The Netherlands is a picture of beauty and adventure. It is one of the most frequented European destinations among avid travelers. However, there is one city in particular that’s in most people’s travel bucket lists: Amsterdam.
When you think of Amsterdam you picture windmills, fields of tulips, and a ring of canals. While it’s true, there is more to Amsterdam than meets the eye. Enjoy the full Amsterdam experience by checking off some of the must-see destinations and must-do activities that make it an unmatched European adventure.
1. Visit the Anne Frank House
Whether you’re a literature fan or not, a visit to the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam is a must-do. Frank is one of the most well-known residents of Amsterdam and her famed house is located at Prinsengracht 263. It served as her and her family’s hiding place during World War II.
The former home of the Jewish wartime diarist is now converted into a museum. This building sits on a canal in central Amsterdam, which makes it easily accessible to tourists. The museum showcases sobering exhibits of Jewish persecution during the Second World War and other exhibitions that relate to discrimination. Other things to see in the museum are quotes from her diary, film images, some original images from the home when Frank used to live here, and a few of her original writings.
To visit the Anne Frank House, you need to purchase an online ticket before your visit. It is such a popular tourist destination that tickets sell out two months in advance. Each ticket also specifies the date and time of your visit.
2. See Tulips at the Keukenhof Gardens
If you are visiting Amsterdam in spring, you shouldn’t miss out on the opportunity to see the fields of tulips at the Keukenhof Tulip Gardens. This garden is typically open from March to May. It is home to the largest selection of tulips in the world with up to 800 different varieties of tulips.
During autumn, there are over 7 million flower bulbs that are planted in the garden, perfect for blooming in springtime. The flower park spans a total of 32 hectares in land area. In addition to the vibrant display of the tulips, there are also other attractions in the park. These include flower shows, artworks displays, springtime events, and more.
Each year, there is a specific theme for the garden so there is something different to look forward to with every visit – even when you come here annually. It is a great destination for families, especially ones with children.
3. Explore the Van Gogh Museum
Here is something to add to your itinerary if you’re into art. Especially, since it is acclaimed as one of the must-see museums in Amsterdam: the Van Gogh Museum. This Dutch art museum houses the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works, along with his contemporaries.
This museum is located at the Museum Square in the South of Amsterdam, within a short distance from Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Museum, and the Concertgebouw. This museum opened its doors to the public in 1973 and features Van Gogh’s paintings and drawings. Specifically, the museum is home to 200 paintings, 700 letters, and 400 drawings. There are permanent and temporary exhibits available for viewing by visitors to the museum.
All the tickets to this museum are available to purchase online only. They do include entry to not only the permanent collection, but also any temporary exhibitions.
4. Shop at the Albert Cuypmarkt
Established in 1905 and known simply as “The Market”, Albert Cuypmarkt is one of the largest outdoor markets in Europe. Not just in Amsterdam. If you are visiting in the spring or summer, you simply can’t miss a day in the most famous street market in Amsterdam.
The Albert Cuypmarkt is a favorite destination among locals, tourists, and entrepreneurs seeking out the best local produce and products. It is considered the best place to go for anyone seeking an authentic Amsterdam experience. More than 260 stands are operating in this market and it is open 6 days a week. It has a laid-back atmosphere and has everything you might be looking for – food, luggage, shoes, fresh vegetables, and fish.
There are also plenty of cafes, cosy bars, and restaurants near the market, making it one of the liveliest parts of the city.
5. Cruise the Canals
Renting a bike is one of the best ways to get around the city and go sightseeing. However, you can also explore many sights using a more fun-filled and (some would say) romantic way: going on a canal cruise.
Amsterdam is a city known for its many canals. These can serve as a gateway to some of the most spectacular sights that the city has to offer. One of the coolest canal cruises takes you to the Dutch countryside and into a rustic wonderland filled with windmills and traditional timbered houses. Another city canal cruise would take you to the historic center wherein you can marvel at centuries-old buildings.
However, do not miss the experience of going on an evening canal cruise. As fascinating a city Amsterdam is, it becomes even more spectacular at night, especially when the buildings are illuminated.
6. Head to the Zaanse Schans
This open-air museum is another can’t-miss destination in Amsterdam, especially for tourists who are seeking the ultimate Amsterdam experience. Travel to the neighborhood of Zaandam to witness the impressive collection of well-preserved historic windmills, some of which dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries.
Not only is it an important tourist attraction in The Netherlands but Zaanse Schans is also the anchor point for the European Route of Industrial Heritage. This neighborhood is visited by nearly 2 million tourists every year. Aside from the historic windmills, there are seven museums located in the area. There are boat tours available for those who want to get as close of a view of these famous windmills as possible.
Zaanse Schans is located outside of Amsterdam, but you can get there with public transport. If you’re okay with walking, catch a train from the Amsterdam’s central railway station, and then take a 20 min walk towards the windmills. You can also catch a more direct bus from the city, but make sure to check its schedule in advance.
7. Get a Drink at IJ Brewery
Want to sample the local brews and beers of Amsterdam? Make sure to head on over to IJ Brewery, which is a small brewery located at the former Funen bathhouse. The location of this brewery in a former bathhouse adds to the charm and mystery of this tourist attraction. At the same time, it is located adjacent to a 300-year-old windmill, the De Gooyer.
IJ Brewery is a small brewery that was established by Kaspar Peterson in 1985. Peterson is a former musician who built this brewery and established a selection of organic beers. They also have an impressive selection of seasonal and special brews.
A visit to the IJ brewery wouldn’t be complete without tasting their famous beers. There are guided tours available on the site and a pub that is open from 3 PM to 8 PM.
8. Tour the Royal Palace Amsterdam
If you want to be awe-inspired by the beauty of architecture and history, a visit to the Royal Palace in Amsterdam is a must. This is one of three palaces in the Netherlands. It is located in Dam Square in the heart of the city. It was originally built in the 17th century as a city hall and became the royal residence of King Louis Napoleon. Later, it became known as the Dutch Royal House.
This palace was used by the monarchs for numerous functions, including acting as a venue for entertaining royal guests and official royal functions. It underwent renovation from 2005 to 2009, which included the removal of asbestos. As of June 2009, the palace is once again open for tourist visits.
9. Spend Time at the Westergasfabriek
Another notable cultural venue in Amsterdam is Westergasfabriek. This destination is always buzzing; it is a creative complex that was once the home of the city’s gasworks. This area is filled with industrial buildings that have been converted into creative hubs, as well as entertainment venues, bars, galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants.
Located in Western Amsterdam, it is known as the city’s cultural hub. There are also plenty of activities and events held at Westergasfabriek. From food markets to art exhibitions, to festivals, you will never run out of things to see or do.
10. Check Out Hortus Botanicus
Hortus Botanicus in Amsterdam is known as one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world. It was established in 1638 and is located within the Plantage district of Amsterdam. This garden was established by the city council to provide doctors and apothecaries access to herbal plants that were used for the treatment of various illnesses during the 17th century.
Today, Hortus Botanicus is drawing visitors from within the Netherlands and from all over the world. The garden is most famous for its collection of trees and plants including the Persian ironwood tree. One of the newest additions to the garden is the greenhouse, which features three varying tropical climates.
There is also a café in the botanical garden for guests looking for food and refreshments.
11. Learn History at the Dutch Resistance Museum
This museum is another attraction in Amsterdam that is located within the Plantage district. It has been recognized as the best historical museum in the country. The Dutch Resistance Museum retells the story of the people who stood up against the dictatorial Nazi regime during World War II.
This is a highly interesting museum as the décor is filled with reconstructed streets while the walls are filled with colored photos depicting the grim state of the Dutch people during the occupation. There are original objects that had been preserved and displayed in the museum that were collected during the actual time of the occupation.
This museum is open daily, although opening hours can change depending on the time of the day of the week.
12. Be In Awe at House of Bols
If you’re not done with learning about the history of Dutch beer yet, here is another must-visit attraction: House of Bols. The House of Bols was recently renovated in 2017, transforming it into a lavish cocktail experience in Amsterdam in a multi-sensory tour.
When you visit, you will learn about the history of Lucas Bols, the longest standing distilled spirit brand in Amsterdam. Its history dates back to the late 1500s. There are up to 42 different liqueurs from the brand that you can sample during your visit, which includes traditional Dutch genever. You can also sample a variety of cocktails prepared by the bartenders on-site and dig deep into the art of mixology!
13. Indulge at Foodhallen
One of the best ways to truly get to know a city is through its food. If you’re a foodie, do not pass up the opportunity to visit Foodhallen and the indulgent gastronomic experience that it has to offer.
Foodhallen is a 1200-square meter indoor food market that lets you choose among 21 culinary stands. Celebrate food and spoil your palate with a wide range of cuisines under one roof. Whether you are craving cheese, wood-fired pizzas, Vietnamese summer rolls, or artisanal burgers, you will find it here. There are also many selections of fine wines and beers to go with your choice of food. This classy indoor market is definitely on top of the list for serious foodies.
14. Explore the Amsterdam Red Light District
Located in the medieval city center – one of the oldest areas of the city – is the Amsterdam Red Light District. This area is filled with centuries-old buildings that transform into a dizzying display of neon-lit bars that is a must-try for anyone seeking the thrill of the Dutch nightlife experience.
You might have heard a few things about the Red Light District in Amsterdam, and most of it is probably true. It is filled with brothels, clubs, strip clubs, sex shops, and more. In some way, it reflects the attitude of the city – liberal and tolerant. Therefore, it’s an experience that is so unique to the city.
15. Sample the Heineken Experience
Dive into the world of the globally distributed Dutch pilsner in the first-ever built brewery for Heineken. This historic brewery opened its doors in 1864, long before Heineken became one of the top beer producers in the world. This attraction is located within the city center of Amsterdam, making it easily accessible for interested guests and tourists.
Housed within this historic brewery is an interactive museum that lets you take a sneak peek into the production of Heineken. It’s no secret that Amsterdam is a city that loves its beers. You can get to experience why that is the case when you explore up to four floors of multimedia exhibits, artifacts, and a beer tasting bar. There is even a 4D adventure ride that’s waiting for guests in this museum!
16. Travel Back in Time at Volendam
If you’re looking for a different kind of Amsterdam experience, book a trip to Volendam. This is an old yet beautiful fishing town with an equally breathtaking harbor. This fishing town is located within the province of Edam-Volendam with a population of more than 22,000 (as of 2015).
It is one of the most popular tourist attractions just outside of Amsterdam, especially for the cultural enthusiasts. Tourists can get a first-hand experience of how the locals live and be in awe of the traditional clothing worn by its residents, along with the old yet colorful boats. The residents of this town live off of the fishing trade. The laid-back scenery of this town is what many would consider an authentic Dutch character.
17. Discover Art at Rijksmuseum
There is no shortage of museums to visit when in Amsterdam. However, if you have to visit just one or two, make Rijksmuseum one of them. This is the national museum of the Netherlands that showcases Dutch arts and history. It is located in the Museum Square in Amsterdam and close to the Van Gogh Museum.
Rijksmuseum features many exhibits that depict over 800 years of Dutch history. There are more than 1 million artworks on display here, with approximately 8,000 pieces on display at any given time. Some of the most prominent figures whose works are on display here include Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Vermeer.
It is known as one of the grandest museums in The Netherlands and is among the top 3 most visited museums in the country.
18. Go Sightseeing at A’DAM Tower
A’DAM Tower is an imposing figure over the Amsterdam North Skyline. This tower is a city landmark that rises 22 floors, making it the ideal observation point for anyone who wants to see the beauty of the city skyline. While the tower looks brand new, it dates back to 1971 when it was formerly the headquarters of the Royal Dutch Shell oil company.
In 2016, the tower has undergone a massive refit costing several million euros. This has transformed the A’DAM Tower into an exciting hub for entertainment and nightlife. The rooftop observation deck is popular among tourists who want to see Amsterdam from above. There are also many other attractions in this building such as bars, restaurants, a boutique hotel, and so much more.
19. Tour the MOCO Museum
If you’re serious about museum-hopping in Amsterdam, here’s another one to add to your list: MOCO Museum. This museum has twin locations: one is in Amsterdam and the other one is in Barcelona, Spain.
The Amsterdam location houses modern, contemporary and street art. This is an independent museum that was founded with the mission of attracting a young audience and making art more accessible rather than a high-brow affair.
Prepare to be dazzled by the rich array of unique and inspiring modern art exhibits that are truly one of a kind.
20. Discover Jordaan Neighborhood
The Jordaan District of Amsterdam is located right within the city center. This is a charming part of Amsterdam, which is why it is beloved by tourists. This neighborhood is characterized by narrow streets and flower-lined canals. Tourists who explore this neighborhood can stumble upon hidden boutiques and quaint shops along the narrow alleyways. There is also an abundance of restaurants and artist studios waiting to be explored.
Many consider that this neighborhood exemplifies the Dutch way of life. The history of this neighborhood goes back to the 17th century when it was inhabited by the working class and immigrants. Due to the religious and political tolerance of the Netherlands, many people from neighbouring countries in Europe fled to Amsterdam during that time. This mix also makes Jordaan interesting as a neighborhood as there is vast cultural influence to be observed here.
21. Relax at Vondelpark
Known as the largest city park in Amsterdam, Vondelpark is the best destination for tourists seeking respite in the city. It is a public urban park that spans 47 hectares in land area. This is also one of the city’s most famous parks as it is visited by approximately 10 million tourists every year.
Vondelpark is located within the museum district of Amsterdam, which makes it easily accessible. The best time to visit is on a sunny day so you can enjoy the beauty of nature at its finest. There are plenty of things to see and do in this park as there is a playground for the children, a roller-skating area, and an area where you can have a picnic. There are also free concerts at certain times of the year held at the open-air theater. If you want to explore this park the old-fashioned Dutch way, you can also rent a bike!
22. Go Boutique-Hopping at Nine Little Streets
If you’re looking to bring some souvenirs home from Amsterdam, Nine Little Streets is where you should go. This is the most popular destination for anyone who wants to do some serious shopping. It is located in a quaint, canal-district area wherein you can find a wide array of vintage and designer boutiques.
Shop to your heart’s content as you go from one boutique to the next. There are also quirky shops that you can check out if you want something unique as a souvenir for this trip. And when you’re hungry from all the shopping, there are lots of cosy cafes and eateries ready to serve you.
23. Taste Local Dutch Food
When you visit Amsterdam, don’t miss out on the chance to sample local Dutch cuisine. Sure, there are plenty of world-class restaurants in Amsterdam but you can immerse in the Dutch experience by sampling local favorites.
Stroopwafel is a Dutch sweet treat, which is a couple of thin waffles that are stuck together with sweet syrup in the middle. These are sold in most bakeries and pastry shops in Amsterdam, so make sure you grab a taste!
Another local favorite that you should sink your teeth into when in Amsterdam is Bitterballen. This is essentially a crispy meatball dish that is often served in bars. This is a favorite pub snack among locals and is usually served with a dip.
If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can try another local favorite: the herring sandwich. Herring is a type of fish that is pickled and added to a sandwich, along with onions. It’s an acquired taste but make sure you don’t miss out on trying this to see why the locals are raving about it.
There are more local foods that you have to try when in Amsterdam, but the ones mentioned above should whet your appetite.
24. Visit the Rembrandt House
This is another popular tourist attraction in Amsterdam that is home to a former artist that was turned into a museum. Rembrandt is a painter who lived and worked in this house until the mid-17th century. This fashionable house is where he produced some of his best works.
To honor his life and work, his former home has been converted into an art museum. The interior of the home has been reconstructed since it became a museum. Walking inside the home and exploring his artworks provide an immersive experience and lets you inside the mind of one of the greatest artists to ever live.
25. Get Your Souvenir Photo at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Last but not the least; don’t ever leave the city without having your photo taken at the iconic Amsterdam sign at Schiphol Airport. The I Amsterdam sign is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city.
The famed sign was controversially removed in 2018 by city officials. Many cited that the phrase “I am Amsterdam” was individualistic. Contradictory to what the city was known for, which should promote inclusion.
The sign was restored on the original spot but it is now changed to “I Amazonia”. This sign was built in collaboration with Greenpeace. It raises awareness of the devastation and rapid deforestation of the Amazon rainforest. Tourists who visit the site can take selfies with the sign once again. Only this time, it would help spread an important cause and message.
Conclusion
With this comprehensive list of things to do in Amsterdam, you should have plenty of things to keep you busy during your stay. The list features a wide range of attractions and activities across all age groups and for different types of personalities. Indeed, Amsterdam has plenty to offer its tourists and it’s no surprise why tourists keep coming back.
What is your favorite destination or activity while in Amsterdam? Be sure to share your experience with us or let us! Also, let us know if we missed anything that should be on this list.