Amsterdam is a type of locations I can by no means get sufficient of. Regardless of what number of instances I go to, I all the time go away feeling like I wanted only one extra day… or week!
There’s one thing particular about this metropolis that retains pulling me again, and I feel it’s a mixture of historic attraction, superb meals, and that unmistakable Dutch angle.
The locals have this splendidly easy mind-set and talking that I completely love. You all the time know the place you stand with a Dutchie, and I love that honesty.
Town’s iconic canals and cobbled streets are simply the beginning. There’s a endless listing of issues to see and do in Amsterdam, and I’ve to say the town delivers on historical past, artwork and meals each time.
Should you’re something like me, you’ll in all probability end up spending plenty of time simply consuming your method via city— contemporary stroopwafels, wealthy Indonesian rijsttafel and completely crisp fries topped with mayo (belief me, they’re addictive!).
On this information, I’ll stroll you thru 15 of probably the most enjoyable and fascinating issues to do in Amsterdam. Every advice comes with sensible tips about how lengthy to plan for, prices, and the most effective time of day to go.
I’ll additionally embody tips about what to be careful for or methods to take advantage of every expertise throughout your time in Amsterdam. Let’s get began!
Greatest Issues to Do in Amsterdam
1. Kickstart Your Day with a Canal Cruise
You’ve bought to start out your day with a canal cruise—it’s among the best methods to get a really feel for the town. Amsterdam’s canals stretch for miles, and cruising via them provides you this excellent mixture of enjoyable vibes and superb views. It’s such a straightforward method to take in the town’s attraction particularly in case you go early morning.
How Lengthy to Plan For
Most cruises take between 60 to 90 minutes. Mornings are very best in case you want a quieter expertise, plus the delicate mild makes for some nice pictures. Night cruises are additionally a unbelievable choice if you wish to see the canals lit up—it’s a very totally different vibe and feels a bit extra magical.
Value and Reserving
Commonplace cruises often value between €14.50 and €20 per individual. Should you’re searching for one thing somewhat extra particular, some firms provide smaller luxurious cruises with limitless drinks and Dutch snacks (which I extremely suggest in case you’re feeling fancy). These are pricier however price it if you would like a extra intimate expertise.
Reserving forward is a good suggestion in case you’re visiting throughout peak season, however you’ll be able to usually discover a spot by simply strolling as much as the dock and hopping on the following accessible boat.
Sizzling Tip
If you’d like a extra private expertise, I like to recommend selecting a smaller boat tour as an alternative of one of many bigger vacationer boats. The smaller boats can cruise down among the narrower canals that the larger boats can’t match via, and the entire vibe is rather more relaxed.
I’ve executed each, and the smaller boats felt extra intimate and peaceable—positively my favourite solution to see the canals!
2. Wander the Quaint Streets of Jordaan
Jordaan is fingers down considered one of my favourite neighborhoods in Amsterdam. It’s full of charming streets, hidden courtyards, and comfortable cafes which might be excellent for a lazy afternoon. There’s one thing particular about simply strolling round right here—you’ll stumble throughout artwork galleries, classic outlets, and cute little spots that you just’d by no means discover on a typical vacationer map.
How Lengthy to Plan For
I’d give your self not less than a few hours to wander Jordaan correctly. Should you take pleasure in popping into outlets, grabbing a espresso, or exploring tucked-away corners, you could possibly simply spend half a day right here.
Greatest Time to Go
Mornings are beautiful in case you like quieter streets, however afternoons have extra of a buzz as locals collect for espresso or a chew to eat. Ebook a strolling meals tour!
Sizzling Tip
Should you’re a foodie like me, take a look at the Noordermarkt on Saturdays. It’s a unbelievable farmers’ market with contemporary produce, native cheeses, and a few nice meals stalls. I stumbled throughout a stand promoting contemporary apple pie as soon as, and I’m nonetheless fascinated by it! It additionally has every kind of merchandise from native artisans like pottery, clothes and jewelery – an excellent place for sustainable souvenirs!
3. Dive into Artwork on the Rijksmuseum
You possibly can’t go to Amsterdam with out spending a while on the Rijksmuseum. It’s a type of locations that fully lives as much as the hype. The constructing itself is beautiful, and inside you’ll discover over 8,000 masterpieces, together with works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh. Even in case you’re not an artwork lover, the sheer fantastic thing about the place will win you over.
How Lengthy to Plan For
To really recognize the gathering, I’d suggest setting apart not less than 2 to three hours. If artwork is your factor, you may end up spending much more time exploring the assorted displays. Opening hours are from 9 to five day by day.
Value and Reserving
As of 2025, grownup tickets are priced at €25. Guests underneath 18 can enter at no cost. It’s finest to guide your tickets on-line prematurely to ensure you get your chosen time slot, particularly throughout peak vacationer season.
Greatest Time to Go
Visiting early within the morning when the museum opens at 9 AM can assist you keep away from the crowds. Weekdays are typically much less busy than weekends.
Sizzling Tip
After immersing your self in artwork, take a break on the museum’s café. They serve some scrumptious Dutch treats, and it’s a stunning spot to chill out and mirror on the masterpieces you’ve simply seen. I ended there for espresso with my guide as soon as and ended up staying for much longer than deliberate as a result of the environment was so good!
4. Expertise Van Gogh’s World
Should you’re even barely into artwork, you’ve bought to go to the Van Gogh Museum. It’s full of the most important assortment of Vincent van Gogh’s work, and it’s unbelievable to see how his fashion modified over time. From the enduring Sunflowers to his putting self-portraits, there’s a lot to soak up. I’m not an enormous artwork museum goer, however I beloved this one.
How Lengthy to Plan For
Plan for not less than 1.5 to 2 hours right here. It’s the proper period of time to soak in his most well-known items and study his fascinating (and typically heartbreaking) life story. Opening hours are typically from 9 to six pm, however are sometimes stretched later when particular occasions are going down.
Value and Reserving
Tickets are €27.50 for adults, and under-18s get in free. You’ll have to guide on-line forward of time since this place can promote out shortly. Tickets are launched day by day at 5 PM for the next day, so it’s price setting a reminder.
Greatest Time to Go
Early mornings are your finest guess if you would like a quieter go to. Reserving the primary time slot makes it simpler to benefit from the artwork with out feeling rushed.
Sizzling Tip
After the museum, head to close by Vondelpark. It’s the proper place to unwind, and seize a espresso at one of many park’s cozy cafés.
5. Mirror on the Anne Frank Home
The Anne Frank Home is a type of locations that hits you laborious—in one of the simplest ways. Strolling via the rooms the place Anne and her household hid throughout World Struggle II is extremely highly effective. It’s such a transferring expertise that actually makes you cease and suppose.
How Lengthy to Plan For
Most guests spend about an hour exploring the museum. This offers you adequate time to soak up the displays with out feeling rushed. Opening hours are from 9 am to 10 pm day by day.
Value and Reserving
Tickets are €16 for adults, €7 for kids aged 10-17, and 1€ for kids underneath 10. However regardless of your age, you’ll want a ticket—and so they’re solely accessible on-line. Tickets are launched six weeks prematurely each Tuesday at 10 AM CEST, and so they promote out quick, so ensure you plan forward. Ebook a tour.
Greatest Time to Go
Early mornings or late afternoons are usually much less crowded. Reserving the earliest or newest time slot accessible can provide you a extra peaceable expertise.
Sizzling Tip
Be a part of your go to to the museum with a stroll across the close by Jordaan neighborhood. I ended at one of many close by cafés afterward and simply sat for some time—it actually helped me course of what I’d seen.
6. Pedal Like a Native
Biking is such a enjoyable solution to discover Amsterdam—it’s how the locals do it, and belief me, you’ll really feel like one too when you’re cruising alongside these scenic canals. Town is tremendous bike-friendly, with devoted lanes and clear indicators in all places, making it simple to get round on two wheels.
How Lengthy to Plan For
You possibly can lease a motorbike for just some hours or preserve it for the entire day. If it’s your first time biking in Amsterdam, I’d suggest beginning with a half-day rental to get the dangle of issues with out feeling overwhelmed.
Value and Rental Choices
Bike leases are in all places, and costs are fairly affordable. MacBike gives metropolis bikes beginning at €10.95 for 1 hour, €12.50 for two hours, and €17.50 for a full day. Should you’re searching for one thing extra versatile, Donkey Republic has app-based leases beginning at €10 per thirty days for as much as two hours of day by day use. Ebook a motorbike tour.
Greatest Time to Go
Amsterdam’s bike paths can get busy, so mornings or late afternoons are usually extra relaxed. Weekdays are typically quieter too, particularly outdoors of peak vacationer seasons.
Sizzling Tip
For a scenic trip, strive the route alongside the Amstel River. It’s a peaceable path that takes you previous windmills, charming villages, and a few beautiful inexperienced areas. I did this and ended up stopping for espresso at somewhat café alongside the best way—finest resolution ever!
7. Savor Dutch Delicacies at Albert Cuyp Market
Should you’re a foodie (or simply love a superb market vibe), you’ve bought to go to Albert Cuyp Market. It’s the most important and busiest out of doors market in Amsterdam, and it’s full of stalls promoting every part from contemporary produce to tasty Dutch snacks. Right here you’ll discover candy or savory, there’s actually no scarcity of scrumptious issues to strive.
How Lengthy to Plan For
I’d suggest giving your self not less than an hour or two to discover. There’s a lot occurring that you could possibly simply lose observe of time, particularly if you find yourself lingering at among the unbelievable meals stands.
Greatest Time to Go
The market is open Monday via Saturday from 9 AM to five PM. Mornings are usually quieter, which makes it simpler to talk with distributors and pattern totally different meals. Should you want a livelier vibe, head there round noon when issues are in full swing.
Sizzling Tip
You possibly can’t go away with out attempting a contemporary stroopwafel. There’s a stand on the market that makes them contemporary to order, and the nice and cozy, gooey caramel sandwiched between two crispy waffles is significantly addictive. Should you’re feeling adventurous, I’d additionally suggest attempting some herring from one of many seafood stalls. It’s a Dutch basic—salty, tender, and surprisingly tasty!
8. Loosen up in Vondelpark
Vondelpark is the proper spot to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. It’s Amsterdam’s largest park, and it’s filled with wide-open inexperienced areas, winding paths, and peaceable ponds. Come to do some people-watching, picnicking, or simply enjoyable on the grass This place has an excellent chill vibe that’s laborious to beat.
How Lengthy to Plan For
I’d give your self an hour or two right here, however actually, it’s a type of locations the place you could possibly simply spend half a day simply soaking all of it in.
Greatest Time to Go
Mornings are very best in case you’re searching for some quiet time, whereas afternoons are usually livelier with locals hanging out, enjoying music, or simply having fun with the solar.
Sizzling Tip
There’s a café within the park known as ‘t Blauwe Theehuis that’s an excellent spot for espresso or a chilly beer. Each time I’m in Amsterdam I cease right here to people-watch for some time.
9. Discover the Crimson Gentle District with an Open Thoughts
Amsterdam’s Crimson Gentle District is likely one of the most well-known (and misunderstood) components of the town. Whereas it’s recognized for its grownup leisure scene, there’s much more to this space than meets the attention.
The district is wealthy in historical past, residence to a few of Amsterdam’s oldest buildings, and full of quirky outlets, charming cafes, and nice bars. Exploring this space with an open thoughts is usually a fascinating expertise, and it’s price visiting even when the nightlife scene isn’t your factor.
A few of the highlights embody the attractive Oude Kerk (Previous Church), the oldest constructing in Amsterdam, which dates again to 1213. This beautiful church is surrounded by cobblestone streets and historic structure that feels worlds away from the busier components of the district.
There are additionally a number of hidden artwork galleries and impartial boutiques which might be enjoyable to find whereas wandering the slender alleys.
How Lengthy to Plan For
I’d counsel spending about an hour or two strolling across the district. It’s price becoming a member of a guided tour in case you’re fascinated with studying extra concerning the space’s historical past and tradition.
Many excursions do an excellent job of explaining the district’s previous and its ongoing efforts to create a safer, extra respectful surroundings.
Greatest Time to Go
Evenings are when the district comes alive, with its well-known red-lit home windows glowing, however in case you’d somewhat discover when it’s quieter, visiting in the course of the day can be fascinating. Throughout daytime, you’ll be able to discover the historic buildings and distinctive outlets with out the crowds. Ebook a tour!
Sizzling Tip
There’s an excellent museum known as the Crimson Gentle Secrets and techniques Museum of Prostitution that provides a novel and eye-opening have a look at the business. It’s properly price a go to if you wish to perceive this a part of Amsterdam’s tradition a bit higher.
10. Uncover the Hidden Courtyard at Begijnhof
Tucked away within the coronary heart of Amsterdam, the Begijnhof is a serene courtyard that looks like stepping again in time. Courting again to the 14th century, it was initially a sanctuary for the Beguines—a bunch of spiritual ladies who hadn’t taken formal vows. Right this moment, it’s a peaceable spot to sit down and chill out within the backyard and see a few of Amsterdam’s oldest historic structure. Yow will discover it simply off the busy avenue of Kalverstraat.
How Lengthy to Plan For
You possibly can comfortably discover the Begijnhof in underneath half-hour. It’s a compact space, and you’ll see it on the best way to a different exercise you’re planning.
Greatest Time to Go
Any time of day works right here since its a extra secluded space. Needless to say this can be a residential space, so sustaining a respectful silence is appreciated.
Sizzling Tip
When you’re there, don’t miss the Houten Huys at Begijnhof 34. Constructed round 1645, it’s one of many 2 remaining oldest wood homes in Amsterdam. Additionally, the Begijnhof Chapel usually options panels depicting the Miracle of Amsterdam—an enchanting occasion from the town’s previous.
11. Go to the Bloemenmarkt
Should you’re into flowers or simply love looking distinctive spots, Amsterdam’s Bloemenmarkt is price a go to. It’s the world’s solely floating flower market, and even in case you’re not planning to purchase something, it’s an excellent place to wander.
The market’s been round since 1862, and all of the stalls are arrange on houseboats alongside the Singel canal, giving it a very cool vibe.
You’ll discover all kinds of flowers right here—from vivid tulips to unique vegetation—and it’s a enjoyable place to seize some souvenirs too. There are tons of stalls promoting Dutch cheese, Delftware, and enjoyable little knick-knacks. It’s positively touristy, however nonetheless a enjoyable cease.
How Lengthy to Plan For
You possibly can simply discover the market in about an hour. Should you’re like me and have a tendency to get drawn in by all the colours and smells, you may find yourself lingering a bit longer.
Greatest Time to Go
The market is open Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to five:30 PM, and Sundays from 11:30 AM to five:30 PM. Mornings are the most effective time to go if you wish to keep away from crowds.
Sizzling Tip
Whereas the flowers are beautiful, watch out in case you’re shopping for bulbs. Some individuals have instructed me that the standard isn’t all the time dependable and so they’re dearer. Should you’re after a assured memento, I like to recommend selecting up some dried flowers!
12. Go to the Rembrandt Home Museum
Should you’ve ever puzzled what life was like for considered one of historical past’s biggest artists, the Rembrandt Home Museum is the proper place to seek out out.
This charming townhouse is the place Rembrandt van Rijn lived and labored for practically 20 years, and strolling via it looks like stepping proper into the seventeenth century.
His front room, kitchen, and even his studio have been rigorously reconstructed to indicate what life was like again in his day, making it a very immersive expertise.
How Lengthy to Plan For
I’d suggest setting apart about 1 to 1.5 hours to discover the museum correctly. There’s lots to soak up, particularly if you wish to benefit from the artwork demonstrations.
Value and Reserving
Tickets are €15 for adults, €10 for college students with legitimate ID, and €6 for teenagers aged 6-17. Reserving on-line is a brilliant transfer throughout busy seasons to keep away from ready in line.
Sizzling Tip
Don’t miss the stay demonstrations of Rembrandt’s portray and etching strategies—they’re fascinating and provide you with an actual perception into his creative course of.
The museum usually hosts particular exhibitions too, so test their web site to see what’s on throughout your go to. It’s a good way to expertise Rembrandt’s work past the standard museum setting!
13. Cruise to the NDSM Wharf
Should you’re trying to discover a distinct facet of Amsterdam, hopping on a free ferry to the NDSM Wharf is a unbelievable journey for a day.
As soon as a busy shipyard, NDSM has remodeled right into a vibrant cultural hotspot that completely blends the town’s industrial previous with its artistic current. It’s stuffed with colourful avenue artwork, sculptures, and a few significantly cool cafés and eating places.
How Lengthy to Plan For
Give your self not less than 1.5 to 2 hours to discover NDSM correctly. There’s lots to see, and in case you take pleasure in avenue artwork, pictures, or simply enjoyable with a drink by the water, chances are you’ll wish to keep even longer.
Greatest Time to Go
The ferry runs all day, however I like to recommend heading over within the late morning or early afternoon when the world is at its liveliest. Weekends are particularly nice if you wish to catch particular occasions, flea markets, or stay music performances.
Sizzling Tip
Should you’re a fan of flea markets, attempt to go to in the course of the IJ-Hallen, Europe’s largest flea market, held month-to-month at NDSM. It’s full of classic treasures and enjoyable finds. I really like an excellent flea market and this one was the spotlight of my journey after I was there final 12 months.
I additionally grabbed a drink at Pllek, a laid-back waterfront spot made out of recycled delivery containers— it was a lot enjoyable and made for an ideal afternoon absorbing the artistic vibe of NDSM.
14. Sip a Brew at Brouwerij ‘t IJ
Should you’re a beer lover or simply take pleasure in discovering cool, offbeat spots, Brouwerij ‘t IJ is a gem you shouldn’t miss. It’s so significantly better than the over well-liked Heineken beer tasting! This impartial brewery has been serving up unbelievable beers for over 30 years and has a vibe that’s each laid-back and energetic.
What makes it even cooler? It’s situated in a former bathhouse proper beside De Gooyer windmill, one of many tallest wood windmills within the Netherlands. Sitting outdoors with a chilly beer and that windmill within the background feels about as ‘Amsterdam’ because it will get.
Inside, the tasting room is informal and comfortable, whereas the out of doors terrace is ideal for enjoyable on a sunny afternoon. They’ve a unbelievable vary of beers, from crisp IPAs to wealthy, darkish ales, all brewed on-site.
Should you’re interested by how they make their beers, be a part of one of many brewery excursions—they embody a tasting and are a enjoyable solution to be taught extra concerning the brewing course of. Additionally, their tasting flight is a superb choice if you wish to strive a mixture of their finest beers with out committing to a full pint instantly!
How Lengthy to Plan For
You possibly can simply spend 1 to 2 hours right here, sampling their big selection of beers and soaking within the laid-back environment.
Greatest Time to Go
The tasting room is open day by day from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Arrive earlyish to ensure you get a great place, particularly on weekends when it may get busy.
Sizzling Tip
Should you’re up for greater than only a drink, test their schedule for particular occasions—they often host enjoyable celebrations, seasonal beer launches, and even fascinating exhibitions.
The environment actually ramps up when there’s one thing further occurring, and it’s a good way to get a really feel for Amsterdam’s laid-back social scene.
15. Get Misplaced within the Amsterdamse Bos
While you’re craving a break from the town’s hustle and bustle, the Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest) is the proper escape. This huge inexperienced house is about 3 times the scale of New York’s Central Park, so there’s loads of room to stretch out, go exploring, or simply chill out. It’s full of winding trails, peaceable waterways, and a great deal of out of doors actions that make it very best for each lively vacationers and people trying to unwind.
Actions to Take pleasure in
- Biking and Strolling: There are miles of scenic paths excellent for a motorbike trip or a peaceable stroll. I rented a motorbike close to the park entrance for about 10 €, so that you don’t have to carry your individual.
- Boating: You possibly can lease canoes or kayaks to paddle alongside the calm waterways for round 10€ per hour— this is likely one of the most enjoyable methods to discover the park.
- Goat Farm Ridammerhoeve: This can be a enjoyable cease, particularly in case you’re visiting with youngsters. The farm has goats, chickens, and different animals you’ll be able to feed, plus they promote do-it-yourself natural cheese and ice cream.
- Enjoyable Forest: This treetop journey course is nice in case you’re up for a problem. It’s excellent for each adults and older youngsters who wish to do a couple of hours of canopying.
- Open-Air Theater: Should you’re visiting in the summertime, take a look at the Bostheater for open-air performances, from live shows to performs. It’s such a cool solution to take pleasure in stay leisure surrounded by nature.
How Lengthy to Plan For
You can simply spend a half day right here or make a full day of it in case you plan to picnic, go boating, or discover among the actions.
Sizzling Tip
Positively take a pic nic! Additionally, the Goat Farm’s contemporary goat cheese is fabulous —it’s scrumptious and was an excellent addition to my pic nic!
What to Do in Amsterdam : The Wrap-Up
Amsterdam has a method of leaving you wanting extra. It’s a metropolis that blends historical past, tradition, and an unbeatable vitality that’s laborious to withstand.
There actually is all the time one thing new to find! So seize your bike, cruise the canals, and make time to only wander—you by no means know what hidden gem you’ll stumble throughout subsequent.
Visitor Writer: Taylor Beal, writer of Traverse With Taylor, is a journey blogger with a ardour for exploring Europe and making journey simpler for others. She has spent years discovering the most effective of locations like Amsterdam, Scotland, and historic websites throughout the continent. By her weblog, she shares professional ideas and firsthand experiences to assist vacationers plan with confidence.
Learn Subsequent: