Square Dam Square free

Europe is known for its grand public squares, and Amsterdam boasts plenty. Those arriving at Amsterdam's Central Station can walk just five minutes to arrive at bustling Dam Square. The historic 13th-century buildings are filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes. Food stalls are available too. Those looking for more sightseeing opportunities should note the Royal Palace , New Church and consider a visit to Madame Tussauds.

Recent visitors praised the square for its beauty and central location. While several previous travelers note that it is touristy – with prices to match – they still recommend a visit. It is beautiful at night when filled with lights. Be aware of your surroundings, as the area can attract pickpockets.

Verzetsmuseum (Dutch Resistance Museum) Verzetsmuseum (Dutch Resistance Museum)

The  Verzetsmuseum  (the Dutch Resistance Museum), located by the  Artis Royal Zoo , has been called the city's best-kept secret by some. The informative – even inspiring – museum tells the stories of those who lived in the Netherlands during the Nazi occupation and explains how the atrocities of World War II transpired. Through authentic objects, photos and documents, film and sound fragments, visitors will learn how the resistance manifested in the Netherlands.

Recent travelers said the thought-provoking museum leads you to ask yourself what you would've done if the Nazis had occupied your country. They were also pleased with the audio guides that are given with the ticket price, as well as with the exhibits which are displayed in both Dutch and English.

Van Gogh Museum Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum holds the world's largest collection of Van Gogh's paintings and drawings, including "Sunflowers" and "Almond Blossom." The museum itself is one of the most-visited museums in not only Amsterdam but in all of the Netherlands. Travelers come from near and far to see the artworks created by the tortured artist, who cut off his own ear and died by suicide due to his worries about his financial future and recurring mental illness.

Because of Van Gogh's popularity, some travelers highly recommend purchasing online tickets ahead of time to avoid lengthy museum lines. Though some were disappointed that the museum does not house some of the artist's more famous paintings (many of them are exhibited in other museums across the globe), reviewers did praise the museum's layout and its display of his earliest works.

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Leidseplein Leidseplein free

If you're looking for a tamer alternative to Amsterdam's Red Light District, Leidseplein or Leiden Square, may be for you. The center of Amsterdam's entertainment scene, Leidseplein sits southwest of the city center and is filled with nightclubs, movie theaters, concert venues, casinos and, of course, some coffee shops. For the performing arts, the Melkweg (Milky Way) concert hall and the International City Theater are of particular note.

Leidseplein is the place to be if you enjoy mixing with the masses. If crowds aren't your thing, you should steer clear of this area – definitely don't book a hotel or hostel here – or maybe head to the nearby Vondelpark instead. Travelers were also pleasantly surprised by the quantity and variety of restaurants huddled in the neighborhood, though they do warn of high prices at the bars.

Explore Amsterdam from the water on a boat tour Explore Amsterdam from the water on a boat tour

Few things are as representative of Amsterdam as its picturesque canals. Home to 165 waterways (including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed 17th-Century Canal Ring Area ), the city prides itself on its impressive canal system.

It's easy to see the canals during a bike tour or while walking around the city center, but for a closer look at the water network, sign up for a canal cruise. Many tour operators offer different kinds of boat tours around downtown Amsterdam. The following are some of the city's most popular options:

Keukenhof Keukenhof

U.S. News Insider Tip: It can be tricky to plan your visit during peak bloom. However, there are many other flower displays, like a stunning array of orchids, which make a visit worthwhile. – Jacqueline Drayer, Contributor

Originally used by Dutch royalty to grow fruits and vegetables, Keukenhof now welcomes travelers in search of Holland's famous tulips. Every year between late March and mid-May, the park – which sits about 25 miles southwest of Amsterdam in Lisse – turns vivid shades of pink, red, purple, yellow, white and orange as more than 7 million tulip bulbs bloom across 80 acres. The park also offers kid-friendly amenities like a playground, a maze and a petting zoo.

De Negen Straatjes (Nine Little Streets) De Negen Straatjes (Nine Little Streets) free

De Negen Straatjes,  or the Nine Little Streets, are exactly that – nine streets that run between the Prinsengracht and Singel canals and are lined with shops and boutiques. (For your orientation, the Singel is the first main canal that wraps around the city center.) Vintage clothing shops nestle alongside accessories stores and interior design boutiques, and hours vary by store.

Recent travelers called the area a lovely place to stroll and said it was less touristy than other parts of the city. Though you'll likely rub elbows with plenty of other travelers, you'll also encounter your fair share of locals.

De Pijp De Pijp free

De Pijp, which is also called the Latin Quarter, is known for its 19th-century architecture and its collision of different cultures. Here, you'll find ethnic restaurants, eclectic shops and the tranquil Sarphatipark. The Heineken Experience sits on the northern edge of the neighborhood. 

Travelers say that De Pijp feels less touristy and more like authentic Amsterdam. They also call it the heart of the city for young people thanks to its beatnik vibe and trendy eateries.

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Learn about Amsterdam atop a bike Learn about Amsterdam atop a bike

Biking is one of the most popular ways to get around Amsterdam. In fact, cycling is such a quintessential Amsterdam activity that the city's tourism website offers pages with free route maps and cycling safety tips .

But if you don't feel like renting a bike and exploring on your own, you'll find an array of bike tours catering to every kind of visitor. Below are several traveler-approved cycling tour companies:

I amsterdam Letters I amsterdam Letters free

Measuring more than 6 feet tall and 77-plus feet wide, the red-and-white "I amsterdam" sign is a prime place for a photo op. You'll find the main set of massive letters situated inside Amsterdam Airport Schiphol; however, multiple versions are typically on display throughout the city.

Although some previous visitors were disappointed that the main sign no longer sits in front of the Rijksmuseum , many enjoyed snapping pics of the smaller version at the airport. An additional set of letters appears at various events throughout the year, so if you plan on attending a large festival while in town, look around to see if the sign is on-site. You can also spot the letters while jogging the track by Sloterplas Lake, but some characters in this set lie flat, so it's not ideal for photographing.

Rijksmuseum (State Museum) Rijksmuseum (State Museum)

Considered one of Amsterdam's top museums (along with the  Van Gogh  and  Anne Frank  museums), the  Rijksmuseum  (or State Museum) features an impressive collection of artists, including Rembrandt and Vermeer. As befits a state museum, the ornate building contains mostly Dutch works from the 15th to 17th centuries – though its entire collection stretches across 800 years.

Visitors recommend getting to the Rijksmuseum as early as possible in the day to avoid standing in a line to enjoy both the breathtaking building, grounds and art. The busiest times are Friday, Saturday and Sunday between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. And once you've finished touring the interior, step outside and enjoy the gardens – a recommendation from past visitors. Though some reviewers griped about the museum's confusing layout, they still said it was among their top to-dos in Amsterdam.

Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder

For a glimpse at how locals lived and worshipped during the 17th century, visit the Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Soldier. Part-home, part-church, this historic site is the second-oldest museum in Amsterdam (behind the Telyers Museum). On the lower levels, you'll find period furnishings spread throughout living areas, kitchens and bedrooms, as well as a set of stairs that lead to the attic, where the church is located. Religious services no longer take place at the church, but the property offers various exhibits about religious tolerance in the Netherlands, as the Catholic Church had to operate in secret in its early years in the country.

History buffs and religious travelers will likely enjoy wandering around this museum. Visitors praise the property's beautiful interior and interesting exhibits, adding that the complimentary audio tour offers many informative tidbits. Keep in mind, the building's small size and multiple staircases may make some parts of the property difficult to access for those with mobility issues.

Artis Royal Zoo (Natura Artis Magistra) Artis Royal Zoo (Natura Artis Magistra)

Visitors traveling with children in tow might want to make some space in their itinerary for the Artis Royal Zoo. Lions, monkeys and penguins are housed here, along with about another 900 species, and there's also an aquarium, an insectarium, a butterfly garden and a planetarium.

Although most recent visitors described the zoo as lovely, well maintained and a great family day, some of them concede that enclosures for the animals seemed a bit small.

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Stedelijk Museum Stedelijk Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip: This museum is often far less crowded than the Rijksmuseum! Go to the Rijksmuseum at opening time and the Stedelijk later in the day. – Jacqueline Drayer, Contributor

Situated next to the world-renowned Van Gogh Museum in the Museumplein area, the Stedelijk Museum houses an impressive collection of contemporary art: It has 100,000 works. Inside its permanent exhibit, travelers will find pieces by artists like Piet Mondrian and Jackson Pollock. Additionally, the property features temporary collections that may include items like modern sculptures and documentaries.

Eating Europe Food Tours Amsterdam Eating Europe Food Tours Amsterdam

Amsterdam visitors who love learning about a destination through its food scene will likely enjoy participating in a food tour . Traveler-approved Eating Europe Food Tours offers multiple food outings, including the Amsterdam Food & Canals Tour which tacks on an hourlong boat tour to tastings throughout the city. The company's most popular experience is its Jordaan Food Tour, a 3.5-hour tour through the culturally and historically rich Jordaan neighborhood. During the excursion, foodies can try local staples which may include apple pie, raw herring, Gouda cheese and stroopwafel (a thin waffle with a caramel filling).

Previous participants raved about the Jordaan Food Tour, citing its small group size (no more than 12 people can join an outing), knowledgeable guides and large tasting portions as highlights. Several also appreciated the inclusion of a beer from a local brewery during the tour. To make the most of the excursion, past travelers suggest saving room for every dish by eating a light breakfast (or skipping it altogether).

Heineken Experience Heineken Experience

The Heineken Experience, which takes place in the old  Heineken Brouwerij  (Heineken Brewery), is a must-do for fans of the fermented beverage. Among the attractions housed in the century-old factory are a history of the Heineken brewing process and company. Plus, you'll get two Heinekens to enjoy at the end of the Experience. A downloadable app takes visitors on a historical journey through the factory (available for iPhones and Androids). You should note that only those 18 and older are allowed inside.

Although some recent travelers highly recommend taking the tour at the Heineken Experience, others described it as a marketing ploy rather than a tutorial in the beer-brewing process (the real brewery used for production sits on the outskirts of Amsterdam; this location is simply a museum).

A'DAM Lookout A'DAM Lookout

Opened in 2016, A'DAM Lookout provides some of the best views of downtown Amsterdam from its location in the southern corner of the Overhoeks neighborhood. The property's main draw is its observation deck on the 20th floor, which provides 360-degree panoramas of the city's port and canals. Before admiring the view, visitors can peruse the property's interactive exhibit. Adrenaline junkies won't want to miss Over the Edge (Europe's highest swing) on the outdoor rooftop deck, while foodies should save time for a bite to eat at Madam (an internationally-inspired eatery on the 20th floor) or Moon (the 19th floor's upscale revolving restaurant).

Visitors cannot get enough of A'DAM Lookout's breathtaking vistas. However, a few lament the extra charge required for the swing. Nevertheless, many recommend paying the additional 7.50 euros (about $8) for the fun experience. Because the swing is a popular activity, travelers suggest purchasing tickets in advance on the attraction's tickets page .

Concertgebouw Concertgebouw

Constructed in 1888, the  Concertgebouw (literally "Concert Building") hosts 900-plus shows and about 700,000 visitors per year, which makes it one of the world's busiest concert venues. Check the Concertgebouw's  website  for a list of orchestral and other performances, as well as for ticket prices, which vary by show. From time to time, the venue also offers free lunchtime performances.

Recent visitors called this one of the world's best concert halls, which offers fairly reasonable ticket prices. If you're hoping to attend one of the venue's free concerts, plan to arrive early – past visitors said the staff at Concertgebouw hands out tickets on a first-come, first-served basis.

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Royal Palace Amsterdam Royal Palace Amsterdam

Built in the 17th century by architect Jacob van Campen, the Royal Palace Amsterdam once served as Amsterdam's town hall. The grand structure held the distinction of being the largest secular building in Europe for many years. Throughout the years, it's been used by Dutch royalty for official events, such as visits by foreign leaders. Members of the public are welcome to tour the property when the building isn't in use for state visits.

Although visitors offer mixed feelings about the property's exterior, many say the palace's period furnishings and works of art are well worth checking out. Complimentary English audio guides (which travelers recommend for historical context) are available; however, a few caution that the devices are not very comfortable on their own, so consider bringing a pair of headphones to use with them.

NEMO Science Museum NEMO Science Museum

Anyone that says Amsterdam isn't for kids hasn't visited the NEMO Science Museum, housed inside the ship-like green building on the harbor. Filled with hands-on activities, kids can spend hours concocting chemistry experiences and constructing buildings while also learning how science has evolved throughout time.

Recent visitors say this is a do-not-miss attraction not only for kids but also for those young at heart, since there are interactive exhibits for all curious minds. Even if you don't have time to take a spin through the museum, past visitors said you should still go to access the free rooftop terrace, which offers panoramic views of the city and a cafe and does not charge an entrance fee.

Zandvoort Zandvoort free

U.S. News Insider Tip: To make a day out of your visit, take a quick train ride to Haarlem, a charming town located a few miles east of the beach. – Jacqueline Drayer, Contributor

You probably knew about Amsterdam's canals, but what about its beach? About 25 miles west of the city center is a place called Zandvoort, a strip of sand that borders the North Sea. Experts say Zandvoort is at its best in the summertime, though recent visitors say a trip here in the offseason is also worthwhile since it lacks the summertime crowds.

Het Scheepvaartmuseum (The National Maritime Museum) Het Scheepvaartmuseum (The National Maritime Museum)

Whether you're a boat enthusiast or want to learn more about Dutch maritime history, Amsterdam's National Maritime Museum is worth a visit. Located about halfway between the Verzetsmuseum and the NEMO Science Museum , The National Maritime Museum houses one of the world's largest maritime collections, with roughly 400,000 different items. Artifacts you'll find here include navigation instruments like compasses, the Royal Barge (an intricate royal vessel commissioned for King William I in the early 19th century) and a life-size replica of the Amsterdam (a ship that wrecked during its maiden voyage to Asia in 1749).

Several visitors raved about the exhibits, especially the one focusing on navigation. Although, a few past travelers warned the museum offers a gimmicky atmosphere, could use additional information and interactive displays, and charges high entrance fees. Many previous museumgoers recommended the virtual reality experience on the Amsterdam ship, which shows you how the city's historic harbor grew to become a bustling port.

Museum Het Rembrandthuis (Rembrandt House) Museum Het Rembrandthuis (Rembrandt House)

Rembrandt van Rijn (yep, Rembrandt is his first, not last name) once lived and worked in this restored home. So not only will you see the most complete collection of his etchings here, you'll also view his own interesting accumulation of  objets d'art , from musical instruments to Roman busts. An audio guide is included in the admission, and many travelers recommend using it. The museum reopened in March 2023 following a renovation to introduce five new museums spaces, including more etching and exhibit areas and a multimedia tour dedicated to the artist's life.

Several travelers also highly recommend watching one of the etching demonstrations, which they say gives a more comprehensive understanding of the art and takes place three times a day. However, if you're traveling with kids, you may want to skip this attraction as past visitors said there is little to interest youngsters.

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How to Plan a Perfect Trip to Amsterdam

Discover the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do with this highly curated Amsterdam travel guide.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Best time to visit, best things to do, best shopping, best restaurants, how to get there, neighborhoods to visit, how to get around.

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Iconic canals, centuries-old townhomes, cobblestone lanes, and flower-adorned bridges. Amsterdam is as pretty as a postcard with charm in spades. It’s also one of the rare places that attracts history buffs, luxury-minded travelers, couples seeking romance, and backpackers alike. 

Besides cultural attractions like the Anne Frank House and Rijksmuseum, the Dutch capital has leafy parks, hip shops, and an enduring sense of the past that thankfully never fades. With world-class museums, bicycle tours, and a thriving arts scene, it's really just a matter of culling it down to a select few activities. Since wandering around the city’s quaint streets and sitting outside at a sidewalk cafe is so appealing, you won’t want to cram too much into your daytime itinerary. 

In fact, Tesa Totengco, a member of Travel + Leisure’ s A-List Travel Advisor Board and the founder and CEO of Travels with Tesa , told T+L that what makes Amsterdam stand out from other European cities is “Their iconic canal network and how walkable the city is if you’re not biking.”

On the F&B front, this burgeoning culinary mecca boasts world-class restaurants that make every meal a gourmet adventure. When the sun goes down, there’s no shortage of things to do either (think: cozy speakeasies, bustling bars, and plenty of nightclubs). Lastly, you can’t talk about Amsterdam without mentioning “coffee shops” — and not the kind that strictly brews espresso. 

Totengco says these “coffee shops and the city’s long-established attitudes towards tolerance and diversity,” make the city truly special. She notes that “Amsterdam is also one of the earliest places to adopt progressive policies regarding marijuana, sex work, and same-sex marriage.”

Simply put: whatever your idealized version of a European getaway entails, Amsterdam won’t disappoint. 

Pulitzer Amsterdam

Perched on the Prinsengracht canal, the Pulitzer Amsterdam proffers a picture-perfect location. The storybook charm continues inside. Guests are greeted by an eye-catching display of fresh-cut blooms in the entryway. Heritage-rich touches adorn the lobby, rooms, and suites. There’s also a delicious restaurant called Jansz and a lovely garden for enjoying tea or a glass of wine. The Pulitzer is so spectacular that it was voted one of the best resorts in Amsterdam by T+L readers.

Conservatorium Hotel

This high-end option housed a former music conservatory that’s right by the Van Gogh Museum, Conservatorium Hotel comes up big in both the location and aesthetics department. You’d be hard-pressed to find a more impressive architectural feat than the property’s jaw-dropping glass atrium. For a bit of R&R, book a treatment at Akasha Holistic Wellbeing. The Conservatorium Hotel was also voted one of the best resorts in Amsterdam by T+L readers.

Ambassade Hotel

A traveler favorite, the Ambassador Hotel wins rave reviews for its central location and prize-winning views. A mix of contemporary and traditional design, rooms feature modern artwork, antique furnishings, and striking chandeliers. Past guests also tout the friendly staff and reasonable rates. 

The Hoxton, Amsterdam

More than just a respite to rest your weary head, The Hoxton, Amsterdam is a place to see and be seen. A lobby bar that encourages mingling, quirky rooms, and interesting pop-ups gives it a vibe that’s simultaneously uber-hip and approachable. The welcoming atmosphere makes travelers from all walks of life feel like they’re part of the “in crowd.” 

For travelers who prefer a boutique stay with a sophisticated, modern ambiance and ample plush perks, The Dylan most certainly delivers. Rooms beckon well-heeled wanders with a variety of room sizes and layouts and a palette of muted hues and Aesop toiletries. The tranquil courtyard is an ideal spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing. 

Late spring is arguably the best season to visit Amsterdam. The forecast of mild temperatures couldn’t be more perfect for biking around the city and exploring the surrounding countryside. Starting in early April, the legendary tulips begin to bloom, which lures travelers from around the world. The famous King's Day carnival, held on April 27, is another major draw. 

Totengco agrees that spring is the best time to visit Amsterdam. She recommends booking a trip “between April and May when the tulips are in full bloom and one can visit the Keukenhof gardens .”

Because the aptly nicknamed “Venice of the North” enjoys an oceanic climate, it never gets super hot. While the rest of Europe flocks to the beaches of Santorini and Saint-Tropez, we love the idea of a summer city break in Amsterdam. You might have to contend with a few more fellow travelers, but it’s certainly not going to be an impediment to a fantastic trip. 

Early fall is marked by pleasant temperatures and plenty of opportunities to spend time outdoors. Don’t write off wintertime. Sure, the days are short and there’s a frosty chill in the air, however, the sparkling frozen canals, holiday spirit, and lack of crowds make it a really special time. 

Van Gogh Museum

The Netherlands has birthed many famous artists, with Vincent Van Gogh chief among them. Works by the tortured artist are on display at his namesake museum . If you hope to see “Sunflowers” on your trip to Amsterdam, be sure to buy tickets ahead of time. 

Anne Frank House

Widely regarded as Amsterdam’s most significant attraction, the Anne Frank House invites visitors to learn about the life of the Jewish diarist who hid from the Nazis during WWII through a collection of her writing, photos, videos, and personal items. Keep in mind that tickets sell out months in advance. 

Located in Amsterdam-Zuid, Vondelpark is a sprawling 47-hectare urban green space featuring an open-air theatre, playground, shaded areas, ponds, and cycling paths. When the sun comes out, it instantly becomes a hotspot for afternoon picnics and sunbathing. 

Rijksmuseum

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

By now you’ve likely gathered that Amsterdam abounds with incredible museums . But art and history enthusiasts should make a beeline to the Rijksmuseum , which chronicles 800 years of heritage through the works of masters like Rembrandt and period artifacts. In fact, Totengco said it is the “preeminent museum on Dutch art and the masters Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh.” Noting that “If you only had time for one museum, this should be it.” 

Canal Cruise

No trip to Amsterdam would be complete without a canal cruise. It’s truly the best way to see “Venice of the North.” You can purchase a ticket with Flagship Amsterdam, operator of the highly regarded Amsterdam Open Boat Canal Cruise , or opt for something a bit more intimate and romantic like a private vessel operated by the Pulitzer Amsterdam . 

The Otherist

A quirky shop that advertises its wares as “modern curiosities and vintage finds,” The Otherist has built a business on oddities. Peruse the shelves of framed butterflies, one-of-a-kind jewelry, and porcelain skulls. You’re bound to stumble upon something totally unique. 

Vanilia is the place to pick up Dutch-designed, sustainable basics — sweaters, denim, skirts, and wrap dresses — that are destined to become wardrobe staples. Bonus: every time someone at home doles out a compliment, you can reply, “Oh, I bought this in Amsterdam.”

Antiekcentrum Amsterdam

Collectors of bygone-era treasures (and just generally anyone with interest in the past) should check out Antiekcentrum Amsterdam , the largest antique market in the Netherlands. A huge range of jewelry, art, ceramics, and homewares are up for grabs.  

De Kaaskamer

Fans of aged Appenzeller, raw milk gouda, and chèvre rejoice! Whether you’re in the mood for Dutch or imported cheese, De Kaaskamer is sure to satisfy your cravings. This storied retailer also sells a selection of tasty meats, salads, tapenades, wine, and beer.

Housed in a bright and airy glass-domed space, De Kas wows with multi-course tasting menus. In fact, it was the top restaurant recommended by Totengco who called it a “chic greenhouse conservancy serving garden-to-table Mediterranean fare.” Much of the produce comes from the on-site greenhouse — which patrons can tour before or after eating. Pro tip: It’s easier to snag a reservation for lunch. Plus, the midday light is sublime for snapping food photos. 

Restaurant Floreyn

Dutch cuisine flies under the radar. Restaurant Floreyn gives travelers a taste of local flavors. We dare anyone not to fall in love with the rotating menu of seasonal house specialties. Oh, and in case you were still on the fence, the wine pairing is totally worth it. 

De Laatste Kruimel

Bakeries are a dime a dozen in Amsterdam. But De Laatste Kruimel is something truly special. This neighborhood gem delights visitors and locals with its French toast and bread pudding. Don’t sleep on the more savory offerings like quiche either. 

Vleminckx de Sausmeester

A delicious tradition dating back decades, Vleminckx de Sausmeester has perfected the art of fried potatoes. It’s worth waiting in line for the chance to dig into perfectly crispy spuds. Don’t forget the homemade sauces. Curry ketchup, anyone? 

Upstairs Pannenkoekenhuis

Dutch pancakes are a full-blown phenomenon. Upstairs Pannenkoekenhuis serves sweet and savory varieties of this beloved dish in a quirky second-door space that’s brimming with charm. Can’t decide what to order? You can't go wrong with the best-selling brie and honey pannenkoek.

Most visitors arrive in Amsterdam via plane. The Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), also known as Schiphol Airport, is the Netherlands’ main international airport. The airport is extremely close to the center of the city, with airport shuttles running between the airport and the city center every 15 minutes (bus 397). Once you’re in the city center (or Centrum) you can walk or bike almost everywhere.

Grachtengordel (Canal Belt)

Postcards of Amsterdam typically showcase Grachtengordel. Encircled by the city’s main canals — Herengracht, Prinsengracht, and Keizersgracht — this winsome zone is known for its colorful townhomes, waterfront eateries, upmarket hotels, and attractions like the Anne Frank House. 

Arguably the most in-demand neighborhood in Centrum — or, more accurately, all of Amsterdam — Jordaan is an irresistibly beautiful maze of narrow lanes, canals, high-end boutiques, and cozy cafes.  

Museumkwartier

Museumkwartier has a wide range of museums (the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum, to name a few), as well as the Concertg e bouw . It’s also home to many fine jewelry stores and designer outposts. 

Just south of Amsterdam's city center lies De Pijp. This former working-class neighborhood turned hipster haven has an urban industrial edge and bohemian flair. Go savor the flavors of Albert Cuyp Markt and stay for the cool brunch spots, retro pubs, and contemporary ateliers. 

If walls, err cobblestones, could talk, De Wallen would have tales to tell. Amsterdam’s infamous Red Light District entices travelers with the promise of peep shows, sex shops, cannabis cafes, and nightclubs. 

Forget about renting a car, Totengco says, “Walking is honestly the best way to get around the city.” If you prefer to do as the locals do, download ‎the Donkey Republic app to rent a bike or pop into a local rental shop. 

If you have mobility challenges or visited Amsterdam during a bout of poor weather, she said, “the tram system is also efficient and easy to navigate.” If you’re planning to take public transportation and want to see all the major sites (including a canal cruise), Totengco recommends buying the I Amsterdam City Card which includes unlimited use of the city’s public transport (GVB), bike rental, a canal cruise, and over 70 museums, including the Rijksmuseum.

Trams: Amsterdam’s iconic blue-and-white trams remain a reliable and economical way to get around the city center ( 3.40 Euros an hour or 9 Euros a day). Most lines convene at Amsterdam Central Station, the city’s main transportation hub. 

Buses: The bus system is quite extensive and efficient with over 40 lines. Catching a flight? Hop aboard the airport shuttle , which runs between Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and the city center every 15 minutes. Planning an evening out on the town? Whereas the trams and metros operate between 6 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. , night buses come in clutch for after-dark transport needs. 

Metros: The metro system comprises five routes and serves 39 stations, making it best for accessing the outlying suburbs. 

Ferries: Like trams, buses, and metros, Amsterdam’s ferries are also operated by GVB. Connections across the Noordzeekanaal (North Sea Canal) are under 2 Euros, while boats crossing the IJ River are free of charge for pedestrians, cyclists, and moped riders. 

Rideshare: If you’re sticking to Amsterdam’s Centrum, driving isn’t really necessary. However, it’s easy to hail an Uber to take you to some of the outer boroughs.

Trains: The Netherlands has an impressive national railway network. For day trips to the countryside and neighboring cities, trains from Amsterdam Central Station are a convenient and easy-to-navigate option. 

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The 25 best things to do in Amsterdam

Explore the best things to do in Amsterdam and get ready to fall in love with Europe’s most exciting city

Ah, Amsterdam. Our love affair with this city never ends, from its innovative food scene to its most well-known attractions. Perhaps most famous for its art galleries and museums , from the Van Gogh Museum to the Anne Frank House, Amsterdam stands proudly as one of the most culturally significant cities in Europe (and it’s got a poppin’ nightlife scene too). 

In fact, the capital’s ‘fun’ side has historically lent itself to swathes of tourist stag dos, desperate to try out Amsterdam’s notorious coffee shops and canal cruises – something its government is trying to crack down on. But as it stands, there’s no escaping its reputation as a Seriously Fun Place To Be. Whatever you’re in Amsterdam for, there are some things you simply have to do. With the help of our experts and contributors on the ground in ‘Dam, we’ve rounded up the most essential things to tick off. Happy travels!

RECOMMENDED: 🥨 The best  restaurants in Amsterdam 🕺 The best  clubs in Amsterdam ⛵ The best  day trips from Amsterdam   🏠 The  best  Airbnbs in Amsterdam 📍 An Amsterdam weekend itinerary

This guide was updated by  Callum Booth , a writer based in Amsterdam. At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . T his guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

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What to see in Amsterdam

1.  Rijksmuseum

What is it?  Amsterdam’s greatest, grandest, and most classical museum , with a huge collection of Dutch art dating back to the Golden Age. 

Why go?  There’s over 8,000 bits of art and history on display, over 1 million objects, a small but mighty Asian collection, a Michelin-starred restaurant and a café on site. Plus the guided tours are ace. Need we say more?

📍 Discover more of the best museums in Amsterdam

2.  Van Gogh Museum

What is it?  Dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries, this Gerrit Rietveld-designed building houses the largest collection of the artist’s work in the world. It’s just around the corner from the Rijksmuseum and forms part of Amsterdam’s Holy Trinity of culture alongside the Stedelijk Museum next door.

Why go?  The post-impressionist painter is one of the most influential figures in the history of Western art, and his use of bold colours and broad, expressive brushstrokes remains as captivating today as it was in the 19th century. Browse his masterpieces side-by-side here.

3.  De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets)

What is it?  Smack bang in the middle of the canal belt next to Jordaan, this micro-neighbourhood of quaint and quirky streets is big on personality and full of cosy cafés, independent boutiques, vintage stores and artisanal food shops.

Why go?  Best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, there are plenty of Instagram-ready hangouts here – this is old Amsterdam at its best – plus some charming spots to sit and watch the world go by.  Eat at Ree7, get a coffee at Screaming Beans, a snack from Het Koekemannetje, or shop at Episode.

🏘️ Discover the coolest neighbourhoods in Amsterdam

4.  Albert Cuypmarkt

• Markets and fairs

What is it?  With a rich history as a trading nation, the Dutch appreciate bargaining and value for money. Albert Cuyp Markt, in the heart of De Pijp, is the place to go to observe locals at their bantering, bartering best. 

Why go?  The street-length market has an incredible range of food, clothes, knick-knacks and souvenirs. For fresh fish, chicken, meat and veg, it’s pretty hard to beat. It’s also a great place to meander, soak up the atmosphere and mingle with genuine Amsterdammers.

🥙 Discover more of the   best markets in Amsterdam

5.  Canal Tour

What is it?  One of Amsterdam’s must-do activities, though a cliché, is still the best way to explore the city. Sure, Amsterdam’s bikes are iconic, but a canal tour requires zero physical effort, so you can  finally  relax. There are many tour operators with boats, most of which depart from around Centraal.

Why go?  There’s not much difference between most operators, but it’s worth going on a longer tour that also heads out onto the IJ (the best ones are around 75 minutes). If you want to take it up a notch, there are dinner and cocktail cruises in the evenings and even one with a live jazz band on board. Classy.

6.  Vondelpark

• Attractions
• Parks and gardens

What is it?   The lungs of the city, Vondelpark was once the only public park in the world where one could legally barbecue, smoke joints, and have sex. The latter has since been outlawed (again), but there’s still a relaxed vibe to this green giant’s vast open spaces and wooded trails.

Why go?   Locals come here to run, cycle, play sports or chill, and there are plenty of activities for those looking to make a day of it. Don’t miss the beautiful rose garden or the famous open-air theatre where, if you’re lucky, you might catch an impromptu show. On a sunny day, it feels like Vondelpark is the centre of Amsterdam.

🌳 Discover more of the   best parks in Amsterdam

7.  A’dam Toren

What is it? Refurbished as part of a drive to regenerate Noord, this 22-storey tower looms over the waterfront across the River IJ from Centraal. Formerly the HQ of Shell, it’s now home to an array of young music, advertising and events companies, plus a handful of bars and restaurants (and even a hotel).

Why go? Sip a signature cocktail in the Skybar, eat in one of the two gourmet restaurants on the top floors (one of which revolves), and if you’re really brave, head to the observation deck to Over The Edge, Europe’s highest swing, and enjoy the views as you rock back and forth, 100 metres up.

8.  Begijnhof

What is it?  Just a few metres from the shopping madness of Kalverstraat, this secluded garden and courtyard is overlooked by a set of medieval houses built for the Beguines, a group of unmarried religious women who lived in a closed community under vows of chastity.

Why go?  Come here for a surreal, restorative experience and a fascinating insight into a little-known aspect of Amsterdam’s religious heritage. You can also marvel at the city’s oldest wooden house, which has stood unchanged since 1425.

9.  Flevopark

What is it? If you’re based in Oost, this giant park is the place to head for a relaxing walk, cycle or just some fresh air. There are huge grassy areas for lounging and several running trails for more energetic types.

Why go? Flevoparkbad, the city’s only outdoor swimming pool, is here, but you can also go wild swimming in the Nieuwe Diep. There’s also a tennis club, and when you’re done exercising, head to microbrewery Distillery ‘t Nieuwe Diep, bag a spot on the terrace and order a craft beer or ale. Otherwise, grab something to nibble on from Albert Heijn and lay down a blanket for the ultimate picnic.

10.  Ons’ Lieve Heer Op Solder

What is it?  The ‘ Museum of Our Lord in the Attic ’ was once Amsterdam’s best-kept secret. The reason? This former church, spread across the top three floors of a 17th-century canal house, was where Catholics would come to pray after public displays of worship were banned by the Alteration of 1578.

Why go?  The church has been beautifully preserved and offers brilliant insight into 17th-century life and religious persecution through the ages. There are several outstanding artworks, and it’s still used for the occasional service (and even weddings).

11.  Anne Frank Museum

What is it?  This 17th-Century canal house, where Anne Frank, her family and four others hid from the Nazis for two years, is now a museum and educational centre. There’s a permanent exhibition on the life and times of Anne, and you can visit the cramped ‘secret annexe’ they called home.

Why go?  The museum is a fundamental part of 17th century history, and a chance to see Anne’s words come to life. The exhibition is open all year round and guests can visit the    ‘secret annexe’ the family stayed in. The house is a   chilling reminder of the Second World War, while also being a moving testament to the her bravery and optimism. 

12.  Brouwerij ’t IJ

What is it?  Amsterdam’s original microbrewery, quaintly housed in a working windmill, is still among the city’s finest. They’ve been pulling superb blonde beers, pilsners and IPAs since 1985.

Why go?  We hate to point out the obvious, but a trip to Brouwerij ’t IJ  will lead you to beer heaven. The hoppy libations are served up in small glasses, so you should be able to taste a decent range without hitting the deck. However, be aware that some beers have an unusually high alcohol volume. If you’re visiting in warmer weather (when beer tastes best, in our opinion), grab a seat on the terrace and nibble on traditional Dutch bar snacks like boiled eggs and raw sausage. 

🍻 Discover more of the best bars in Amsterdam

13.  Blast Galaxy

What is it? This retro arcade is situated in a warehouse in Amsterdam Noord, which is easily accessible with a free ferry from behind Centraal Station. Blast Galaxy contains over 100 machines, ranging from old-school classics to new consoles, like the Nintendo Switch. In other words, it’s a gamer’s paradise.

Why go? Once you’ve paid your entry price, all the machines are free-to-play. With reasonably priced food and drink, you can either swing in here for a bit of daytime play, or spend your night lost in the digital magic of gaming. Whatever you decide, you’ll have a blast.

14.  De Hallen

What is it? What began life as an old tram depot is now known as De Hallen, a cultural hub in the heart of the Oud-West. Home to a cinema, boutique shops, a hotel, and a food hall, it’s an ideal place to go for some top-quality entertainment.

Why go? Feeling peckish? Take your pick from De Hallen ’s delectable dim sum, delicious Dutch meatballs, stupendous sushi, kick-ass smoky barbecue and much more. If the sun’s out, park yourself on a bench outside. Is it a rainy afternoon? Then catch a movie! Check out the offbeat boutiques! You’ll find yourself full, satisfied, and ready to furnish your apartment with the aesthetic of an Amsterdam influencer.

15.  Vuurtoreneiland

What is it?  If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime dinner experience, nothing comes close to Vuurtoreneiland . A special boat takes you to this small, rugged island in the IJmeer with just a lighthouse, an old abandoned fort and a large greenhouse dining room.

Why go?  The ethos here is ‘eating in and of nature’ – a five-course set menu of the freshest regional produce, lovingly prepared and cooked entirely on open flames. The food is incredible, as is the glorious setting – all fauna, stray animals and sweeping coastlines. But be warned: booking is essential.

16.  Foam

What is it?   Situated in an old canal house, the   Foam   Photography Museum consistently hosts some of Amsterdam’s best exhibitions – all of which will make you look at the world in a different way.

Why go?   Whether it’s promoting new talent, running retrospectives on famed photographers, or creating themed exhibitions, FOAM is a place to experience art you’ve most likely never seen before. The museum is also both compact and in a central location, making it an ideal place for a quick jaunt during your day in Amsterdam.

17.  NDSM Wharf

What is it? A former shipyard on the northern banks of the IJ, NDSM  – reached by a free ferry from the back of Centraal – has blossomed into a cultural hotspot with a rich mix of arty events, bars and restaurants.

Why go? Enjoy beach-front food and drink at Pllek, Europe’s largest flea market (IJ-hallen, which takes place once a month, on weekends) and a packed programme of festivals, exhibitions and other goings-on. The city is in the process of building thousands of homes here, turning it into a ‘district for urban pioneers’, and that creative spirit makes for a refreshing escape from the more touristy areas.

18.  Lab111

What is it? Lab111 is a movie theatre, but not the sort your parents go to. Described as a ‘cult cinema,’ Lab111 specialises in playing a mix of old and new films, and you’re bound to come across something either classic, underappreciated, or interesting.

Why go? Gorgeously designed (it’s situated in an old laboratory) and with four screens, Lab111 is an ideal place to unwind and catch a classic movie. Alongside that, the venue’s bar and restaurant – named Strangelove – is a chic place to chat about the picture you’ve just seen.

19.  KattenKabinet

What is it? One of Amsterdam’s weirdest museums, and a place you’ll never forget visiting. This spot is dedicated to art works of cats, whether that’s paintings, sculptures, or, well, really anything else you can think of. If you want the full lowdown, check out our TikTok at the museum . 

Why go? Like cats? Then you’ll love this quirky shrine to our feline friends. If simply looking at representations of the popular pets isn’t enough, don’t worry, there are a number of cats strolling around the museum you can play with. On top of that, the KattenKabinet is situated in a house on one of Amsterdam’s most sought-after streets, making it a wonderful place to get an up-close glimpse of those famous Dutch buildings.

20.  EYE Film Institute

What is it?  One of Amsterdam’s modern icons, this striking building next to the A’dam Toren (the impressive tower across the water from the central station) is much more than a cinema. It also houses a film museum, a brilliant restaurant and café, temporary exhibitions and various educational activities for kids. 

Why go?  Love film? You won’t want to miss EYE . The shop offers an excellent range of quirky gifts and memorabilia for film buffs, and their programming is first-rate – expect cult classics, obscure documentaries and only the best new indie releases.

21.  Electric Ladyland

What is it?  This tiny little storefront in Jordaan bills itself as the first (and only) museum dedicated to fluorescent art in the world and is a scientific and educational shrine to minerals, stones and art that glows under ultraviolet light.

Why go?  Way more fascinating than you’d think, Electric Ladyland is a one-of-a-kind experience that never ceases to amaze first-time visitors. You can even try out some ‘participatory art’ that involves you becoming part of the piece – wacky but fun. Visits are by appointment only, so book ahead.

22.  Westergas

What is it? Although somewhat overshadowed by Vondelpark, Westergasfabriek is a prime destination in its own right. Come here for a chilled-out break after a stroll through the city centre. 

Why go? This complex of former industrial buildings on the edge of Westerpark, one of the city’s three main parks, has been turned into a cultural hub featuring an art-house cinema, coffee roastery, a microbrewery, exhibition spaces and an excellent gin and mussels joint. Plus, if you fancy some throwback fun, there’s the vibrant ‘Arcade Paradise’ where you play on an array of euphonious games machines.

23.  OT301

What is it?  Amsterdam doesn’t suffer from a lack of music venues, but OT301 , a legal squat, is the best place to catch underground, leftfield and up-and-coming talent. It’s also home to De Peper, a pay-what-you-can vegan restaurant staffed entirely by volunteers.

Why go?  The nightly gigs are just one part of OT301’s charm. Daytime is taken up by community classes and art workshops, and there’s a table tennis bar in the backroom (plus a radio station in the basement).

🪩 Discover more of the best clubs in Amsterdam

24.  Blijburg aan Zee

What is it?  Amsterdam lacks decent swimming options (there is only one open-air pool), but it does have an inner-city beach. Located on the artificial island of IJburg, Blijburg ann Zee is just a short tram ride and walk from the centre.

Why go?  If the weather’s nice, there is no better spot for swimming and sunbathing. The water’s clean, and the atmosphere is fun and relaxing (and very family-friendly). A handful of decent restaurants and cafés make it easy to spend an entire day splashing around and working on your tan here.

25.  Red Light District

• Things to do

What is it? Yes, this is ground zero for Amsterdam prostitution, where sex workers advertise themselves in the famous red-lit shop windows. It’s also party central for stag and hen-dos – things get rowdy and continue until the small hours.

Why go? Clearly, anyone of a hedonistic bent will fit right in here. But the Red Light District is also the city’s oldest neighbourhood and home to monuments, churches and quaint little squares that are well worth visiting. If that’s what you’re after, make sure to go along during the day.

More great things to do in Amsterdam

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• 39 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam: The Ultimate Amsterdam Bucket List

We all know Amsterdam as being among Europe’s most sought-after, bustling cities that have made its way to the top of many travelers’ wish lists.

You’ve surely added the likes of the Anne Frank House and the Heineken Experience to your itinerary, but that’s really just the start of the best things to do in Amsterdam.

This is a city that has such a diverse and extensive range of things to see and do; you could spend a week here and still feel like you’ve only scratched the surface.

To ensure you get the most out of your Amsterdam trip, I have created this fool-proof guide to the Dutch capital’s incredible range of things to do. 

From indoor activities on those rainy days to foodie experiences you’ll dream about after you’ve arrived home, let’s jump into this Amsterdam bucket list.

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

Table of Contents

Are you planning a last-minute trip to Amsterdam?

If your trip is coming up soon and you still haven’t booked anything, we have you covered! Below you can find our top picks when it comes to hotels, tours, getting around, and more.

Best Tours and Experiences in Amsterdam

• Classic Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine Option (top-rated canal cruise)
• Life of Anne Frank and World War II Walking Tour
• Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam & Marken Bus Tour (most popular day trip)
• Van Gogh Museum Ticket (sells out really fast so make sure to grab them as soon as possible)
• Heineken Experience (must-have tour for beer lovers)

Best Places to Stay in Amsterdam

• Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht (best hotel in Amsterdam with canal views)
• W Amsterdam (amazing 5-star hotel with a stunning rooftop pool)
• De L’Europe Amsterdam (best luxury hotel in Amsterdam)
• Linden Hotel (amazing mid-range option in Jordaan)
• Singel Hotel Amsterdam (great budget pick in the city center)

Looking for the best way to get around Amsterdam? Make sure to buy a GVB Public Transport Ticket . Even if you only use public transport a few times, it’s already worth it!

Planning to visit a handful of attractions? You can save a lot of money by purchasing the I Amsterdam City Card . It includes free entry to more than 70 attractions, unlimited access to public transport, and a free canal cruise!

Top 10 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam

Looking for a quick answer to the must-visit sights in Amsterdam? Here are the top 10 best things to do in Amsterdam that you absolutely can’t miss!

• Take a canal cruise
• Visit the Rijksmuseum
• Explore Anne Frank House
• Enjoy art at the Van Gogh Museum
• Try the famous stroopwafels
• Walk through the Red Light District
• Take in the views from the A’DAM Lookout
• Taste local specialties at Foodhallen
• Visit the Heineken Experience
• Explore the Floating Flower Market

Now, if you want to know more about each activity above and discover even more amazing things to do in Amsterdam, keep reading!

Best Outdoor Things to Do in Amsterdam

1. take a canal cruise.

Kicking things off with an excursion you can’t miss, a cruise around some of Amsterdam’s 165 canals is usually everyone’s first stop when they touch down in the Dutch capital.

As gorgeous as the city looks from the canal-side walkways, there’s something magical about exploring the area from the water. Winding through the narrow canals, ducking under tiny bridges, and admiring the architecture, a cruise is a pretty unparalleled introduction to Amsterdam.

When it comes to canal cruises in Amsterdam, you’ll have a myriad of options. To save you from going through them all, here are my top picks:

Amsterdam: City Canal Cruise – Have your cameras ready as you sail past 17th-century canal houses and fleets of busy cyclists during this 75-minute tour. You’ll get an insight into Amsterdam’s eventful history through the onboard audio guide, which is available in 19 languages.

Amsterdam: Classic Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine Option – This really is as good as it sounds! Take the basic package, and you’ll cruise by spots like the Skinny Bridge and Red Light District, or add on unlimited cheese and wine or beer to level up your journey!

Amsterdam: Evening Canal Cruise – Watch Amsterdam come to life when the sun goes down on this romantic evening hour-and-a-half boat tour, where you’ll see the likes of A’DAM Tower alight under the stars and discover hidden pockets of the city.

Read Next: 16 Best Canal Cruises in Amsterdam You Can’t Go Wrong With

2. Rent a bike and cycle around the city

When in Amsterdam, do as the locals do! Provided you’ve mentally prepared for the jam-packed streets, of course.

In a city famed for its cycling culture, it’s no surprise that many tourists want to try their hand at making their way around on two wheels, but it’s not for the faint-hearted.

Though there’s plenty of excellent cycling infrastructure, bikers in Amsterdam are known for being super-speedy and ruthless at times, so make sure you’re confident in your bike handling skills before taking to the bike lanes.

You’ll come across dozens of bike rental stores around the city, or you can join a cycling tour where you’ll be in safe hands traveling as a group.

I highly recommend this Guided Bike Tour of Central Amsterdam , where you’ll zip through the city in groups of 15 people or less over the space of three hours.

3. Stroll around Vondelpark

From an often chaotic Amsterdam experience to something much more laid-back, the lush Vondelpark will be a place to catch your breath after a few hours of cycling or wandering the lively streets. 

Vondelpark is the city’s largest urban park and is at the top of the best places to visit in Amsterdam to see another side of the capital. 

In fact, if you’re keen to rent a bike but don’t want to face the notoriously hectic bike lanes, Vondelpark is an excellent place for a leisurely cycle.

Whether you choose to cycle or walk, you’ll love getting some peace and quiet in the city’s backyard. Better yet, grab a coffee from any of the park’s cafes, bring some snacks, and have a lake-side picnic. 

If you’re like me and love all things pretty and colorful, stroll over to the northwest of the park, where you’ll see the rose garden filled with more than 70 beautiful varieties.

4. Take in the views from the A’DAM Lookout

For the finest views in all of Amsterdam, the A’DAM Lookout is the place to go. Not only can you take in unspoiled vistas of the canals, city center, and busy port, but you can do so from Europe’s highest swing.

If this has your adrenaline flowing, up the ante and experience the Amsterdam VR rollercoaster ride, where you’ll feel like you’re zooming past all the iconic sites at high speeds.

As if all of these activities weren’t enough, A’DAM Lookout transforms into a music venue with live DJ sets all evening during the summer. At the same time, you can also get a bite at their panoramic bar and restaurant if you fancy. 

Entry tickets also grant you access to their interactive exhibition and fascinating audio tour, retelling the story of Amsterdam’s past.

Entry tickets can start from as low as €14.50 when you purchase them online , or you can take your pick from their bundles featuring the swing, VR ride, and a meal.

5. Participate in a guided walking tour

Walking tours have become my go-to when I have landed in a new city for the first time, as it’s such a fantastic way to find your bearings while getting a sense of the local area.

In a city as pedestrian-friendly as Amsterdam, a walking tour allows you to explore the narrow streets and laneways you’d miss out on with buses and private transfers. 

Most tours last for around two or three hours, stopping by many of the highlights that are a must for an Amsterdam visit, including the Jewish Quarter and the Torenslius Bridge.

Another reason why I have become so fond of these tours is because of the amazing guides that run them! It’s the best opportunity to ask questions, meet fellow travelers, and dive deep into the culture.

SANDEMANs NEW Amsterdam are some of the best in the business, offering outings in English or Spanish. Each tour is free of charge, though it’s important to remember to give a tip to show some appreciation to your guide.

Read Next: 3 Days in Amsterdam: The Ultimate Amsterdam Itinerary

Best Indoor Things to Do in Amsterdam

6. visit the rijksmuseum.

This time, we’re heading indoors to Amsterdam’s most renowned cultural hub, which I’m confident you’ve heard about before – the Rijksmuseum .

Even though this museum celebrates the history of The Netherlands, many people flock here to catch a glimpse of the works of some of the nation’s most acclaimed artists, from Vincent Van Gogh to Rembrandt van Rijn.

The Rijksmuseum is the home of paintings many of you’ll recognize, with the most prized pieces including Rembrandt’s The Night Watch, Johannes Vermeer’s The Milkmaid, and Van Gogh’s self-portrait.

However, you’ll find over 6,000 artworks here, so you will definitely need at least a couple of hours to check out as much as possible.

You don’t need to be an art devotee to appreciate this spectacular museum, but if you’re somewhat of a connoisseur, you can spend hours here examining and making sense of the paintings, sculptures, and ornaments.

As visiting the Rijksmuseum is one of the most popular things to do in Amsterdam, it’s worth booking your tickets in advance to avoid the long lines.

7. Explore the Anne Frank House

The heartwrenching but compelling tale of Anne Frank is brought to life in Amsterdam’s Anne Frank House.

You can travel back through time and explore the secret annex where she wrote her iconic diary that tells the tale of how her family hid from Nazi forces for over two years during the Second World War. 

To ensure you can see the museum’s collection of original items, photos, and videos, you’ll need to secure your tickets weeks before your trip to Amsterdam, as tickets infamously sell out over a month in advance.

Every Tuesday, the tickets go on sale for the upcoming six weeks on the Anne Frank House official site , where you can get an adult ticket for €16.

8. Enjoy art at the Van Gogh Museum

If the Rijksmuseum left a lasting impression on you, the Van Gogh Museum should be next on your list. Anyone visiting on a bit of a time crunch will be glad to know that the two museums are just minutes apart. 

As well as hundreds of paintings and drawings from the Dutch artist himself, thousands of pieces from Van Gogh’s contemporaries call this extensive gallery home. This includes mesmerizing Japanese and French prints Van Gogh collected during the 19th century.

Similar to the Anne Frank House, tickets to the Van Gogh Museum are usually in high demand and sell out really far in advance. You’ll have to book your tickets at least a month prior to your visit, so make sure to keep your eye on the website once you have your travel dates.

9. Discover the Stedelijk Museum

Is contemporary art more your vibe? The Stedelijk Museum’s 90,000-piece collection of paintings, sculptures, and furniture is sure to keep you enthralled.

Only around 500 pieces are displayed at a time as the museum rotates the artworks they showcase. In just one visit, you can cast your eyes on late 19th-century paintings, Art Deco furniture, and modern drawings.

Some of the artists you can expect to feature include the likes of Piet Mondrian, Andy Warhol, and Lucio Fontana. 

Art buffs can easily explore the Stedelijk Museum on the same day as the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, as these three spots, which together make up Amsterdam’s most beloved art galleries, are all within the Museum Square.

Buy your tickets on the day or beat the lines and snap yours up for €22.50 online ahead of time.

10. Visit the Royal Palace of Amsterdam

Many visitors often don’t realize that The Netherlands is still a monarchy to this day! The Royal Palace Amsterdam is one of three palaces owned by the Dutch royals.

During your visit, you can see where King Willem-Alexander hosts state visits, prestigious dinners, and special occasions right in the heart of the city in Dam Square.

Inside, you can head to the jaw-dropping, marble-clad Citizen’s Hall, which was constructed when the palace was initially designed as Amsterdam’s town hall. Even the floors are magnificent here, showcasing some of the world’s largest maps.

Entry fees start from €12.50 for adults, though you can upgrade to a tour package from €95. This palace is open most days, but double-check for any upcoming royal events before your visit.

11. Learn at the NEMO Science Museum

When you’ve had your fill of art galleries, unleash your inner child at the NEMO Science Museum . As you amble around the Oosterdokseiland neighborhood, you won’t be able to miss the green boat-like building that plays host to this interactive, hands-on museum.

Set over five floors, this is definitely among the most fun things to do in Amsterdam if you’re looking for something entirely different from the classic tourist hotspots. It’s also the perfect place to keep the little ones amused if you’re traveling as a family.

NEMO boasts exhibitions for all things science, from how forces of nature work and the development of humankind to the explanation of natural phenomena and how massive structures are built. Both you and your kids will definitely learn a thing or two during your visit!

12. Pop into the Basilica of St. Nicholas

Another spot that’s sometimes surprisingly omitted from visitor’s itineraries is the Basilica of St. Nicholas.

As Amsterdam’s most revered Catholic church, you can expect to be blown away when you head inside. Exquisite stained glass windows, detailed murals, dimmed lighting, and high ceilings are just some of the highlights of this structure.

However, the exterior is pretty marketable, too! Designed with a range of architectural styles in mind, St. Nicholas’ Basilica blends in perfectly with the Amsterdam skyline.

Stop by between 12 and 12:30 pm or from 1 – 3 pm any day except Sunday. You’ll also enjoy free entry to the basilica too.

13. Explore Madame Tussauds

No matter how many times you visit Madame Tussauds , each trip always makes for an entertaining few hours of celebrity spotting.

Make your way to Dam Square and snap some shots of you with the often shockingly realistic wax sculptures of stars like Harry Styles, Jennifer Aniston, Beyonce, and Leonardo DiCaprio.

Something I love about the Amsterdam branch of Madame Tussauds is the variety of combination packages they have, helping you to cut the costs of some of the city’s attractions.

Both the THIS IS HOLLAND 5D flying experience, and the eerie Amsterdam Dungeon can be combined with your Madam Tussauds ticket, saving you up to almost €30.

14. Wander through the Amsterdam Dungeon

Speaking of the Amsterdam Dungeon , this is possibly the best thing to do in Amsterdam if you’re a horror movie fanatic or love a thrill.

Bring your friends along and see who can hold their nerve for the longest as your spooky guide takes you through over 500 years of Amsterdam’s most chilling past events. 

You’ll encounter plenty of unsettling characters along the way as you watch a host of talented actors take you through terrifying mazes, acquaint you with tortured ghosts, and bring the legend of the Flying Dutchman to life.

If you’re jumpy and scared easily, this might not be the activity for you! The same goes for younger guests under the age of 10.

15. Visit the Eye Filmmuseum

Whether you’re a movie guru or just enjoy visiting somewhere a little different, the Eye Filmmuseum is the center of Amsterdam’s film scene.

There really is so much to see and do here, from the museum detailing the movie-making process and production to the various cinema rooms displaying Dutch and international films. 

Different filmmakers, movie styles, and aspects of cinemas are the subject of many of the rotating exhibitions and programs, though they also have some permanent fixtures.

An absolute must during your visit is to create your own flipbook, which is so much fun to do with your loved ones and costs less than €7 to buy. Select the exhibition you want to see and reserve your spot online.

16. Check out the Moco Museum

I don’t claim to be an art expert, but I have found the Moco Museum to be absolutely brilliant, and it definitely needs to have a space in your Amsterdam to-do list.

Exhibiting modern art from a mix of established artists and up-and-coming talent, the Moco Museum is filled with weird and wonderful masterpieces that are both aesthetically pleasing and thought-provoking.

Everything from dizzying optical illusions to contemporary photography features in this small but eye-catching museum, where the works of artists like Banksy sit alongside pieces by undiscovered creators.

Each entry pass includes an informative audio guide to give you some background and food for thought about each exhibition.

17. Shop at Magna Plaza

You’d easily be fooled into thinking this sublime neo-Gothic structure was an old-world five-star hotel or government building rather than a shopping center.

Magna Plaza has got to be one of the prettiest malls in the world, with some incredible Romanesque arches and a glass dome roof making the inside as impressive as the exterior.

Originally constructed as a post office, Magna Plaza is now home to an eclectic mix of stores, ranging from international brands like Mango to Dutch chains like Sissy Boy and quirky cheesemongers and candle shops.

Even if you don’t feel like you’re in need of some retail therapy (or simply have no room left in your suitcase!), a stop at Magna Plaza is totally worth it to admire the beauty of this historic building.

Best Foodie Things to Do in Amsterdam

18. try the famous stroopwafels.

What better way to soak up the culture in a new country than to tuck into some native dishes, or desserts in this case.

A sweet and chewy stroopwafel should be a first on your foodie Amsterdam bucket list! The name itself translates to syrup waffle, which sums up these treats pretty well.

Made from two thin layers of sweet dough with a caramel filling cementing them together, stroopwafels are available in shops, cafes, and restaurants all over Amsterdam.

However, there are two spots that I have a particular soft spot for.

Van Wonderen Stroopwafels – Anyone who has seen stroopwafels on Instagram was probably looking at Van Wonderen’s offerings! As the busiest spot in town, you’ll likely have to queue to get your hands on their marshmallow-topped stroopwafels.

Melly’s StroopWafels – The place to go for reasonably priced stroopwafels, this cozy store serves up freshly baked goods with your choice of toppings, including Smarties, Oreo, Lotus, and nuts, to name a few.

19. Taste local specialties at Foodhallen

Amsterdam’s famous Foodhallen would give any food court a run for its money. First-time visitors should head straight to De Ballenbar, an ever-busy stand where a Michelin-star chef and his team prepare their own take on bitterballs, a type of Dutch meatball.

These breaded meatballs are traditionally filled with beef, but De Ballenbar offers patrons unique, drool-worthy fillings like shrimp and truffle. 

After you’ve stocked up on bitter balls, you’ll have your pick for 19 other stands if you’re still feeling peckish. Choosing where to eat is always an arduous task here, as you’ll be torn between healthy Mexican eats, Asian street food, and fresh sushi.

20. Attend a food tour 

For a more in-depth introduction to Dutch cuisine, a food tour will give you plenty of opportunities to taste some of the finest dishes The Netherlands has to offer.

Here are a couple of tried and tested culinary adventures!

Jordaan District Local Food Walking Tour – Jordaan has made a name for itself as a foodie haven for many years now, and this tour takes you to six eateries in the neighborhood over three hours. Your guide will be a fountain of knowledge about traditional eats and the local history.

Private Food Tour with a Local – Go restaurant hopping with your expert local guide in the lively Pijp district, where you and your travel buddies can munch on a mixture of ten different local food and drink offerings on your own private excursion.

Food Lovers Walking Tour with Tastings – Sightseeing has never tasted so good! Learn about the Royal Palace and Flower Market as you feast on eight Dutch specialties, with the likes of crispy Dutch fries and apple tarts on the menu.

21. Cheese And Wine Tasting

Is there ever a bad time for wine and cheese? As the birthplace of Gouda and Edam varieties, the Dutch certainly know what they’re talking about when it comes to cheese.

They also know a thing or two about wine, as you’ll quickly learn throughout this tasting experience . 

Over the course of an hour, you’ll become well-versed in the best cheese and wine pairings. Each tasting provides guests with five types of cheese, accompanied by three glasses of wine.

When you’ve had your fair share of both, you’ll receive a 10% discount for in-store purchases, where you can search for the ultimate souvenir.

22. Indulge in a delicious brunch

You don’t have to visit on a Sunday to experience a tasty Amsterdam-style brunch!

Brunch has become an increasingly popular concept in the city over the last few years, with new spots regularly popping up while many long-standing haunts have also added the mid-morning meal to their menus. 

There are so many trendy spots scattered around Amsterdam, but you’ll find some of my go-to’s below.

Bakers & Roasters – With two locations in the city, you’re never too far from Bakers & Roasters’ brunch, served every day of the week. The team here is all about ethically sourced ingredients, which go into their breakfast burritos, eggs benedict, and pancake stacks. 

Coffee & Coconuts – The rustic wooden furniture and red brick walls have made this place one of the coolest brunch spots in town. Avocado toast and coconut pancakes are served alongside their specialty coffee.

Omelegg – After trying their delectable brunch dishes, you’ll understand why Omelegg’s two branches are always packed! As the name suggests, this spot is all about omelets, serving varieties like chicken and pesto, halloumi, and chorizo. 

Read Next: 14 Best Breakfast Places in Amsterdam You Have to Try

23. Have dinner on a cruise

Make your dinner plans a bit more special with an evening meal onboard a canal cruise.

Seeing the center of Amsterdam light up after dark from your boat is just magical! Couple it with a hearty meal, and you’ve got yourself a night to remember. 

Take a look through the dinner cruises below to start planning your night on the canal.

Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu – For something upmarket, I think this tour will fit the bill. As you begin your meal, which is available with meat, fish, or vegetarian dishes, your guide will talk you through the landmarks you pass along the way. Beer, wine, and soft drinks are also included.

Evening Canal Cruise with Pizza and Drinks – A much more casual affair, this cruise offers guests their choice of one of five pizzas and two beers, wines, or soft drinks. On a sunny summer evening, there’s no better place to be in Amsterdam!

Private BBQ Cruise with Personal Chef & Drinks – Are you heading to Amsterdam with your pals? You’re going to love this! For two hours, you can rent out a private boat with unlimited drinks, where you’ll have your pick of BBQ classics like steaks, burgers, and skewers, each of which has a veggie alternative. 

24. Visit the Heineken Experience

It wouldn’t be a list of the best things to do in Amsterdam without mentioning the Heineken Experience .

Avid Heineken drinkers will no doubt have plans to visit this iconic former brewery. Even if beer isn’t your thing, don’t let this stop you from joining in on one of these interactive tours, which are a lot of fun.

The tours take place in Heineken’s former brewery, where the world-famous beer was produced up until the late 1980s. 

For 90 minutes, you’ll explore the site where the lager was first created, get an insight into the brewing process, and taste two glasses of the most exceptional Heineken you’ll ever try.

Prices for this outing start from €23, but you can add access to a rooftop bar or canal cruise for an extra fee. 

25. Head out on a guided beer or prosecco bike tour

It’s safe to say that the title of this tour speaks for itself. When you’re considering what to do in Amsterdam, it’s unlikely that a boozy bike trip will initially spring to mind! However, these fun-filled tours are guaranteed to keep you and your gang entertained.

For around an hour and a half, your group will peddle their way through the streets of Amsterdam while working through 20 liters of beer or a bottle of Prosecco each. 

Better yet, you can have a mix of both during the beers and bubbles experience if you’re having trouble deciding.

Each tour usually can cater for up to six passengers, excluding your guide, who can take over the peddling when you’ve had one too many Proseccos.

26. Board the Pancake Boat Cruise

For something more low-key, the Pancake Boat Cruise is an excellent family-friendly activity that combines sightseeing and delicious grub.

This boat trip will take you along Amsterdam’s River IJ, which is one of the few cruises that doesn’t run along the canals. From here, you’ll be able to spot sites like the A’DAM Lookout and the Eye Filmmuseum.

Now, onto the main event, the Dutch pancakes! Did I mention that these are all-you-can-eat pancakes? You heard that right! You’ll spend your cruise snacking on these divine traditional desserts, which you can pair with your choice of fruits, jams, cheese, and ham.

Kids can spend time in the onboard playground area when they’re not stocking up on pancakes. 

Best Free Things to Do in Amsterdam

27. stroll around the canals.

Some of the best things to do in Amsterdam are completely free of charge.

Wandering around the seemingly endless canals is what the city’s all about, and you could easily spend an afternoon here watching cruises sail by, admiring the historic houses, and chilling out with coffee along the banks.

With so many canals running through Amsterdam, you’ll want to prioritize which ones you want to visit, as stopping by them all would be a challenging feat.

You can’t miss Prisengracht, Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Kloveniersburgwal, but you should also consider adding Groenburgwal, Brouwersgracht, and Singel to your itinerary.

28. Visit Albert Cuyp Market

Europe’s largest day market lies right in the heart of Amsterdam. Situated in the de Pijp neighborhood, the Albert Cuyp Market plays host to over 260 stalls and has become as popular with tourists as it is with locals. 

You’ll likely hear people saying that anything you could ever need can be found at the Albert Cuyp Market, and they’re not lying! Clothes, jewelry, fresh vegetables, cheese, flowers, handbags, and reading glasses are just a fraction of the goods you can pick up here.

Of course, it’s not a free activity if you decide to purchase something, but many visitors come here just to see the market in action and take in the sights and smells of this bustling part of town.

29. People-watch at Dam Square

As well as being home to the Royal Palace and Madame Tussauds, Dam Square is also a marvelous place to do some people-watching.

Perch yourself on a bench or join the groups of other people who have gathered on the steps and simply watch the world go by! Whether you’re looking to save some cash or just want to rest your feet after a day of explorations, Dam Square is your best bet for an easygoing afternoon.

The National Monument is also found in Dam Square and is free to visit. This towering white stone structure was built in the 1950s to commemorate those who lost their lives fighting for The Netherlands in wars and conflicts.

30. Explore the Floating Flower Market

As the world’s only floating flower market, this unique bazaar is a must-do if you’re strolling along the Singel Canal.

Once you step inside the houseboats comprising this quirky marketplace, you’ll be treated to an impossibly beautiful and ultra-colorful array of flowers and other plants.

The main attraction is undoubtedly the storefronts covered with gorgeous tulips in every color, which are even more majestic if you visit in spring when they’ll be in full bloom.

Daffodils, roses, orchids, and numerous other flowers are also on display here, and the vibrant color scheme extends to the souvenirs. Magnets, clogs, and trinkets are on sale in every color under the sun.

31. Walk through the Red Light District 

Amsterdam has become well-known for quite a number of things, one of them being the infamous Red Light District.

You wouldn’t be alone in assuming that an area famed for its sex trade is a seedy and dangerous neighborhood that’s best to avoid, but the Red Light District is a lot safer and friendlier than you’d imagine.

During the daytime, the area doesn’t look too dissimilar from any other narrow street in the city, but at night, you’ll notice tons of packed bars, busy streets, and neon red lights everywhere you look.

Once you abide by the rules and refrain from taking pictures of sex workers, you can stroll through the area hassle-free. 

A couple of interesting Red Light District tours are on offer to get a better understanding of the district, though this would mean you’re no longer visiting for free.

32. Snap a picture at the Damrak Canal Houses

You might find your camera roll overflowing after your trip to Amsterdam, as the city really is as picture-perfect as you’d imagine. One spot that you’ll have to capture the perfect shot of is the view of the Damrak Canal Houses.

These famously lopsided houses have become some of the most photographed canal houses in the city, and finding them is also super straightforward.

As you leave the Central Train Station, make a slight left and head down Damrak Street for just over 400 meters (0.25 miles), and you’ll soon be greeted by these quirky houses on your left. You’ll arrive at a great vantage point for your Instagram-worthy photos from here!

Best Day Trips from Amsterdam 

33. keukenhof.

Would you believe me if I told you that Keukenhof, aptly nicknamed the Garden of Europe, was only a 30-minute drive from the center of Amsterdam?

Those old-school windmills, endless fields, and immaculate gardens filled with tulips that Holland is renowned for are much easier to reach from the capital than you’d expect. 

As these gardens are only open for around eight weeks of the year, you’ll need to plan your visit between March and May.

You have a couple of options to get here. The quickest way to reach Keukenhof is by car, but taxis can be costly, so it may work out cheaper to get a rental car and make your own way there. 

Lots of tour companies run shuttle buses from Central Station, which is a more budget-friendly alternative. 

For a fuss-free experience, the Keukenhof & Windmill Village Guided Tour will take care of your transport, entry ticket, and guided tour. This particular day trip also allows you to see traditional clogs being crafted and even includes a cheese tasting.

34. Zaanse Schans

Another picturesque area that seems like a world away from Amsterdam is Zaanse Schans, a stunning neighborhood in the town of Zaandam.

You’ll be transported back to the 19th century as you wander past colorful wooden houses and windmills, many of which were actually relocated here from other towns nearby towns.

Zaanse Schans is reachable by car in less than 20 minutes, or you can hop on one of the buses from Central Station, which takes around 40 minutes. 

I recommend catching the short train to Zaandijk – Zaanse Schans and walking to the neighborhood from here. Alternatively, if you’re up for an active day, you can rent a bike and visit Zaanse Schans on two wheels!

If you are after a hassle-free experience, check out this Guided Zaanse Schans & Cheese Tasting Tour , where you’ll see the best of the area with your knowledgeable guide.

Another great option is this Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam & Marken Bus Tour . It’s a full-day tour that combines Zaanse Schans with trips to the adorable Volendam fishing village and the town of Edam. No prizes for guessing why Edam is so well-known!

35. Giethoorn

Giethoorn might just be the cutest village you’ll ever lay your eyes on! Narrow waterways, old-fashioned thatched-roof homes, and wooden bridges make up this car-free pocket of The Netherlands. 

Unless you’re renting a car, the best way to get to Giethoorn is by taking the train from Central Station to Zwolle train station and changing to the 70 bus from here until you reach the village center.

If you’d rather let someone else do the planning, the Giethoorn & Enclosing Dike Day Trip will tick all of your boxes, taking you past the Enclosing Dike, a dam-come-motorway on your journey to Giethoorn.

While here, you’ll go on a tranquil cruise along the water and go for a wander during your free time.

36. Volendam

The Netherlands is blessed with some of Europe’s loveliest towns and villages, and Volendam is among the best of them.

With direct links to the center of Amsterdam, you can reach Volendam in less than 25 minutes on bus 316 and enjoy the town’s delightful seafood alongside the fishing boats and multi-colored homes.

For a deep dive into Dutch culture, I think you’ll find this Marken, Volendam, and Edam Full-Day Tour to your liking. On this excursion, you’ll stop by the teeny village of Marken and get a masterclass in cheese-making in the town of Edam.

This tour also offers some add-ons for an extra special day out, such as a boat trip, windmill entry, and a clog-making demonstration.

37. Rotterdam

The Netherlands’s second most-populated city, Rotterdam, is Amsterdam’s modern and eclectic little sister, where you’ll be in awe of the bold architecture, high-rise buildings, and big-city vibe.

Exploring Rotterdam from Amsterdam is so convenient, as both the high-speed and regular trains will land you here in under an hour. 

Anyone short on time can spend an afternoon checking the cube houses, the Market Hall, and the massive harbor off their lists before returning to Amsterdam in no time.

I suggest looking into this Guided Trip to Rotterdam, Delft & The Hague for a well-rounded and fascinating day trip. After you’ve seen Rotterdam’s highlights, you’ll head to the charming city of Delft and The Hague, which the Dutch royal family and government call home.

For a European adventure, take advantage of Amsterdam’s close proximity to Belgium and spend a day in the enchanting city of Bruges.

Though Bruges is much smaller than Amsterdam, it’s a city that’s also famed for its canals and storied past. 

Amsterdam is extremely well-connected, making it possible to arrive in Bruges within three hours by train. There are also a few companies that operate buses between the two cities, and this is often a cheaper option.

If you’d rather join a guided tour, this Day Trip to Bruges from Amsterdam tour has you covered. You’ll spend some of your day visiting spots like the Grote Markt and the Belfry with your guide, as well as getting some free time.

39. Brussels 

From one captivating Belgian city to another, you won’t regret spending some of your vacation in lively Brussels.

Unless you’re joining a guided tour, I recommend taking a high-speed train from Amsterdam, which will bring you to the Belgian capital in under two hours. Catch an early departure to ensure you have ample time to visit the Grand Place, Royal Galleries, and some chocolate shops.

Brussels has so much to see and do, and this day trip will take you to all the must-see spots while also taking care of your transport. When you’ve had your fill of sightseeing, you’ll have some extra time to munch on Belgian fries and waffles or sample one of their legendary beers.

Where to stay in Amsterdam

If you’re a first-time visitor, then you’ll want to stay close to the city center, and there are plenty of options.

De Pijp is the city’s bohemian quarter and home to some of the best bars and streetside cafes. If you’re looking for something a little more upmarket, then Jordaan is an excellent option with its gorgeous 17th-century townhouses and top-class restaurants. Oud West is another charming area with leafy parks and plenty to do.

If you want to read more about the best areas to stay in the city, make sure to check out our in-depth post about  where to stay in Amsterdam . For an unforgettable stay, browse through the list of the  best Amsterdam hotels with canal views or the best luxury hotels in Amsterdam .

In case you’re in a rush, here are my top hotel recommendations for different budgets.

• Ultimate Luxury  |  Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam
• Best Views  |  Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht
• Rooftop Pool  |  W Amsterdam
• Mid-range  |  Hotel Mercier
• Budget  |  Conscious Hotel Westerpark

Planning a trip to Amsterdam?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Amsterdam. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

Amsterdam hotel guides:

• Where to Stay in Amsterdam: 10 Best Areas & Hotels
• 24 Best Amsterdam Hotels with Canal Views
• 13 Best Luxury Hotels in Amsterdam for an Unforgettable City Break

Amsterdam travel guides:

• 16 Best Canal Cruises in Amsterdam You Can’t Go Wrong With
• One Day in Amsterdam: How to See the Best of Amsterdam in a Day
• The Perfect 2 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary for First Timers
• 3 Days in Amsterdam: The Perfect Amsterdam Itinerary
• How to Spend 4 Days in Amsterdam: Ultimate Itinerary for First Timers
• 14 Best Breakfast Places in Amsterdam You Have to Try

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17 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam

By Meredith Bethune and Jennifer Ceaser

Offering everything from tranquil boat rides through tree-shaded canals to  world-class art museums  and chic boutique shopping, you’ll never be bored in this town. Once you've ticked off your biggest bucket-list items, be sure to venture outside the Canal Ring, the fan-like network of waterways that dominates the historic city center. When visiting Europe’s best-preserved 17th-century city, the real challenge is using your time wisely. Read on for our list of suggestions to get you started; these are our editor's picks for what to do in Amsterdam, and this list is full of how to make the most of each.

Read our complete Amsterdam travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

STRAAT Museum Arrow

Graffiti fans, rejoice: Amsterdam now has a second museum devoted to street art—and it’s a doozy. STRAAT seeks out cutting-edge and emerging talent, with more than 130 artists from 32 countries represented in its 150-plus-strong collection. Occupying a colossal warehouse in the former shipbuilding area of NDSM, STRAAT has some 86,000 square feet of exhibition space inside, while outside, its façade is plastered in murals—including a huge kaleidoscope-like portrait of a smiling Anne Frank by Brazilian street art legend Eduardo Kobra.

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The Foodhallen stands out among other food halls thanks to its top-notch offerings, serving everything from reimagined Dutch classics to Vietnamese and Mexican treats. Housed inside a former tram depot, the venue is buzzing at all hours of the day. Aggressively guard your table if you manage to get one at all. Gin & Tonic Bar makes what you’d think it would with a range of different ingredients (try the one with jenever for something a bit different). Beerbar, meanwhile, pours more than 60 different local and international beers, including two brewed specifically for Foodhallen. It’s an ideal refueling stop at any time of day, particularly in winter when you need to thaw out after a long day of sightseeing.

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Amsterdam’s free ferry system is an essential part of the city’s transportation system, shuttling pedestrians, cyclists, and mopeds across the IJ River to Amsterdam-Noord every day. There are two main routes: The most popular, to Buiksloterweg, takes less than five minutes and drops you practically at the foot of the A’DAM Tower and the architecturally striking EYE Film Institute. The other, a 15-minute journey, goes to NDSM, a former industrial shipyard that’s been transformed into one of the city’s trendiest areas. Ferries run approximately every four to six minutes, leaving from behind Centraal Station; there’s a countdown clock right next to the dock that shows the next departures. It’s all fairly straightforward, and an activity not to miss.

Brouwerij ‘t IJ Arrow

Brouwerij ‘t IJ is the pub offshoot of the namesake Amsterdam brewery, so expect to find lots of Belgian-style beers. Menu standouts include full-bodied ales brewed with organic ingredients, but the occasional seasonal brews are also winners. It’s worth stopping in on a sunny day just to unwind with a good beer beside the canal.

Tom Vanderbilt

Vicki Denig

Jesse Ashlock

Charlie Hobbs

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This street market on Albert Cuypstraat, between Ferdinand Bolstraat and Van Woustraat, has been at it for over 100 years. It’s one of the largest markets in Europe with 260 stands selling fruit, vegetables, fish, flowers, clothing, and more, open Monday through Saturday. Load up on food and assorted knick-knacks, and keep an eye out for the ultimate shopping trophy: a wheel of Gouda cheese.

Rederij De Jordaan Private Boat Tour Arrow

Slick, slick, slick. As VIP canal cruises go, captain Reinhard Spronk’s historic saloon boat tours (aboard 1932 teak beauty Welmoed , or 1908’s smaller Farahilde ) are really the business. He and his partner Miloe run the show, taking private groups (reservations necessary) on bespoke tours of Amsterdam’s legendary canals. Pick-up is from your waterside hotel or Cafe Van Puffelen, by their office. This is going to be the highlight of your European tour, combining an utterly beautiful vintage boat, the most sophisticated company in town, and (for a supplement) red roses, gourmet finger food, and bottomless champagne.

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Just east of the city center, in the Jewish Cultural Quarter, you’ll find one of Europe’s largest and oldest active synagogues. Its magnificent interior looks much as it did in 1675, with its original towering stone columns, vaulted timber ceiling, and wooden pews surrounding a massive Torah ark made of gleaming wood. The building still has no electricity—evening services are illuminated by hundreds of candles in the large brass chandeliers. The sheer size of the synagogue and the beauty of its interior will leave you awestruck. As it is still an active house of worship, visitors are asked to behave respectfully.

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Just west of the quaint Jordaan district lies Westerpark, a lovely green space with wide lawns, idyllic ponds, and tall shady trees, crisscrossed with cycling and walking trails. But the real draw here is Westergas, a massive former gas plant that’s been turned into a lively entertainment hub. The 19th-century red-brick buildings, classified as industrial monuments, are chock-full of trendy restaurants, brewpubs, and independent cinemas. Coolest of all is Gashouder, an old gas storage tank that now hosts techno concerts for up to 3,500 people inside its vast circular interior.

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You’ll find Amsterdam’s version of Central Park spanning about 120 acres just outside the Canal Ring. This swath of green offers a welcome visual alternative to the monochromatic sea of brick that makes up central Amsterdam. Don't miss “The Fish” statue by Pablo Picasso, and take advantage of the numerous music, dance, and cabaret performances at the open-air theater during the summer months.

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The only thing that stands out about this 17th-century canal house is the infamous line outside. Entry is by online reservation only, with timed tickets released two months ahead and a limited number on the day itself. The most poignant of the city’s museums, it’s utterly worth any crowd-related hassles for the emotional exhibits—not least the attic where the Frank family hid from the Nazis, and where young Anne penned her famous diary. It takes about an hour to complete a loop of the house. No matter how much you think you know about Anne Frank’s story, you’ll come away from the house realizing you didn't know very much at all.

Rijksmuseum Arrow

Reborn in 2013 after a decade-long, $441 million revamp, this is the biggest of Amsterdam’s “big three” museums. Yes, there are plenty of galleries of Golden Age paintings, though with 8,000 masterworks on display, this isn’t a niche affair. Model ships, rich costumes, and Asian art figure into the museum’s well-paced chronological trot from the Middle Ages to Mondrian. The museum app, with its 14 themed tours, is well worth downloading for free from the Apple Store and the Wi-Fi is good enough to make wayfinding a breeze.

Café de Sluyswacht Arrow

Everything about this old-school pub—from the adorably lopsided building, to the fab canal views, to the well-priced beers—embodies Dutch gezellig: a cozy, fun, relaxing atmosphere where people feel totally at home. Part of the charm of drinking at Café de Sluyswacht is embracing its quirks: step inside, and everything—from the stone floors to the staircase to the wood-beamed ceilings—tilts to one side, making you feel like you’ve had one too many before you’ve even had your first sip. Originally built in 1695 as a residence for the sluyswacht (the person operating the neighboring lock), this canal-side watering hole offers fantastic views of the Montelbaanstoren tower to one side and the Rembrandthuis to the other.

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There’s something odd about a Gothic church that’s located in the Red Light District and surrounded by brothels, but that’s Amsterdam in a nutshell. Consecrated in 1306, Oude Kerk is the oldest surviving building in the city. The artist Rembrandt was a regular visitor; in fact, his children were christened here. And while you’ll find many typical medieval church trappings—vaulted ceilings, centuries-old paintings, ancient gravestones embedded in the floor—the building officially was designated as a museum in 2016. It hosts two site-specific exhibitions annually, featuring top international contemporary artists. All in all, this is a great place for a moment of quiet reflection if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the seediness of the Red Light District.

Van Gogh Museum Arrow

This Dutch institution welcomed more than 2.1 million visitors in 2019, making it the most visited museum in the Netherlands. The Potato Eaters , Wheatfield with Crows and, yes, the postcard-perfect Sunflowers series are all among the 200-strong painting collection. But this is more than just a rundown of van Gogh’s greatest hits. Drawings and letters dive into the artist’s depression (and that ear incident), there’s a video installation charting his rise, and works by the first generation of artists to be inspired by him are on view. Save the speed-walking for elsewhere; this is one where you'll want to linger.

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The western part of the Canal Ring is a labyrinthine neighborhood, known as De Negen Straatjes (the Nine Streets), filled with independent shops. The act of shopping becomes a full-on afternoon activity as you wander the brick sidewalks searching for the perfect quirky souvenir or gift. It’s full of designer and vintage boutiques, cutting-edge galleries, quaint cafes, and delightfully cluttered antique shops.

Stubbe’s Haring Arrow

You’ll probably smell this timeworn, flag-festooned fish kiosk before you even spot the queues along the Singel canal, about 550 yards from Centraal Station. Below the quirky sign—the superscript ‘s’ of Stubbe’s is appealingly slapdash—Dutch matrons in striped aprons deliver salty, slippery herring, a rite of passage for Amsterdammers. Smoked eel, anchovies, and shrimps are all on the menu, but raw herring is what you want. If you’re not so sure about eating the fish au naturel, go for the herring roll, offsetting the salt with soft white bread, chopped onions, and sweet, crunchy pickles.

Nieuwe Diep Distillery (‘t Nieuwe Diep) Arrow

Nestled alongside a tranquil pond, this distillery and tasting room is set inside a quaint 19th-century pump house, complete with rustic wood floors and old-timey black-and-white photos on the walls. But it’s the waterfront terrace, open seasonally, that’s the real draw: Surrounded by greenery with views over the tree-encircled pond, it’s the most idyllic drinking spot in the whole of Amsterdam. The drinks are almost secondary to the scenic setting, but here you can sample 100 different jenevers (Dutch gin) and liqueurs, all made on-site in the distillery. We admit, it’s one of the more off-the-beaten-track drinking destinations, but enjoying traditional Dutch spirits in this enchanting pastoral setting makes it well worth the trip.

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50 best things to do in amsterdam.

During a 50-year project in the 17th century Amsterdam grew to four times its previous size, becoming the 3rd largest city in the world after London and Paris. Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands but the Dutch parliament is seated in The Hague .

Central to that plan was the Canal Belt, a network of concentric canals that is now UNESCO listed.

Built on reclaimed land, Amsterdam is a feat of ingenuity, and still crackles with the ambition, cultural tolerance and enterprise that drove the 17th-century Golden Age when the Netherlands led the world in trade, maritime power, culture and economic might.

This is the city of Rembrandt, Anne Frank, the Red Light District, Johan Cruyff, and the Dutch East and West India Companies; there’s a world of fascinating stories, spellbinding art and architecture that has stood the test of time.

TIP : Get the I Amsterdam City Card for free attractions, discounts and free public transport. And consider this top rated Volendam, Marken & Windmill tour

1. Museumplein

There’s more culture on this one square in the Museumkwartier than you’ll find in most other whole cities.

The Museumplein is in Amsterdam’s well-heeled Oud-Zuid district, noted for its plush properties, upmarket boutiques (Hoofstraat and Van Baerlestraat) and the city’s favourite park at Vondelpark.

So needless to say, we’ll keep coming back to this part of the capital on this list.

But your main goal has to be the grassy square and its cluster of world-beating museums.

The big ones all follow below, counting the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum and the Stedelijk Museum, as well as the Concertgebouw, one of the world’s best places to watch a classical concert.

The area took shape in the 1880s after the construction of the Rijksmuseum, and the square was re-landscaped in 1999. There are outdoor events and celebrations on the square all year, including a skating rink from November to February.

2. Van Gogh Museum

Opened in 1973, the Van Gogh Museum has the largest collection of works by Vincent Van Gogh in the world.

This includes 200 paintings, 500+ drawings and 750 letters, as well as pieces by contemporaries and influences like Rodin, Monet, Signac, Toulouse-Lautrec, Manet and Gauguin.

Van Gogh’s work is hung chronologically, presenting five different periods: Nuenen/Antwerp (1880-86), Paris (1886-88), Arles (1888-1889), Saint-Rémy (1889-90) and Auvers-sur-Oise (1890). There’s much to savour, but Sunflowers, Almond Blossoms, Bedroom in Arles and Wheatfield with Crows are indispensible.

With more than 2.1 million visitors a year, the Van Gogh Museum is the most popular museum in the Netherlands.

The advantage of booking a ticket with GetYourGuide.com is that you can skip the queue, heading straight for the blue lane at your allotted time, and spending a few hours under the spell of one of the great painters.

3. Rijksmuseum

An extraordinary showcase for Dutch art, applied art and historical artefacts, the Rijksmuseum beckons you through 800 years of Dutch history at a purpose-built neo-Gothic palace.

Some 8,000 pieces are on show at any one time, and for many people the museum’s pinnacle is the collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings.

There are masterpieces like The Milkmaid by Johannes Vermeer, The Night Watch by Rembrandt and Portrait of a Young Couple by Frans Hals.

You can embark on adventure through Dutch culture and design, via Delftware, textiles, glass, armour, costume, sculpture and stunning 17th-century dollhouses.

Two exhibits that give a sense of the Dutch Golden Age are the Hartog Plate, the oldest known artefact of European exploration in Australia, and the stern of the HMS Royal Charles, captured in the Raid on the Medway in 1667. Like the Van Gogh Museum the Rijksmuseum is almost always busy, so pre-booking with GetYourGuide.com will let you skip the line.

4. Anne Frank House

On the Prinsengracht, the Anne Frank House preserves the secret annexe where the young diarist Anne Frank hid from Nazi persecution from 1942 until she was captured along with her family and four other inhabitants in 1944. The rooms are on an enclosed courtyard behind a 17th-century canal house that served as the Dutch HQs of the spice and gelling companies Frank’s father Otto worked for.

Otto was the Frank family’s sole survivor after the Holocaust, and published his daughter’s diary in 1947. You’ll see the original copy of this defining work, as well as photographs and items belonging to the Frank family and the four other inhabitants of the annexe.

The secret rooms give a visceral sense of what it was like to live in hiding, while temporary exhibitions on persecution and fascism will inspire renewed vigilance.

Related tour :  Amsterdam Walking Tour: The Fascinating Story of Anne Frank

5. Stedelijk Museum

Open since 1895, the third of that trio of cultural giants on the Museumplein is the Stedelijk Museum, dedicated to modern and contemporary art, from Vincent van Gogh onwards.

All of the big art movements involving the Netherlands are represented, like Neo-Impressionism, De Stijl, Bauhaus, CoBrA and Pop art.

There’s painting, sculpture, installation art, video art prints, posters, graphic design and artists books.

You can feast your eyes on works by Piet Mondrian, Karel Appel, Willem de Kooning, Kandinsky, Cézanne, Chagall, Matisse, Andy Warhol, Jackson Pollock and Gilbert & George, to name a small few.

The late-19th-century main building was given a modern extension in 2012, nicknamed “the bathtub”, serving as the main entrance and making a big statement on the Museumplein.

Book online :  Amsterdam Stedelijk Museum Skip-the-Line Ticket

6. Hire a Bike

At 800,000 there are as many bikes as people in the centre of Amsterdam, probably the most cycle-friendly city in the world for its easy terrain and well-planned infrastructure.

Most streets have separate bike lanes, so you can get to wherever you want to go safely and quickly, and will feel like an Amsterdammer when you do it.

All ferries over the IJ allow you to take your bike on board for free.

You will not have to look hard for a rental centre, and MacBike, whose fleet is easily spotted by its red paint and logos, is the most widespread.

If you don’t want to look like a tourist there are plenty of companies with bikes purposely designed to help you blend in.

One rule to keep in mind is to cross tram tracks at an angle, because it’s easy to get caught in those grooves.

Guided tour :  3-Hour Guided Bike Tour of Historical Amsterdam

7. Vondelpark

Amsterdam’s park of choice is a tranquil strip of ponds, undulating lawns and mature trees pushing west from the Museumplein.

A fun piece of trivia about the park, landscaped in 1865, is that it is constantly sinking, and needs to be renovated every generation to avoid it being completely inundated with water.

The Openluchttheater puts on a vibrant schedule of free live music, musical theatre and cabaret from June to August.

Although the performances cost nothing to watch, it may be worth booking online to reserve a place.

The rose garden in the centre of the Vondelpark was planted in 1936 and grows more than 70 types of rose, while the park has a sculpture, The Fish (1965) by Pablo Picasso.

A very respectable way to spend an hour or so is at the neo-Renaissance Vondelparkpaviljoen, built in 1874. There’s a cafe, Vertigo, in the basement, with seating on the terrace outside.

8. Herengracht

Patrician’s Canal in English, the Herengracht is the first of the four main canals in the city centre’s Canal Belt.

This waterway was completed along with its neighbours in the 17th century as part of an expansion project that is now UNESCO listed.

As the name may tell you, the Herengracht was where Amsterdam’s social elite built their grand gabled houses, and that sense of prestige has continued into the 21st century.

Take your time as there’s much to see, and almost every building is a work of art.

You’ll pass the former office of the Dutch West India Company at Herenmarkt and one of Amsterdam’s oldest residences (built in 1590) at 81. The magnificent Bartolotti house (1617) at 172, considered the finest of all of Amsterdam’s Golden Age merchant’s houses, while the Classical terrace of the Cromhouthuizen merits a photo at 364-70. The most desirable location for a self-respecting regent or mayor was the Gouden Bocht (Golden Bend) after Leidsegracht, developed after 1663 and now home to banks and insurance companies.

Related tour :  City Canal Cruise

9. Museum Het Rembrandthuis

Amazingly, the house at Jodenbreestraat 4 where Rembrandt lived and worked from 1639 to 1658 has been kept as a museum to one of the masters of the Dutch Golden Age.

The house first went up in 1606 and was rebuilt around 1627. Come the early 20th century the building was in bad condition, but was restored by the eminent architect Karel de Bazel and opened as a museum in 1911. A new extension was built next door in the 90s, and this houses a huge collection of Rembrandt’s drawings and etchings, while the actual Rembrandt house reconstructs the artist’s living space and workshop.

There’s even an exhibition of broken pots found during an archaeological dig and dated to Rembrandt’s stay.

In 2010 the museum received its first painting by Rembrandt with the Tronie of an Old Man with Turban (1627-1628), followed by four panels from the series The Five Senses n 2017.

Ticket :  Rembrandt House Museum Entrance Ticket

10. Jordaan District

Whether it’s your first or tenth time in Amsterdam, you have to drop by this grid of little streets and filled-in canals bordered by the Singel.

Created during that great expansion in the 17th century, the Jordaan was first inhabited by Amsterdam’s working class and an international array of migrants, like Huguenots from France and Puritans from England, seeking the city’s famous religious tolerance.

Up to the 20th century the Jordaan was firmly a neighbourhood for the salt of the earth, as well as the radical left, and was gentrified in the second half of the 20th century to become a treasured shopping and nightlife district.

Explore the tight streets and sequestered courtyards, kick back at a snug little cafe, potter around the many specialty shops and galleries and visit the Noordermarkt for its organic farmers’ market on Saturdays.

De Negen Straatjes (nine little streets) are your first stop for boutiques, design shops and stylish bars.

Related tour:  4-Hour Food Tasting Tour of Jordaan

11. Canal Cruise

A canal cruise in Amsterdam is practically a cliché, but water is such an intrinsic part of the city that you have to get on board.

You’ll be granted the best views of those 17th-century merchant and patrician houses, the innumerable bridges, historic churches and cute houseboats.

Day or night, it’s an opportunity not to pass up; the only tricky part is working out which is the best cruise for you. GetYourGuide.com has an enormous choice, catering to all tastes.

Say you prefer more of a personal trip, there’s an hour-long guided cruise on a small vessel, or you can see sights like the Skinny Bridge and Golden Bend in lights on a 90-minute evening trip.

There are semi-open boat trips, in-depth cruises for people who want to see every inch of the canals, dinner cruises, unlimited drinks cruises, cocktail cruises and no end of combined experiences.

Tip : List of available Amsterdam Canal Cruises

12. Begijnhof

Founded sometime around the early 14th century, the Begijnhof is an enclosed courtyard established as a Beguinage, a community for lay religious women (beguines). Entered down a stairway from Spuiplein, it’s an oasis of peace, with a green wooded square surrounded by fine gabled houses.

As wooden buildings were outlawed in 1521, the Begijnhof was reconstructed in brick in the 17th and 18th century.

With one exception, Het Houten Huis (1420) standing on the southwestern frontage and officially the oldest house in Amsterdam.

Another of Amsterdam’s oldest monuments, the English Reformed Church, is also on Begijnhof, with roots as a 14th-century Catholic chapel.

You can also visit a hidden church, built behind the facades of a row of houses after public Catholicism was banned in the 16th century.

The last beguine passed away as recently as 1971.

13. Keizersgracht

The widest of the three main canals on the Canal Belt, Keizersgracht is between Herengracht and Prinsengracht and named for Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor (1459-1519). If the canal freezes in winter, no boats are allowed to pass through, in order to help keep the ice intact for skaters.

As with Keizersgracht’s neighbours, it pays to be methodical as you make your way, so you don’t miss anything.

At No. 44 are the Greenland Warehouses (1620), easily identified by their three crow-stepped gables.

As many as 50,000 litres of whale blubber could be stored in the basements of these buildings, a far cry from their current role as luxury apartments! The distinguished House with the Heads (1622) at No. 123 is adorned with the heads of six Roman gods and goddesses, while Felix Meritis (1788) at No. 324 was built by the Enlightenment society of the same name and hosted performances by the likes of Mozart and Brahms.

14. Dam Square

A square for the whole nation, Dam Square is traced by the Royal Palace, the National Monument (a remembrance obelisk from 1956) and the 15th-century Nieuwe Kerk.

Dam Square is at the point where the Amstel River was dammed in the 13th century, and was the scene of Amsterdam’s central market in Medieval times.

This space has a storied history, and not all of it is savoury.

Whenever there has been civil unrest, whether it was Anabaptists in the 16th century or students protesting the Vietnam War in the 1960s and 70s, Dam Square is the place where things have boiled over.

The last outbreak of violence was at the Coronation of Queen Beatrix in 1980, while there was a massacre on the square at the end of the Second World War.

On the lighter side, there’s a funfair on Dam Square for national occasions like Kings Day (27 April) and in the build-up to Christmas.

15. Prinsengracht

The third and outermost of Amsterdam’s three main canals is also the longest, and named for William, Prince of Orange, famed for his revolt against the Spanish.

Unlike the other waterways curling around the old centre, the Prinsengracht has traditionally been quite poor, in keeping with its location beside the Jordaan.

But there’s no lack of stunning Golden Age canal houses, joined by small workshops and dwellings, as well as rows of sweet houseboats on the water.

We’ve already mentioned the Anne Frank Museum, but there are also splendid 17th-century churches like the Noorderkerk and the soaring Westerkerk.

At No. 7 stands another of Amsterdam’s 14 hidden Catholic churches.

Also keep a lookout for the exceptionally narrow house at No. 245, just 1.4 metres wide (17th-century property tax was paid according to the width of a building). Every August the classical Prinsengrachtconcert is performed from a pontoon on the canal in front of the Hotel Pulitzer.

Unlike its neighbours the Herengracht and Keizersgracht, the innermost Singel is a canal that opens onto the IJ in the north.

In Medieval times this was Amsterdam’s outer moat, and was only used for shipping goods.

But in the 16th and 17th centuries the canal was widened and developed, and there are plenty of holdovers from the Golden Age on its refined banks.

It’s hardly surprising that Singel is one of the poshest parts of the city, with continuous rows of gabled canal houses.

Look for De Dolphijn at 140-142, built in 1600 and once home to Frans Banninck Cocq, the central figure in Rembrandt’s masterpiece, The Night Watch.

The Munttoren on the Muntplein, looming over the Bloemenmarkt, once belonged to one of the main gates in Amsterdam’s city wall.

17. Red Light District

At Oudezijds Achterburgwal, amid a historic cityscape boasting the Gothic Oude Kerk and the chaotic Nieuwmarkt square, is the world’s most famous Red Light District.

A product of the Dutch tradition of tolerance, the Red Light District is a difficult place to describe.

Because on the one hand brothels, peep shows, sex shops and theatres cater for most urges, but on the other, everything is strictly regulated, video surveillance pervades the area, there’s a rigid code (no photos whatsoever) and sex workers even have their own union.

In all senses, it’s a remarkable place, and there’s an information centre to help you make sense of it.

The wider De Wallen area has much more to recommend it, like eccentric shops, galleries, international restaurants, rickety gabled houses and the oldest canals in the city.

Red Light Secrets is a museum where the area’s prostitutes tell their own funny, moving and human stories.

Recommended tour :  Red Light District 2-Hour Walking Tour

18. Heineken Experience

After Heineken moved home to a modern facility on Amsterdam’s fringes in 1988 the monolithic 19th-century brewery building in the De Pijp district reopened as a museum to one of the world’s favourite pilsners.

Over four floors, this has evolved into the Heineken Experience, which will tell you all about the brand’s origins, when a student of Louis Pasteur worked with Gerard Adriaan Heineken in 1873 to develop a special yeast.

There are brewing artefacts like vast copper vessels still in situ, as well as multimedia exhibits, a bizarre 4D ride when you’ll find out what it’s like to be brewed and bottled, and, naturally, a tasting bar.

Book online :  Heineken Experience Ticket

19. NDSM Wharf

For an antidote to the tourist trail, this former industrial shipyard the size of ten football pitches on the north bank of the IJ has emerged as a whole cultural neighbourhood.

You can get there on the 906 ferry from the Centraal station, and one reason to make the trip is for the monthly flea market in the gargantuan IJ-hallen, thought to be one of the largest in Europe.

Everywhere at the NDSM Wharf, industrial remnants have been re-evaluated.

Take the waterside Pllek, where there’s a cafe in former shipping containers by an artificial beach.

For a night you won’t soon forget you can book a room at the Faralda Crane Hotel, literally a crane, but with three scenic luxury suites inside its column.

Be sure to keep one eye on the calendar for outdoor film screenings and annual events like the DGTL underground electronic festival in March.

20. Bike Tour

For the ultimate introduction to Amsterdam you can hop on a bike and take an all-encompassing three-hour tour of the city.

With GetYourGuide.com you can book this trip past the world-renowned canals and via all the sights that you can’t leave out of a first-time trip to Amsterdam.

So the Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House and Jewish Museum are on the itinerary, but because you’ll be in the company of a knowledgeable Amsterdammer you’ll also see things and hear stories that you might otherwise have missed.

Tours are given in English, French or German.

21. Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder

We’ve mentioned how, post-Reformation, Catholicism became a more secretive practise in Amsterdam, and at this 17th-century canal house you can visit a real Schuilkerk, or clandestine church.

In English, the name is “Our Lord in the Attic”, which as you can tell makes up the top three floors of this magnificent residence.

By the 19th century it had ceased to be used as a place of worship and was preserved as a museum in 1888. So while you can peruse a refined bourgeois house, decorated with period furniture, table clocks and Delft tiles, there are also religious treasures like paintings, marble altar columns, wooden liturgical fittings and silverware on show in the church upstairs.

As a whole Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder testifies to the religious tolerance of the time, because churches like this were open secrets intentionally ignored by the authorities.

22. Leidseplein

If you’re going out in Amsterdam, you’ll surely find yourself on Leidseplein at some point.

Directly on this central square are discos, cinemas, theatres, restaurants and a casino.

The most famous of Amsterdam’s coffee shops, the Bulldog, is on Leidseplein, while De Melkweg is a concert venue of real pedigree, hosting the Beastie Boys, U2, and Prince to name a few.

In summer Leidseplein is dominated by restaurant and cafe terraces, and crowds roll up to watch a colourful cast of jugglers, living statues, break-dancers and buskers do their thing.

As sights go, the neo-Renaissance Stadsschouwburg (1894) is an attention-grabber and is the former home of the National Ballet and Opera.

If AFC Ajax win something big, there’s usually a big celebration from the steps of this monument.

There’s an unforgettable image of Johan Cruyff holding the Cup Winners’ Cup aloft over the square in 1987.

23. Tropenmuseum

A nuanced and thoughtfully presented ethnographic museum, the Tropenmuseum is tour through the various cultures of the world.

The museum started life as a platform for the Netherlands’ colonial territories, but after Indonesia gained independence the scope switched to developing regions in general.

These include Latin America, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, South Asia, West Asia and North Africa, all with an emphasis on tolerance and care for the environment.

There’s a mine of intriguing objects, photographs, sketches and footage helping to find global common ground in aspects of life like celebration, conflict, mourning and prayer.

The building is a treasure too, dating to 1926 and featuring the Lichthal (Light Hall), a massive central space with a grand stairway, all overlooked by galleries.

Book online :  Tropenmuseum Entrance Ticket

24. Westerkerk

Amsterdam’s principal protestant church dates from the 1620s and was built in the most western part of the Canal Belt, beside the Jordaan.

At that time, not long after the Reformation, it was one of the city’s first purpose-built Protestant places of worship.

Walking around Amsterdam’s old centre, the church’s 85-metre tower, the highest in the city, will occasionally hove into view.

Anne Frank could see it from her secret annexe and mentioned the tower and its carillon several times in her diary.

Looking up from street level, the 51-bell carillon is just above the clock-faces, and the 14 largest bells in the set were cast by the greatest founder of the day, François Hemony in 1658. Rembrandt is buried at the Westerkerk, although the exact location of his tomb is unknown as he was destitute when he passed.

There’s a 20th-century memorial for him on the north wall, and every 15 July he is remembered with a lunchtime concert.

25. Portuguese Synagogue

If one monument could sum up just what a melting pot Amsterdam was in the 17th century it’s this Sephardic Jewish synagogue.

After being expelled from Spain and Portugal, a Sephardic Jewish community flourished in the safety of Amsterdam’s tolerant environment from the 16th century onwards.

Initially worship was confined to relative secrecy, but as the 17th century wore on, synagogues were permitted in prominent places.

Completed in 1675 the Portuguese Synagogue was the largest in the world at the time, and one of the largest monuments in the city.

Even now, you’ll be bowled over by the dimensions of this Classical building (mimicking the demure Baroque style of the Protestant churches at the time) and can visit Sunday to Friday all year round.

Note the wooden ark and tebah, and the 12 columns holding up the women’s gallery, one for each of Israel’s twelve tribes.

26. Magere Brug

This imposing bascule bridge over the Amstel, known in English as the “Skinny Bridge”, may not look so slim today.

Because the name is a holdover from a 17th-century structure that was so narrow that two pedestrians would struggle to pass each other on the crossing.

Tradition has an alternative explanation, suggesting that the name comes from the Mager sisters, who lived on opposite sides of the Amstel and used their wealth to build the bridge so they could visit each other.

The original skinny bridge was demolished in the 19th century, and its successor from 1871 was replaced by the current Magere Brug in 1934. It’s a handsome landmark, especially at night when lit up by thousands of bulbs, and Bond fans may know it from Diamonds Are Forever (1971).

27. Hermitage Amsterdam

The largest satellite attraction for Saint Petersburg’s Hermitage Museum can be found at the riverside Amstelhof.

This fine building with an elongated Classical facade was built in 1682 as a charitable retirement home for women.

The last inhabitants departed for new accommodation in 2007, and over the next couple of years the Amstelhof became a mini-Hermitage.

There’s a long connection between Amsterdam and Saint Petersburg, as Peter the Great founded the city in 1703 after visiting Amsterdam and relied on Dutch knowhow to turn swampy ground into something habitable.

There are two permanent exhibitions here; one going into the history of the Amstelhof, and the other charting Netherlands-Russia relations.

The temporary exhibitions are vital.

In the second half of 2018 there was a show for 18th-century European Neoclassicism, and a set of 30 portraits from the Dutch Golden Age.

28. Amsterdam North Ferry

Amsterdam is a city with endless inspiration for free activities, and something that always catches newcomers by surprise is the free ferry 24-hour service over the IJ from the Centraal Station terminal.

Amsterdam-Noord is green and peaceful, for a respite from the tourism honeypots on the opposite shore.

The EYE and A’Dam Toren will literally be your first ports of call as you step off the ferry.

But you may want to bring a bike and see Amsterdam’s residential side in an area described as a “village within a city”. If you’re really committed you could cycle all the way to Durgendam, a quaint old village on the water.

A little closer, Noorderpark has an award-winning swimming complex and two community centres at repurposed gas stations.

29. EYE Film Institute Netherlands

Impossible to miss on the other side of the IJ from the Centraal station, the EYE Film Institute Netherlands is in a bold white building designed by Delugan Meissl and unveiled in 2012. The institute came about after four film institutions, including the Dutch Film Museum, were rolled into one in 2009. You can get there via the free ferry across the IJ, a journey worth making, whether you want to check out the permanent and temporary exhibitions or catch some independent cinema (four screens), archive documentaries or classics from Tarkovsky to Rademakers.

The basement has a clever exhibition on the history of cinema, with interactive quizzes to keep kids on board, while there are thought-provoking multimedia art installations throughout.

The EYE’s restaurant is special, with views through floor-to-ceiling windows to the Centraal station.

30. A’Dam Lookout

Reopened and launched as the A’DAM Toren after a two-year renovation, this landmark tower was built on the north shore of the IJ for Royal Dutch Shell in 1966. With 22 floors the tower is 100 metres high and commands a supreme view of the IJ, Amsterdam’s historic centre, it’s many canals and out across North Holland’s reclaimed polder landscape.

At the top there’s a smart interactive exhibition about Amsterdam’s culture and past, while in the revolving capsule on the 19th floor is Moon, a contemporary restaurant using local, seasonal ingredients.

On the floor above, at the observation deck, Madam, is a modern French and Mediterranean eatery.

Something to try before you eat anything is, “Over the Edge”, Europe’s highest swing, off the edge of the building and 100 metres over the ground.

Book online :  A’DAM Lookout Premium Ticket Including 2 Drinks

31. Westergasfabriek

A set of late-19th-century industrial buildings on the edge of Westerpark was reworked into a cultural, shopping and dining venue in 2003. This was once Amsterdam’s gasworks, and the dignified old brick buildings are now hip restaurants, an arthouse cinema, microbrewery, design shops, fair trade food stores, a wine bar and exhibition spaces.

Even the gas holder has been repurposed, and with a capacity of 3,500 is now a spectacular space for club nights.

Any time of year there will be something going on at Westergasfabriek, whether it’s a film festival, exhibition or specialised food market.

32. Nederlands Scheepvaartmuseum

Set on some 18,000 wooden piles on an artificial island in Amsterdam’s Harbour, the National Maritime Museum is in the Dutch admiralty’s former main warehouse, constructed in 1646. Even now it’s a staggering technical feat, with an inner courtyard that has been covered with an immense glass canopy.

Since the Netherlands’ hegemony in the 17th century relied on maritime prowess, the museum inside is essential if you want to understand the dynamics of the Golden Age.

The museum shows how the sea has shaped Dutch culture over 500 years, with displays of maps by the eminent 17th-century cartographers Willem Blaeu and son, navigational instruments, maritime paintings, models of ships, weapons and lots more.

Moored beside the museum is a faithful replica of the Amsterdam, an 18th-century Dutch East India Company cargo ship wrecked in the channel in 1749 but rediscovered in 1969.

33. Royal Palace

This expansive building on Dam Square wasn’t always a palace, as it was built as Amsterdam’s city hall in the middle of the 17th century.

Composed of yellowy sandstone shipped from Bentheim in Germany, the monument captures a city full of confidence and was believed to be the largest secular building in Europe at the time.

It was Louis Napoleon who turned the building into a palace in 1806, and there are ample reminders from the city hall days.

The sculpture of Atlas crowning the pediment symbolises Amsterdam’s central role in global affairs in the Golden Age.

The Burgerzaal, for Amsterdam’s all-powerful burgomasters, is a sublime marble hall, laid with maps by the Blaeus and has figurative sculptures of the four elements on its arches.

The Empire Style sculpture, furniture, chandeliers and bronze pendulum clocks of Louis Napoleon’s court are still in place and suffused with mythological symbolism.

Book online :  Skip the Line Ticket & Audio Guide: Amsterdam Royal Palace

34. Moco Museum

The well-connected art lovers Lionel and Kim Logchies founded this boutique contemporary art museum in 2016. Two decades worth of contacts have granted the couple access to some major pieces previously hidden away from the public, so you’re sure to see something new.

In 2018 there was an exhibition of works by Banksy, the first formal collection of his art in the world.

This included icons like the Flower Thrower and Girl with Balloon, all complementing the Banksy police van, owned by the museum and on show in the garden.

At the same time there was an interactive room with the work of pop artist Roy Lichtenstein rendered in 3D, and a show for the feted Iranian street artists Icy and Sot.

A word for the venue, which is a Jugendstil townhouse on Museumplein, designed in 1904 by Eduard Cuypers.

Book online:  Moco Museum: Skip-the-Line Tickets with Banksy and More

35. Foodhallen

A former tram depot in the ultra-trendy Oud-West neighbourhood is the fitting location for an indoor food market (part of the larger De Hallen complex) with a diversity of little pop-up restaurants.

There are more than 20 in all, and the big choice means that even the pickiest eaters will find something to their taste.

People with a globetrotting palate will have to choose between Greek meze, temaki rolls, oysters shucked on the spot, American barbecue, Vietnamese summer rolls, falafel, dim sum, tapas, gourmet hot dogs, wood-fired pizzas… the list goes on.

Much of Foodhallen’s charm comes from its fun, convivial atmosphere, and things can get pretty lively here on a Friday or Saturday night.

Head up to the gallery for a great view of the hall.

Tip : List of Amsterdam Food Tours

36. Concertgebouw

On its 125th anniversary the stately Concertgebouw concert hall on the Museumplein was bestowed the Koninklijk (Royal) prefix by Queen Beatrix.

And with good reason, because the Concertgebouw is one of the world’s great concert halls with a Main Hall fabled for its finery and acoustics perfectly suited to late-Romantic classical music.

So for a bit of Mahler and Strauss, check out the programme.

But you can also attend a free lunchtime concert in the Recital Hall on Wednesdays (July and August excepted). There are guided tours of the Concertgebouw on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, taking you to parts of the building you wouldn’t otherwise see, and passing on interesting stories from this monument’s 130-year past.

37. Albert Cuyp Markt

In Oud-Zuid’s De Pijp there’s a street-length outdoor market on Albert Cuypstraat, from Ferdinand Bolstraat to Van Woustraat.

The Albert Cuyp Market came together at the turn of the 20th century to bring some order to the hordes of traders and hawkers who would set up shop here.

Originally just a Saturday night affair, the market trades Monday to Saturday during daytime hours, with 300 stalls on both sides of the street completely shutting down traffic.

You can find it all here; fresh produce, cheese, herring, spices, fabrics, cosmetics, fashion accessories, but also Surinamese, Moroccan and Antillean specialities.

The high competition keeps prices low and there may not be a better place to see real Amsterdammers going about their day.

38. Fashion for Good

Right on Rokin in the centre of Amsterdam is the world’s first museum devoted to sustainable fashion innovation.

At Fashion for Good, which only opened in October 2018, you’ll be confronted by the absurd wastefulness of the fashion industry in the 21st century.

For instance, almost 60% of all clothing ends up in landfill or being burnt within one year of production.

Using installations made with found or cradle-to-cradle materials, Fashion for Good shows off the work of some 50 innovators who aim to right some of the industry’s wrongs.

Take Mycotex, which produces fabrics using myco-proteins, or Colorfix, creating dyes from engineered microorganisms.

You’ll find out about biodegradable glitter and polyester, lifelike leather made from apples and see how blockchain technology is changing production.

Everything in the museum’s shop is sustainable, and the Design Studio lets you create your own sustainable t-shirt, printed on site.

39. Hortus Botanicus

The Plantage neighbourhood was planned as an eastern extension of the Canal Belt, but lack of demand for housing in the 17th century allowed this corner of the city to stay leafy and spacious.

There’s a surplus of visitor attractions in this corner of Amsterdam.

One of the most vital is Hortus Botanicus, founded in 1638 and among the oldest botanical gardens in the world.

In those early years the garden grew medicinal herbs for doctors and pharmacists at a time when plague outbreaks were still common.

Hortus Botanicus moved to its current location in 1682 and was soon planted with species gathered from all ends of the earth by the Dutch East India Company.

More than 6,000 plant species grow at Hortus Botanicus today, and remarkably, a single coffee plant in this collection lead to widespread plantations around the world.

Don’t miss the 17th-century hexagonal pavilion, or the cycads in the Palm House (1915), built in the style of the Amsterdam School.

40. Amsterdam Museum

You couldn’t be blamed for wanting to know more about a city built on stilts and renowned for free thought, tolerance, Johan Cruyff, the Dutch East India Company, architectural innovation, a famous Red Light District and much more.

You can pull on all of these threads and many more at the Amsterdam Museum.

The setting is a former convent that became an orphanage during the Reformation.

For a whirlwind tour through Amsterdam’s past, Amsterdam DNA is an hour-long experience using interactive stations, specially selected artefacts and ambient effects.

World – City is a new permanent exhibition exploring Amsterdam’s relationship with the rest of the world down the centuries.

One exceptional piece is the Medieval aerial map from the Middle Ages, and the painting The Dam by the leading Amsterdam Impressionist George Hendrik Breitner.

Book online :  Amsterdam Museum Entrance Ticket

41. Joods Historisch Museum

The only museum dedicated to Jewish history in the Netherlands is in a complex of four synagogues dating back to 1671, opposite the Portuguese Synagogue.

Joint tickets are sold for these attractions, and the Joods Historisch Museum gives an enthralling account of 400+ years of Judaism in Amsterdam.

These buildings had been unused by the Jewish community from the Holocaust up to the museum’s establishment in 1987. The collection of ceremonial objects, art and archaeological finds is enormous, and only a small fraction can be shown at one time, along with important exhibitions, often delving into the community’s persecution in the Second World War.

There’s also a media library, with books, music, magazines, film, brochures and photography, open to the public since 1987. A wonderful touch is the Children’s Museum, where kids can go inside a Jewish household, baking challah in the kitchen, learning to write their names in Hebrew and playing traditional musical instruments.

Included in :  Jewish Cultural Quarter Full-Day Tickets

42. ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo

Founded in 1838, this venerable institution in the Plantage neighbourhood is the oldest zoo in Amsterdam and also the oldest in the Netherlands.

So some of the charm of Artis comes from its historic buildings, like the library (1867) and aquarium (1882). Children of course will be thrilled with the animal collection, which runs to as many as 900 species.

Just to skim over a few, there are Asian elephants, chimpanzees, giraffes, caiman, a large assortment of turtles, tortoises, snakes and lizards, as well as predators like jaguars, lynxes, Alaskan wolves and lions.

Artis has a botanical appeal too, with more than 200 tree species, and an oak in the chimpanzee enclosure thought to be at least 250 years old.

Check the website for the planetarium schedule and for a timetable of keeper talks for griffon vultures, butterflies, African penguins, gorillas, red ruffed lemurs, sea lions and more.

Book online :  ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo: Skip-the-Line Admission

43. Verzetsmuseum

Facing the zoo is a museum about the Dutch Resistance in a grand building raised for the Jewish Singing Society in 1876. Neatly designed, and using lots of multimedia, exhibitions at the Verzetsmuseum recount the efforts made to disrupt German occupation.

At Risk of Explosion! you can find out about an audacious attack on the Municipal Register in 1943. A group of artists and students gained access by dressing up as police, leaving behind a bomb which partially destroyed the records of the 70,000 Jews living in Amsterdam.

There’s also a more general chronology of the Second World War in the Netherlands, and the many different ways that ordinary Dutch citizens resisted, from strikes, to espionage, helping people hide and forging documents.

44. Johan Cruyff Arena Tour

In 2018 the Amsterdam ArenA, home of AFC Ajax was renamed in honour of fabled former player and manager Johan Cruyff, who passed away in 2016. For students of the beautiful game, Ajax will always be fascinating, as the club that gave the world Total Football in the 1970s and continues to produce some the world’s most exciting young talent.

This 55,000-seater stadium was completed in 1996 and included a few innovations like a fully retractable roof.

Head here for a 75-minute all-access tour (the Ajax dressing room is off-bounds on match-days), taking you to the tunnel, dugout, the Ajax Gallery of Fame, the press conference room, the stadium’s control room and up to the highest seat.

Book online :  Johan Cruijff ArenA Stadium 75-Minute Tour

45. TonTon Club West

The Zuiverlingshal (Refinery) at Westergasfabriek houses one of three branches of a grown-up arcade concept that has taken Amsterdam by storm.

Along with old-school coin-op arcade games there’s air-hockey, pinball and token-redemption machines.

It’s like stepping into a grown-up version of an arcade from an 80s teen movie, with Japanese flourishes, ramen burgers, Dance Dance Revolution, rhythm games like Taiko no Tatsujin and no shortage of frantic button mashers.

You can order a boozy milkshake, nurse a Japanese whisky, and when the weather’s good you can hang out on the terrace.

46. Museum Het Schip

The outstanding example of the Amsterdam School of Expressionist Architecture lies just across the tracks from the Westerpark.

Designed by Michel de Klerk, Het Schip (1919) is still a thrill to behold a century later for its unconventional form.

It still fulfils its intended purpose, as social housing, but also contains a meeting hall, while its former post office became a museum to the Amsterdam School in 2001. This recalls the history of the movement, from 1910 to 1930 and explains the design and construction of the Het Schip (The Ship in English), a real architectural wonder.

After seeing the museum you’ll spot the Amsterdam School’s curving lines all over the city.

Also be sure to take a walk around the neighbourhood, for more architecture of this style and to see a side to the city not usually on tourists’ radars.

47. Give Herring a Try

As Dutch as it gets, soused herring now has a European TSG designation (Traditional Specialities Guaranteed). The flavour of young herring ripened in a brine solution may not appeal to people who haven’t grown up with it, but you won’t know if you like it until you try it.

The best herring is Hollandse Nieuwe, which is caught between mid-May and late-June at a time when the young herring is neither too thin or fat.

The Amsterdam way to enjoy this street food is in slices on a bed of diced raw onion and with pickles on the side, either on a paper plate or in a bread roll.

One of the most prominent spots is Stubbe’s Haring, on the bridge across the Singel, a moment from Amsterdam Centraal station.

48. Bloemenmarkt

On the Singel canal between Koningsplein and the Muntplein is the world’s only floating flower market.

Since 1862 traders have been selling cut flowers and bulbs here from houseboats.

In days gone by the flowers would make their way here from the countryside by boat on the Amstel River, which explains this waterborne setting.

These barges are now fixed, and have glass canopies to keep things humid.

These mirror the greenhouses right across Holland, producing daffodils, orchids, carnations, violets, geraniums, snowdrops and of course tulips, even out of season.

The Bloemenmarkt sells bulbs all year, so you can grow your own, while tulip season tends to fall between the middle of April and start of May.

This is a fine time to hop on a train to see the spectacular spring displays at the Keukenhof garden in Lisse.

49. Head for the Beach

The dense Dutch railway network means that North Sea coast resorts like Zandvoort and Scheveningen are genuine day-trip options from Amsterdam in summer.

But curiously, you can also hit the beach without leaving the city, at a host of man-made urban beaches attached to bars and restaurants.

Strand Zuid at Europaplein has more than 2,000 square metres of soft sand, where you can sip a cocktail on a hammock or sun lounger.

You can also cross the IJ once more to Pllek at NDSM in Amsterdam-Noord, which has a heart-rending view of the city and a sustainable outlook to go with it.

Three quarters of Pllek’s menu is vegetarian, and along with live music there are yoga classes, mini festivals, workshops and art exhibitions on the beach.

50. Brouwerij ‘t IJ

Founded in 1985, Brouwerij ‘t IJ came with a wave of local breweries catering to people who were dissatisfied with beer produced by the Netherlands’ corporate breweries.

It was set up on Funenkade, in the shadow of De Gooyer, the tallest windmill in the Netherlands.

The brewery makes eight highly-rated standard beers, including a pilsner, IPA, white beer and dark beer.

You may be surprised by the low price, and the portions are small enough that you might be able to try most of the range if you go slowly.

Classic Dutch pub snacks like Ossenworst (raw beef sausage) and boiled eggs make for satisfying accompaniments.

If you’re interested in how water, hops, malt and yeast combine to make this nectar, there are 20-minute brewery tours from 15:30 on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

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31 Epic Things to Do in Amsterdam (Perfect First Time Visit)

Things to do in amsterdam: the 30 best places to visit (all highlights).

You want to visit Amsterdam during your next trip?

Great idea!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 31 best things to do in Amsterdam , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

The famous Red Light District, the Rijksmuseum, the Royal Palace, the best coffee shops … I will tell your everything you need to know for an amazing stay!

In addition to my list of things to do and activities, I will also give you optimized itineraries to visit Amsterdam in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days (or even 1 week!) as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Amsterdam? Where to stay?

1. Dam Square

2. the royal palace of amsterdam, 3. the rijksmuseum amsterdam, 4. amsterdam’s red light district, 5. the coffee shops, 6. amsterdam canal cruise, 7. visiting amsterdam by bike, 8. anne frank house, 9. jordaan district, 10. van gogh museum, 11. amsterdam dungeon, 12. zuiderkerk church, 13. begijnhof, 14. the flower market/bloemenmarkt, 15. a’ dam lookout, 16. nieuwmarkt, 17. vondelpark, 18. the skinny bridge, 19. the cheese museum, 20. albert cuyp market, 21. oude kerk, 22. other museums to visit in amsterdam, 23. heineken experience, 24. shopping in amsterdam, 25. zaanse schans, 26. the waterland villages, 27. keukenhof, 28. haarlem, 29. zandvoort, 30. giethoorn, things to do in amsterdam with kids, how many days to visit amsterdam, 1 day in amsterdam, 2 days in amsterdam, 3 days in amsterdam, 4, 5 or more days in amsterdam, where to stay in amsterdam, where to eat in amsterdam, getting to amsterdam, hiring a boat in amsterdam, tourist map of amsterdam, you’re traveling to the netherlands these articles will help you .

Let’s start this guide of Amsterdam with Dam Square, the historical center of the city located in the old town.

It’s also where the first dam was built on River Amstel, hence its name.

Dam Square (also known simply as ‘Dam’) is today the meeting point of all Amsterdam’s most vibrant streets and shopping areas .

On Dam Square, you can see:

• The National Monument, a column of white stones dedicated to victims of the Second World War
• Amsterdam’s Royal Palace (I tell you more about it a bit below)
• The Nieuwe Kerk or “New Church”: construction of this Gothic style church started in 1408. The Nieuwe Kerk has been the place of investiture of many Dutch monarchs, and today hosts exhibitions.
• Madame Tussauds museum
• The NH Collection Amsterdam Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky: a luxurious 5* hotel with views over the square.

If you’re visiting Amsterdam , you should purchase the I Amsterdam City Card .

This City Card includes free entry to over 70 of Amsterdam’s museums and tourist attractions such as the Rijksmuseum and the A’DAM Lookout .

You can also enjoy unlimited access to public transport, plus a canal cruise!

When booking, you can opt for a validity duration between 1 and 5 days.

You can see all the attractions and activities included and buy the City Card Amsterdam by clicking on the green button below:

If you don’t want to buy the city pass, you can also buy your fast track tickets for each tourist attraction separately. I’ll give you all the links to book your tickets throughout this article.

The Royal Palace of Amsterdam or “Paleis op de Dam” is located on Dam Square.

Built in the 17th century , it was initially used as a Town Hall before serving as a royal residence from the 19th century.

At that time, it was the largest administrative building in Europe and the city’s inhabitants were so proud of it that they nicknamed it “the eighth wonder of the world”.

Today, the palace is used by the royal family during official visits.

The rest of the time, you can visit its interior and discover the different rooms featuring numerous paintings, sculptures and period furniture.

You should buy your fast track tickets + audio guide for the Palace of Amsterdam in advance. It’s not more expensive, and it will make you save a lot of time!

You need to book your tickets by clicking on the green button below:

A good way of making sure you don’t miss out on any of Amsterdam’s tourist sites (apart from reading this article!) is to opt for a private tour with a local guide.

Lasting between 2 and 6 hours and available in English , your private tour can be fully tailored to your wishes .

You need to book your guided tour of Amsterdam by clicking here:

What’s the best thing to do in Amsterdam if you’re interested in art?

Visiting the Rijksmuseum , the national museum of the Netherlands!

You’ll be part of the 2 million visitors who flock here each year to see the biggest collection of paintings from the Dutch Golden Age.

The Rijksmuseum is one of the world’s best-known museums and houses many masterpieces. Among the most famous are:

• The Milkmaid by Vermeer
• The Night Watch by Rembrandt
• Self-Portrait with Grey Felt Hat by Van Gogh.

If you don’t have much time, the finest canvases by Frans Hals, Jan Steen, Vermeer and Rembrandt are grouped together in the Gallery of Honour on the second floor.

The museum is open every day of the year from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm.

Entrance to the Rijksmuseum is included in the I Amsterdam City Card.

If you don’t have that City Pass, you should buy your fast track tickets for the Rijksmuseum in advance by clicking on the button below . It’s the best way to avoid waiting!

And if you want to learn everything about the works exhibited, you should opt for this guided tour of the Rijksmuseum in English:

Even if you don’t want to visit the Rijksmuseum, you should still go there to admire the museum’s magnificent architecture.

If you’re planning to visit Amsterdam in winter , make the most of it by renting skates and enjoying the ice rink in front of the museum!

The Red Light District is another place you shouldn’t miss during your trip to Amsterdam , though in quite a different vein!

This unique area is one of the city’s most popular among tourists . Red Light district is the place where you will see the famous window brothels , from behind which prostitutes attract their clients.

In Amsterdam, the world’s oldest profession is completely legal , and these women are required to pay their taxes just like any other worker. Don’t think about taking photos of the windows though: it’s not allowed.

A great way to discover Red Light District and learn more about Amsterdam’s liberal attitudes towards drugs and sex work is to opt for a guided tour in English:

Other types of visit can also be arranged. Click on the orange links for more information and to book:

• Visit Amsterdam’s Museum of Prostitution
• Brothel tour with a sex worker

Together with Red Light District, coffee shops became a symbol of the city.

Don’t get me wrong, this is not the place to go to enjoy a coffee (even if they do serve it), but to smoke marijuana!

In Amsterdam, it’s allowed here as long as it stays within the coffee shop walls. Smoking in the street, for example, is very much frowned upon.

And if you’re not keen on smoking, you can also consume cannabis in many other ways : tea, water pipes, cakes or lollipops.

If you plan to go to a coffee shop while you’re in Amsterdam , here are some tips:

• It’s forbidden to smoke tobacco
• They don’t serve alcohol
• The use of hard drugs is not permitted
• You will not be admitted if you are under-age
• Look carefully at the dosages: you should ask first, because the doses may be more concentrated than in other countries.

To learn more about the history of cannabis and to visit coffee shops with a guide , you should book this 2-hour tour:

If there is just one activity you really have to do in Amsterdam, it’s for sure the canal cruise !

Amsterdam canals are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Going on a boat trip in Amsterdam is one of the best ways to see the city’s architecture, the magnificent traditional buildings and some of the historic monuments.

And don’t forget that if you have the I Amsterdam City Card , you’re entitled to a free cruise!

There are several types of cruise to choose from with different durations, boat sizes and departure points.

I’ve picked out a few of the most popular (simply click on the orange links to see the details and to book):

• 75 minute cruise exploring the historic centre + audio guide
• 90 minute evening cruise to enjoy the city lights (great!)
• Luxury cruise with drinks and snacks included (fantastic!)
• 1 hour cruise with audio guide to admire the façades of the Dutch Golden Age houses
• 1 hour cruise in a semi-open electric canal boat another great cruise to enjoy the view.

Visiting Amsterdam by bike is a great way to explore the city.

This form of transport is king here: many Dutch people get around by bike, and there are cycle lanes everywhere . If you’re on foot by the way, you need to look out for bikes as much as you do for cars!

The best way to explore the city is thus to join a guided tour of Amsterdam by bike .

The GetYourGuide Original tour is especially awesome: during this 3-hour small group guided tour in English , you’ll have the chance to explore the main points of interest in Amsterdam, as well as some very traditional spots off the beaten track .

And as always with GetYourGuide Originals, if you are not fully satisfied of your tour, you will get a full refund!

To book your Amsterdam by bike tour, simply click on the button below:

You can also rent bicycles in Amsterdam by clicking here.

You’re going to Amsterdam?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in the large European capitals 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Tens of thousands of people will be visiting Amsterdam on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Amsterdam.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Amsterdam, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Amsterdam!

A visit to Amsterdam also means discovering a darker part of the city’s history.

For that, you should visit Anne Frank house.

Anne Frank is famous for her personal diary telling the story of the Frank family who hid in this house to escape the Jews’ persecution during the Second World War.

Today, the house had been turned into a museum, where you can wander through the different rooms containing extracts from Anne Frank’s diary, photos, and objects.

Note that entrance tickets for Anne Frank House can only be purchased online via the official website by clicking here.

80% of the tickets are made available online 2 months in advance, and the rest are released in tranches from 9.00 am each day.

Since the house is one of Amsterdam’s most popular tourist attractions, tickets go very quickly and it’s best to book in advance.

If you want to find out more about Anne Frank , you should take the really interesting guided tour in English.

Your guide will take you on a 2-hour tour of the Jewish Quarter and tell you stories about Anne Frank’s life at that time.

This guided tour is so good that it’s certified GetYourGuide Originals , which means you get a full refund if you’re not completely satisfied!

It needs to be booked by clicking on the link below:

• Anne Frank walking tour of Amsterdam.

The Jordaan is a must-see neighbourhood in Amsterdam.

This very picturesque part of Amsterdam was built in the 17th century to house craftsmen and workers .

Here are the best things to see in Jordaan neighbourhood:

• The Prinsengracht , the canal to the east
• The numerous typical red brick houses
• The vintage shops
• Anne Frank House, which I have just told you about
• Noordermarkt market
• The brown cafés which take their name from the walls blackened by cigarette smoke and their wooden interiors. These are a great place to get a beer and enjoy the really lively ambience.
• Westerkerk, the largest Protestant church in the Netherlands, with panoramic views over the whole neighbourhood from the bell tower. Entrance to the church is free but there’s a charge to visit the bell tower.

If you want to visit Jordaan district with a guide, you should book one the 2 activities below:

• Private 2-hour walking tour in English
• 3h30 guided gourmet tour in English, an amazing way to discover Dutch culinary traditions, with more than 10 tastings of local products!

Let’s continue your tour of Amsterdam with the Van Gogh Museum.

Like the Rijksmuseum, it’s located on Museumplein , Amsterdam’s Museum Square. It’s very popular, and welcomes millions of visitors each year.

As its name suggests, it’s dedicated to the famous Dutch artist and exhibits over 200 paintings as well as hundreds of his drawings and letters.

If you have bought the I Amsterdam City Card , entrance is free of charge (there’s even a separate fast entrance queue).

Without the pass, your only other option is to purchase a fast track ticket, otherwise you’ll have a long wait at the entrance.

You need to buy your ticket here:

Not far from the museum is the Concertgebouw, a world-renowned concert hall with exceptional acoustics .

You can visit the Concertgebouw or even see a performance during your holiday in Amsterdam.

Wondering what to do in Amsterdam , and wanna try something really unique?

You should go to the Amsterdam Dungeon!

Enter the torture chamber , witness a witch burning at the stake or watch a trial during the Spanish inquisition :

The dungeon offers you the chance to relive history through several shows performed by actors in period costume. You’ll of course be invited to join in and participate!

It’s very well done, and you will quickly get caught up in the slightly creepy and frightening atmosphere. Personally, I loved it!

The dungeon is one of Amsterdam’s must-see tourist attractions and there are sometimes queues of over an hour . So you should really purchase your tickets in advance by click on the button below:

The I Amsterdam City Card entitles you to a 25% discount on the entrance ticket to the dungeon.

Let’s continue your tour of Amsterdam with the Zuiderkerk church .

Built in the 17th century, this Renaissance style church is also known as “the Southern Church”.

You can’t visit the interior of the church (it’s currently undergoing renovation), but you can climb to the top of its bell tower to enjoy the view over the entire city . You must be accompanied by a guide, with tours departing every 30 minutes.

Amsterdam’s Beguinage (Begijnhof in Dutch) is one of the oldest inner courtyards in the city.

The buildings around the Begijnhof were once inhabited by the Béguines , a community made up exclusively of women, the last of whom died in 1971.

The premises are today private homes so visitors are asked to avoid making noise, and of course not to cross the fences to respect the residents’ peace and quiet.

The Begijnhof is also home to one of the oldest houses in Amsterdam. Built in wood in 1528, it’s the last wooden house still standing.

Due to fires, this type of construction was later completely banned.

The passageway that leads to the Begijnhof is open from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm.

If you want to bring tulip bulbs back home (one of the traditional souvenirs of a stay in Amsterdam) you should head to the flower market.

Located on one of the city’s oldest canals , the Singel, you’ll find tulips in every possible colour here (freshly cut, as bulbs, and even wooden tulips), as well as other flower seeds and bulbs . The market is really lovely and colourful.

There, you will also find classic souvenirs such as magnets, keychains, postcards, or Dutch traditional items such as clogs . You’ll be spoilt for choice!

Like most modern big cities in the world, Amsterdam has its own panoramic observation deck: A’DAM Lookout.

You can ascend to the top for an unobstructed view over the whole city . The most fearless among you can also enjoy a very special attraction at the top of the tower: Europe’s highest swing – adrenaline rush guaranteed!

The tower also has a revolving panoramic restaurant .

To get to the A’DAM Lookout , which is located on the other side of the river, you need to take a free ferry from Amsterdam central station to Buiksloterweg.

Entry to the A’DAM Lookout is included in the City Card Amsterdam.

Right next to the A’DAM Lookout, you can also try out “THIS IS HOLLAND” activity.

This interactive experience allows you to fly over the Dutch landscape for around ten minutes. For a fully immersive experience, the seats move and you can even smell the tulip fields, for example.

The City Card offers a discount on THIS IS HOLLAND. Otherwise, you’ll need to book your tickets online by clicking here.

The Nieuwmarkt is another famous square in Amsterdam. It’s located between Chinatown and the Red Light District.

In the centre of the square, you can see an old gateway to the city, the Waag, which looks like a small castle. Today, it has been converted into a café/restaurant.

Every morning, a traditional market is held on the square, and there is also a flea market on Sundays.

Where should you go in Amsterdam to enjoy a bit of greenery ? (and no, I’m not talking about the Coffee Shops 😋)

Head to the Vondelpark , the city’s most famous and largest public park . It’s not far from the Van Gogh Museum.

The park covers almost 45 hectares and features bars, restaurants , and children playgrounds. You can explore the very well-maintained paths on foot or by bike .

At the edge of the park, you can also take a look at Vondelkerk church, a really nice example of neo-Gothic architecture. Unfortunately, you can’t visit the inside, as it has been converted into offices.

In the summer, there are free open-air music, dance and theatre shows .

The Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug) is a bridge located in central Amsterdam.

I’ve got to admit that it doesn’t really have anything special at first sight, but it has its place in this list of top things to do in Amsterdam because of its history.

When it was built in 1670, it was so narrow that it was hard for 2 people to pass each other, hence its nickname the “Skinny Bridge” .

According to legend, it was first built to allow two sisters who each lived on a different side of the canal to see one another more often.

It was rebuilt in 1871 and then again in 1969 to allow more people to use it, and is today a traditional double leaf bascule bridge that opens to allow canal boats to pass through.

At night, it’s lit up with over 1.500 lights and becomes one of Amsterdam’s romantic hot-spots.

The bridge has been used as a set for several films, including a James Bond (“Diamonds are Forever”).

Along with tulips, the coffee shops and windmills, the traditional image of the Netherlands includes cheese.

So a visit to the Cheese Museum is a must! It’s located close to Anne Frank House , on the other side of the canal.

The museum (free of charge) is quite small and is located in the basement of a cheese shop.

On the ground floor, they are mainly Gouda of every conceivable type (pesto, truffle, chilli…) and in all possible colours, which you can taste for free.

If you’re a real food-lover, you might want to attend a cheese-tasting workshop during your visit to Amsterdam.

You’ll get to taste five cheeses made by Henri Willing who is known for his high-quality traditional cheeses , all served with local wines and beers.

Book your cheese-tasting in Amsterdam here.

Another good way to discover the local specialties in Amsterdam is to go to one of the food markets.

My favorite is Albert Cuyp Market, a local open-air market held from Monday to Saturday . The busiest Market in the Netherlands and one of the biggest in Europe takes place in De Pijp neighbourhood.

There are hundreds of stalls selling all sorts of cheeses , fruits and vegetables , fresh fish (if you’re feeling really brave, try the herring served with gherkins!).

You’ll also find flowers, clothing, souvenirs (a bit cheaper than elsewhere) and food stalls if you feel hungry.

You want to taste Dutch typical food while visiting the city?

The you should opt for the Amsterdam Food Walking Tour.

You will have a great time discovering the city with Mona, your guide, and trying several local specialties.

To book your Food Walking Tour in Amsterdam, simply click on the button below:

The Oude Kerk, the oldest church in Amsterdam, is located in Red Light District.

It was built around 1300 as a place of Catholic worship before being converted to the Reformed faith.

You can visit the interior of the church, but unfortunately it’s quite expensive (€15), and the church often hosts quite weird contemporary exhibitions which in my opinion don’t really fit the place and are not worth it.

So you should take a look at the exterior when you’re in Red Light District and go inside only if you have the I Amsterdam City Card , which gives you free entry.

A fun way to do some sightseeing in Amsterdam is to take a Segway trip.

During this 2-hour tour , your guide will show you some of the unmissable tourist sites, including the huge Museum Square, the Oude Kerk, and the canals , while entertaining you with stories and anecdotes about the city.

To book this Segway tour of Amsterdam , you need to click on the button below:

Wondering about what to do in Amsterdam when it rains?

In addition to the 2 world-famous museums (the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum) I talked about, the city is home to several other interesting museums. The good news is that there’s something interesting for every taste and age!

Another great thing is that most of them are free if you’ve purchased the I Amsterdam City Card.

Of course, if you don’t have the City Card, you can also book your entrance tickets in advance by clicking on the name of each museum (in orange).

Here’s a list of the museums you can visit in Amsterdam:

• NEMO : Amsterdam’s interactive and fun Science Museum
• The MOCO, dedicated to exhibiting works of contemporary and street art, including an exhibition dedicated to Banksy
• The Amsterdam Museum about the history of the city
• Rembrandt House Museum where the Dutch artist lived
• Stedelijk Museum, the museum of modern and contemporary art and design
• The National Maritime Museum of Amsterdam about the maritime history of the Netherlands
• Ripley’s Believe It or Not! , a museum with countless curiosities
• Madame Tussauds , with wax replicas of famous people
• Amsterdam Diamond Museum
• Tropenmuseum, the museum of ethnography
• Body Worlds, the famous display of real human bodies preserved using the technique of plastination.
• STRAAT Museum dedicated to street art
• The Upside Down a very fun museum where you can take original photos
• Hash Marijuana & Hemp Museum , the museum of cannabis

Beer-lovers should definitely join the Heineken Experience in the capital of the Netherlands!

You will be welcomed to the former Heineken brewery, built in 1867, where you will learn about the history of the company as well as the process of making beer.

And the visit wouldn’t be complete without enjoying a pint!

Book your tickets for the Heineken Experience by clicking on the button below:

If you prefer more elaborate drinks , you should rather opt for the House of Bols Experience.

Same idea as the Heineken, but here you’ll discover the liqueurs made by the oldest spirits brand in the world. A cocktail is included in the price.

To Book your tickets for the House of Bols Experience, you just need to click here!

Wondering where to go shopping in Amsterdam?

Easy: all over the city !

There are no big shopping centers in Amsterdam, but there’s a huge choice of stores around the pedestrian streets. You’ll find the usual names (Zara, H&M) as well as luxury boutiques.

For shopping, you should head to:

• Nieuwedijk, a 1 km long pedestrian street
• Kalverstraat for shoes, handbags and perfumes
• P.C. Hooftstraat, near the Rijksmuseum and the Vondelpark, for Cartier, Vuitton, Chanel and other luxury brands
• Nine Streets (De 9 Straatjes) with its original and vintage boutiques
• The Magna Plaza behind Dam Square for designer clothes
• De Bijenkorf, a department store selling fashion and decorative items.

The 6 best things to do near Amsterdam

Now that you know what to see in Amsterdam , let’s explore the area around the city.

From Amsterdam, you can go to many easily accessible places by bus, train or on an organized day trip.

Here are some of my favorite things to do and places to visit around Amsterdam:

Zaanse Schans is certainly the best-known attraction around Amsterdam!

The waterside windmills of Zaanse Schans really are the typical Netherlands postcard image. There, you will also find a shop selling cheese, clogs and souvenirs.

You can visit the different windmills (included with the City Card Amsterdam, otherwise it’s €5 per entry), and even enjoy a 25 minutes cruise around the windmills. It needs to be booked here .

There are also 2 museums :

• Zaandam Time Museum dedicated to clock-making, a speciality of Zaandam
• Zaans Museum, to learn more about the windmills.

To get to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam , you have 3 options:

1) Take bus no. 391 (leaves every 15 minutes) or 891 from central station. You can purchase your ticket by clicking here!

2) Take the train from central station (the journey takes 20 minutes and costs less than €5 one-way). Then, walk for about 15 minutes to get to the windmills.

3) Opt for an organized day trip that includes transport and a guide.

There are 3 main tours that include a visit to Zaanse Schans, with some small differences:

• A day trip with a visit to the windmills + 1 hour cruise + Volendam + Marken (2 Waterland villages I’ll tell you about in the next part). I think this is the best one! You need to Book it by clicking on the green button below:

And the other 2 options:

• A small group excursion of 3 hours with a guided tour/entry to the windmills/clog-making demonstration.
• Excursion to visit Edam + Volendam + Marken + Zaanse Schans + cheese-tasting .

Around Amsterdam , you should devote a day to visiting the Waterland villages.

To start exploring, simply purchase the “Waterlands Day Ticket” for 10€ from the automatic ticket machines at the central station. You can use it for all your bus journeys between Amsterdam and all the villages.

Before leaving, don’t forget to pass by the information centre at the station to get your map of the villages and bus lines.

Here’s the list of Waterland villages you should visit close to Amsterdam:

• Broek in Waterland, a picturesque village famous for its wooden houses and its church ceiling painted with angels
• Monninckendam where you can visit the Waterlands Museum and Saint Nicolas church
• Marken: a pretty small island featuring a harbour and waterfront restaurants. From there, you can take the boat ( the Marken Express ) to Volendam (one-way for €8.75/free of charge with the City Card/journey time: 30 minutes). You can also return to Monnickendam by bus and go from there to Volendam.
• Volendam: a very pretty village with lots of little shops and harbourside restaurants.
• Edam: a traditional and picturesque village with some really beautiful houses, perfect to stroll around.
• Purmerend: less traditional because this town is mainly a suburb of Amsterdam
• Beemster: a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its polder, a man-made stretch of land obtained by draining water. The Beemster lake was drained from the 17th century using 43 water mills – a true technical feat. You should also take a look at the square pyramid-roofed farmhouses.

To visit Waterland, you can also join an organized trip from Amsterdam .

Simply click on the orange link for more details and to book:

• Excursion to Edam + Volendam + Marken + Zaanse Schans + Cheese tasting .
• Visit to Volendam + Edam + Windmills

It would be a real shame to leave Amsterdam and the Netherlands without going to see the tulips (depending on the time of year).

The most famous place to admire these colourful flowers is Keukenhof Park.

Note that the period for visiting is very limited, as the park is open only from mid-March to mid-May and millions of visitors come to see the tulips.

Even if it’s super touristy, the sight of these 7 million flowers is truly magnificent and you should really go there if you’re in Amsterdam in spring. Keukenhof is the biggest tulip garden in the world , and you won’t have the opportunity to see it everyday!

Keukenhof is open from Monday to Sunday from 8.00 am to 7.30 pm. To get there, you can take one of the following buses:

• No. 852 from Amsterdam Europaplein
• No 858 from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
• No. 859 from Hoofddorp railway station.

You really do need to book your fast track tickets for the park in advance, you will save a lot of time!

The best time of day to visit the Keukenhof and get the most stunning photos is before 10.00 am or after 4.00 pm.

Haarlem is another small town you shouldn’t miss near Amsterdam.

And I have to confess, I didn’t expect it to be so beautiful!

The town is really picturesque with beautiful brick houses and a very impressive huge church (€2.50 entrance fees)

For your walk around Haarlem , you should first pass by the tourist office located on the church square. There, you can purchase a town map (50 cents) and they will also suggest walks you can do in the city .

If you only do one walk, you should opt for “Monumental Haarlem” which allows you to discover all the must-see attractions (the small leaflet also costs 50 cents).

To get to Haarlem from Amsterdam, take the train and you’ll be there in just 15 minutes.

The I Amsterdam City Card includes entrance to Frans Hals Museum and Teylers Museum as well as a canal cruise in Harlem .

Want to discover the Netherlands’coast and spend a bit of time at the beach near Amsterdam?

You should thus head to Zandvoort.

It’s just a 30 minute train ride to get to this Dutch seaside resort where you’ll find kilometres of fine sandy beaches !

It’s a great place to spend a relaxed day and an excellent opportunity to try out one of the numerous the seaside restaurants.

Another really nice place to visit in the Netherlands is the little Dutch village of Giethoorn , located about 1h30 drive from Amsterdam.

Often called the Venice of the North , this place is truly unique: there are no cars here, everyone gets around on foot, by bike or by small boat!

To explore Giethoorn, you should take a boat trip . It’s the best way to admire the thatched roof houses , bordered by large, well-maintained gardens full of flowers.

If you don’t have a car, your best bet to get there is to book a day trip from Amsterdam:

To help you plan your family holiday in Amsterdam, here are a few more things you can do with kids:

• Artis Amsterdam Royal Zoo (get billets here) : to see the giraffes, elephants, visit the planetarium, insectarium, aquarium and more. Free entry with the City Card Amsterdam.
• NEMO Science Museum which I already told you about under the museums section – The perfect museum for kids in Amsterdam!
• The Ripley’s Believe It or Not! museum
• The Lego shop located on Kalverstraat features amazing Lego reproductions and animations for kids
• Micropia, a museum dedicated to microbes and bacteria. Truly original and really well put together! It’s not far from the zoo.
• Madurodam , where you can see the main monuments of the Netherlands in miniature. A great family visit 1 hr 10 min drive from Amsterdam.
• A round of mini golf in the dark (get your tickets here) with sound and light effects.

There are so many places to visit and things to do in Amsterdam that the days will literally fly by , even though the city isn’t that big.

You should thus ideally plan at least 3 days to explore the city.

In order to help you make the most of your stay, I will now give you itineraries to visit Amsterdam in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or more days.

I’ve kept mentioning it all the way though the article, but if you want to save time and money , don’t forget to purchase the I Amsterdam City Card . It’s clearly the best solution!

You can see all the places that are included, and buy the City Card Amsterdam , by clicking on the green button below:

If you’ve decided to spend just a single day in Amsterdam , you have several options:

1) A walking tour of the city to see most of the sights from the outside.

My recommendation for you is to follow the itinerary below (starting from the very beautiful Amsterdam Centraal railway station):

• Damrak or the pedestrianized Nieuwendijk , 2 vibrant streets lined with shops
• The Jordaan district
• The flower market
• The Red Light District

2) Choose 1 or 2 of Amsterdam’s must-see museums:

• Follow the walk above until the flower market
• Reach Museumplein
• Visit the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum
• Take a stroll in Vondelpark or enjoy a canal cruise

3) If you don’t fancy walking but want to see Amsterdam’s main tourist attractions:

• Take the hop-on hop-off bus.
• Take a hop-on hop-off cruise. Same principle as the bus, but by boat.

If you’re planning to spend 2 days in Amsterdam, here is my suggested itinerary:

• Walk along Nieuwendijk to Dam Square
• Visit the Royal Palace of Amsterdam
• Now you have a choice: experience the Amsterdam Dungeon or visit the Amsterdam Museum to learn about the city’s history
• Walk through the inner courtyard of the Béguinage (Begijnhof)
• Visit the flower market
• Admire Zuiderkerk church and Nieuwmarkt square
• Explore the Red Light District and its very special shop windows
• Finish your tour with the Oude Kerk, the oldest church in Amsterdam.

If you don’t want to visit the Amsterdam Dungeon or the Amsterdam Museum, you can instead visit Body Worlds exhibition , Madame Tussauds or the Ripley’s museum . They are all located in the same area.

• Take a walk in Jordaan neighbourhood
• Have a look at the Cheese Museum
• Visit Anne Frank House (provided you’ve booked tickets in advance!)
• Head to the Museumplein
• Visit one or more of the museums located on this square: the Rijksmusem , Van Gogh Museum , MOCO or Stedelijk Museum .
• Take a stroll in Vondelpark
• End your day with a canal cruise .

If you’re planning to spend a weekend in Amsterdam (or 2 days during the week!), you should read my detailed itinerary here: 2 days in Amsterdam.

Of course you might want to take a break in a coffee shop at some point in the day if you fancy it!

You’ve got 3 in Amsterdam?

There’s still plenty for you to see in the capital! Follow the 2-day itinerary above, and on the 3rd day:

• Start with the Albert Cuyp Market, the biggest market in the city
• Right next to it, try the Heineken Experience
• Cross over the Skinny Bridge
• Visiting one or more of the museums you haven’t had time to see
• A guided bike tour for a different way to discover the city
• Amsterdam Coffee Shops and Red Light district walking tour
• Experience THIS IS HOLLAND tourist attraction
• Go to the top of the A’DAM Lookout

To plan your 72 hours in Amsterdam, you should read my detailed itinerary: 3 days in Amsterdam.

If you have kids , you can spend the afternoon at the Artis zoo , visit Micropia or enjoy a round of mini golf in the dark – it’s all in the same area.

If you’re wondering about what to do in Amsterdam in 4, 5 days, or even a week , you should take my 3-day itinerary and then devote one day to each of the excursion around Amsterdam below , depending on what you like best:

• Zaanse Schans in the morning + Haarlem in the afternoon
• Explore the villages of the Waterland
• Keukenhof, to see tulips (open between mid-March and mid-May only)
• Go to the beach at Zandvoort (in summer only – you can also combine this with a trip to Haarlem)

You can read my detailed 4-day itinerary in Amsterdam here: 4 days in Amsterdam.

And to plan a 5-day visit , you should read that article instead: 5 days in Amsterdam.

Here’s my selection of the best places to stay in Amsterdam depending on your budget:

• Hans Brinker Hostel Amsterdam: Youth hostel 400 metres from the Rijksmuseum and 10 minutes from the Vondelpark. Bed in a dormitory from 26€, including breakfast. Strong points: the location, the warm welcome, the atmosphere. An excellent choice if you’re looking for a cheap accommodation in Amsterdam!
• Motel One Amsterdam: Located 2 km from the Rikjsuseum and the Albert Cuyp Market. Clean and well-decorated double room from 110€ per night, breakfast 11.50€. Strong points: helpful staff, location 2 minutes from the metro, the good breakfast.
• Jaz Amsterdam: Situated a 15-minute metro ride from the centre. Spacious and stylish room from 110€, breakfast 16.95€. Strong points: very friendly staff, good facilities, the fabulous breakfast.
• Motel One Amsterdam-Waterlooplein: Situated close to the Zuiderkerk and a 15-minute walk from Dam Square. Modern room with comfortable bed from 154€, breakfast 11.50€. Strong points: close to the centre, delightful staff, good and varied breakfast. It’s my favourite for its excellent value for money in Amsterdam!
• Mövenpick Hotel Amsterdam City Centre: Located just a 10-minute walk from the railways station and the centre of Amsterdam. Spacious, modern and comfortable room, some with a river view, from 190€, breakfast 25€. Strong points: location, comfort, friendly staff, access to the sauna included. The best hotel for a high end stay in Amsterdam!
• NH Collection Amsterdam Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky: Located right on Dam Square, this luxury hotel offers rooms with a sleek and modern decor from 310€, breakfast included. Strong points: central location for exploring Amsterdam on foot, exceptional bed (so comfortable!), the excellent breakfast. Perfect for a romantic break in the heart of the city!
• Hyatt Regency Amsterdam: 5* hotel situated 800 metres from the zoo. Bright and elegantly decorated rooms from 360€, breakfast 28€. Strong points: the staff are concerned to ensure the well-being of their guests, the decoration, the location, the excellent restaurant. The best hotel in Amsterdam for a luxury stay!

And if you prefer to rent a luxury apartment for your stay in Amsterdam, the Keizersgracht Suite 471 is the best address in the city!

If these hotels are full or don’t suit you, you should take a look at the traveler’s favorites by clicking here : The Best Hotels in Amsterdam .

Since I had a very early flight home on the morning of my departure, I also tried out the Ibis Schiphol Amsterdam Airport, located 10 minutes from the airport (free shuttle). And I was pleasantly surprised: the rooms are modern, comfortable, and you can’t hear the planes at all.

• Foodhallen: located between the Jordaan district and the Vondelpark. A food court with a trendy and warm atmosphere where everyone can taste the cuisines of the world. The biggest problem is what to choose because it’s all really good!
• De Koperen Ketel: located 100 metres from the Rembrandtplein. Come to this small bistro decorated in typical Dutch style to taste delicious traditional cuisine. The ambience is warm, and the service impeccable. Reservation strongly recommended.
• The Happy Bull: at Hoofddorpweg 9 (to the south of the Vondelpark). If you fancy a tasty burger made from high-quality ingredients and home-made chips, you should head here! The burgers are really hearty, and excellent. If you have any room left, don’t forget to try one of their milkshakes!
• This isn’t really a specific place to go, but if you get a bit hungry during the day there are stands all over the city selling chips in a cone covered with a choice of sauces. You’ll soon see which are the most popular from the queues stretching several metres.

The only problem is the long waiting line at the entrance …

But that was before 😉.

Because yes, nowadays it’s possible to book your place in advance by paying for a menu. You will have the privilege to pass in front of all the other customers , with a big smile! (All those who haven’t read this travel tips from Voyage Tips and are standing in line! 😃)

Click on the following button to reserve your seat:

In Amsterdam, there is one of the biggest international airport in Europe, so it’s super convenient!

Flights prices for Amsterdam vary enormously so it’s a good idea to compare them as soon as possible, which you can do by using our flight comparison in partnership with Skyscanner. You’ll have the assurance of getting the best fare.

To reach the city centre from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, you can take the train to the central station or bus 397 that goes to Museumplein. You should thus first check where your hotel is located.

You should book your ticket in advance for the train or bus from Schiphol to Amsterdam .

Book your return ticket for the airport by clicking on the button below:

To view timetables, fares and book your tickets, click on the button below:

If you need to rent a car during your stay in Amsterdam , you can easily check prices from all the rental agencies on Rentalcars.com website.

If you want to rent a boat to spend a nice day on the canals while you’re staying in Amsterdam, you book it with Samboat .

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So what are you waiting for to book your boat trip on the canals of Amsterdam? 😊

To help you visualize the city a bit better, I’ve created a tourist map of Amsterdam for you, listing the places to visit that I’ve talked about in this top 30 things to do in Amsterdam. You can view the map legend by clicking on the button at the top left, the one with the small arrow.

And you, what do you plan to do in Amsterdam?

Discover all my articles about Amsterdam : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Amsterdam are listed there.

• Amsterdam: Top 30 best things to do
• 2 days in Amsterdam – The perfect itinerary for 48h!
• 3 Days in Amsterdam – The best 72h itinerary
• 4 Days in Amsterdam – The defitinive guide to plan your trip
• 5 Days in Amsterdam – The best itinerary discover the city and the surroundings
• Where to stay in Amsterdam? My guide to the best areas and hotels of the city

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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24 TOP Amsterdam Sights & Tourist Attractions (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 22, 2024

Looking for the best things to do in Amsterdam in the Netherlands and feeling overwhelmed? Deciding which of the most popular Amsterdam attractions to see is indeed not easy, especially if you are visiting for the first time and your time in the city is limited…

So to help you figure out where to go and what to see in Amsterdam, in this guide we share the  VERY BEST sights and TOP tourist attractions in Amsterdam that are worth your time the most . In addition, we also include a few fun Amsterdam experiences for those looking for that something extra beyond the ‘musts’.

We also created a map of all the top places that should help you plan your Amsterdam sightseeing itinerary. Take a look!

Top 4 Activities in Amsterdam:

• Van Gogh Museum .
• Rijksmuseum .
• Canal Boat Cruise .
• Heineken Experience (18+).

Famous for its canals, distinctive architecture, and liberal culture, the city of Amsterdam is full of interesting things to see and experience. The network of canals and narrow streets make it a wonderful place to walk or tour by boat. The city also has the highest density of museums in the world, with more than 60 to explore. And there is a natural beauty as well, with the city’s Vondelpark covered in colorful blooms in the spring.

But with so many Amsterdam attractions to choose from, it can be difficult to know which of them to visit during your visit. So in this guide, we list some of our favorite places to see and things to do in Amsterdam – all the musts, and also a few extras, fun things to do in Amsterdam, that will make your visit a bit more special.

Whether you are visiting the city for the first time and want to be sure you don’t miss any of the must-sees in Amsterdam, or are planning a repeat visit and looking to visit some sights and tourist attractions in Amsterdam that you might have missed before, this guide should give you plenty of inspiration for things to do in the capital of the Netherlands.

TIP:  If you are planning on doing lots of sightseeing in Amsterdam, you should know that the distances between some of the best attractions are rather big. To save time and money (and give your legs some rest), consider getting an all-in public transport ticket . You can buy it for any duration from 1 to 7 days and it includes all trams, buses, metros, and even ferries in the city . If you just use a tram once or twice, you can also simply pay by debit (not credit) card on the tram itself.

Good to know:  We list the must-see places and experiences in Amsterdam first, followed by some fun things to do in Amsterdam further down the list. So if you are visiting the city for the first time, concentrate on the top 10-17 sights first. But if you are looking for more hands-on experiences and fun attractions beyond the most popular sights and must-see museums, then read further down as well.

In order to help you plan your visit, we also created a  map of all the top sights and attractions in Amsterdam . You can find it at the bottom of this article. On our blog, you can also find sample itineraries for 1 day , 2 days , 3 days , and 4 days in Amsterdam for first-time visitors.

Without further ado, these are the main landmarks, best sights, and top tourist attractions in Amsterdam:

1. Boat tour on the canals

Exploring the beautiful canals by boat is one of the absolute musts in Amsterdam that should be on top of any Amsterdam bucket list!

Mainly built at the end of the 16th – beginning of the 17th century, the city’s waterways are lined with some of its most impressive buildings. Taking a boat tour on the canals also gives you a glimpse into the ‘real’ Amsterdam. What’s more, viewing the city from the water gives you a whole new perspective and allows you to see a lot in a short amount of time.

It’s a great first introduction to the city, so I recommend taking a canal trip at the beginning of your trip.

There are lots of different canal cruises to choose from , lasting from around 1 to 1.5 hours. It’s a good idea to do your research ahead of time to find the one that’s best for you, and not just hop on the first boat you come across and get disappointed that it’s not what you expected it to be.

I also recommend booking in advance if you are visiting in the high season. This is a popular activity and the best boat tours sell out. Another bonus is that an advanced reservation allows you to go straight to the front of the line, ahead of those who haven’t reserved their spot.

The choice of canal cruises in Amsterdam can be overwhelming.  Here are some of the best options :

• City Canal Cruise (starts close to the Central Station). This is one of the most popular canal cruises, but it can get very busy. If you take a boat like this, try to get on the boat as one of the first people so that you can secure a window seat. We did it a few times and it can be a very good experience, but try to get a window seat!
• Open-Boat Canal City Cruise (several possible departure locations – Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, or Central Station). This is the cruise we recommend if you don’t mind paying a bit more. It’s well worth a small price difference for a more luxurious experience.

TIP:  Amsterdam canals are also very pretty in the evening when everything is nicely lit. So be sure to come back and see them in the dark, or do an evening canals tour as well! This evening canal cruise  is the most popular option.

LEARN MORE: Amsterdam Canal Cruise: Tips for a Better Experience

2. Grachtengordel – explore canals on foot

Amsterdam has many canals and whilst it’s fun to explore them by boat, walking beside them is a totally different experience that you shouldn’t miss either. So – in addition to taking a boat tour – be sure to explore the canals on foot as well .

Obviously, there are more canals to see in Amsterdam than you can ever manage on a single visit. So be sure to stroll along some of the best bits! These include the Grachtengordel (The Canals Belt) neighborhood – at least a few sections of the Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht , plus the Brouwersgracht and the Singel , which served as the city’s moat until 1585.

The Herengracht Canal is absolutely worth a visit too. But you are likely to see it as part of a boat tour as well. That’s also the reason why we recommend doing the boat tour first – you can then decide if you want to revisit some places on foot as well, or just focus on the areas you didn’t see from the boat yet.

3. Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is the most visited museum in the Netherlands and one of Amsterdam’s most popular attractions. If you visit just one of the best museums in Amsterdam , make it this one.

With around 8,000 historic exhibits and works of art, the Imperial Museum features world-famous pieces such as The Milkmaid and The Night Watch. You’ll also find works by Vermeer and Rembrandt, along with important pieces by Vincent Van Gogh. There is an ever-changing rotation of temporary exhibits plus a variety of workshops, so it’s always worth a visit, even if you have been before.

The museum is very large and it is easy to spend several hours here. If you decide to visit, try coming here early in the morning before the main crowds arrive. Head straight for the Gallery of Honour , which houses some of the most important pieces. The hall is a work of art in itself and this part of the museum is the most popular, so it’s nice to see it before it gets too crowded.

Be sure to also check out the Cuypers Library , the Research Library of the Museum. It’s one of the main art libraries in the world and a very impressive place to see.

TIP: We also strongly recommend booking timed-entry tickets for the museum online in advance. It will save you from having to join the lengthy queues and will allow you to see more of the city during the time that you have.

4. Van Gogh Museum

Located close to Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum is another must on the list of Amsterdam tourist attractions. One that will appeal to visitors of all ages too. So if you are looking for things to do in Amsterdam with kids, this is a great place to be too.

Along with the chance to explore the extensive collection of Van Gogh’s masterpieces, drawings, and personal letters, you get to learn more about his life and the things that inspired him.

The museum can get very busy during the high season. But it is so spacious that you don’t feel overwhelmed by the crowds. You can rent an audio tour on arrival and the exhibits are very well laid out. You’ll need at least 1.5 to 2 hours to see the main collection.

TIP: Tickets are only available online and the numbers are limited, so it is important to book them in advance . Guided tours are also available, but quite a lot more expensive than a regular ticket. Still, it might be worth it if you want to be sure not to miss anything and learn more about Van Gogh and his masterpieces. This is one of the few guided tours of the museum that runs daily.

Good to know: Avoid bringing any very large bags with you as they are not permitted in the museum. Backpacks and umbrellas must be left in the lockers and there is a free coat check on entry. Jackets and small purses may be worn.

LEARN MORE: Info & Tips for Visiting Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam

5. Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is next on the list of the most popular places to visit in Amsterdam. Once the building in which a Jewish girl Anne Frank and her family concealed themselves from the Nazis during World War ll, this is now a museum honoring her memory.

Anne and her family were discovered in 1944 and deported to Hitler’s concentration camps, where all except her father died. It was he who later published her diary, which is well known across the world. Their house is very popular with visitors to the city, keen to see the place which she described in such detail in her diary.

At the Anne Frank House, it is possible to visit the exact location where they hid. Through videos, quotes, photos, and original items, you can learn more about the traumatic ordeal they endured there.

Good to know: Like many canalside houses in Amsterdam, the Anne Frank House has very steep stairs which might be challenging if you have mobility issues. There is no wheelchair access to either the Secret Annex or the old part of the museum.

TIP: Anne Frank House is very small so the number of visitors is extremely limited. It’s essential to book your tickets online in advance, and you really need to reserve them as soon as they are released (usually 6 weeks in advance). In the winter, you may be able to get tickets a week upfront, but in the high season, they sell out several weeks upfront.

Check the official website for more info and – if you absolutely want to visit – try to reserve your tickets as soon as they are released (usually about 6 weeks before the date). Please note that the museum itself is the only official supplier selling these tickets so you can’t get them anywhere else. And they always sell out!

TIP: There is now a wonderful guided tour of Jewish sights in Amsterdam that – among other highlights – includes a visit to Anne Frank House. This is the only tour that can actually take you inside this museum. It’s only available on certain days, however, so try to book asap too! You can find more details and check the availability here .

6. Royal Palace & Dam Square

As the city’s main square, Dam Square is lively and a fun place to visit. It’s a popular meeting place for locals, so it gives you a better feel for real Amsterdam. And there are lots of different events held here, from the National Tulip Day festivities to celebrations for the Chinese New Year!

In the past, funfairs were held on Dam Square as well, but the city council has decided that it’s already busy enough in the city center and decided not to allow them at this location anymore.

On one side of the square, you can see the Royal Palace Amsterdam . This is the official reception palace of the Orange-Nassau Royal Family and is often open to visitors. The King and his family live in The Hague, and not in Amsterdam.

From the outside, it may look a little grim and unappealing, especially on dull days. But it’s definitely worth a look inside if you have the time. It’s quite beautiful, with marble floors, stunning chandeliers, intricate sculptures, and impressive paintings.

TIP: If you want to visit the Royal Palace, be sure to get your tickets in advance. That way, you can immediately see if it’s open on the dates when you’re in Amsterdam (it’s normally open daily unless there are some official events in which case it can be closed for several weeks in a row).

Damrak is one of the main avenues in the city center of Amsterdam, running from the Central Station to the above-mentioned Dam Square.

It’s filled with souvenir shops, chain stores, and cheap restaurants, and can feel a bit like a tourist trap. But if you look deeper, you’ll find some stunning architecture. Indeed, more than 20 buildings on Damrak are designated as Royal Monuments, most dating from the late 18th – early 20th centuries.

The main place not to miss here for tourists is the Damrak Waterfront , part of the historic harbor in Amsterdam’s city center. This is one of the most photographed places in Amsterdam that you’ll see on many postcards and travel brochures.

And if you want to do some shopping in Amsterdam, be sure to check out Bijenkorf Amsterdam, one of the most popular department stores in the Netherlands.

8. Floating Flower Market

One of the unique Amsterdam attractions is the Floating flower market ( Bloemenmarkt ). Located on the Singel Canal and established in 1862, this is the only market of its kind in the world. As the barges are fixed, once inside, it actually feels pretty much like any other flower market.

But that’s not the only reason to visit the floating Flower Market, of course, and – since it doesn’t require much time and doesn’t cost anything – we recommend checking it out. Colorful, fun, and fragrant, it is one of the most lively spots in the city and a great place to get some truly memorable photos. It may not be an ‘authentic’ place in Amsterdam anymore, but it really is a must-see attraction nonetheless!

You can buy all sorts of things here, from flowers and flower bulbs to Dutch souvenirs like clogs and wooden tulips. If you visit Amsterdam during the peak tulip season in spring, the market will be much more impressive too. Do be aware though that the market is very much aimed at tourists and the prices reflect that.

Good to know: The flower bulbs you buy here are ready for export, so you are allowed to take them home to most destinations. Make sure that they are firm, free from mold, and with no signs of damage. It can be a nice Dutch souvenir to bring memories of your visit to Amsterdam, long after you have returned from your trip.

9. Rembrandt House Museum

Recently reopened after a significant renovation, the Rembrandt House Museum is now one of the best museums in the city!

Rembrandt van Rijn (17th century) is one of the most famous painters The Netherlands ever had. Rembrandt Museum is located on Jodenbreestraat, in the same house where he lived and worked during the peak of his career between 1639 and 1658.

The house has been restored as true to the original as possible including all the rooms where the family lived, plus artist studios, etc. It’s a great place to see what life was like in Amsterdam during the Dutch Golden Age. Of course, you can also admire many paintings by Rembrandt. But what makes a visit here really special is that you also get to know the man behind his art.

This is now one of my personal favorite museums in Amsterdam. The cozy, homey setting takes you really close to Rembrandt. Their audiovisual guide (included with your ticket) is great too, giving you a deeper understanding of the artist and his life. And because you only need 1 hour for a visit here, it’s really simple to plan a visit here, no matter how much time you have in the city. Highly recommended!

TIP: Set inside a 17-th century house, the museum is rather small, so be sure to reserve timed-entry tickets in advance!

10. Leidseplein

If you’re looking for some fun atmosphere or good nightlife in Amsterdam, head to the lively Leidseplein town square, a short walk from the Rijksmuseum, at the southern end of Leidsestraat.

By day and night, you can see street entertainers performing anything from jazz on the double bass to hip-hop dancing. The square is lined by cafes and bar terraces, which are very busy in the warmer months. In winter, the terraced area is replaced with an outdoor ice rink and there are hot food stalls dotted everywhere.

Within easy walking distance is everything you could want for a good night out, including cinemas, theatres, discos, and a casino. There are plenty of good restaurants serving international dishes, along with Holland’s best-known cocktail bar, The Bulldog Palace (not to be confused with Bulldog Coffeeshop in the Red Light District).

Be sure to check out the impressive buildings of the “Internationaal Theater Amsterdam” or the Hard Rock Hotel known as ‘Hotel Americain’. Btw, this is a really nice hotel to stay in for those who enjoy the nightlife or like being close to all the museums and the park. The location is very central indeed.

TIP: If you plan to spend the evening at the bars here, arrive early to get a table. An hour before sunset is a perfect time, as it gives you a chance to sit back and watch the square come to life!

11. Vondelpark

Just a short walk from Amsterdam’s most popular museums and Leidseplein is the beautiful Vondelpark .

The most famous park in the Netherlands, Vondelpark welcomes 10 million visitors every year. Yet it remains an oasis of calm in this vibrant city, covering 120 acres and never feeling crowded.

Here you can see lots of different plants, a scenic lake, and maybe even catch a free performance at the open-air theatre or bandstand. There is also a children’s playground at the Groot Melkhuis, a statue of the poet Vondel, and a restaurant in the historical Pavilion.

There are bikes available to rent in the park (or you can book a guided bicycle tour of the city that also visits the park). This will allow you to learn more about the park’s history and see every hidden corner.

Good to know: Springtime is the very best time to visit Vondelpark when it is covered in colorful tulips.

TIP: Because Vondelpark is so close to some of the best museums and main attractions of Amsterdam (Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Heineken Brewery, etc.), this is a nice spot to stop for lunch and take a peaceful break from the crowds at the most popular sights.

12. The Nine Streets

The Nine Streets ( De Negen Straatjes ) is the collective name of 9 old cobbled streets connecting the main canals between Leidsegracht and Raadhuisstraat, a few blocks south of the Anne Frank House. The names of the streets are: Reestraat, Berenstraat, Runstraat, Hartenstraat, Wolvenstraat, Huidenstraat, Gasthuismolensteeg, Oudespiegelstraat, and Wijde Heisteeg.

Don’t worry about remembering the names – we indicated it in our map further below. And if you wonder what they mean, some of the streets are actually named after animals – Wolf Street, Bear Street, or Deer Street. Some other names are quite special as well, such as Old Mirror Street, or Heart Street.

Despite being surrounded by some of the most popular places in Amsterdam, and located between the most famous Amsterdam canals (Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht, and Herengracht), the 9 Streets have a very different atmosphere than the busy areas around Damrak.

They are quite charming, lined with specialty stores, unique shops, and independent boutiques. This area is a nice change from the chain stores of the main shopping street, offering vintage goods and authentic items instead.

If you’re a music fan and into vinyl, be sure to check out Waxwell Records. They have a record player where you can try out their offerings and frequent sales that allow you to pick up a bargain!

TIP: For some of the best sweets and pastries you will experience in Amsterdam, visit the Chocolaterie Pompadour on Huidenstraat. It has a wonderful tearoom with marble-topped tables, and Insta-worthy arrangements of its creations in its window displays. Alternatively, drop by Het Koekemannetje bakery on Runstraat for some of the best cookies ever.

13. Jordaan Neighborhood

A network of narrow streets leading to flower-lined canals, the idyllic neighborhood of Jordaan is both peaceful and characteristically Dutch. There are lots of lovely little shops and boutiques to explore, plus artists’ studios and a nice selection of cafes and restaurants.

Located to the west of Amsterdam’s main ring of canals, it is just a short walk from the Anne Frank House or the 9 Streets.

Built early in the 17th century, it originally housed refugees and workers, attracted by its low rents. Over time it became quite run down and was scheduled for demolition after World War II. But some of its citizens begged for a reprieve, and from the 1970s onwards the neighborhood was completely regenerated. So much, in fact, that it is now one of Amsterdam’s most desirable districts to live in.

Good to know: Saturday is market day, and the perfect time to visit. The Lindengracht Market is where the local residents buy their fresh produce. Or head to the Noordermarkt on Noordermarkt Square to buy organic food and shop for bargains at the flea market.

TIP: The Jordaan neighborhood is famous for good food ! Taking a food tour is one of the best ways to explore this area and get to know the more local side of Amsterdam. Or call in for lunch at one of the local-favorite cafes. Check out Cafe de Tuin, Café Sonneveld, or ‘t Smalle (and there are many, many more).

14. West Church & Tower

Located on Prinsengracht and just next to the Anne Frank House, the West Church ( Westerkerk ) is Amsterdam’s largest church and the most important Protestant church in the city. Many of Amsterdam’s citizens consider its bell tower – the Westertoren – to be the city’s symbol.

The church was built from 1619 – 1631 and the tower was added in 1638. Rembrandt van Rijn is buried here along with other famous Dutch artists and the chimes of the clock tower were heard by Anne Frank, who mentioned them several times in her diary.

It is well worth a quick visit here if you have some time to spare in Amsterdam. The church has an austere charm and there are regular, free organ recitals to enjoy. We especially recommend visiting the tower, as the view of Amsterdam from the top is incredible.

Good to know: The climb to the top of the tower is very steep and at times little more than a ladder. It can be quite unnerving for some and definitely requires flat shoes. Free to enter, the church is open to visitors all year round, except on Sundays. The tower is normally open from April to October and requires a ticket. However, it’s now closed for renovation that’s expected to take a few years.

While the Westertoren remains closed, you could head to Zuiderkerk Tower instead. Or – for different views with less effort – visit the A’DAM Lookout (see below).

15. Central Station

Located in the heart of the city, Amsterdam Centraal train station is a bustling place with visitors and locals alike. Several of the city’s buses and trams terminate here, along with the waterfront stations of the ferry lines that take passengers to Amsterdam North. You can also find the main Amsterdam Tourist Office here.

And while it might look strange to have a railway station mentioned among some of the landmarks of Amsterdam, it’s well worth a quick peak even if you are not taking a train.

The style of the building itself is authentically Dutch and well worth a quick look while you are in Amsterdam. It originally opened in 1889 as the Netherlands’ main railway transit center. Take a walk through its 19th-century entrance hall and you’ll discover a modern shopping mall packed with trendy eateries.

Outside, you’ll find the Central Railway Station Square, with towers on either side – one a weather vane and the other a clock tower.

TIP: For a truly unique experience, check out Grand Café Restaurant 1e Klas . This restaurant is located inside the beautifully restored 19th-century elegant 1st Class waiting rooms of the station, and feels like taking a trip back in time. You can book a 3-course lunch or dinner experience here , or just go for a quick drink and the atmosphere. Hidden in plain sight, this is one of the lesser-known gems of Amsterdam.

Good to know: If you are planning on taking any day trips from Amsterdam , most tours will start in this area. This is also where you can take a train to all the bigger towns in the Netherlands, and also direct trains to Antwerp or Brussels in Belgium, or to Paris in France.

16. Red Light District & Coffeeshops

Amsterdam has a uniquely laid-back approach to drugs and prostitution which is what makes this area so fascinating to many international visitors. Its Red Light District is named after the line of windows and doors surrounded by red lights.

Here you can learn more about the city’s coffeeshop culture (not to be confused with regular coffee shops or cafes) and the use of soft drugs. You can also see women dressed in very little, waiting behind the windows for customers. Just please don’t stare at them or take pictures – that is forbidden.

This area isn’t for everyone, of course. But if you want a more authentic experience and are not easily shocked, then you may prefer to visit at night.

Amsterdam’s Red Light District has been a hot topic for years, with the city council trying to limit its appeal as a popular Amsterdam tourist attraction. Certain tours have been forbidden, and there have been talks of moving the district a bit further away from the city center…

Either way, it remains an interesting place to see in Amsterdam. But if you want to learn more about it without wondering where exactly to go or what the most interesting spots are, etc., we recommend going with one of the organized walking tours of the area .

We recently took this highly-rated tour and I can only recommend it. Despite having been to the area so many times before, we learned a lot. It gives you a much more complete picture of this unique area.

17. Heineken Experience

The award-winning Dutch Heineken beer is famous all over the world. So visiting its oldest brewery is something that’s well worth doing during your visit to Amsterdam.

The tour is very enjoyable, informative, and ideal for couples or groups of friends looking for something fun to do in Amsterdam beyond the main sights and museums.

After an introduction from the staff, you can look around the brewery by yourself. It’s interesting to learn about the process that goes into making the beer, right from reaping the hops to tasting the end result. And there are several fun, interactive elements, including the ‘Brew U’ game where you become a bottle of beer, to bottling your own personalized Heineken.

TIP: Just like all the other top sights in Amsterdam, Heineken Experience is another very popular attraction and the queues in the high season can get long. So if you absolutely want to do it, book your timed-entry tickets online in advance .

Now that we covered some of the most popular places to see and tourist attractions in Amsterdam, here are a couple more ideas of interesting places to visit and things to do in Amsterdam.

If you have more than 1-2 days in the city – or if you have seen all the ‘musts’ and are looking for more fun experiences in Amsterdam, check out the following attractions as well:

18. Albert Cuyp Street Market

Located in the lively De Pijp neighborhood, Albert Cuyp Street Market is the largest and most popular outdoor market in the Netherlands. It is also the best market to visit in Amsterdam, incomparable to the most popular Floating Flower Market.

It’s a bustling and vibrant place that offers a truly immersive local shopping experience. You will find a big variety of market stalls, offering all kinds of household goods and clothing, but also souvenirs, fruit, vegetables, Dutch cheeses, and all kinds of delicacies.

This is a great place to try some typical Dutch food, like herring sandwiches, mini-pancakes ( poffertjes ), or syrup waffles ( stroopwafels ).

A visit to this market provides a unique opportunity to soak up the vibrant atmosphere, interact with friendly locals, and discover a diverse array of traditional foods and products.

Albert Cuyp Market is a fun place to visit in Amsterdam, for both locals and tourists alike. It’s a fun experience and gives you a memorable taste of Amsterdam’s dynamic and multicultural spirit.

Good to know: The market is open daily except Sundays from 9.30 AM to 5 PM.

TIP: If you would like to taste all kinds of Dutch specialties at the market, but are not sure where to start, consider this highly-rated street food tour with a local guide.

19. ARTIS Royal Zoo

ARTIS is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands and one of the oldest zoos of mainland Europe. It was founded in 1838 and is home to 200 varieties of trees and around 700 species of animals. It also has three listed buildings on its grounds – the Large Museum (1855), the Library building (1867), and the Aquarium (1882).

There are so many interesting parts to this zoo, making it a great place for the whole family. So it will come as no surprise that ARTIS is one of the most popular family-friendly attractions in Amsterdam.

Visit the aquarium zone to see what lives in the city’s canals. See exotic plant species in the greenhouses of the Botanical Gardens and learn about another world in the zoo micropia, which is dedicated to microorganisms. There is a planetarium where you can enjoy a virtual tour of the solar system. And there is also a zoological museum with some of the 19th century’s most interesting scientific collections.

It’s a great place to spend a few hours away from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist sights. In addition to the big park, the zoo has various indoor areas as well, so it’s also a good place to visit in Amsterdam even if it rains.

Good to know: If you don’t want to buy tickets to the zoo, visit the Artisplein which is free to enter. It’s a lovely spot to sit and rest, with a water table fountain, stunning trees, and views of the Dutch polder aviary and flamingo pond.

You can bring your own food, or have lunch at one of the restaurants inside, but it tends to be very busy, with high prices too. There are lots of benches and picnic areas you can use when the weather is fine.

TIP: Buy your tickets online in advance as the zoo can get very busy, especially during weekends or school holidays. The entrance to the zoo is also included with the I Amsterdam City Card .

20. A’DAM Lookout

Located on top of the A’DAM Tower, the A’DAM Lookout used to be the headquarters for Shell. Nowadays, it’s a popular tourist attraction and one of the best spots for an amazing high-angle view of Amsterdam.

Getting up there is half the fun – you’ll travel in a glass-ceilinged elevator that takes just 22 seconds to reach the 20th floor!

The view isn’t the only reason to come here, though. A’DAM Lookout also has an interactive exhibition , with a free audio tour of the city’s history and culture. And if that rapid ascent in the elevator didn’t get your heart racing, perhaps the ‘Over The Edge’ swing will! Dangling 100 meters above the ground, it takes you to and from over the edge of the tower.

Alternatively, you can enjoy some slightly less terrifying fun in the Amsterdam VR ride , a virtual reality rollercoaster through the city.

Good to know: The Lookout also has a nice rooftop bar, and a nice restaurant for a special dinner. The restaurant – called Moon – revolves on one rotation of its axis in an hour, and all tables are next to the window. A ticket here is also included with the I Amsterdam City Card .

21. NEMO Science Museum

The largest science museum in the Netherlands, NEMO is something nice to do in Amsterdam for the whole family. While it’s fun for adults too, NEMO is an absolute must if you are visiting Amsterdam with kids and are looking for something a bit more entertaining and hands-on than the ‘regular’ museums.

Through displays, workshops, videos, and interactive exhibits you can discover more about the things you see and experience every day.

From human anatomy and behavior to discovering how mathematics influences the world around you, there really is something here to interest everyone. And who can resist the chance of trying a hands-on experiment?

Good to know: The exhibits are in Dutch and in English. The first two floors are directed mainly towards children, whilst the upper two are more suitable for adults. If time is short you may prefer to spend the majority of it on the floors that will interest you most. Be sure to visit the rooftop, too – it gives you great views of the city!

TIP: Bring some change with you. There are free lockers, but you need to pay a small returnable deposit. Also, you can visit the rooftop restaurant without having to buy a museum ticket. And talking about tickets, also here, it’s best to get a ticket in advance . Or you can use the I Amsterdam Card here too.

22. Johan Cruijff ArenA Stadium Tour

Football fans will not want to miss a chance to visit the stadium of Amsterdam’s top-tier club, AJAX . However, keep in mind that it’s located a bit outside of the city center, so count some extra time to get there and back.

The Johan Cruijff ArenA Stadium tour gives you access to the players’ areas of Amsterdam’s top-tier club. Conducted in either Dutch or English, it takes 75 minutes and includes the dugout, pitch, and official Ajax dressing room.

You can opt for the ‘ standard ‘ or ‘ VIP ‘ tour. The latter gives you access to some exclusive areas, a drink, and some other extras that die-hard fans will find more than worth it.

23. Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds is another popular place to visit in Amsterdam that keeps on reinventing itself and is well worth a visit.

Here, you can come face-to-face with everyone from Anne Frank to Van Gogh, and the exhibits are presented in a fun and interactive way. It’s not just about taking pictures with some wax figures anymore, but a really fun experience for all ages.

This world-famous wax museum is located in the heart of the city, on Dam Square, and you only need about 1-1.5 hours here. So it’s quite easy to add a short visit here to any Amsterdam itinerary.

Good to know: The museum is open daily, and it also stays open quite late in the evening when many other places close already. It’s also something good to do in Amsterdam when it rains. Booking your ticket for this museum online in advance not only saves you time but is also cheaper than same-day tickets.

24. Moco Museum

Moco Museum is a small independent museum of modern, contemporary, and street art.

Located on the Museumplein just in between the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, it’s often overlooked by international tourists rushing from one top landmark to another. However, it’s well worth a quick visit, especially if you like contemporary art.

The museum might be quite compact, but the artwork here is truly unique. You can see some works by the world-famous street artist Banksy, and many other modern artists from all over the world. It also includes an immersive 3D gallery on the lower floor. It’s also a nice place to get some fun and unique pictures in Amsterdam (and Instagrammers’ favorite).

Good to know: The museum is open daily, from 8 AM to 5 PM, but – unless you come very early in the morning – be prepared for it to be busy. Because it occupies a small area, this museum can get quite busy in the high season. You can find more info and get your tickets here .

Map of Amsterdam Attractions

To help you get a better idea of where all the main Amsterdam attractions are located, we created a  map  indicating all the points of interest and sights mentioned in this article.

This should help you plan your time a bit better. Just please keep in mind that you’ll need several hours for the main museums. So – if you decide to visit a few of those – plan the rest of your time around it.

Here you can find some sample itineraries to help you plan your trip:

• 1 Day in Amsterdam
• 2 Days in Amsterdam
• 3 Days in Amsterdam
• 4 Days in Amsterdam

TIP:  For more information and useful tips for your visit, please also see our guide with top travel tips for Amsterdam via the link below. It’s an essential read when planning your trip!

LEARN MORE: Top Tips for Visiting Amsterdam

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

In addition to the main sights in Amsterdam city itself, don’t forget that there’s so much more to the Netherlands than just its famous capital ! So try to plan some time to visit at least a few other places as well.

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Holland (very easy to visit from Amsterdam) is Zaanse Schans , where you can see some traditional Dutch windmills.

In the spring (March – April), the Lisse tulip fields and Keukenhof Gardens are a must too!

In the summer, check out the picturesque village of Giethoorn which has canals instead of streets… And if you want to visit a smaller town, check out Delft – it’s absolutely charming!

For more information on these and other places to visit near Amsterdam, take a look at our detailed guides via the link below.

LEARN MORE: Best Day Trips from Amsterdam & Dutch Countryside (Top Places Near Amsterdam)

Where to Stay for Sightseeing in Amsterdam

In order to make the most of your visit to Amsterdam, we recommend staying in the heart of the city. Our favorite area to stay for sightseeing in Amsterdam is in the wide surroundings around Dam Square, southwest of the station and north of Rijksmuseum.

There are some fabulous hotels in Amsterdam, but the prices are usually quite impressive too. It’s often really not easy to find a nice place to stay in the city center on a lower budget, but the longer in advance you book, the more (affordable) options you’ll have. So book your accommodation as soon as you know your travel dates !

Here are some of the best-rated hotels in central Amsterdam for different budgets:

• €€€€€  NH Collection Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky – the most popular 5* hotel in the heart of the city.
• €€€€ Hotel Estheréa – for those looking for something a bit more unique. Very central location.
• €€€+  Park Plaza Victoria – just next to the station, perfect for sightseeing.
• €€ ClinkNOORD Hostel  – one of the most popular lower-budget hotels.
• € The Flying Pig Downtown – a popular hostel with (mostly) shared facilities.

LEARN MORE: Where to Stay in Amsterdam (Best Areas & Tips)

So, these are our recommendations for some of the best places to see and things to do in Amsterdam.

I hope that this list of Amsterdam’s very best attractions and experiences will help you plan the perfect itinerary for your visit. Enjoy your stay in this tolerant, diverse, and exciting city!

More travel inspiration for your trip to the Netherlands & Belgium:

• One Day in Amsterdam
• Two Days in Amsterdam
• Three Days in Amsterdam
• Four Days in Amsterdam
• Amsterdam Travel Tips
• Best Amsterdam Museums
• Best Day Trips from Amsterdam
• Amsterdam in June: Weather & Seasonal Tips
• Amsterdam in December
• Amsterdam at Christmas
• Kinderdijk Windmills
• Alkmaar Cheese Market
• Best Tulip Fields in the Netherlands & Tips for Visiting Keukenhof Gardens
• Best Things to Do in Delft
• Best Things to Do in Brussels
• Best Things to Do in Antwerp
• Best Things to Do in Bruges
• Ypres and WWI Battlefields
• Planning a bigger trip? Be sure to read our guide with tips for traveling to Europe !

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Photos: personal collection, Depositphotos.com, Unsplash.com. Additional image credits: Maarten_Zeehandelaar/ Depositphotos.com; littleny/ Depositphotos.com; niglaynike / Depositphotos.com; starush / Depositphotos.com; carmenmsaa / Depositphotos.com; MaykovNikita / Depositphotos.com; AGVDepositPhotos / Depositphotos.com; [email protected] /Depositphotos.com; bloodua / Depositphotos.com;

More travel inspiration for European cities:

If you are visiting other European cities and are looking for in-depth information for your trip, take a look at some of our city guides:

• Barcelona, Spain
• Bern, Switzerland
• Bologna, Italy
• Bucharest, Romania
• Colmar, France
• Edinburgh, UK
• Florence, Italy
• Geneva, Switzerland
• Krakow, Poland
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Liverpool, UK
• Lucerne, Switzerland
• Madrid, Spain
• Manchester, UK
• Milan, Italy
• Naples, Italy
• Paris, France
• Reykjavik, Iceland
• Rome, Italy
• Salzburg, Austria
• Siena, Italy
• Sintra, Portugal
• Seville, Spain
• Venice, Italy
• Verona, Italy
• For more… check our  destinations page.

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Tuesday 7th of November 2023

amazing places

Wealth of Geeks

24 Things To Do in Amsterdam on Your Next Visit

Posted: January 10, 2024 | Last updated: January 10, 2024

Amsterdam is the capital city of The Netherlands. It is a beautiful city filled with canals, historic buildings, and homes of many world-famous artists. If you plan to visit this city, let us help you make the most of your time by narrowing down your list of what to do. According to our experts, these are the best things to do in Amsterdam on your next trip.

1. Visit the Van De Negen Straatjes

The Nine Streets are one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Amsterdam. It is known for its beautiful boutiques, which sell antiques and retro furniture. It is also where some of the scenes from Ocean’s Eleven were filmed.

2. Admire Art at the Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is dedicated to one of the most famous and influential painters of the post-modernism movement. It is located near two amazing museums , Rijksmuseum and Stedelijk Museum. The Van Gogh Museum is the best place to experience and see how the famous painter lived and created his art.

3. Pay Your Tributes at Anne Frank House

At Anne Frank’s House, you will see and re-live a period of World history that should never be forgotten. Here, Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis during their occupation of Germany. The exhibit is open throughout the year, so you can visit anytime you come to Amsterdam. You can see the famous hiding spot of the little girl whose diary went around the world.

4. Go to the Countryside and See the Windmills

This is an interesting experience since windmills are rare in some parts of the world. They are one of the icons most associated with the Netherlands. The trip to the windmills is an amazing experience. Most of the windmills are open for the public to see. Apart from this, in the countryside, you can also visit farms famous for making Gouda cheese.

5. Stroll Through the Jordaan District

The magnificent district in Amsterdam is filled with coffee shops, bicycles, and youth. Most of the district is filled with canals that resemble Venice . The houses are built in a well-known Dutch style and are amazing to view. Snap a few photos for your social media profiles.

6. Enjoy the History of Film at the Eye Film Institute

This breathtaking building is a beauty. Built in the modernist style, it resembles no other building in the world. It contains a museum of film, many other exhibits, restaurants, and a coffee bar. If you are into the art of cinema, this is a place you should take advantage of while you’re in Amsterdam.

7. Escape the Urban Life at Flevopark

Flevopark is a great escape from the larger city—full of green fields and fresh air. This giant park contains bike lanes, walking paths, and numerous benches so you can rest. The entire park is green, with an open-air public pool and tennis courts. It is the perfect place for a picnic in Amsterdam. Flevopark is fantastic if you want to rest and grab a snack in nature.

8. Ride a Bike Through the City

Act like a real Amsterdamian as you glide through the narrow streets perched atop a bike. It’s a trademark experience of Amsterdam, as the city is more accommodating to cyclists than most. You can find bicycle paths throughout the city, and we can assure you that you will enjoy the city at its best with this form of transportation.

9. See the Westerkerk

Just a few steps from Anne Frank’s house stands the largest protestant church in The Netherlands. Westerkerk is a beautiful building and a place where many of the local gatherings and concerts happen.

10. Get Inspired at Begijnhof

Begijnhof is a tranquil part of the city. You can enjoy and relax in Begijnhof’s garden. It is an inspirational place where many local artists go when they need enlightenment for their future projects.

11. Grab a Cold One With Your Friends at Vondelpark

Vondelpark is a place to have fun and relax with your friends. Near the city center, this wide green field can comply with anyone’s needs. In this park, you can fire up the barbecue and enjoy having a drink with your friends or simply enjoy being in nature.

12. Blend in With the Locals at Albert Cuyp Market

What started as a local flea market at the beginning of the 20th century quickly became one of the most important places for locals in Amsterdam. Here, you can see the local produce and try all of it. The choices are limitless since, at the market, you can buy everything from Gouda cheese to clothes and tech equipment. Visiting the Albert Cuyp Market is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam.

13. Take a Boat Tour Through Amsterdam’s Canal Ring

A boat tour is a great way to explore this wonderful city. Sit back and enjoy while the locals take you through Amsterdam’s canals in its boats. Many cruises offer cocktail nights, dinners, and even live music. This experience will stick with you forever, and it is something you must do while visiting Amsterdam.

14. See the Panorama From A’Dam Toren

Visiting A’dam Toren, or A’dam Tower, is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam. Sip on a cold, sweet cocktail inside a sky bar at this tower’s top. The tower is 22 stories high, and it is an impressive building. It consists of numerous coffee bars and a swing on the top of the tower called “A’dam Lookout.”

15. Find Out How the Human Body Works in the Body Worlds

This one is not for those with weak stomachs. Body Worlds is a unique and educational exhibit whose main attraction is the human body. You can find everything you ever wanted to know about our bodies here. The exhibit was created by Dr. Gunther Von Hagens in 1995. The exhibit is world-famous and has been displayed in over 100 European cities, but its permanent residence remains in Amsterdam.

16. Meet the Wildlife at Artis Amsterdam Royal Zoo

While in Amsterdam, spare a few hours and visit this interesting zoo. The Artis is over two centuries old, displaying over 700 species of animals and 200 types of plants. In addition to the zoo and botanical garden, you can also visit a planetarium, aquarium, arboretum, Micropia, and the Groote Museum.

17. Enjoy the Heineken Experience

One of the most famous breweries in the world, Heineken, offers a tour of their oldest brewery in Amsterdam. The tour is very multi-faceted, and apart from seeing the actual brewery, you can see the beer-making process and even order your own custom beer bottle or beer glass. The tour ends with a cold pint of Heineken beer, of course.

18. Blast Away in Blast Galaxy

In a galaxy far, far away (or somewhere in Amsterdam) is a place every gamer should visit. The Blast Galaxy arcade offers over 1000 arcade games and numerous gaming consoles, old and new. The best thing is that every game is free once you pay the entrance fee.

19. See the Royal Palace Amsterdam

This beautiful palace was built in neoclassical architecture, and it is one of the three palaces in The Netherlands that carry the name “Act of Parliament.” The construction of this amazing palace started in 1648. It served as a city hall during the Dutch Golden Age, but today, it is a Dutch Royal House. 

20. Get the Creeps at Madame Tussauds Amsterdam

The world-famous Madame Tussaud has an exhibit in Amsterdam in addition to its counterpart in London. It opened in Amsterdam in 1970. At the museum, you can see numerous wax figures of celebrities and public figures from different eras. Some include George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Marylin Monroe, Elvis Presley, and many more.

21. Visit the Rembrandt House Museum

The Netherlands is home to another famous artist apart from Van Gogh. The artist is Rembrandt Van Rijn. His house is turned into a museum, displaying Rembrandt’s living room, bedroom, and art room where he painted his pieces. The rooms are in their original state, so you can experience how the artist lived and created during his life.

22. Release Your Inner Geek at Nemo Science Museum

NEMO Science Museum is one of the great things to do in Amsterdam that can be enjoyable for anyone. It shows visitors the basic principles of light, sound, electricity, and gravity. Here, you learn by doing and experiencing the world through your senses, making this museum more hands-on than most.

23. See the Art at Rijksmuseum

Rijksmuseum is located on Amsterdam’s Museum Island. The museum is a breathtaking building and a place you must see when visiting Amsterdam. Experiencing the Rijksmuseum to the fullest takes time, so you should plan your day accordingly. The museum displays numerous pieces from the world’s most famous artists.

24. Visit the Dam Square

The Dam Square, or simply Dam, as the locals call it, is a historic city center. It is famous for its hand-fed pigeons. It is the city center, literally and figuratively speaking, since most local attractions like Red Light District, Madame Tussaud’s, and the Royal Palace are near the Dam.

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The best time to visit Amsterdam

By Arundhati Ail

Amsterdam’s charming neighbourhoods with bright facades, sloping roofs, iconic canals and remarkable museums are a natural draw for tourists. The Netherlands capital is an impressive hub for design, perfect for art buffs who want a vacation filled with gallery-hopping, Dutch pancakes and stroopwafels with scenic views . The weather can be tricky to plan for, with bursts of rainfall in summer and a deep winter season. But we’ve got you covered. Here’s a handy guide on the best time to visit Amsterdam, so you can make the most of this fascinating destination.

Jump to: What is the best time to visit Amsterdam? Temperature throughout the year in Amsterdam When can you see tulips in Amsterdam? What is the cheapest time to visit Amsterdam? How many days are enough for an Amsterdam trip?

What is the best time to visit Amsterdam?

Like most European cities, the best time to visit Amsterdam is in the summer, between June and September. This is peak tourist season in Amsterdam, so brace for crowds . Summer is marked by pleasant weather and sunny days, with occasional rainfall. This is when locals are out and about, lounging on beaches like Zandvoort, surfing at Wijk Aan Zee or taking a dip in Buitenzwembad Marineterrein, a canal next to the Maritime Museum. Summer is also the time for several festivals and outdoor events in Amsterdam, like the Luminosity Beach Festival in June—a music fest on the shores of Bloemendaal aan Zee— Aalsmeer Flower Festival in June, Amsterdam Pride in July and Lowlands Festival in Biddinghuizen near Amsterdam in August.

Temperature throughout the year in Amsterdam

November to February: 0ºC-10ºC March to May: 2ºC-18ºC June to August: 11ºC-22ºC September to October: 7ºC-14ºC

When can you see tulips in Amsterdam?

Tulip season in Amsterdam runs from mid-March or April to early May. This is also a great time to visit, and is a popular window for tourists who want to catch a glimpse of the blooms before they’re gone. During this time, large swathes at the Amsterdam Tulip Museum are painted in bright red, yellow and purple with tulips of different kinds—some 16-20” high, yellow Darwin Hybrids and even the unique deep purple Queen of the Night. Inside the museum, you can also find tulip-themed furniture, bags and knick-knacks. There’s also the famous Bloemenmarkt, a floating flower market on the Singel canal, where you can get yourself a bright bouquet of tulips and daffodils, as well as souvenirs. Other places to see tulips include Keukenhof, about a 40-minute drive from Amsterdam, which has almost 80 acres of tulip fields, and Museum de Zwarte Tulp just beyond Keukenhof, where you can enjoy walking or cycling tours of the tulip gardens.

What is the cheapest time to visit Amsterdam?

November, January and February are low-season months in Amsterdam. If you’re willing to brave the cold weather (temperatures drop to 0ºC during this time), you can make the most of relatively lower flight and accommodation costs. You’re also likely to encounter fewer crowds and easier tickets for Amsterdam’s major attractions, like the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum. Just make sure to brace for the cold and pack ample layers.

How many days are enough for an Amsterdam trip?

Four to five full days are good for a first trip to Amsterdam. This will give you enough time to explore major attractions like the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank Museum, the Royal Palace of Amsterdam, Vondelpark and the NEMO Science Museum. Book your tickets to museums in advance so you can space out your visits and squeeze in walks in trendy neighbourhoods like Jordaan for shopping and pubs, and drop in at Amsterdam’s many coffee shops (though there have been orders during the past few years for cannabis coffee shops to not advertise to tourists). If you want to enjoy day trips to cities close to Amsterdam, like Keukenhof, Bruges in Belgium and Rotterdam, a week-long trip should suffice.

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1) Although clearly many flowers were past their peak (and much of that planned) I felt there were still lots of beautiful flowers to see (not just tulips but others as well)

2) The gardens were much bigger than I had thought and we ended up staying for 4 leisurely hours (also helped the weather was spectacular and we had allocated the entire day so no reason to rush) - recommend also checking out the 75th anniversary pavilion

3) We were a bit worried about the timing and wanted flexibility since (had just landed the day before and we weren’t sure how tired we would be, and it had initially looked like rain in the morning) so we emailed with Keukenhof ahead of time and they told us the combo ticket was good all day, regardless of the time on the ticket - so we booked for 8am and actually went at 11:30 am

4) The line for the bus at RAI looked much worse than it was - there were about 150 in line when we got there but we only waited 10 min. They fill up one bus and have another waiting right behind it and then again another after that

5) Overall I would say it was fantastic!

That is good to hear! Glad you enjoyed it, and in dry weather as well.

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The best places to visit in the Netherlands

May 3, 2024 • 7 min read

Contrast days exploring the Netherland's many cultural institutions with outdoorsy pursuits on Texel © Sara Winter / Shutterstock

The Netherlands is a treasure chest of exquisite art-filled cities and towns, canals, windmills and tulip fields, along with shiny-new sustainable urban environments, and glorious natural landscapes, coastlines and islands. While it’s one of Europe’s smaller nations (you can cross the entire country in a handful of hours), choosing where to spend your time takes planning.

These are the best places to begin your explorations.

1. Amsterdam

Best city for culture.

Ribboned by UNESCO-listed 17th-century canals that are lined by tilting gabled buildings that form its central core, the Dutch capital is a cultural jewel.

Amsterdam brims with museums headlined by the national showpiece the Rijksmuseum, neighboring Van Gogh Museum and modern-art Stedelijk Museum, with eye-openers like the Wereldmuseum museum of world cultures, and scores of smaller, specialist gems as niche as piano-player pianolas or sustainable fashion.

Music spanning classical to EDM spills from historic churches, hallowed concert halls (the Concertgebouw has near-perfect acoustics) and legendary venues like Melkweg, as well as open-air spaces such as the stage in the sprawling green Vondelpark.

Planning tip: It’s easy to avoid overtourism and escape the crowds by heading to less-visited neighborhoods. Amsterdam Noord is a fantastic starting point, home to a state-of-the-art film museum, the world’s biggest street-art museum, vast art "breeding ground" in former shipping warehouse NDSM-Loods, and eco-focused cafes and bars, many built from recycled materials. 

Find the ideal neighborhood to base yourself in Amsterdam.

2. Rotterdam

Best city for contemporary architecture.

The Netherlands’ second-biggest city and Europe’s largest port, Rotterdam has triumphed over the adversity of its WWII devastation, transforming into a veritable gallery of contemporary architecture and public art. Standout structures include the Overblaak "forest" of tilted cube-shaped houses (one houses the Kijk-Kubus museum), the soaring, horseshoe-shaped Markthal with original food stalls and restaurants, and the gleaming mirror-ball-like Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen – a world-first open-access art storage facility. Repurposed spaces abound, such as the Schieblock, a mid-century office building converted into creative studios, topped by a harvestable roof terrace.

Planning tip: An exhilarating way to see the shapeshifting cityscape is aboard a water taxi zipping across the harbor. Daredevils can even abseil 100m (328 ft) from Rotterdam’s iconic 1960-opened Euromast observation tower.

Save this guide to the top things to do in Rotterdam.

Best spot for outdoors activities

Basking less than 2 miles off the Dutch coast, the bucolic Wadden Sea island of Texel (pronounced "Tes-sel") is capped by a crimson lighthouse and fringed by sweeping white-sand beaches. With its lush pastures grazed by fluffy sheep (prized for their wool) and dairy cows (producing milk used in local cheeses, chocolate and ice cream, mixed with freshly picked berries), along with rambling forests and nature reserves, Texel is an outdoors paradise. Cycling trails crisscross the island, with activities ranging from horse riding and skydiving. Watersports include sailing and kite-surfing.

Some 10,000 seals swim in the surrounding waters; you can spot them on boat trips or at Ecomare’s seal sanctuary.

Planning tip: Ferries carry foot passengers, cars and bikes from mainland Den Helder to Texel in just 20 minutes. In summer, there’s also a service linking Texel with the Frisian island of Vlieland . 

Best for time-honored streetscapes and artistic traditions

Lovely little Delft , with its web of narrow canals lined by quaint, colorful buildings, seems preserved in another era. Centered on its medieval Markt, one of Europe’s largest market squares (markets still set up here on Thursdays), it’s crowned by the lopsided 14th-century spire of its Oude Kerk (Old Church), and 17th-century-completed Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) – climbing its tower’s 376 spiraling steps provides beautiful views of the town.

A less demanding but equally picturesque impression is across the canal at Hooikade, where 17th-century Deft-born artist Vermeer, painted his famous View of Delft that’s still recognizable today. Vermeer’s life and techniques are covered at the Vermeer Centrum Delft.

The 17th century also saw artisans create an enduring legacy with the production of blue-and-white-painted pottery, known to the world as Delftware. Operating since 1653, Royal Delft has behind-the-scenes tours.

5. Den Haag (The Hague)

Best for regal museums and performing arts.

Stately Den Haag (The Hague) , the Netherlands’ third-largest city, isn’t the capital – that’s Amsterdam – but it is the seat of government and royalty. The glimmering Hofvijver pond relects the Gothic-style Binnenhof (Inner Court), the permanent home of the Dutch parliament (temporarily relocated until renovations that began in 2022 wrap up around 2028). The country’s monarch King Willem-Alexander works from adjacent Noordeinde Palace and lives at nearby palace Huis ten Bosch.

You won’t need a royal invitation to visit the dazzling royal picture gallery the Mauritshuis, hanging such masterpieces as Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring and Fabritius’ The Goldfinch . Former royal residence the Lange Voorhout Palace showcases the mind-bending works of Dutch graphic artist MC Escher. Bringing together organizations including the Royal Conservatoire and modern-dance Nederlands Dans Theater across four halls, 2021-opened performing arts complex Amare is the city’s cultural meeting point.

Planning tip: When the weather warms up, join locals unwinding at laid-back beach bars along the long, sandy strand at Scheveningen.

6. Maastricht

Best for roman relics and revelry  .

In this otherwise-flat country’s hilly southeast, Maastricht upends most visitors’ impressions of the Netherlands. Bordered by Germany and Belgium, its location on the ancient trading route between Cologne and Boulogne-sur-Mer saw the Romans establish a fort to guard the crossing on the Maas (Meuse) river. You can see the site of the original bridge from its replacement, the arched, stone footbridge Sint Servaasbrug, begun in 1280 and the Netherland’s oldest bridge.

Maastricht’s unbuttoned joie de vivre harks back to the 15th century when it was part of the vast Burgundy powerbase, resulting in rich food and flowing wine, beer and merriment. Great places to whet your appetite are the city squares Markt, Vrijthof (overlooked by Romanesque basilica Sint Servaasbasiliek) and Onze Lieve Vrowplein (by Romanesque church, Onze Lieve Vrouwebasiliek).

Planning tip: Carousing peaks during Carnaval, in the lead-up to Shrove Tuesday (February or March), when many businesses otherwise close and costumed parades and parties take over.

Want to attend a festival like Carnaval or King's Day? Here are the best times to g o.

Best spot for history lessons

Whether your historical interest is academia, art or trans-Atlantic history, Leiden is a must-visit. Threaded by canals, it’s home to the Netherlands’ oldest and most illustrious university, gifted to Leiden by Willem the Silent in 1575; its botanical garden, the Hortus Botanicus Leiden, opened in 1590, shelters rare species from all over the world.

Befitting an academic city, Leiden is stuffed with fascinating museums; the flagship Museum De Lakenhal, in a former cloth warehouse, displays works by artists including Rembrandt, who was born in Leiden in 1606. The Pilgrims, religious refugees who had fled England for Amsterdam in 1608, moved to Leiden the following year, raising money to lease the Speedwell to commence their journey to the New World in 1620. The tiny Leiden American Pilgrim Museum charts their story.

Planning tip: Leiden is a jumping-off point for springtime trips through the rainbow-striped tulip fields and Keukenhof Gardens , 10 miles north at Lisse, when some seven million bulbs bloom.

Best place for unique perspectives

Utrecht ’s university was founded in 1636, and this vibrant student city buzzes with independent shops, bars and bakery-cafes.

The city has some singular vantage points. From the top of its Utrecht's medieval landmark, the 112m (367ft) belfry Domtoren, reached by 465 steps, you can see as far as Amsterdam on a clear day. The Domkerk cathedral’s nave was destroyed by a hurricane in 1674 and never rebuilt. Below ground DOMunder guided tours take you to an underground archaeological site covering two millennia of history. Paleis Lofen tours explore the subterranean remains of this residence built by the Holy Roman Emperors around 1020 AD, incorporating Roman remains.

Also unique to Utrecht are its canals. Sluicing through the historic center, the Oudegracht and Nieuwegracht have double-decker towpaths, at both river level, where merchants offloaded goods into kelders (cellars), many of which house cafes and accommodation, and street level above. You can see another side to them from the water by boat, kayak or canoe.

Best for beaches, dunes and wildlife

The grand city of Haarlem – with its Grote Markt (Great Market) square, centuries-old churches (try to catch a Müller organ recital at the Grote Kerk) and impressive ensemble of museums (notably Frans Hals and Teylers) – is a splendid place to visit in itself.

When you’ve had your fill, the city is an ideal base for accessing powdery-soft, white-sand beaches at Zandvoort and Bloemendal aan Zee, via the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park , which teems with wildlife: along with birds and bats, you might spot bison, red foxes and fallow deer, as well as 2016-introduced horned Highland cattle. Kopje van Bloemendaal is the Netherlands’ highest dune, with views of the sea and Amsterdam (the capital is just 20 minutes from Haarlem). 

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UCL Psychology and Language Sciences

• PALS Alumni

Experimental Psychology Seminar : Heleen Slagter, University of Amsterdam

14 May 2024, 1:00 pm–3:00 pm

Joining us from the University of Amsterdam, Professor Heleen A. Slagter invites us to reconsider how attention is typically approached: rather than as a mere sensory filter but as a relational process that optimizes agent-environment interactions based on past experiences.

Event Information

Venue :  Lecture Theatre G03, 26 Bedford Way (ground floor), London WC1H 0AP

You may also attend virtually via zoom: https://ucl.zoom.us/j/91728380500

Title: Plasticity of the attentive mind

Abstract: Selective attention is often conceptualized as a mental spotlight that can be directed at will to illuminate any item of interest, acting as a sensory filter that selectively gates goal-relevant information for higher-order processing and conscious representation. Yet, over the past decade or so, it has become clear that our brains continuously predict what sensory signals are likely informative for goal-directed behavior based on the statistics of past agent-environment interactions, and hence, that action-oriented probabilistic learning is a much more pervasive feature of selective attention than generally assumed. In this talk, I will first present findings from several behavioral and EEG studies that reveal how, at the neural level, such probabilistic learning rapidly structures attention: what we automatically attend to or ignore. I will then discuss more recent work suggesting that these attentional biases may be sensorimotor in nature, rendering attention habit-like in character, and that internal attention (in working memory) is similarly structured by past learning and future action. Finally, I will discuss the idea that attention training as cultivated by meditation may provide a method to unlearn to attend or mentally behave in habitual ways. Altogether the work presented in this talk suggests a reconsideration of how attention is typically approached: from a mere sensory filter to a relational process that optimizes agent-environment interactions based on past experiences.   Host: Clare Press

About the Speaker

Heleen a. slagter.

Professor at Universiteit Amsterdam

Director of the Cognition & Plasticity laboratory, Professor Brain, Cognition, and Plasticity at the Department of Applied and Experimental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands.