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14 Best Things To Do In Amsterdam

Last Updated At: 02-Feb-2024

14 Best Things To Do In Amsterdam | Activities List With Location

Amsterdam, the lively capital of the Netherlands, invites visitors to enjoy its beautiful canals, old-world charm, and a mix of different cultural experiences. Famous for being open-minded and full of history, Amsterdam blends old traditions with new vibes. Walking around its cobbled streets and famous canals, you'll find lots of fun things to do in Amsterdam for everyone.

You can visit museums like the Rijksmuseum, which features famous art by Dutch artists like Rembrandt and Vermeer. Don't miss the Anne Frank House, where you'll learn about World War II history. Enjoy nature in Vondelpark or see the city's buildings from a canal boat.

The best time to visit Amsterdam is from April to May or September to November when the weather is pleasant. The nearest airport is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, which connects you to the city easily. Ready to explore Amsterdam? Keep reading to find out more.

List Of Top 14 Things To Do In Amsterdam

Whether you're seeking cultural enrichment, scenic beauty, or Amsterdam family-friendly attractions, Amsterdam promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller. In this enchanting city, every corner reveals a new adventure, making it a must-visit destination for those yearning to be captivated by the essence of Dutch culture and hospitality.

  • Boat Tours: Scenic and Leisurely Way to Explore
  • Van Gogh Museum: Largest Collection of Van Gogh's Paintings
  • Cultural Tours: Offer Immersive Experiences
  • Light Festival Canal Cruise: A Captivating Experience
  • Zaanse Schans Windmills, Clogs and Dutch Cheese Small-Group: Delightful Excursion
  • Canal Cruise: Embark on Boat Tours
  • Anne Frank House: Museum Dedicated to Anne Frank
  • Rijksmuseum: Dedicated to Arts and History
  • Vondelpark: Largest and Most Famous Public Park
  • Centraal Station: Prominent Architectural Landmark
  • Heineken Experience: A Popular Brewery Tour
  • Red Light District: A Well-Known Area
  • Royal Zoo: Known as Artis Royal Zoo
  • Body Worlds: A Fascinating Exhibition

1. Boat Tours | Scenic and Leisurely Way to Explore

Boat tours provide a scenic and leisurely way to explore waterways, lakes, or coastal areas. Whether on tranquil rivers, serene lakes, or open seas, these tours offer a unique perspective, allowing passengers to enjoy nature, wildlife, and cultural landmarks. Boat tours vary widely, from relaxing sightseeing cruises to adventurous excursions like kayaking or sailing. They provide a memorable experience, combining the pleasures of travel with the tranquillity of being on the water. This is one of the best romantic things to do in Amsterdam.

  • Best time to visit: April to September
  • Top Attractions: Cruising, Waterways, Panoramic
  • Nearby spots: Canal Ring Boat Tour, Amsterdam Evening Canal Cruise, Amsterdam Dinner Cruise

2. Van Gogh Museum | Largest Collection of Van Gogh's Paintings

The Van Gogh Museum, located in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is dedicated to the life and works of the renowned Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh. Opened in 1973, the museum houses the world's largest collection of Van Gogh's paintings, drawings, and letters. Visitors can explore the artist's evolution, from his early works to the iconic masterpieces like "Sunflowers" and "Starry Night." The museum provides insight into Van Gogh's life and artistic legacy, attracting art enthusiasts globally.

  • Best time to visit: Any time of the year
  • Top Attractions: Masterpieces, Impressionism, Brushstrokes
  • Nearby spots: Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Museum, Moco Museum

3. Cultural Tours | Offer Immersive Experiences

Cultural tours offer immersive experiences, allowing travellers to explore a destination's heritage, traditions, and history. These tours, led by knowledgeable guides, often include visits to historical landmarks, museums, and cultural sites. Participants gain insights into local customs, art, and cuisine, fostering a deeper understanding of the community. Cultural tours provide a rich tapestry of experiences, connecting travellers with the authentic aspects of a region's identity and offering a meaningful exploration of its cultural diversity.

  • Best time to visit: Any time of the year
  • Top Attractions: Heritage, History, Insight
  • Nearby spots: Dutch Heritage Walking Tour, Jewish Cultural Quarter, Amsterdam Street Art Tour

4. Light Festival Canal Cruise | A Captivating Experience

The Light Festival Canal Cruise is a captivating Amsterdam nightlife guide experience that combines Amsterdam's picturesque canals with illuminated art installations during the annual Amsterdam Light Festival. Visitors embark on a boat tour, marvelling at stunning light sculptures, projections, and installations along the waterways. This unique journey enhances the city's enchanting ambience, providing a magical and artistic exploration of Amsterdam's landmarks illuminated by the creativity of international artists, making it a must-see winter attraction.

  • Best time to visit: April to September
  • Top Attractions: Illumination, Art, Canals
  • Nearby spots: Amsterdam Light Festival, Water Colors Cruise, Evening Light Cruise

5. Zaanse Schans Windmills, Clogs and Dutch Cheese Small-Group | Delightful Excursion

The Zaanse Schans Windmills, Clogs, and Dutch Cheese Small-Group tour offers a delightful excursion from Amsterdam, Netherlands. Participants explore the historic Zaanse Schans village, known for its iconic windmills and traditional crafts. The tour includes visits to a clog workshop, where wooden shoes are crafted, and a cheese farm to taste authentic Dutch cheese. This small-group experience provides a charming and immersive journey into Dutch heritage, showcasing craftsmanship, culture, and picturesque landscapes.

  • Best time to visit: Spring and summer
  • Top Attractions: Windmills, Clogs, Cheese
  • Nearby spots: Zaanse Schans, Cheese Farm, De Kat Windmill

6. Canal Cruise | Embark on Boat Tours

A Canal Cruise provides a delightful way to explore cities with waterways, such as Amsterdam or Venice. Passengers embark on boat tours, meandering through scenic canals and enjoying panoramic views of historic landmarks. Guided or self-guided, these cruises offer insights into local history and architecture. Whether during the day or illuminated at night, canal cruises offer a unique perspective of a city, combining relaxation and cultural exploration in a picturesque setting. This is one of the best-hidden gems in Amsterdam.

  • Best time to visit: April to September
  • Top Attractions: Scenic, Waterways, Sightseeing
  • Nearby spots: Classic Amsterdam Canal Cruise, Open Boat Tour, Luxury Canal Cruise

7. Anne Frank House | Museum Dedicated to Anne Frank

The Anne Frank House, located in Amsterdam, is a museum dedicated to Anne Frank, a Jewish girl who documented her experiences hiding from the Nazis during World War II. Preserving the hidden annex where Anne wrote her famous diary, the museum educates visitors about the Holocaust and the consequences of discrimination. The Anne Frank House serves as a poignant memorial, inspiring reflection on human rights, tolerance, and the impact of intolerance on society.

  • Best time to visit: Spring
  • Top Attractions: History, Holocaust, Diary
  • Nearby spots: Westertoren, Westerkerk, Jordaan District

Read More : Places To Celebrate New Year In Amsterdam

8. Rijksmuseum | Dedicated to Arts and History

The Rijksmuseum, situated in Amsterdam, is the national museum of the Netherlands, dedicated to arts and history. Founded in 1800, it houses an extensive collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, including masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer. The museum features diverse artefacts, from sculptures and decorative arts to historical objects. The Rijksmuseum is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and symbolises Dutch artistic achievement and national identity.

  • Best time to visit: Any time of the year
  • Top Attractions: Masterpieces, Rembrandt, Vermeer
  • Nearby spots: Van Gogh Museum, I Amsterdam Sign, Museumplein

9. Vondelpark | Largest and Most Famous Public Park

Vondelpark, located in Amsterdam, is the city's largest and most famous public park. Established in 1865, it offers a picturesque escape with sprawling lawns, serene lakes, and tree-lined paths. The park hosts cultural events, open-air concerts, and recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy walking, cycling, or relaxing in its green spaces. Vondelpark is a popular destination for the best free activities in Amsterdam, providing a tranquil oasis in the heart of the bustling city.

  • Best time to visit: Spring and summer
  • Top Attractions: Greenery, Tranquility, Cycling
  • Nearby spots: Rijksmuseum Gardens, Vondelpark Open-Air Theatre, Blauwe Theehuis

10. Centraal Station | Prominent Architectural Landmark

Centraal Station in Amsterdam is the city's main railway station, a transportation hub, and a prominent architectural landmark. Constructed in the late 19th century, the station blends Gothic and Renaissance styles. It stands on three artificial islands and serves as a gateway to the city for travellers arriving by train, bus, tram, or boat. Centraal Station is a bustling transport centre surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

  • Best time to visit: Any time of the year
  • Top Attractions: Architecture, Transportation, Hub
  • Nearby spots: NEMO Science Museum, Amsterdam Centraal Library, Amsterdam Dungeon

11. Heineken Experience | A Popular Brewery Tour

The Heineken Experience is a popular brewery tour in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Housed in the former Heineken brewery, it offers an interactive journey through the beer-making process, history, and brand evolution. Visitors engage in multimedia exhibits and beer tastings and can "brew" their virtual beer. The experience combines entertainment with insights into Heineken's brewing tradition, making it an engaging and informative attraction for beer enthusiasts and curious visitors.

  • Best time to visit: Any time of the year
  • Top Attractions: Brewery, Interactive, History
  • Nearby spots: Albert Cuyp Market, Foam Photography Museum, De Pijp Neighborhood

12. Red Light District | A Well-Known Area

The Red Light District in Amsterdam is a well-known area featuring legal prostitution and a variety of adult entertainment venues. Centred around the Oudezijds Voorburgwal canal, it includes red-lit windows where sex workers showcase their services. The district has a complex history and is home to bars, restaurants, and cultural attractions. While known for its liberal approach to sex work, the area is a subject of ongoing debates regarding regulations and social dynamics.

  • Best time to visit: Any time of the year
  • Top Attractions: Entertainment, Nightlife, Cafés
  • Nearby spots: Oude Kerk, Nieuwmarkt, Chinatown

13. Royal Zoo | Known as Artis Royal Zoo

The Royal Zoo, also known as Artis Royal Zoo, is located in the heart of Amsterdam, Netherlands. Established in 1838, it is one of the oldest zoos in Europe. Artis Royal Zoo houses a diverse collection of animals and features an aquarium, a planetarium, and botanical gardens. The zoo aims to promote education and conservation while providing an enjoyable experience for visitors, making it a popular destination for families and animal enthusiasts.

  • Best time to visit: Spring and summer
  • Top Attractions: Wildlife, Conservation, Zookeepers
  • Nearby spots: Artis Aquarium, Micropia, Plantage District

14. Body Worlds | A Fascinating Exhibition

Body Worlds is a fascinating exhibition created by anatomist Gunther von Hagens, showcasing plastinated human bodies and body parts to illustrate various aspects of anatomy and health. With a focus on education and public understanding of the human body, the exhibits offer insights into physiology, disease, and the impact of lifestyle choices. Body Worlds has gained international recognition for its unique and informative approach to anatomical education and is hosted in various cities worldwide.

  • Best time to visit: Any time of the year
  • Top Attractions: Plastinates, Interactivity, Anatomy
  • Nearby spots: Madame Tussauds Amsterdam, Ripley's Believe It or Not!, The Amsterdam Dungeon

Read More : Places To Visit In Amsterdam 

Amsterdam is full of enchanting canals, cultural landmarks, and dynamic neighbourhoods that weave an unforgettable experience for visitors. The city effortlessly combines its rich history with a modern flair, offering various activities that cater to diverse tastes. From world-class museums to picturesque parks, charming streets, and a vibrant culinary scene, Amsterdam invites exploration at every turn. Whether revelling in art, history, or the simple joy of a canal-side stroll, this city captivates with its unique charm. A visit to Amsterdam is not merely a journey; it's an immersion into the heart of Dutch culture and timeless allure. Get more information about famous Amsterdam bike tour recommendations.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Amsterdam

Q1. What are the top tourist attractions in Amsterdam?
A1. Top tourist attractions in Amsterdam are:

  • Rijksmuseum: Home to Dutch masterpieces, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
  • Van Gogh Museum: Showcasing the works of Vincent van Gogh.
  • Anne Frank House: A historical museum in the former hiding place of Anne Frank.
  • Vondelpark: Amsterdam's largest and most famous public park.
  • Canal Cruise: Explore the city's picturesque canals and historic architecture.

Q2. Can you recommend some unique and off-the-beaten-path things to do in Amsterdam?
A2. Some unique and off-the-beaten-path things to do in Amsterdam are:

  • NDSM Wharf: Visit this industrial area turned cultural hotspot with street art and studios.
  • De Pijp: Explore this diverse neighbourhood with trendy shops, cafes, and the Albert Cuyp Market.
  • Electric Ladyland: A fluorescent art museum offering a unique visual experience.
  • Amsterdamse Bos: A vast forested area for nature walks and outdoor activities.
  • Micropia: Discover the world of microorganisms in this innovative museum.

Q3. What are the best activities for families visiting Amsterdam?
A3. The best activities for families visiting Amsterdam are:

  • Artis Royal Zoo: A historic zoo with animals, an aquarium, and a planetarium.
  • NEMO Science Museum: Interactive exhibits and experiments for kids.
  • Vondelpark Playground: A large playground for children within the park.
  • Museumplein: Open space for family picnics and outdoor activities.
  • Pancake Boat Cruise: Enjoy pancakes while cruising Amsterdam's waterways.

Q4. Are there any must-visit museums in Amsterdam?
A4. Some of the must-visit museums in Amsterdam are:

  • Rijksmuseum: Dutch art and history.
  • Van Gogh Museum: Iconic works of Vincent van Gogh.
  • Anne Frank House: Historical museum in Anne Frank's former hiding place.
  • Stedelijk Museum: Modern and Contemporary Art.
  • Rembrandt House Museum: Explore the former home of the renowned artist.

Q5. How can I experience the local culture in Amsterdam through activities and events?
A5. Local culture in Amsterdam through activities and events are:

  • Jordaan District: Wander through this charming neighbourhood with boutique shops and cafes.
  • Albert Cuyp Market: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this popular street market.
  • Concertgebouw: Attend a classical music performance at this renowned concert hall.
  • Museumplein Events: Check for outdoor concerts, festivals, and events in the central square.
  • Local Cafes and Bars: Engage with locals in traditional Dutch brown cafes or trendy bars to taste local life.
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--- Published By  Adotrip

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