The top 21 activities to experience in Amsterdam

With its charming 17th-century canals, outstanding museums, and vibrant nightlife, it’s no wonder that Amsterdam ranks among Europe’s premier travel spots.

Thanks to its compact layout, exploring the Dutch capital on foot is easy, but there are more enjoyable ways to get around. Embrace the local lifestyle by cycling or taking a boat for a fresh perspective on the city.

What are the must-see attractions in Amsterdam?

While the variety of sights can be overwhelming, we’ve curated a list of the 21 top things to do in Amsterdam, featuring both popular spots and hidden gems.

If you’re short on time to discover the city, consider the Amsterdam City Card (starting at about €60 for a 24-hour pass). This includes entry to over 70 museums, popular spots like the Heineken Experience, bike rentals, and a canal cruise.

1. Head to Museum Quarter

Conveniently, Amsterdam’s “big three” art museums are located together in Museumplein, showcasing the remarkable Rijksmuseum with its collection of Golden Age masterpieces, highlighted by Rembrandt’s The Night Watch.

For enthusiasts of the troubled Dutch painter Van Gogh (which is nearly everyone), nowhere compares to the collection at the Van Gogh Museum. Here, you’ll find the famous Sunflowers alongside letters that shed light on his life (it’s essential to pre-book a timed entry for both venues).

For a more relaxed experience, the modern art and design center Stedelijk, known for its striking extension dubbed “the bathtub,” boasts an impressive permanent collection featuring works by Picasso, Warhol, and Rothko.

2. Explore the 9 Streets

Nestled between the Singel and Prinsengracht canals in the vibrant Jordaan district (just a five-minute stroll from the Royal Palace at Dam Square), this charming micro-neighborhood attracts discerning shoppers with its delightful cafes, unique boutiques, and art galleries.

Housed in a stunning canal residence, Huis Marseille is essential for viewing exhibitions by celebrated photographers, while De Kaaskamer, filled with enormous wheels of cheese, is the perfect place to pick up picnic supplies for a delightful canal outing.

3. Rent a bicycle

With a long-standing Dutch passion for cycling, Amsterdam is one of the most bike-friendly major cities. It’s no surprise, considering there are around 881,000 bikes here. Numerous rental companies are available, especially near Central Station, offering daily bike rentals for about €10.

If you feel uneasy about navigating the winding streets, consider a guided tour: highly-rated We Bike Amsterdam offers three-hour tours (approximately €30 for adults) with small groups and a delightful blend of humor and history.

4. Anne Frank House

Among the many attractions in Amsterdam, visiting the Anne Frank House museum, dedicated to the young Jewish diarist, is undoubtedly the most poignant experience. It's essential to plan ahead: tickets become available every Tuesday at 10 am EST for visits scheduled about six weeks later.

The highlight of the museum is the hidden attic where Anne wrote her diary about life in hiding from the Nazis during World War II. The 17th-century home also features a poignant permanent exhibit about her life.

5. Stroll through Vondelpark

Designed in the English landscape style, this expansive 120-acre green space was opened in 1865. Today, you’ll find locals jogging, cycling, picnicking, or enjoying the various play areas and cafes available.

The modernist pavilion ‘t Blauew Theehuis (the “Blue Tea House”) is a local favorite for its spacious terrace and reasonably priced menu. For a dose of culture, head to the park's center to see Picasso’s impressive fish sculpture, or catch a performance at the open-air theater in the summer.

6. Discover street art

Amsterdam’s vibrant street art and graffiti scene is flourishing, to the point that it has inspired two dedicated museums. Renowned for its collection of works by street art icon Banksy, the Moco Museum also features American legends like Keith Haring and Jeff Koons.

On a grander scale, the former welding warehouse STRAAT showcases over 160 unique pieces, primarily created on-site. A standout is Kobra’s portrait of Anne Frank, prominently displayed at the museum's entrance.

7. Explore the music scene

If you're not in the mood for Amsterdam’s vibrant 24-hour clubbing scene, a fantastic (and family-friendly) option is the unique Our House.

Established in 2021, this museum celebrates electronic dance music, chronicling the genre's rise to prominence over the years. The experience is filled with engaging interactive activities: you can try your hand at iconic equipment like the Roland TR-808 drum machine or the largest analog sequencer in the world.

8. Join a food tour

There’s no better way to explore the Jordaan district than through a food tour with the award-winning Eating Amsterdam.

Limited to small groups, their itineraries feature a dozen tastings at local delis and cafes. You’ll get to meet local food artisans while uncovering the impact of Surinamese and Indonesian cuisines on Amsterdam’s culinary landscape.

The seasonal snacks might include herring or the renowned (Bill Clinton-approved) apple pie at Café Papeneiland. Opt for the tour that includes a wooden saloon canal cruise, and you’ll also savor craft beer and tasty bitterballen (meatballs).

Dinogo top tip: Prefer to explore on your own? Some of our favorite food spots are t Smalle, Café Parlotte, Rijsel, and Winkel 43, known for its delicious apple pie.

9. Take in stunning views of the city

The observation deck at A’dam Lookout provides an unparalleled vista of Amsterdam’s historic heart, its port, and the surrounding polders.

To reach it, hop on the free ferry from Central Station (bikes are welcome), then ascend in the elevator, enhanced by an engaging sound and light show.

For an extra charge, you can take on Europe’s highest swing — complete with complimentary souvenir photos — or try a VR roller coaster. There’s also a breathtaking bar and restaurant to enjoy.

10. Explore Rembrandt’s studio

Reopened in 2023, Museum Rembrandthuis is housed in an impressive residence at the edge of the Jewish Quarter, where the Dutch Golden Age painter lived from 1639 to 1658.

An ideal complement to viewing his masterpieces at the Rijksmuseum, it narrates the artist’s life and entrepreneurial spirit, featuring authentically restored period furniture and a realistic recreation of his studio.

The collection primarily showcases his etchings, including a delightful series of miniature self-portraits.

11. Take to the water

An Amsterdam boat tour is a must-do for most visitors, and for good reason. A journey along the city’s canals — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — offers a fresh perspective on Amsterdam’s 17th-century and cutting-edge contemporary architecture. Few experiences are as idyllic for exploring the city’s winding waterways.

Most tours depart near Central Station, with a mini-cruise typically lasting 1–2 hours. Many operators include snacks and drinks, or you can opt for dinner and jazz for an additional fee.

12. Spend time at NDSM-Wharf

The street art hub STRAAT is just one of the attractions that draw visitors to this former shipyard. Easily accessible via the free ferry from Central Station, NDSM-Wharf has evolved into a prominent cultural center since local artists began transforming abandoned industrial sites in the 1980s.

Plan your visit to coincide with IJ-Hallen, Europe’s largest flea market, where you can explore around 500 stalls filled with vintage clothing, trinkets, and home goods. When hunger strikes, make your way to the vegetarian-friendly hotspot Pllek. This lively waterside bar and restaurant, constructed from repurposed shipping containers, is renowned for its urban beach, live music, and outdoor films.

13. Visit a brewery

While the Heineken Experience is more well-known — and tends to attract long lines — a visit to local craft brewer Brouwerij ‘t IJ, situated in a former bathhouse by the Netherlands’ largest wooden windmill, is a much more enjoyable experience.

Catch tram 7 or 14 from the city center, then savor a selection of brews that includes five-beer samplers and seasonal options, best enjoyed on the outdoor patio.

From Friday to Sunday, they offer brief afternoon tours in English. No reservations are required (so arrive early), and there's no fixed fee: you pay what you think it’s worth.

14. Albert Cuyp Market

The vibrant core of the De Pijp district, this century-old street market is among the largest in Europe and a fantastic spot to mingle with locals haggling over clothes, flowers, and food.

All the beloved Dutch snack classics are here: herring, cheese, and mini-pancakes, best sampled at the renowned Poffertjes Albert Cuyp (no. 161), where the traditional butter-and-sugar option competes with more indulgent varieties.

Stroll along Gerard Doustraat, just one block north of the market, and skip the tourist trinkets for chic concept stores and unique boutiques.

15. Discover an eccentric museum

While the Dutch may not be famed for their eccentricity, their museums offer a delightful array of quirky alternatives to the more prestigious establishments in the Museum Quarter.

Just a three-minute stroll from the Anne Frank House, Electric Ladyland (by appointment only) claims to be the “first museum of fluorescent art”, showcasing vibrant fluorescent advertisements alongside nature’s own glowing wonders.

The posters, sculptures, and advertisements at KattenKabinet celebrate the majestic role of cats in the arts, with a few (real-life) feline residents wandering through its exhibits.

16. Dine at Foodhallen

Nestled in Amsterdam Oud-West, the trendy De Hallen tram depot features a cinema, artisan shops, and a hotel, but it’s the well-established food court that has made it a must-visit destination.

At Foodhallen, you’ll find 20 outstanding stalls offering everything from Mexican street fare to sushi and seafood, while meatball enthusiasts should head to De Ballenbar, founded by a Michelin-starred chef. With no table service, you can sample delights from various vendors and join other food lovers at vibrant communal tables.

17. Discover a hidden church

Even if churches aren't your thing, you should visit the cozy house museum Ons’ Lieve Heer Op Solder – and prepare for the 1,000 steps.

In addition to giving a glimpse into life in a 17th-century canal house, the site educates about local religious persecution: in the attic lies an intricate “hidden” church from the Dutch Reformation era, when public worship was forbidden for Catholics. The excellent free audio guide brings this history to life.

18. Explore the Begijnhof

A tranquil oasis just off central Spui square, this 14th-century courtyard once served as a residence for the beguines: a group of Catholic women who lived akin to nuns but without the vows.

The last of these independent beguines passed away in 1971, yet the enchanting square feels like a step back in time.

Visiting the Begijnhof (Begijnhof 30, 1071 DN Amsterdam) is free and includes access to its peaceful garden, charming gabled houses, and two churches, along with one of the last remaining wooden houses in central Amsterdam (Begijnhof 34).

19. Experience a brown bar

Characterized by their dark-wood interiors and brownish walls (allegedly stained by years of cigarette smoke), the laid-back pubs known as bruin cafés embody the essence of Amsterdam’s atmosphere.

A standout among them is the tiny, iconic Café de Doktor (Rozenboomsteeg 4, 1012 PR Amsterdam), tucked away in an alley and favored by medical students since the 1700s.

Still family-run, this quirky establishment is adorned with an eclectic mix of old clocks, birdcages, and vintage items. If beer isn’t your thing, their brief drinks menu features a solid selection of whiskeys.

20. Visit Hortus Botanicus

Experience a journey to the desert or the jungle at this botanical garden – one of the oldest in the world – featuring various greenhouses that nurture plants from diverse climate zones.

Highlights include a wide variety of carnivorous plants, which are particularly popular with children, and an impressive butterfly house where hundreds of tropical butterflies flutter around, enchanting visitors.

Following your visit, relax in the 18th-century orangery, home to a lovely light-filled café with a dependable menu and one of the city’s most pleasant terraces.

21. Escape to the Countryside

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Amsterdam is surrounded by several delightful day-trip options.

One must-see is the tulip fields located southwest of the city, especially vibrant from April to mid-May. At the expansive 79-acre Keukenhof Flower Gardens, you can admire over 800 species of colorful blooming bulbs.

Throughout the year, the historic village of Zaansche Schans, just a 15-minute train ride away, showcases traditional windmills and clog-making workshops.

Looking to enhance your Amsterdam experience? We offer a variety of guides to help you discover the many charms of the Dutch capital.

When it comes to cuisine, Amsterdam is rapidly establishing itself as a culinary hotspot: our restaurant guide provides insights on the best places to eat for both work and leisure.

This city also takes pride in its inclusivity, proudly waving the rainbow flag, as highlighted in our guide to LGBTQ-friendly Amsterdam. Interested in exploring beyond the capital? Check out the fascinating Dutch cities in our Netherlands guide.

What criteria did we use to compile our list of the 21 best things to do in Amsterdam?

Whether you're a solo female traveler or a family of five, Amsterdam is celebrated as one of the most tourist-friendly cities globally. They even have a word, 'gezellig', to describe that cozy feeling of companionship – a sentiment I've felt on my numerous visits to this lovely city.

This guide's recommendations are rooted in valuable connections with locals and Dinogo colleagues across the globe. It highlights major tourist sites while also uncovering hidden gems that can reveal a whole new perspective on familiar spots.

Is a car necessary for getting around Amsterdam?

Navigating Amsterdam's narrow streets, busy crowds, and high parking fees makes driving quite stressful. If you choose to drive, consider using the Park and Ride (P+R) system, where parking starts at just €1 per day if you continue into the city via public transport.

Even better, rent a bicycle or take advantage of the excellent tram, bus, metro, and (free) ferry services. Various day and multi-day passes are available: check the GVB website for options, some of which include travel to Schiphol airport and beyond.

Tickets can be purchased at Amsterdam Central, metro stations, or directly from tram and bus drivers for 1- or 24-hour passes (note that they don't accept cash).

What is the best time to visit Amsterdam?

Amsterdam welcomes nearly 20 million tourists annually, so the timing of your visit can significantly affect your experience. Summer, known for its warm weather and lively festivals, is the peak season—but consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn to avoid the crowds.

While Amsterdam's weather can be unpredictable, temperatures rarely dip far below zero in winter, and if you're looking for bargains, November to February is typically the most affordable time to visit.

Visit from March to May to experience tulip season, when vibrant blooms fill popular spots like the Keukenhof Gardens.

How much time should I allocate for my Amsterdam visit?

Amsterdam is quite compact. With a two-day itinerary, you can cover the key attractions, enjoy a few museums, and take a boat tour, all while savoring leisurely meals. Consider adding another day for a day trip, or extend your stay to explore more of the Netherlands’ highlights.

Is it safe to travel to Amsterdam?

While famous for its marijuana cafes and the Red Light District, Amsterdam has recently been ranked among the safest cities globally. Whether you're on your own or with others, you can walk through the city center at night with confidence.

As in many large cities, stay alert for pickpockets in transit areas—especially at Central Station and Damrak, which connects the station to Dam Square. If you're bringing a bike, remember that bike theft is the most common crime in Amsterdam.

Are there tourist passes available in Amsterdam?

The I amsterdam City Card offers significant discounts and is a great buy if you plan to explore extensively. It covers all the major attractions (70 museums and popular sites), public transport, a canal cruise, and bike rentals.

Available in 1- to 5-day options (priced from approximately €60 to €125), these passes can be obtained in digital format—purchase online and use with an app—or in physical form from the I Amsterdam store at Central Station.