Amsterdam is a kind of locations I can by no means get sufficient of. Regardless of what number of instances I go to, I at all times 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 allure, wonderful meals, and that unmistakable Dutch perspective.
The locals have this splendidly simple mind-set and talking that I completely love. You at all times 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 checklist of issues to see and do in Amsterdam, and I’ve to say town delivers on historical past, artwork and meals each time.
Should you’re something like me, you’ll most likely end up spending a variety of time simply consuming your approach by means of 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 attention-grabbing issues to do in Amsterdam. Every suggestion comes with sensible tips about how lengthy to plan for, prices, and the perfect time of day to go.
I’ll additionally embrace tips about what to be careful for or tips on how to profit from 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 acquired to start out your day with a canal cruise—it’s among the finest methods to get a really feel for town. Amsterdam’s canals stretch for miles, and cruising by means of them offers you this excellent mixture of stress-free vibes and wonderful views. It’s such a straightforward approach to absorb town’s allure particularly for those who go early morning.
How Lengthy to Plan For
Most cruises take between 60 to 90 minutes. Mornings are ideally suited for those who desire a quieter expertise, plus the mushy mild makes for some nice images. Night cruises are additionally a implausible choice if you wish to see the canals lit up—it’s a completely totally different vibe and feels a bit extra magical.
Value and Reserving
Customary cruises normally price between €14.50 and €20 per particular person. Should you’re in search of one thing a bit extra particular, some corporations provide smaller luxurious cruises with limitless drinks and Dutch snacks (which I extremely advocate for those who’re feeling fancy). These are pricier however price it in order for you a extra intimate expertise.
Reserving forward is a good suggestion for those who’re visiting throughout peak season, however you may usually discover a spot by simply strolling as much as the dock and hopping on the subsequent obtainable 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 a few of the narrower canals that the larger boats can’t match by means of, and the entire vibe is far more relaxed.
I’ve completed each, and the smaller boats felt extra intimate and peaceable—undoubtedly my favourite solution to see the canals!
2. Wander the Quaint Streets of Jordaan
Jordaan is arms down one in every of my favourite neighborhoods in Amsterdam. It’s filled with charming streets, hidden courtyards, and comfy 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 at the least a few hours to wander Jordaan correctly. Should you get pleasure from popping into outlets, grabbing a espresso, or exploring tucked-away corners, you may simply spend half a day right here.
Greatest Time to Go
Mornings are pretty for those who like quieter streets, however afternoons have extra of a buzz as locals collect for espresso or a chew to eat. E book a strolling meals tour!
Sizzling Tip
Should you’re a foodie like me, try the Noordermarkt on Saturdays. It’s a implausible 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 with it! It additionally has every kind of merchandise from native artisans like pottery, clothes and jewelery – an ideal place for sustainable souvenirs!
3. Dive into Artwork on the Rijksmuseum
You may’t go to Amsterdam with out spending a while on the Rijksmuseum. It’s a kind of locations that fully lives as much as the hype. The constructing itself is gorgeous, and inside you’ll discover over 8,000 masterpieces, together with works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh. Even for those who’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 advocate setting apart at the least 2 to three hours. If artwork is your factor, you would possibly end up spending much more time exploring the assorted reveals. Opening hours are from 9 to five every day.
Value and Reserving
As of 2025, grownup tickets are priced at €25. Guests beneath 18 can enter totally free. It’s finest to e-book your tickets on-line upfront to be sure to 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 may also help you keep away from the crowds. Weekdays are usually 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 replicate on the masterpieces you’ve simply seen. I ended there for espresso with my e-book 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 acquired to go to the Van Gogh Museum. It’s filled with the most important assortment of Vincent van Gogh’s work, and it’s unimaginable to see how his model modified over time. From the long-lasting Sunflowers to his hanging self-portraits, there’s a lot to absorb. I’m not an enormous artwork museum goer, however I liked this one.
How Lengthy to Plan For
Plan for at the least 1.5 to 2 hours right here. It’s the right period of time to soak in his most well-known items and find out about his fascinating (and typically heartbreaking) life story. Opening hours are usually from 9 to six pm, however are sometimes stretched later when particular occasions are happening.
Value and Reserving
Tickets are €27.50 for adults, and under-18s get in free. You’ll must e-book on-line forward of time since this place can promote out shortly. Tickets are launched every day at 5 PM for the next day, so it’s price setting a reminder.
Greatest Time to Go
Early mornings are your finest wager in order for you 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 right 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 kind of locations that hits you exhausting—in the easiest way. Strolling by means of the rooms the place Anne and her household hid throughout World Conflict II is extremely highly effective. It’s such a shifting expertise that basically makes you cease and suppose.
How Lengthy to Plan For
Most guests spend about an hour exploring the museum. This offers you sufficient time to absorb the reveals with out feeling rushed. Opening hours are from 9 am to 10 pm every day.
Value and Reserving
Tickets are €16 for adults, €7 for youngsters aged 10-17, and 1€ for youngsters beneath 10. However irrespective of your age, you’ll want a ticket—they usually’re solely obtainable on-line. Tickets are launched six weeks upfront each Tuesday at 10 AM CEST, they usually promote out quick, so be sure to plan forward. E book a tour.
Greatest Time to Go
Early mornings or late afternoons are usually much less crowded. Reserving the earliest or newest time slot obtainable 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 every single place, making it simple to get round on two wheels.
How Lengthy to Plan For
You may hire a motorbike for only a few hours or preserve it for the entire day. If it’s your first time biking in Amsterdam, I’d advocate beginning with a half-day rental to get the cling of issues with out feeling overwhelmed.
Value and Rental Choices
Bike leases are in every single place, and costs are fairly affordable. MacBike presents metropolis bikes beginning at €10.95 for 1 hour, €12.50 for two hours, and €17.50 for a full day. Should you’re in search of one thing extra versatile, Donkey Republic has app-based leases beginning at €10 per thirty days for as much as two hours of every day use. E book 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 usually quieter too, particularly exterior of peak vacationer seasons.
Sizzling Tip
For a scenic journey, attempt the route alongside the Amstel River. It’s a peaceable path that takes you previous windmills, charming villages, and a few pretty inexperienced areas. I did this and ended up stopping for espresso at a bit café alongside the way in which—finest resolution ever!
7. Savor Dutch Delicacies at Albert Cuyp Market
Should you’re a foodie (or simply love an excellent market vibe), you’ve acquired to go to Albert Cuyp Market. It’s the most important and busiest outside market in Amsterdam, and it’s filled with 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 attempt.
How Lengthy to Plan For
I’d advocate giving your self at the least an hour or two to discover. There’s a lot occurring that you may simply lose observe of time, particularly if you find yourself lingering at a few of the implausible meals stands.
Greatest Time to Go
The market is open Monday by means of Saturday from 9 AM to five PM. Mornings are usually quieter, which makes it simpler to speak with distributors and pattern totally different meals. Should you desire a livelier vibe, head there round noon when issues are in full swing.
Sizzling Tip
You may’t go away with out making an attempt 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 advocate making an attempt some herring from one of many seafood stalls. It’s a Dutch basic—salty, tender, and surprisingly tasty!
8. Calm down in Vondelpark
Vondelpark is the right 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 stress-free on the grass This place has a brilliant chill vibe that’s exhausting to beat.
How Lengthy to Plan For
I’d give your self an hour or two right here, however truthfully, it’s a kind of locations the place you may simply spend half a day simply soaking all of it in.
Greatest Time to Go
Mornings are ideally suited for those who’re in search of some quiet time, whereas afternoons are usually livelier with locals hanging out, taking part in music, or simply having fun with the solar.
Sizzling Tip
There’s a café within the park referred to as ‘t Blauwe Theehuis that’s an ideal 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 without doubt one of the most well-known (and misunderstood) components of 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 filled with quirky outlets, charming cafes, and nice bars. Exploring this space with an open thoughts could be a fascinating expertise, and it’s price visiting even when the nightlife scene isn’t your factor.
Among the highlights embrace the gorgeous Oude Kerk (Previous Church), the oldest constructing in Amsterdam, which dates again to 1213. This gorgeous 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 unbiased 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 for those who’re all in favour of studying extra in regards to the space’s historical past and tradition.
Many excursions do an ideal 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 for those who’d fairly discover when it’s quieter, visiting through the day can be attention-grabbing. Throughout sunlight hours, you may discover the historic buildings and distinctive outlets with out the crowds. E book a tour!
Sizzling Tip
There’s an ideal museum referred to as the Crimson Gentle Secrets and techniques Museum of Prostitution that gives a novel and eye-opening have a look at the business. It’s nicely 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 seems like stepping again in time. Relationship again to the 14th century, it was initially a sanctuary for the Beguines—a bunch of spiritual ladies who hadn’t taken formal vows. Immediately, it’s a peaceable spot to take a seat and chill out within the backyard and see a few of Amsterdam’s oldest historic structure. Yow will discover it simply off the busy road of Kalverstraat.
How Lengthy to Plan For
You may comfortably discover the Begijnhof in beneath half-hour. It’s a compact space, and you’ll see it on the way in which to a different exercise you might be planning.
Greatest Time to Go
Any time of day works right here since its a extra secluded space. Remember that this can be a residential space, so sustaining a respectful silence is appreciated.
Sizzling Tip
Whilst you’re there, don’t miss the Houten Huys at Begijnhof 34. Constructed round 1645, it’s one of many 2 remaining oldest picket homes in Amsterdam. Additionally, the Begijnhof Chapel usually options panels depicting the Miracle of Amsterdam—a captivating occasion from town’s previous.
11. Go to the Bloemenmarkt
Should you’re into flowers or simply love shopping distinctive spots, Amsterdam’s Bloemenmarkt is price a go to. It’s the world’s solely floating flower market, and even for those who’re not planning to purchase something, it’s an ideal 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 extremely cool vibe.
You’ll discover all kinds of flowers right here—from brilliant tulips to unique crops—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 undoubtedly touristy, however nonetheless a enjoyable cease.
How Lengthy to Plan For
You may 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 would possibly 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 perfect time to go if you wish to keep away from crowds.
Sizzling Tip
Whereas the flowers are pretty, watch out for those who’re shopping for bulbs. Some individuals have advised me that the standard isn’t at all times dependable they usually’re costlier. 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 one in every of historical past’s biggest artists, the Rembrandt Home Museum is the right place to search out out.
This charming townhouse is the place Rembrandt van Rijn lived and labored for almost 20 years, and strolling by means of it seems like stepping proper into the seventeenth century.
His lounge, kitchen, and even his studio have been rigorously reconstructed to indicate what life was like again in his day, making it a extremely immersive expertise.
How Lengthy to Plan For
I’d advocate setting apart about 1 to 1.5 hours to discover the museum correctly. There’s rather a lot to absorb, particularly if you wish to benefit from the artwork demonstrations.
Value and Reserving
Tickets are €15 for adults, €10 for college kids 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 reside demonstrations of Rembrandt’s portray and etching strategies—they’re fascinating and offer you an actual perception into his creative course of.
The museum usually hosts particular exhibitions too, so examine their web site to see what’s on throughout your go to. It’s an effective way to expertise Rembrandt’s work past the standard museum setting!
13. Cruise to the NDSM Wharf
Should you’re seeking to discover a unique facet of Amsterdam, hopping on a free ferry to the NDSM Wharf is a implausible journey for a day.
As soon as a busy shipyard, NDSM has reworked right into a vibrant cultural hotspot that completely blends town’s industrial previous with its artistic current. It’s stuffed with colourful road artwork, sculptures, and a few significantly cool cafés and eating places.
How Lengthy to Plan For
Give your self at the least 1.5 to 2 hours to discover NDSM correctly. There’s rather a lot to see, and for those who get pleasure from road artwork, pictures, or simply stress-free with a drink by the water, it’s possible you’ll need 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 realm is at its liveliest. Weekends are particularly nice if you wish to catch particular occasions, flea markets, or reside music performances.
Sizzling Tip
Should you’re a fan of flea markets, attempt to go to through the IJ-Hallen, Europe’s largest flea market, held month-to-month at NDSM. It’s filled with classic treasures and enjoyable finds. I really like an ideal 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 get pleasure from discovering cool, offbeat spots, Brouwerij ‘t IJ is a gem you shouldn’t miss. It’s so significantly better than the over fashionable Heineken beer tasting! This unbiased brewery has been serving up implausible beers for over 30 years and has a vibe that’s each laid-back and vigorous.
What makes it even cooler? It’s situated in a former bathhouse proper beside De Gooyer windmill, one of many tallest picket windmills within the Netherlands. Sitting exterior 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 comfy, whereas the outside terrace is ideal for stress-free on a sunny afternoon. They’ve a implausible 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 part of one of many brewery excursions—they embrace a tasting and are a enjoyable solution to be taught extra in regards to the brewing course of. Additionally, their tasting flight is a good choice if you wish to attempt a mixture of their finest beers with out committing to a full pint immediately!
How Lengthy to Plan For
You may 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 every day from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Arrive earlyish to be sure to get a great place, particularly on weekends when it might get busy.
Sizzling Tip
Should you’re up for greater than only a drink, examine their schedule for particular occasions—they often host enjoyable celebrations, seasonal beer launches, and even attention-grabbing exhibitions.
The environment actually ramps up when there’s one thing further occurring, and it’s an effective 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 town’s hustle and bustle, the Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest) is the right escape. This huge inexperienced area is about 3 times the dimensions of New York’s Central Park, so there’s loads of room to stretch out, go exploring, or simply chill out. It’s filled with winding trails, peaceable waterways, and a great deal of outside actions that make it ideally suited for each lively vacationers and people seeking to unwind.
Actions to Get pleasure from
- Biking and Strolling: There are miles of scenic paths excellent for a motorbike journey or a peaceable stroll. I rented a motorbike close to the park entrance for about 10 €, so that you don’t must carry your personal.
- Boating: You may hire canoes or kayaks to paddle alongside the calm waterways for round 10€ per hour— this is without doubt one of the most stress-free methods to discover the park.
- Goat Farm Ridammerhoeve: It is a enjoyable cease, particularly for those who’re visiting with children. The farm has goats, chickens, and different animals you may feed, plus they promote selfmade natural cheese and ice cream.
- Enjoyable Forest: This treetop journey course is nice for those who’re up for a problem. It’s excellent for each adults and older children who need to do just a few hours of canopying.
- Open-Air Theater: Should you’re visiting in the summertime, try the Bostheater for open-air performances, from live shows to performs. It’s such a cool solution to get pleasure from reside leisure surrounded by nature.
How Lengthy to Plan For
You may simply spend a half day right here or make a full day of it for those who plan to picnic, go boating, or discover a few of 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 ideal addition to my pic nic!
What to Do in Amsterdam : The Wrap-Up
Amsterdam has a approach of leaving you wanting extra. It’s a metropolis that blends historical past, tradition, and an unbeatable vitality that’s exhausting to withstand.
There actually is at all times one thing new to find! So seize your bike, cruise the canals, and make time to simply wander—you by no means know what hidden gem you’ll stumble throughout subsequent.
Visitor Creator: Taylor Beal, creator 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 perfect of locations like Amsterdam, Scotland, and historic websites throughout the continent. By means of her weblog, she shares professional ideas and firsthand experiences to assist vacationers plan with confidence.
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