The Dutch capital, Amsterdam, is a city filled with culture, history, and charm. This city has something for everyone, whether you’re an art enthusiast, history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker. The top 25 activities you simply must experience in Amsterdam, crafted from personal experiences, expert insights, and insider tips.
1. Explore the Canals by Boat
Amsterdam’s iconic canals are one of the city’s most distinctive features. The city is built on a network of 165 canals, and exploring them by boat is a must-do experience. Whether you opt for a guided boat tour or rent your own private boat, the canals offer a unique perspective on Amsterdam’s architecture and life along the water.
Personal Insight: One of my favorite memories was taking a private boat tour on a sunny afternoon. We cruised past picturesque houseboats, historic buildings, and even caught a glimpse of the famed Anne Frank House from the water. The entire experience felt like a movie scene, and I highly recommend it for a relaxed yet scenic tour of the city.
Prices and Options:
| Tour Type | Price (per person) | Duration | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canal Cruise (Group) | €18 – €25 | 1 hour | 4.7/5 |
| Private Boat Rental | €100 – €250 | 1-2 hours | 4.9/5 |
| Candlelight Canal Tour | €35 – €40 | 1.5 hours | 4.8/5 |
2. Visit the Van Gogh Museum
Amsterdam is home to some of the world’s most famous art museums, and the Van Gogh Museum stands as one of the finest. With more than 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and thousands of letters, the museum provides an in-depth look into the life and work of the Dutch Post-Impressionist painter, Vincent van Gogh.
Key Takeaway: If you’re an art lover, don’t miss the Van Gogh Museum. The museum not only showcases Van Gogh’s masterpieces but also offers a glimpse into his struggles, inspirations, and relationships through letters and personal artifacts.
Ticket Price:
| Adult | €19 |
| Children (under 18) | Free |
Rating: 4.8/5
Van Gogh Museum Official Website
3. Take a stroll through the Vondelpark
Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s largest and most famous park, covering 120 acres of green space. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering walking and cycling paths, open-air theaters, and cafes. A stroll through the park is a great way to unwind and enjoy nature in the heart of the city.
Personal Insight: After a few hours of sightseeing, I always find myself gravitating toward Vondelpark. I grabbed a coffee from one of the park’s many cafes, sat on the grass, and watched the locals enjoy their day—whether it was a jogger, a family with kids, or a group of friends having a picnic.
Ticket Price: Free
Rating: 4.7/5
4. Discover the Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is one of Amsterdam’s most poignant historical sites. It’s where Anne Frank, a Jewish girl, and her family hid during World War II before being discovered by the Nazis. The museum showcases the life of Anne Frank and the horrors of the Holocaust.
Key Takeaway: Visiting the Anne Frank House is a sobering experience that’s both emotional and educational. I recommend pre-booking your tickets online as the museum tends to get very crowded.
Ticket Price:
| Adult | €14 |
| Children (10-17) | €7 |
| Children (under 10) | Free |
Rating: 4.7/5
5. Take a Bike Ride Around the City
Biking is the most popular mode of transport in Amsterdam, with over 800,000 bikes in the city. The city is incredibly bike-friendly, and renting a bike is one of the best ways to explore. Whether you’re cycling along the canals or through the vibrant neighborhoods, biking is an essential part of the Amsterdam experience.
Personal Insight: On my last trip, I rented a bike and spent an afternoon cycling through the Jordaan district, with its charming streets and quirky shops. It felt like I was living like a local, and the best part was how easy it was to get around.
Rental Price:
| Type | Price (per day) |
|---|---|
| Standard Bike | €10 – €15 |
| E-bike | €25 – €40 |
| Rating: 4.6/5 |
6. Tour the Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is one of the world’s finest art museums, and it’s home to masterpieces by artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals. The museum’s collection spans over 8,000 works of art, making it an essential stop for art lovers.
Key Takeaway: If you only have time to visit one museum in Amsterdam, make it the Rijksmuseum. It’s a treasure trove of Dutch art and history.
Ticket Price:
| Adult | €20 |
| Children (under 18) | Free |
Rating: 4.8/5
7. Visit the Heineken Experience
Heineken is one of the world’s most famous beers, and Amsterdam is home to the brand’s original brewery. The Heineken Experience is an interactive tour that takes you through the history of the beer, the brewing process, and the brand’s global impact. Of course, you get to taste a few Heineken beers along the way.
Personal Insight: I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the Heineken Experience turned out to be an incredibly fun, educational, and engaging activity. I learned about the brewing process, the company’s history, and got to try fresh beer straight from the tap!
Ticket Price:
| Adult | €21 |
| Children (under 18) | Not allowed |
Rating: 4.4/5
Heineken Experience Official Website
8. Stroll Through the Jordaan District
The Jordaan is one of Amsterdam’s trendiest and most picturesque neighborhoods. With its narrow streets, hidden courtyards, and charming boutiques, it’s a great place to wander around and get a feel for local life. Be sure to check out the many cafes and restaurants serving delicious Dutch cuisine.
Personal Insight: I spent an entire afternoon wandering around the Jordaan, visiting galleries and sipping coffee at a cozy café. The neighborhood has a quiet, artsy vibe that makes it a perfect escape from the bustling city center.
Rating: 4.9/5
9. Explore the Museumplein
Museumplein is Amsterdam’s cultural hub, home to three of the city’s most important museums: the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, and the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art. The large public square is also a perfect place to relax with a coffee, take photos, or catch an outdoor concert in the summer.
Ticket Price: Varies by museum, but entrance to the square is free.
Rating: 4.7/5
10. Visit the Red Light District
Amsterdam’s Red Light District is famous for its legal and regulated sex trade, and it’s one of the city’s most controversial but intriguing areas. Visitors can take a walking tour to learn more about the history and the social issues surrounding the district. It’s also home to a number of interesting shops, cafes, and bars.
Key Takeaway: If you visit the Red Light District, be respectful. It’s an area with a complicated history, and while it’s a part of the city’s culture, it’s essential to be mindful of the people who work and live there.
Rating: 4.2/5
11. Check Out the Stedelijk Museum
The Stedelijk Museum is Amsterdam’s museum of modern and contemporary art, showcasing works from the 20th and 21st centuries. You’ll find masterpieces by artists like Piet Mondrian, Kazimir Malevich, and Andy Warhol, along with thought-provoking exhibitions that reflect current global issues.
Personal Insight: If you’re passionate about modern art, this museum should definitely be on your radar. I spent a couple of hours here, wandering through the bold exhibitions, and was constantly inspired by the creativity and depth of each work. The building itself is also a stunning piece of architecture!
Ticket Price:
| Adult | €20 |
| Children (under 18) | Free |
Rating: 4.6/5
12. Relax at the Bloemenmarkt (Flower Market)
The Bloemenmarkt is the world’s only floating flower market. Located on the Singel canal, this vibrant market sells a wide variety of flowers, including Amsterdam’s iconic tulips, as well as souvenirs, seeds, and bulbs. It’s a perfect stop if you’re looking for a little piece of Amsterdam to take home with you.
Key Takeaway: The Bloemenmarkt is not just about flowers, but also a lovely place to immerse yourself in the local culture and pick up a unique souvenir.
Rating: 4.5/5
13. Visit the Hermitage Museum
If you’re a fan of Russian art and culture, the Hermitage Museum in Amsterdam is a must-visit. A branch of the famous Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia, this museum showcases temporary exhibitions of Russian art, history, and culture. It’s a hidden gem in the city and offers an immersive experience of art and history from the other side of Europe.
Personal Insight: The exhibits at the Hermitage Museum really transported me to another time and place. I was particularly moved by the Russian art collections, which gave me a new perspective on European history.
Ticket Price:
| Adult | €18 |
| Children (under 18) | Free |
Rating: 4.5/5
14. Have Fun at NEMO Science Museum
The NEMO Science Museum is one of the most interactive museums in Amsterdam, offering hands-on exhibits that are both educational and entertaining for all ages. From exploring space and time to understanding physics through fun experiments, the museum makes learning fun.
Key Takeaway: If you’re traveling with kids or you’re a curious adult, this museum offers hours of interactive fun, and it’s one of the best places to visit for a family outing.
Ticket Price:
| Adult | €17.50 |
| Children (4-17) | €9.50 |
Rating: 4.6/5
15. Take a Day Trip to Zaanse Schans
Just outside Amsterdam, the Zaanse Schans open-air museum offers a picturesque view of traditional Dutch life. It’s famous for its collection of windmills, wooden houses, and museums showcasing Dutch craftsmanship like clog making and cheese production. A perfect escape for a half-day trip.
Personal Insight: I took a bus from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans and spent a few hours wandering through the historic windmills. There’s something magical about seeing these iconic structures in person, and the fresh cheese and wooden clogs were a fun souvenir!
Ticket Price:
| Adult | Free to enter, windmills: €5 |
| Children (under 12) | Free |
Rating: 4.7/5
16. Visit the Moco Museum
The Moco Museum is a contemporary art museum that focuses on street art, pop art, and the works of modern icons like Banksy and Andy Warhol. The museum’s exhibitions are dynamic, bold, and frequently updated, showcasing art that often challenges societal norms.
Key Takeaway: For lovers of street art and modern culture, the Moco Museum is a vibrant stop. I particularly loved their permanent Banksy exhibit, which provides a great overview of the famous graffiti artist’s works.
Ticket Price:
| Adult | €20 |
| Children (under 16) | Free |
Rating: 4.5/5
Moco Museum Website
17. Visit the Royal Palace of Amsterdam
The Royal Palace of Amsterdam, located on Dam Square, is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks. The palace, built in the 17th century, was originally designed as a city hall and later became the royal residence. Visitors can explore its grand rooms and learn about Dutch royal history.
Personal Insight: I was awestruck by the sheer grandeur of the Royal Palace. The rich interiors and historical artifacts give visitors a glimpse into the royal life in Amsterdam, and the palace’s central location makes it easy to visit while exploring the city.
Ticket Price:
| Adult | €12.50 |
| Children (under 18) | Free |
Rating: 4.6/5
18. Explore the Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest)
The Amsterdamse Bos is a sprawling park just outside the city center, offering a peaceful escape into nature. You can bike, hike, or even row a boat on the park’s waterways. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic, a swim, or a leisurely day outdoors.
Key Takeaway: If you want to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city, the Amsterdamse Bos is a beautiful green space to relax and enjoy some tranquility.
Ticket Price: Free
Rating: 4.7/5
19. Walk the Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes)
Located in the heart of Amsterdam’s canal belt, the Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) is a charming area packed with boutiques, quirky cafes, and local shops. It’s a great spot to wander, grab a bite to eat, and pick up unique souvenirs that you won’t find anywhere else.
Personal Insight: I spent an afternoon exploring De Negen Straatjes and stumbled upon the most delightful little cafés and shops. It’s the perfect place for people-watching while sipping on an artisanal coffee.
Rating: 4.6/5
20. Visit the Rijksmuseum Gardens
The Rijksmuseum Gardens offer a beautiful space to relax after visiting the museum. The gardens are home to sculptures, ponds, and a variety of plant species. It’s a lovely place to unwind and take in some art and nature in a single visit.
Ticket Price: Free (though ticket to Rijksmuseum is required for some areas)
Rating: 4.5/5
21. Take a Chocolate-Tasting Tour
Amsterdam is home to a growing number of artisanal chocolate shops, many of which offer tours and tastings. If you love chocolate, consider booking a chocolate-tasting tour to sample some of the finest sweets the city has to offer.
Key Takeaway: For chocolate enthusiasts, this tour is an indulgent and fun way to explore Amsterdam’s culinary scene. Expect to sample rich truffles, dark chocolate, and unique local flavors.
Price: €20 – €35 per person
Rating: 4.7/5
22. Enjoy the Amsterdam Light Festival (Winter)
If you’re visiting Amsterdam in the winter, don’t miss the Amsterdam Light Festival, a dazzling event where artists from around the world create stunning light installations around the city. The festival usually runs from late November to mid-January and is a great way to see the city in a new light.
Key Takeaway: The Light Festival adds a magical dimension to the city’s winter charm. I highly recommend taking a boat ride to view the art installations from the canals.
Ticket Price:
| Adult | €15 – €25 (depending on the tour) |
| Children (under 12) | Free |
Rating: 4.8/5
23. Visit the Tuschinski Theatre
The Tuschinski Theatre is one of the most beautiful cinemas in the world. With its intricate Art Deco and Art Nouveau design, it feels like stepping back in time to an old Hollywood movie palace. Catch a film here to experience both great cinema and historical architecture.
Personal Insight: When I saw a movie at the Tuschinski Theatre, I felt like I was in the golden age of cinema. The theater’s ornate interiors were so stunning that I almost forgot I was there to watch a film!
Ticket Price: Varies depending on the movie, but generally around €10
Rating: 4.7/5
Tuschinski Theatre Website
24. Take a Cooking Class
Dutch cuisine may not be as well-known internationally as French or Italian cuisine, but Amsterdam has a growing culinary scene, with several cooking classes on offer. Learn how to make traditional Dutch dishes like stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables) or Dutch apple pie.
Key Takeaway: I took a cooking class in Amsterdam, and it was a fantastic way to connect with the local culture. The instructor was so knowledgeable, and I left with new skills and a full stomach!
Price: €50 – €75 per person
Rating: 4.5/5
25. Relax at a Traditional Dutch Cafe (Brown Café)
For a true local experience, visit one of Amsterdam’s brown cafés—traditional Dutch pubs that are cozy, often historic, and full of character. These are great places to sample Dutch beer, jenever (Dutch gin), and traditional snacks like bitterballen.
Personal Insight: I spent my last evening in Amsterdam in a brown café, chatting with locals and sipping a glass of jenever. It was the perfect end to my trip, full of stories, laughter, and the comforting warmth of a true local experience.
Rating: 4.6/5
Final Thoughts
Amsterdam offers a variety of activities for every type of traveler, from world-class museums to peaceful parks. This city has something for everyone, whether you’re here for a long weekend or a week-long adventure. A city rich in culture, history, art, and local charm, it invites endless exploration.
Take a deep dive into the heart of Amsterdam with these 25 things to do. Visit the Dutch capital and be surprised!
FAQ
1. What is the best time to visit Amsterdam?
The best time to visit Amsterdam is during spring (April to May) when the tulips are in bloom, or in fall (September to November) when the weather is still pleasant but there are fewer tourists.
2. How many days do I need in Amsterdam?
I recommend spending at least 3-4 days to explore the city’s key attractions at a leisurely pace.
3. Is Amsterdam safe for tourists?
Yes, Amsterdam is generally safe for
4. Is it worth it to rent a bike in Amsterdam?
Absolutely! Renting a bike in Amsterdam is the best way to explore the city like a local. The city is incredibly bike-friendly, and you’ll have the freedom to navigate narrow streets and canals without worrying about public transport.
5. Can I visit Amsterdam on a budget?
Yes, Amsterdam offers plenty of budget-friendly activities like visiting parks, free museums, and enjoying the city’s public spaces. You can also save on food by eating at local markets or street food vendors.
