Welcome to Amsterdam! One of the easiest European cities to navigate, the capital of the Netherlands is an outstanding destination for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike. Known for its idyllic canals, magnificent architecture, bike riding culture and exceptional museums, Amsterdam is a place I’d encourage everyone to visit at least once!
After spending few days exploring the Dutch capital I’m so excited to share my recap of the best things to do and see in the city.
Without further ado, here are 16 fun things you have to do in Amsterdam!
1. Explore De Pijp
De Pijp is easily one of Amsterdam’s trendiest and most vibrant neighborhoods. Located slightly south of the city center, this bohemian district is home to many diverse cafes, restaurants and bars. Formerly a working class area of the city, De Pijp has transformed into a major part of Amsterdam’s culinary scene.
Albert Cuyp Market
First, head to the Albert Cuyp Market, an outdoor street market situated on the busy Albert Cuypstraat. Here you’ll find a variety of stalls selling food, clothing, flowers and other gift items. Spend an hour or two browsing and grab a snack or Dutch treat from one of the many food vendors on the street. One of the best things about the market is that you can try an assortment of delicious local foods for a great price.
Heineken Experience
Located about a 5 minute walk from the Albert Cuyp Market, the Heineken Experience is one of the most popular (and albeit slightly touristy) things to do in Amsterdam. Here you can dive into the history of Heineken, learn about the beer brewing process and try a free beer sample. While I wouldn’t say it’s a must do, if you’ve got some free time, it’s worth stopping by for a visit.
Locals Coffee
Amsterdam is bursting with cozy cafes and Locals Coffee is one of the best in the city. Order your coffee to-go as you wander around De Pijp’s charming streets or grab a table, sit back, relax and take advantage of the mouthwatering brunch menu. The next time I’m back in Amsterdam, I know this is one place I’ll definitely swing by again!
2. Cruise The Canals
No visit to Amsterdam is complete without cruising the picturesque canals! Book a boat tour and you’ll be rewarded with a different perspective of the city’s stunning architecture and extensive canal system, as well as gain a brief insight into its history.
During my trip, I did a one hour boat cruise with Flagship Amsterdam and it was such a fun experience. The company’s open boats were a highlight for me, as I was able to take in the sights while soaking up the sun and enjoying the fresh air on a beautiful afternoon. The guides are very professional and keep guests entertained with interesting facts and stories throughout the boat ride.
3. Visit A Museum
Amsterdam is an internationally renowned city known for its rich history, art and culture. It’s only fitting that it’s also home to some of the most popular museums in the world. With such a large and eclectic assortment to choose from, visitors will have no problem finding one (or a few) to suit their interests. Some noteworthy options include the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House and the Tulip Museum.
Rijksmuseum
If you decide to visit only one museum, it should be the Rijksmuseum. The national museum of the Netherlands, the Rijksmuseum delves deeply into Dutch history and displays an expansive collection of artwork, including Rembrandt’s famous painting, The Night Watch.
Tip: For a stress-free visit, download the free Rijksmuseum App. You can purchase tickets in advance directly on the app, listen to the free audio guide, and use it to navigate your way through the museum.
Van Gogh Museum
Van Gogh’s paintings in the world and gives insight into the painter’s life and art. Highlights of the collection include Sunflowers, Almond Blossom and The Potato Eaters.
Anne Frank House
Honoring World War II diarist, Anne Frank, the Anne Frank House presents her story through photos and videos in the actual house where she lived with her family during the Nazi occupation.
Tip: Book your tickets online far in advance as they tend to sell out very quickly.
The Tulip Museum
The Tulip Museum is a small museum and shop featuring information about the origin and history of the Netherland’s world famous tulips. Pop in for a quick visit and do a little souvenir shopping before heading to the next item on your agenda.
4. Picnic In Vondelpark
Take advantage of a sunny afternoon by picnicking in Vondelpark, the largest urban park in Amsterdam. Grab lunch from a nearby grocery store or pop into a cafe in the park. Duck ponds, gardens and winding walking paths all make Vondelpark a tranquil place to take a break from the bustling city.
5. Experience Seven Countries At Zevenlandenhuizen
One of the more unique stops on my list of the best things to do in Amsterdam is Zevenlandenhuizen, also known as Seven Country Houses. This historical landmark is a row of seven homes that were each built to represent the architectural style of a different country. The list of represented countries includes Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Russia, the Netherlands and England. Conveniently located near Vondelpark, it’s easy to stroll by for a quick look at this architectural gem.
6. See The Countryside
Although Amsterdam is an incredible destination on its own, the Netherlands is so much more than its capital. Escape the crowds for a day and explore the Dutch countryside for a peek into the landscape outside of the city. Easy day trips from Amsterdam include Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam and Giethoorn. I chose to visit the adorable windmill village of Zaanse Schans and would say it’s definitely one of the best things to do near Amsterdam!
Read More: Zaanse Schans: The Best Day Trip From Amsterdam
7. Check Out Bloemenmarkt
Add a little color to your visit by checking out Bloemenmarkt, the only floating flower market in the world. Located along the Singel Canal, Bloemenmarkt consists of several flower stalls selling flower bulbs and other small souvenirs. It’s a fun place for a quick visit and to admire the flowers even if you don’t buy anything.
8. Admire The Royal Palace
Built during the Golden Age, Amsterdam’s Royal Palace is an impressive building in Dam Square. It’s the king’s official reception palace, but it’s also open for visitors many days throughout the year. Stop by for a quick photo op and continue on your way or purchase a ticket to view the palace from the inside as well.
9. Snap A Photo Of The Gingerbread Houses At Damrak
The gingerbread houses at Damrak are probably the most iconic of all Amsterdam’s landmarks. They’re located near the central train station and are the perfect background for your vacation photos. Come early in the morning to snap a photo of these colorful, lopsided buildings and you won’t be disappointed!
10. Stroll The 9 Streets Of Amsterdam
The 9 Streets, or De 9 Straatjes, is the perfect neighborhood to go for a stroll, admire classic Dutch architecture and window shop along the way. Centrally situated in the canal belt between Prinsengracht and Singel, the 9 streets encompass a number of exceptional boutique shops, galleries, cafes and restaurants. If you’re looking for something different than the typical tourist shops and chain stores, you’ll absolutely love these 9 little streets!
11. Wander Around The Jordaan
To the west of the 9 Streets, the Jordaan district is another dreamy place to wander. Narrow cobblestone streets, tree-lined canals and cozy shops and cafes will have you reaching for your camera. Jordaan has a more local feel than some other areas of the city, but it’s still within walking distance to Amsterdam’s most popular attractions.
12. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth At Polaberry
In the Jordaan, Polaberry is a whimsical chocolate shop offering a variety of pretty desserts and espresso drinks. If you love all things pink and girly as much as I do, Polaberry will be one of your favorite stops in Amsterdam! The store itself is small, but you can place your order to go and have an impromptu picnic on the canal. Some of the most notable dessert options worth mentioning include beautifully decorated cake sticks, chocolate covered strawberries and chocolate bars.
13. Sample Local Foods
When in Amsterdam, trying traditional Dutch foods is one of the most fun things to do! From raw herring to stroopwafels to bitterballen (deep fried balls similar to croquettes), there are so many options. A few of my favorites are poffertjes (mini pancakes), Gouda cheese and bossche bol (a chocolate covered, whipped cream filled pastry).
14. Ride A Bike
Amsterdam is a very bike friendly city, but unless you’re extremely comfortable peddling through crowds and high traffic areas I wouldn’t recommend riding through the city center. Instead, rent a bike and cycle through Vondelpark or book a countryside bike tour for a more relaxed experience.
15. Indulge In Van Stapele’s Signature Cookie
Serving only its signature cookie, Van Stapele Koekmakerij hits the nail on the head in its effort to make the best cookie in Amsterdam! These delicious dark chocolate treats have a gooey white chocolate center and I can honestly say they’re some of the best cookies I’ve ever had. They’re freshly baked throughout the day, but be sure to go early. Once the shop sells out, they’re done for the day.
16. Tiptoe Through The Tulips
If you’re lucky enough to visit Amsterdam during tulip season, a visit to the tulip fields is a must! Whether you choose to visit the Keukenhof Gardens, aka the Garden of Europe, or one of the many tulips fields in the area, it’s one of the best things to do in Amsterdam in the spring. Unfortunately, I arrived in Europe a little too late to see them for myself, but it’s one experience that remains at the top of my bucket list.
I hope you’ve enjoyed my summary of the 16 best things to do in Amsterdam!
Have you recently traveled to the Netherlands? What are your favorite things to do in Amsterdam? Let me know in the comments below!
