Looking for a complete list with all the best must-do things in Amsterdam? This is the list you will want to explore. Amsterdam is known for many things, some maybe more known than others, such as our vibrant night-life and our 168 cannabis coffee shops in the city. But Amsterdam has truly much more to offer than this, making Amsterdam a paradise for every type of visitor.
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Amsterdam – A city for everyone
With more than 90 museums in Amsterdam, we have the highest density of museums per m2 in the world. In our city, you can find many world-class museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum.
Those who are interested in history and culture can explore places such as the Anne Frank House, where the Jewish girl Anne Frank hid during the second world war and wrote her famous diary in the secret Annex.
The many canal houses which you still can visit will show you the city’s rich cultural heritage. Foodies will enjoy the diverse and international cuisine that Amsterdam has to offer at the Foodhallen and the Albert Cuyp Market, with international specialties from around the world.
👀 Read here more about the food stands at the Foodhallen and how to get there
For those who enjoy nightlife, Amsterdam is known for its lively bar and club scene, as well as its famous coffee shops. The city is also a popular destination for students and young travellers, as Amsterdam offers a vibrant and exciting atmosphere. Families can enjoy the city’s many parks and outdoor spaces, as well as its family-friendly attractions such as the Artis Royal Zoo and the Nemo Science Museum.
We will be sharing the must-see and must do things in Amsterdam with you, so you will exactly know what you should do when you are in Amsterdam during your next trip.
Interesting History of Amsterdam in a Nutshell
Amsterdam has a strong history and many events in the past have together contributed to creating the city of Amsterdam that we all know today. To understand the city better, we have included a short history of Amsterdam. After reading or scanning this part, you will know why we have so many canal houses and canals in the inner city of Amsterdam!
Amsterdam started as a fishing village in the 12th century
Amsterdam began as a small fishing village in the 12th century. Its name comes from the Amstel River, which flows through the city. On the 27th of October in 1275, Amsterdam was first mentioned in one of the official documents. This is the earliest known record of the establishment of “Aemstelredamme” (Amsterdam), which means “dam in the river Amstel”.
The city grew and grew. In the 15th century, Amsterdam had grown into the most important trading city in Holland. From a small fishers town, Amsterdam later became one of the most powerful and richest European cities in the 17th century.
Amsterdam became very rich in the Golden Era
During the Dutch Golden Age of the 17th century, Amsterdam became a leading center of art and science. The Golden Age, also known as the Dutch Golden Age, refers to a period of significant economic, cultural, and scientific growth in the history of the Netherlands, particularly during the 17th century. This era saw the rise of the Dutch Republic as a global trading power, and Amsterdam became a leading center of trade, finance, and culture.
Famous 17th century artworks by Dutch masters
During this time, Dutch artists, scientists, and merchants flourished, and the country established itself as a major cultural and intellectual hub. The Golden Age was characterized by a thriving art scene, with many renowned Dutch painters, such as Rembrandt and Vermeer, producing masterpieces. It was also a period of great scientific advancement, with Dutch scientists making significant contributions to fields such as physics, astronomy, and medicine.
The Dutch East India Company (Dutch trading company, VOC) played a significant role in the economic growth of the Netherlands during the Golden Age, establishing a global trading network and monopolizing the spice trade with the East Indies.
The wealth generated by trade and commerce allowed for the construction of impressive canal houses, canals, and public works projects, which are still visible today in the historic center of Amsterdam.
The canals were very important for the city as it served as the main transportation method in the city. Goods on larger ships from the East and South-America, were unloaded and brought over to smaller canal boats, so they could bring the goods to warehouses located throughout the city. The wealthy Dutch traders built impressive canal houses for their families.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Amsterdam continued to grow and develop, with the construction of new buildings, including Amsterdam central station and the Rijksmuseum. However, it also faced challenges too.
Amsterdam during the WO II
During World War II, Amsterdam was occupied by the Nazis and many Jewish citizens living in Amsterdam were sent to concentration camps during the Holocaust. After the second world war, the Netherlands was rebuilt again.
👀 Read here what you can see and learn at the National Holocaust Museum in Amsterdam
Amsterdam as one of the hippies capitals of the world
Amsterdam became a popular destination for hippies in the 1960s and 1970s. The city’s liberal attitudes towards drugs, sex, and counterculture made it a magnet for young people seeking a bohemian lifestyle. The famous “coffee shops” in Amsterdam, where cannabis can be legally purchased and consumed, also attracted many visitors. Amsterdam can be described as a very relaxed, slow-paced city.
Amsterdam nowadays
Today, with more than 23 millions visitors visiting Amsterdam yearly, Amsterdam is a popular tourist city that offers a wealth of attractions and experiences for visitors. Amsterdam is a thriving and cosmopolitan city with a vibrant cultural scene, a strong economy, and a reputation for tolerance and openness. In recent years, Amsterdam has become increasingly focused on sustainability and environmentalism, with many initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting green living.
Must-see and Must-do things in Amsterdam
1. Walk in the Canal Belt Area
The canal belt of Amsterdam, also known as the Grachtengordel, is a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2010. Walking next to the canals with the canal houses is something what you should really do, and will do as the old city center consists of many canals. The beautiful canals were built in the 16th and 17th century and are surrounded by tall (and narrow) canal houses, churches, and bridges. Spend a couple of hours or a boat tour to fully see the beauty of the canals in Amsterdam!
2. Visit the Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is the largest museum in the Netherlands and home to a vast collection of Dutch art and history. The Rijksmuseum is also the oldest museum in Amsterdam. The museum’s collection includes works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other Dutch masters, as well as artifacts from the country’s rich history.
More than 7,000 objects, including but not limited to artworks in eighty rooms, provide an overview from the late Middle Ages to the present. If you only have time to visit one museum during your stay in Amsterdam, then we would recommend you to visit the Rijksmuseum.
👀 Read here everything you need to know about the Rijksmuseum
3. Visit the Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is a museum dedicated to the life of Anne Frank, a Jewish girl who wrote a diary while hiding from the Nazis during World War II. The museum is located in the house where Anne and her family lived in secret for two years. The Anne Frank Museum at Prinsengracht 263, is more than just a museum about the persecution of Jews during the war as it tells a personal story about Anne Frank and her family.
Can you still remember the secret bookshelf in the Anne Frank House which was probably mentioned in your history book when you was small? Well, the bookshelf and the secret annex can be visited (and is visited by millions of people from all around the world every year).
👀 Read here everything you need to know about the Anne Frank House
4. Visit the Vincent van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is dedicated to the life and work of the famous Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh. You will love this place if you enjoy works by other impressionistic painters like Monet, Sorolla and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. The Van Gogh Museum has the largest collection of Van Gogh’s paintings and drawings in the world, including some of his most famous works such as “The Potato Eaters” and “Sunflowers”.
The museum also has a large collection of Vincent van Gogh’s contemporaries and predecessors, all in the impressionism art style.
👀 Read here everything you need to know about the van Gogh Museum
5. Go to the Bloemenmarkt
The Bloemenmarkt, or Flower Market, is the world’s only floating flower market. At this market, you can buy fresh flowers, bulbs, plants and Dutch souvenirs! If you are from the EU, you can also buy tulip bulbs to take home as a souvenir of your trip to Amsterdam. They have the tulip bulbs in many colours! The Bloemenmarkt is located in the city center, just a walking distance from Rembrandtplein and Tuschinski theater.
👀 Read here everything you need to know about the van Gogh Museum
6. Try Heineken beer at the Heineken Experience
Did you know that Heineken beer is a Dutch brand? If you are already in the country of heineken beer, you might as well do the Heineken experience in Amsterdam as well! The Heineken Experience is a museum and interactive tour of the famous Dutch beer brand. The tour takes you through the history of the company and the brewing process. Here, you can also learn how to pour the perfect Heineken beer and enjoy a tasting session in their brewery located in the Pijp area.
👀 Read here everything you need to know about the Heineken Experience
7. Take a bike tour
Amsterdam is a city made for cycling, and a bike tour is a great way to explore the city like a local. You can rent a bike or join a guided tour to see the city’s sights and attractions. You can cycle through the city center, Vondelpark, the city’s largest park, or explore the Jordaan neighborhood.
8. Visit the Red Light District
The Red Light District (“De Wallen” in Dutch) is a famous area in Amsterdam known for its brothels, sex windows, 18+ shops, condoms shops, sex clubs, strip clubs, cannabis coffee shops and bars. While the area can be controversial, it is also a part of Amsterdam’s culture and history. If you choose to visit, be respectful of the women working behind the prostitution windows there and please don’t take photos of the ladies as you will be violating their privacy.
👀 Read here a guide for the Red Light District For Beginners
9. Visit Dam Square
The Dam Square (in Dutch: “de Dam”) is a popular meeting point in Amsterdam and home to several important landmarks, including the Royal Palace and the National Monument. The square is also a great place to watch people and experience the atmosphere of the city. You will be accompanied by many pigeons! The Madame Tussaud Amsterdam is located just next to this square, and the famous old luxury department store called “de Bijenkorf” can be found here.
10. Do some shopping in Amsterdam
Shopping in Amsterdam is a must-do activity for visitors who love fashion, design, and unique souvenirs. Amsterdam has a range of shopping options, including high-end luxury stores to trendy boutiques and vintage shops.
The famous shopping streets Kalverstraat and Nieuwendijk (located on the east and west sides of the the Dam Square) are a great place to go as many many well-known shops like H&M, Pull&Bear, Uniqlo, Sostrene Grene, HEMA, Urban outfitters, Zara etc. are located here.
If you are looking for department stores in Amsterdam, De Bijenkorf and Magna Plza (behind the Dam Square) are the places where you should go.
11. Try some Dutch snacks and do a food tour
When you are in Amsterdam you should try some of our famous snacks. These include stroopwafels, thin waffle cookies filled with caramel syrup, bitterballen, a deep-fried meat snack, and poffertjes, small fluffy pancakes served with powdered sugar and butter. You can find these treats at markets and cafes throughout the city.
A food tour is a great way to explore Amsterdam’s culinary scene and try some of the city’s nicest things. You can sample Dutch cheese, herring, stroopwafels, and other local things on a guided tour. We do have to say that even though the Dutch cuisine is not as good as other international cusines as the Italian, French or Spanish ones, the range of types of international dishes compensates for that.
12. Visit the Stedelijk Museum
The Stedelijk Museum is a modern art museum located in the Museumplein area of Amsterdam. The museum has an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art, including works by Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, and Willem de Kooning. The Stedelijk museum is located on the museum square (Museumplein), just in front of the Van Gogh Museum and next to the Moco Museum and the Rijksmuseum.
13. Visit the Amsterdam Museum
The Amsterdam Museum is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of Amsterdam. The museum has exhibits on the city’s development, its famous residents, and its role in world history. The Amsterdam Museum is currently located in the building of the Hermitage Museum next to the Amstel river. After the renovations have finished, they will move back to their old location in the city center again.
14. See street art
Amsterdam is home to a vibrant street art scene, with murals and graffiti adorning buildings throughout the city. Head over to the NDSM shipyard too see some of the best street art in Amsterdam!
15. Visit the Free roof terrace of NEMO Science Museum
The NEMO Science Museum is an “experience by yourself” museum dedicated to science and technology. The museum has exhibits on topics such as energy, sustainability, and the human body. You can visit the roof terrace of NEMO for free without an entrance ticket. This really belongs to one of the must-do things in Amsterdam, as the view on top of the roof terrace, is truly fantastic. You get to see Amsterdam from a totally different perspective.
16. Take a canal cruise (in the evening)
A canal cruise is a relaxing and enjoyable experience, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenery while experiencing the city. A canal cruise is a great way to see Amsterdam’s canals. Although doing a canal cruise during the day is also amazing, taking a cruise at night is even a more magical experience.
You can see ALL the city’s famous landmarks and bridges lit up, creating a beautiful atmosphere. If you can’t choose whether you should do a canal cruise during the day or in the evening, we would even say do both if the time permits.
17. Visit Brouwerij ‘t IJ (Local Brewery) and drink local beer
Amsterdam is home to several breweries, including the famous and local Brouwerij ‘t IJ. Brouwerij ‘t IJ has been brewing unique Amsterdam specialty beer since 1985. Most of the different beers they brew are available on tap in their own tasting room called “De Molen” (the Mill, as the brewery is located next to a wooden Dutch windmill).
On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays they offer a free tour around our brewery. They will tell you every detail about their brewery and their unique beers from Amsterdam.
Brouwerij ‘t IJ | Funenkade 7, 1018 AL Amsterdam | www.brouwerijhetij.nl
18. Visit the Hortus Botanicus (Botanical garden)
Established in 1638, Hortus Botanicus is a botanical garden located in the Plantage neighborhood of Amsterdam. This garden was initially founded by the city council of Amsterdam to create a place where doctors could grow and harvest medicinal plants to treat people in Amsterdam.
The botanical garden has a large collection of plants and flowers, including some rare and exotic species. After you have explored the garden on your own, you can relax in their beautiful café, where they also sell delicious cakes.
19. Visit the Rembrandt House Museum
The Rembrandt House Museum is the former home of the famous Dutch painter Rembrandt van Rijn. The museum has exhibits on Rembrandt’s life and work, as well as a collection of his etchings and paintings.
This is a very cool place to visit as you will see where Rembrandt painted most of his paintings. His bedroom and personal belongings are on display too.
20. Visit the Houseboat Museum
The Houseboat Museum is a unique museum located on a houseboat in Amsterdam’s canal ring. The museum (yes, the houseboat museum is located in a houseboat) showcases what it’s like to live on a houseboat and the history of houseboats in Amsterdam.
21. Walk through the Jordaan neighborhood
The Jordaan neighborhood is one of the most picturesque and historic areas of Amsterdam. By walking through this area, you can see its charming streets, canals, and hidden courtyards.
If you are in the Jordaan area, go visit “Winkel 43”, they sell the best Dutch apple pie in town. This place is often so busy there that you won’t even can get in, they don’t take reservations! At Winkel 43 you can also get good breakfast, lunch, and Dinner.
Winkel 43 | Noordermarkt 43, 1015 NA Amsterdam
22. Go on a coffee shop tour
Amsterdam is famous for its coffee shops, which sell cannabis products and offer a relaxed atmosphere. You can take a guided tour of the city’s coffee shops and learn about the history, culture of cannabis in Amsterdam, how to roll a joint by yourself and get personalized advice on what kind of joints you should try if you have not smoked cannabis before.
23. Visit the Nieuwe Kerk
The Nieuwe Kerk, or New Church, is a historic church located just next to the Dam Square. The church has hosted many important events, including the coronation of Dutch monarchs. Every couple of months, the Nieuwe Kerk has a new exhibition in the church, which you can visit.
24. Visit the Artis Royal Zoo
The ARTIS Royal Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Europe and home to over 1000 animal and plant species. The zoo has several areas, including a butterfly garden, an aquarium, and special areas for elephants, lions and penguins. ARTIS is a good place to go if you are looking for a relaxed activity to do in Amsterdam.
25. Visit the Amsterdam Royal Palace
The Amsterdam Royal Palace is a stunning building located in the heart of the city. The palace was built in the 17th century and is still used for official events today. You can take an audio tour of the palace and see its beautiful interiors, rooms and artworks.
26. Visit ADAM Lookout and get on the highest swing of Europe
The ADAM lookout tower stands at a height of 100 meters and provides panoramic views of the city skyline. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower and then ride the giant swing that is suspended over the edge of the building. The swing reaches a height of 100 meters and swings back and forth over the city, offering a truly unforgettable experience. The swing at the ADAM tower is even the highest in Europe.
There is also a restaurant at the top of the building. This restaurant is called “Madame” and is located on the 20th floor. Throughout the day, Madam welcomes guests to her restaurant, but as night falls, the restaurant transforms into Amsterdam’s premier sky bar, perfect for casual dining, drinks, and sipping cocktails. On weekends, Madam turns into a dance floor on the town’s highest place to party and frequently invites artists to throw epic parties.
27. Head over to the Vondelpark
The Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s largest park and a beloved destination for locals and tourists. You can enjoy a picnic, take a relaxing walk through the park’s beautiful gardens and lakes while hugging many dogs that are being walked here!
The park is 470,000 square meters (about 70 football fields) big and has also a pretty rose garden.
28. Visit the Begijnhof
The Begijnhof is a hidden courtyard located in the center of Amsterdam. It is a peaceful place in the crowded center of Amsterdam and is home to some of Amsterdam’s oldest and most historic buildings, including a church built in 1452.
29. Explore the Waterlooplein Flea Market
The Waterlooplein Flea Market is a must-see for bargain hunters and vintage lovers. It is one of Amsterdam’s largest and oldest flea markets, offering everything from antiques and clothes to vinyl records and electronics. Since 1885, the Waterlooplein market has been a place for merchants to sell their goods.
Many stores around the Waterlooplein market are vintage stores, meaning that if you are looking for a place to do some vintage shopping (cloth, and jewelry) you might find the shops around this market square interesting too.
30. Visit the Tuschinski cinema – Most beautiful cinema in the world
The Tuschinski Theater is a stunning cinema located in the heart of Amsterdam. It was built in the Art Deco style in the 1920s and is known for its luxurious interiors and unique design. In 2021, Theater Tuschinski has been named the most beautiful cinema in the world.
A cinema ticket is also very affordable, an adult ticket costs 15 euros and a child ticket costs 7.50. There are no reasons why you should not go watch a movie here!
31. Visit the Rijksmuseum Gardens
The Rijksmuseum Gardens are a beautiful outdoor space located behind the Rijksmuseum which we saw earlier at the beginning of this list. The gardens feature sculptures, fountains, and beautiful flower displays, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing walk or picnic.
Although this garden is located next to the famous Rijksmuseum, not a lot of people know about this place, making it a real hidden gem of Amsterdam!
32. Take a stroll along the Amstel River
The Amstel River is one of the main waterways in Amsterdam and offers beautiful views of the city. You can take a leisurely walk along the Amstel River and see some of Amsterdam’s most beautiful buildings! Don’t forget to cross the “Magere brug”!
This famous bridge over the Amsterdam is also known as the Lovers bridge of Amsterdam. They say if you kiss under this bridge, you will have eternal love with your partner. Super romantic!
33. Visit the NDSM Wharf (“NDSM Werf”)
The NDSM Wharf is a former shipyard that has been transformed into a vibrant cultural hub. You can see street art, live music, and other events, as well as visit cafes and restaurants in the area. You can get there by taking a free ferry from Amsterdam Central Station to the other side of the IJ river and reach the NDSM Wharf.
34. Go to the van Loon Museum, 17th century canal house
The Van Loon museum is located in a beautiful 17th-century canal house that was once home to the Van Loon family, one of the city’s most prominent and influential families.
Visitors to this museum can explore the stunning interior of the house, including its magnificent rooms, ornate ceilings, and richly decorated living spaces.
Only in Amsterdam you will find a place like this, where you can just visit the rooms and the garden of a 17th century canal house.
The museum also houses a collection of paintings, furniture, and decorative arts, providing a glimpse into the life and times of Amsterdam’s elite during the 17th and 18th centuries. Their garden is also a must-see!
35. Visit the Nieuwmarkt and China town in Amsterdam
The Nieuwmarkt is a lively square in Amsterdam’s Chinatown neighborhood. You can try Chinese and Indonesian food here, and visit one of the many chinese shops here.
36. Visit the Micropia Museum
The Micropia Museum is a museum dedicated to microbiology and the world of microorganisms. You can see exhibits on the role of microorganisms in human health, agriculture, and the environment.
37. Enjoy your cocktail at House of Bols Museum
The House of Bols is a very fun museum and experience dedicated to the Dutch liquor brand Bols, which produces “Jenever”, the mother of Gin. You can visit the House of Bols museum and see the history and production of Jenever.
A fun fact: The English tried to copy our Dutch Jenever, but ended up making a different type of alcholic drink. They got the berry right, but they produced their drink with neutral alcohol, instead with grain alcohol.
At the end, you can show your entrance ticket at their very cool bar and you will get a free fancy cocktail. A very nice experience if you are looking for an activity to do as a couple in Amsterdam or with friends.
38. Visit the De Pijp neighborhood
The De Pijp neighborhood is a trendy and multicultural area of Amsterdam. You can see beautiful architecture, visit shops, many restuarants and cafes. If you are in this area, go visit the famous Albert Cuyp Market too, which offers everything from fresh produce to clothing and Dutch souvenirs.
39. Visit the Portuguese Synagogue
The Portuguese Synagogue is a historic synagogue located in Amsterdam’s Jewish Quarter. The synagogue dates back to the 17th century and is still used for religious services today.
40. Take a trip to the Westergasfabriek
The Westergasfabriek is a former gas factory that has been transformed into a cultural and entertainment complex in the Westerpark. You can see live music, art exhibitions, and other events, as well as visit cafes and restaurants in the park.
If you are in the Westerpark, don’t forget to visit Ijscuypje, a local ice cream chainstore from Amsterdam! They have good ice cream, which will make you crave for more!
IJscuypje Westergasfabriek | Gosschalklaan 7, 1014 DC Amsterdam
41. Visit the Amsterdam Tulip Museum
The Amsterdam Tulip Museum is a small museum dedicated to the history and cultivation of tulips in the Netherlands. You can see exhibits on the history of the tulip trade and the different types of tulips grown in the country.
Amsterdam Tulip Museum | Prinsengracht 116, 1015 EA Amsterdam
Amsterdam Travel Guide: Best money saving & travel tips for Amsterdam
Every year, Amsterdam is visited by millions and millions of visitors around the world. Without booking your trip in advance, it will be very hard to find the best place to stay in Amsterdam or do the things you want to do.
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Find your Flight
Since airfare costs will be a significant part of your trip expenses, we recommend you to use Skyscanner as it gives you a list with the cheapest flights. You may also want to check out the website of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. KLM is the main airline of the Netherlands and has besides convenient connections (Amsterdam Schiphol Airport), also competitive prizing and good In-flight experience (e.g. extra legroom; we Dutch are tall, that’s why).
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Find your Train Ticket
Amsterdam is well-connected with other European cities. Use NS International to purchase your train ticket to the Netherlands. NS is the main train operator in the Netherlands. Planning to see more than Amsterdam during your stay in Europe? You may want to consider buying an Eurail Interrail Pass which gives you unlimited train travel across Europe for a specific period.
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Book your Accommodation
The best platform to book a hotel room in Amsterdam is Booking.com as nearly every big and small hotel are listed on this platform, making it very easy to find your preferred hotel. All the costs are listed on the site so you won’t need to pay any unexpected costs such as tourist taxes at arrival.
Booking.com’s Genius loyalty program offers attractive discounts, meaning that you will pay less for your accommodation.
HostelWorld is your to-go platform to book a bed in a hostel. Every hostel in Amsterdam can be found on HostelWorld, making it easy to compare prices and availability.
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Buy your museum and attractions tickets in advance!
Amsterdam is a very very popular tourist attractions and if you want to visit certain attraction it is nearly a MUST to reserve and purchase your tickets online. Otherwise you won’t be able to get in. Especially if you want to visit the Anne Frank House, in high seasons the tickets are already sold out 1.5 months in advance (not a joke).
GetyourGuide is the best platform to buy your tickets online, as they offer free cancellation with full refund. Purchase your tickets first is the smartest thing what you can do before coming to Amsterdam.
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