Unmissable 28 Best Things to do in Amsterdam

Unmissable 28 Best Things to do in AMSTERDAM

Amsterdam, capital of Netherlands brims with beauty, adventures and picturesque canals. Renowned for its quaint streets, art and liberal laws, Amsterdam is a unique city that will have you with no time to be bored. Whether you are planning a short weekend break or a few days in Amsterdam in beautiful places to stay, here is the ultimate guide on the unmissable 28 best things to do in Amsterdam carefully selected for timeless experiences in this historic, elegant and compact city.

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UNMISSABLE 28 BEST THINGS TO DO IN AMSTERDAM

How would you like to explore and discover this unique city – on foot, by bike or by boat? Independently or in a small group led by a knowledgeable guide? You can do any and/or all to suit your itinerary and interests. In this guide, you shall find 28 best things to do in Amsterdam listed by way of interests and “good to know” suggestions along with options for independent or small group tours.

Museums in Amsterdam

When it comes to museums, Amsterdam is the place to be. With its rich tradition and culture of art, museum visits are favourite things to do in Amsterdam. Home to about seventy five museums dotted around the city for you to explore, you are always close to one that would make the list on best things to do in Amsterdam. From Rembrandt , Van Gogh to fluorescents, and unusually quirky ones to steal your interests. The NEMO Museum for kids housed in a unique boat-shaped building which is a fabulous place for children to spend time at.

Amongst all, the following four iconic museums are highly recommended as things to do in Amsterdam. These four are the best, world renowned and reflect Amsterdam’s deep roots in art. Tours offer skip-the-line tickets which can be booked prior to maximise your no-hassle visit.

1. Rijksmuseum

The largest and most visited museum in Netherlands, the Rijksmuseum is also one of the world’s finest. This magnificent Renaissance building is a jaw-dropping sight from the moment you step in! Home to some phenomenal 8000 pieces of collection of Dutch masterworks spread over eighty galleries, it tells 800 years of history from the Golden Age including The Night Watch by Rembrandt van Rijn. Works by renowned Dutch painters, Frans Hals, and Jan Steen are also exhibited here.

1.1 | Ways to experience the Rijksmuseum:

Explore independently or in a small group with a knowledgeable guide

2 | Van Gogh Museum

Dedicated to the famous artist who cut off his own ear, Vincent van Gogh was the most influential figure in western art. His choice of bold colours, expressive broad strokes is as captivating today as it was in the nineteenth century. Admire the largest art collection in the world created by this iconic painter, especially “Starry Night” and “Sunflowers” which became renowned after his death. Learn about his life, what inspired him and read his letters. Located just around the corner from Rijksmuseum.

2.1 | Ways to experience the Van Gogh Museum:

3 | Stedelijk Museum

Home to one of the world’s richest collection of contemporary art, the Stedelijk Museum houses ninety thousand modern paintings, sculptures, photographs, and design objects. Located next to Van Gogh Museum – the three museums make up the trilogy of culture which should not be missed when visiting Amsterdam.

3.1 | Ways to experience Stedelijk Museum

Book Online for immediate confirmation: Skip-the-line Entry Ticket to Stedelijk Museum

Pro-tip: If you use public transport to reach Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum or Stedelijk Museum, the closest stops are Van Baerlestraat (tram 2, 5 or 12) or Museumplein (tram: 3, 5 or 12, bus: 347 or 357).

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Things to do in Amsterdam

4 | Anne Frank House (Huis)

The house that was Frank family’s hiding place during the Nazi occupation in World War II survived the war and is now a moving museum. It was here, within the constraints of its walls that Anne Frank, kept a diary of events. She did not survive the Holocaust but her diary was eventually published in 1947 by the only surviving member of the Frank family, Otto Frank.

The best-selling book – Anne Frank: Diary of a Young Girl brings to life one of the greatest horrors of the twentieth century in a personal and compelling way.

4.1 | Ways to Experience Anne Frank House

Pro-tip: Visitors to Anne Frank House are limited in number and for this reason tickets sells out fast. Check the dedicated website and plan ahead so you do not miss out on this experience.

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Canal Cruises | Things to do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is famous for its winding canals and pretty locks, earning itself the nickname, Venice of the North. River Amstel runs through the city with more than one hundred-sixty canals criss-crossing Amsterdam, totaling to about one hundred kilometres (sixty miles). The main canals, Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht, Herengracht form the Canal Belt of Amsterdam and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As well, there are ninety islands and one-thousand-five hundred bridges along these canals. To top it off, there are landmark buildings, mansions and colourful houseboats along these canals. Its unique architecture is rather enchanting and it is an experience best viewed from the water.

Canal cruises are a popular activity in Amsterdam and there are so many options for you to select from. These include small open boat tour, hire a boat and cruise the waters by yourself, be part of a larger group onboard a luxury boat, a hop-on hop-off canal cruise, and an evening candle-lit dinner cruise. Whichever way you choose to explore, the following two is recommended.

5 | Day-time Canal Cruise

The day-time canal cruise is offered by various tour companies and these are good value for money option. The route covers major highlights of Amsterdam along the canals which makes it easy to plan your itinerary. They depart from various locations in the city at regular intervals.

For an out-of-the norm experience, go onboard a luxury salon boat for a day-time canal cruise and enjoy some drinks along with the famous Dutch Gouda cheese. Electrically powered and environmentally friendly, the boats are comfortable, with glass windows giving you the opportunity for a view of the architectural delights that sits along the canal. Moreover, it provides protection against the extreme heat in the summer, rain in the fall as well as the cold of the winter. The route covers the highlights of the city along the canals which gives a different perspective when seen from the water.

Alternatively, reserve a time slot and sail down the central canal and discover Amsterdam’s historical centre on a 75-minute day canal cruise.

Day time cruises make great photo opportunity.

5.1 | Ways to experience Amsterdam by a day-time river cruise

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6 | An Evening Canal Cruise

A relaxing and romantic way to enjoy Amsterdam’s canals at night is by hopping onto an evening canal cruise. Amsterdam looks different in the evening warm glow. As the twinkling stars begin to appear and the temperature drops a touch, the lights on the bridges lit up, creating a magical and surreal atmosphere quite unimaginably different.

An evening cruise is perfect for special memories when with your special someone.

6.1 | Ways to experience Amsterdam by an evening canal cruise

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Off-the beaten track in Amsterdam | Things to do in Amsterdam

7 | Vuurtoreneiland

Vuurtoreneiland literally translates to “lighthouse island” and is an extraordinary destination located on the coast of Durgerdam, to the east of Amsterdam city. This remarkable island is a base to the island’s lighthouse that has been in operation since 1700 and an old fort, but visitors are treated to a timeless experience of a different kind.

A special boat take visitors to Vuurtoreneiland, a unique small rugged island that has a huge transparent greenhouse dining room. Guests are treated to a set five-course meal in sublime surroundings of rich flora, fauna and stray animals with beautiful coastlines. For an added touch of exquisiteness, freshest regional produce is used, cooked over open flames.

A visit to Vuurtoreneiland that can only be reached by boat truly is an exceptional experience and is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam.

Learn more about Vuurtoreneiland

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8 | Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder (Our Lord in the Attic)

The Our Lord in the Attic is a hidden gem and was once Amsterdam’s best kept secret. A well-preserved seventeenth century canal house is home to a church in its attic!

The church spreads across the top of the canal house over three floors and was built in 1660s during the time when public Catholic worships were prohibited in 1578. A visit here offers insights into the persecution experienced by the Catholics and the religious life in the seventeenth century. The church has been beautifully preserved and houses some outstanding artworks. The church is used occasionally for worship and is popular for weddings.

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9 | Begijnhof | Things to do in Amsterdam

One of the most extraordinary places in the centre of Amsterdam is Begijnhof, a group of medieval dwellings in a secluded courtyard and a garden. These dwellings were modest homes belonging to a group of Beguines – a sisterhood of unmarried Catholic women who lived together as a community under vows of chastity.

Catholicism was banned in the sixteenth century but the Begijnhof continued to exist because it was privately owned by the women. They had to give up the church though. However, a secret chapel was built and this can be visited today. The panels in the chapel is said to feature the stories of Miracle of Amsterdam.

The last Beguine passed away in 1971 and one of the Beguine is buried in a grave in the gutter, which is often adorned with flowers.

The Begijnhof is one of the oldest buildings in Amsterdam, dating back to the 14th century. Most of its facades were replaced in the seventeenth and eighteenth century.

When visiting the Begijnhof, look out for Houten Huys, a timber house (before brick was introduced as building material) which has stood here unchanged since first built in 1425 – the oldest house in Amsterdam!

9.2 | Ways to experience Begijnhof

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Outdoor markets in Amsterdam | Things to do in Amsterdam

From food halls to fleas, Amsterdam boasts more than thirty colourful outdoor markets, each with its history, character and eccentrics. Most dates back a hundred years, with the first established in the Jewish Quarter. A quick stroll through the following three popular outdoor markets is an opportunity to pickup a bargain and some unusual souvenirs for your friends back home whilst immersing in the Dutch culture of steadfast bargaining.

10 | Albert Cuyp Market

The “Cuyp” is one of the unmissable markets in Amsterdam. Reputed to be the largest outdoor market in Europe, it began trading in 1905 and basically has everything one would need – from fresh meat, fish, herbs and spices to stroopwaffles! A great place to soak up the atmosphere and to buy some homemade cheese or afterwards, visit one the many cafés at the intersection between Albert Cuypstraat and Eerste van der Helststraat.

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11 | Bloemenmarkt | Things to do in Amsterdam

The world’s only floating flower market was established in 1862 and is located along one of the longer canals in central Amsterdam. The stalls are strung together, and the Bloemenmarkt is one place (besides Keukenhof) to see tulips of all colours alongside other blooms.

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12 | Waterlooplein

Waterlooplein is the oldest flea markets in Amsterdam as well as in Netherlands. Known also as the Jewish Market because of its location in the Jewish Quarter, Waterlooplein was established in 1885 and draws about three hundred traders who offer unique vintage cameras, used books, clothes and unusual bric-a-brac.

12.2 | Ways to experience the Outdoor Markets in Amsterdam

Outdoor markets are best explored independently at your own pace or in a small group guided tour.

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Shopping | Things to do in Amsterdam

13 | De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets)

An intimate, quaint and quirky shopping strip in the heart of Amsterdam city centre between Singel and Prinsengracht is a haven for boutique lovers. This picturesque area boasts a lively atmosphere with some of the best and most trendy of shops. There are galleries, gift shops, fashion boutiques and vintage stores where you could shop till you drop! Cosy cafés and artisanal food shops beckons a visit as well. As the name implies, the area comprises of nine little streets – Reestraat, Hartenstraat, Gasthuismolensteeg, Berenstraat, Wolvenstraat, Oude Spiegelstraat, Runstraat, Huidenstraat and Wijde Heisteeg. The Singel forms the border to the East, while the Prinsengracht marks the western most point.

Best enjoyed at your own pace and take a break at Screaming Beans while you watch the world go by.

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14 | Magna Plaza | Things to do in Amsterdam

The Magna Plaza, a stunning neo-Gothic and neo-Renaissance monumental building sits right across from the Royal Palace and Dam Square. It was formerly the city’s main post office, now home to three floors of magnificent shopping – from fashion, jewelry, souvenirs to skincare and cosmetics. The architecture is absolutely stunning and one not to be missed.

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Immersive and rewarding food experiences | Things to do in Amsterdam

15 | REM Eiland | Things to do in Amsterdam

REM Eiland offer an awesome experience dining at 22 feet above water at a former pirate radio station. There is a bar, restaurant and roof terrace with views across the city and Amsterdam harbour.

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16 | Brouwerij ’t IJ | Things to do in Amsterdam

Located next to De Gooyer windmill, Brouwerij ’t IJ is one of the original small breweries in Amsterdam that has been delighting its customers since 1985. It brews 8 standard beers, and 3 seasonal beers in addition to its limited edition – a complete beer heaven! Taste a selection in small glasses but be aware that some has high alcohol volume. It has an outdoor terrace and timely tours are also offered.

Located next to De Gooyer windmill, Brouwerij ’t IJ is one of the original small breweries in Amsterdam that has been delighting its customers since 1985. It brews 8 standard beers, and 3 seasonal beers in addition to its limited edition – a complete beer heaven! Taste a selection in small glasses but be aware that some has high alcohol volume. The ultimate experience comes with traditional Dutch bar snacks like raw sausages and boiled eggs. It has an outdoor terrace and timely tours are also offered.

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17| Taste the best bites of Amsterdam

Immerse in the food culture and traditions of Amsterdam – enjoy authentic stroopwaffles, local chesses, hip cafes, and the fusion of cultures in Dutch cuisine at a Surinamese restaurant.

17.1 | Ways to experience the best bites of Amsterdam

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18 | Foodhallen | Things to do in Amsterdam

Foodhallen is a classy indoor food market and bar located in the quintessential cultural corner of De Hallen in Oude West neighbourhood, Amsterdam. It serves a range of high-end street food, from woodfired pizzas, Vietnamese rolls to Greek Meze along with beverages in historic surroundings. An ideal spot to experience the Dutch culture and gastronomic delights.

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Parks in Amsterdam | Things to do in Amsterdam

You do not have to wander too far for a respite from exploring the city of Amsterdam – there are about thirty parks in this compact city! Many of them are steeped in history and you will find sculptures adorning some of these green spaces. Some unique green spaces are ideal for families so kids can go wild while others are perfect for fitness or a stroll. Here are the three best parks in Amsterdam.

19 | Amstelpark | Things to do in Amsterdam

Amstelpark is a large green space covered in trees offering an orangery, rose garden and a Japanese garden. Perfectly manicured rhododendrons of 130+ varieties adorned the park as well. There’s a mini-golf, a labyrinth, a small train and a petting garden which makes a great spot for families. The Rieter Windmill is located at the southern end of the garden which should not be missed.

Amstelpark, Amsterdam

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20 | Vondelpark | Things to do in Amsterdam

The most famous park in Amsterdam, Vondelpark is centrally located and brims with ancient trees, charming lakes and beautifully manicured rose gardens created in 1936. It’s easy to find a quiet corner to sit and relax while sipping something refreshing from the nearby cafés. There are open-air concerts throughout summer and ice-skating in winter. Don’t miss Picasso’s fish sculpture, towards the southern end of the park.

Vondelpark, Amsterdam

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21 | Westerpark | Things to do in Amsterdam

A vibrant urban area offering ample green space and home to some of the city’s coolest bars and restaurants including a cinema. Westerpark hosts many food events, music festivals and exhibitions throughout the year. For special memories, you could hire a boat and cruise along the Harlemmerweg canal into the city centre.

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21.1 | Ways to experience the parks in Amsterdam

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Neighbourhoods in Amsterdam

The neighbourhoods of Amsterdam is distinct and has a unique personality with a whole world of character to explore. The following two is selected for you to consider.

22 | Jordaan Neighbourhood

Conveniently located, Jordaan is possibly the most popular neighbourhood in Amsterdam. Rooted in history, where it was once a popular working class neighbourhood, Jordaan has developed to become one of the most upscale neighbourhoods in Amsterdam. Home to many art galleries particularly modern art, Jordaan is also sprinkled with patio restaurants, cafes and street musicians. Speciality shops are plentiful as are the daily open-air markets, notably Noordermarkt, Westerstraat and Lindengracht.

When in Jordaan, visit Anne Frank’s House, the Westerkerk where Rembrandt is buried, and take a trip to Woonbootmuseum, the only houseboat museum in the world.

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23 | Red Light District

The Red Light district, also known as De Wallen is much talked about neighbourhood in Amsterdam because of its Prostitution Policy by the City of Amsterdam. It is also a centre for hen parties that goes on till the early hours of the morning.

De Wallen is one of the oldest neighbourhood in Amsterdam. Although not everyone may want to experience the ground zero for the city’s prostitution, there are monuments, churches and other sites of interest which are worth visiting.

23.2 | Ways to experience the neighbourhoods in Amsterdam

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Unusual and quirky places to visit in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is well-known for its creativity, boasting a plethora of unusual and quirky attractions which never ceases to enthral its visitors.

24 | Amsterdam’s Coffee Shops

As a visitor to Amsterdam, you may want to make a difference between coffee shops and cafes. Amsterdam’s coffee shops are no ordinary coffee shops! One can purchase and consume cannabis in any one of these licensed coffee shops. There are about one hundred of them dotted all around the city which means you are never too far away from one. Many coffee shops are somewhat bland but some do try to make it fun and interesting. A couple of popular ones – Grey Area and Barney’s Coffeeshop.

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25 | Electric Ladyland – The Museum of Fluorescent Art

Located in the Jordaan neighbourhood, Electric Ladyland prides itself as the world’s only museum dedicated to fluorescent art. Immersive and interactive, you’ll find minerals, stones and art that glows under the ultraviolet lights.

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26 | De Poezenboot (The Cat Boat)

De Poezenboot is a cat sanctuary floating on a canal founded by Henriette van Weelde in 1966. Though cats may not like water, the cats in this Cat Boat appears quite at home! It began as a home for stray and sick cats but has grown into an official charity that looks out for all cats in Amsterdam. All donations are welcome.

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27 | Hortus Botanicus, Amsterdam

Founded in 1638, as means to find medicinal solutions to combat the Black Death plague, the Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam is now home to rare flora and fauna and a place of pilgrimage for plant enthusiasts from all over the world. One of the most captivating plants in the Palm House is a 2000 year old agave cactus that goes way back to Roman times and the lovely waterlily, Victoria Amazonica which is a little over 150 years old. During bloom season, Victoria is said to open up her white petals every day at dusk, decade after decade. Other features include curving paths and hexagonal pavilion which lends this botanical its unique beauty.

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28 | NDSM Wharf

Located in the Noord neighbourhood, the NDSM Wharf was a former shipyard that has recently blossomed into a cultural hotspot and a creative haven. It provides a rich mix of art galleries, festivals, exhibitions, restaurants and bars along with a rooftop jacuzzi. If you are a street-art fan, NDSM is the place to see some amazing talent. With a free ferry ride from the back of Centraal, NDSM makes a welcome spot from the busy streets of Amsterdam.

Check NDSM website for detailed guide on the free ferry rides.

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Practical information for Unmissable 28 Best Things to do in Amsterdam

1 | User-friendly map

Below is a map of all the sights written in this article about the best things to do in Amsterdam. Click on the coloured icons to learn more of the destination. Some sights are best explored at your own pace while some others are best explored with tour guide who knows the area and time saved.

How to use the above Google map: Click on the arrow in the top left corner to expand the layers of this map. Destinations mentioned in this article are colour-coded for ease of reference with corresponding reference on the map. Select the item you want to know more of and the corresponding icon will be highlighted on the map – this gives you an idea of its location so to support your travel planning to Amsterdam.

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2 | Places to Stay

Looking for a beautiful place to stay when visiting Amsterdam? Look no further – Beautiful places to stay in Amsterdam is a carefully curated articles to meet your needs. Have a read, select and book.

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3. Would you prefer a no hassle travel?

For a no hassle travel, you may want to book an All-in-One holiday which includes flights, hotel accommodation and transfers to your hotel – all for one price. Take a look at EasyJet Holidays, Jet2 Holidays and On the Beach who run regular best value promotions.

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4 | Travelling to Amsterdam

Amsterdam is conveniently located for both air and train travel. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is served well by both international and domestic flights. You may want to check your routes and for cheap tickets on Opodo. Alternatively, if you are within Europe and UK and prefer to train travel, you may wish to take a look at Eurail who are currently running a promotion – book now, secure your price and travel later.

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5 | Getting to Amsterdam City Centre

From Amsterdam Schiphol Airport – there are 3 ways to get to city centre. You could take either a taxi, train or a bus. Taxis take around 15-20 minutes and may cost €39.00. Train cost €5.40 for a 20-minute journey (arrives at Amsterdam Centraal ) and Bus cost €5.00 and takes 35 minutes.

Amsterdam Centraal Station – is the main hub of the city. Once here, there are clear sign for transportation – you could take a tram, bus, taxi or simply walk to your hotel (depending where it is) as Amsterdam is a very compact city.

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6 | Getting around Amsterdam City during your stay

Well, it all depends how long you are visiting this amazing city – below are three options for you to consider. Peruse each one as they each offer great value for money especially the I Amsterdam Card.

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On a final note…

There’s a lot of things to do in Amsterdam and one can easily spend a lot of money! So, plan ahead, take advantage of travel offers so you have more to enjoy with. As well, if you can’t see everything on your first visit, there’s always the next time. For a short visit to this amazing city, take a look at 18 experiences in 48 hours in Amsterdam for ideas.

Get in touch if you need further information via Contact form.

Should you find the information on this page helpful towards planning your vacation to Amsterdam, please use the links embedded in this article and related articles to book your visit to Amsterdam. A commission is earned from qualifying purchases at no cost to you and this supports in maintaining Timeless Travel Steps. As always, your support is much appreciated.

Have a splendid time in Amsterdam.

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