21 amazing things to do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, and for good reason. The city is brimming with history, culture, and entertainment options. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an art lover, the best things to do in Amsterdam cater for every taste. 

Art fanatics will lose hours to the many world-renowned exhibitions in the city. While foodies can seek out unforgettable cuisine, from Michelin-star dining to food markets. Those just in Amsterdam for a good time will find plenty of entertainment, whether it’s a hipster hangout or grand rooftop bar. 

There are a staggering number of museums in the city too, many of which have made it onto this list of the best things to do in Amsterdam. From Van Gogh to Banksy, cheese tasting to beer tasting, tulip museums to sex museums, Amsterdam is home to an eclectic mix of art and culture.

At the end of this post you can find a vlog of my trip to Amsterdam, featuring some of the best things to do in Amsterdam, top tips for visiting and where to eat.

20 best things to do in Amsterdam

1. Anne Frank House

Opening times: Daily 09:00 – 22:00

Prices: 

• Adult: €16.00
• 10-17 years: €7.00
• 0-9 years: €1.00

Tickets: Book here

Anne Frank House is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Amsterdam, attracting millions of visitors each year. It is the former home of Anne Frank, a Jewish girl who famously wrote a diary during the Second World War.

The house has been preserved as a museum, and it offers a unique insight into the life of Anne Frank and her family during the Nazi occupation of Amsterdam. Visitors can explore the rooms where Anne and her family hid from the Nazis, and see the actual diary that she wrote in.

The museum also features photographs, documents, and other exhibits that provide a detailed account of the Frank family’s life in hiding. It’s a moving and thought-provoking experience that is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on you.

One of the most striking things about the Anne Frank House is the contrast between the cramped living conditions of the Frank family and the spaciousness of the rest of the house. You can see for yourself how the family had to live in constant fear of discovery, and how they had to make do with very limited resources.

Good to know: It’s always advisable to book tickets in advance for attractions – but none more so than for the Anne Frank House. I’d recommend booking at least several weeks in advance. Every Tuesday at 10am CEST all tickets become available for a visit six weeks later. Get in there early to avoid disappointment!

2. Rijksmuseum

Opening times: Daily 09:00 – 17:00

Prices: 

• Adult: €22.50
• 18 and under: Free

Tickets: Book here

The Rijksmuseum is one of the most famous museums in Amsterdam, and it is home to a vast collection of Dutch art and history. The museum was founded in 1800 and has been housed in its current location since 1885.

With over 8,000 objects on display, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, the Rijksmuseum is on a huge scale. The collection includes works by many famous Dutch artists, such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh.

The most famous painting in the collection is undoubtedly Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch,” which is displayed in a specially designed gallery.

Visitors to the Rijksmuseum can also explore the museum’s extensive collection of decorative arts, which includes furniture, ceramics, and silverware. The museum’s Asian art collection is worth a visit too, with objects from China, Japan, and Indonesia on display.

The museum offers guided tours and audio guides, which may be advisable to help you navigate the vast collection.

Good to know: You can’t really appreciate the scale of the museum until you get there – the Rijksmuseum is HUGE. So if you have a strong interest in art then leave 4-5 hours to explore. Alternatively, you can get around the museum in about two hours if you opt for a whistle-stop tour!

Book your tickets here

3. Foodhallen

Opening times: 

• Sunday to Thursday: 12:00 – 00:00
• Friday to Saturday: 12:00 – 01:00

Prices: N/A

Tickets: N/A

Foodhallen is a popular indoor food market located in the Oud-West neighbourhood of Amsterdam. It is a must-visit spot for foodies who want to experience a variety of cuisines in one place.

The hall features over 20 food stalls, each offering a unique culinary experience. From traditional Dutch dishes to international cuisine, there is something for everyone. The food hall also has several bars serving a variety of drinks, including craft beers and cocktails.

The atmosphere is lively and bustling, with communal seating areas where visitors can enjoy their food and drinks. The industrial-style interior design adds to the overall experience, making it a great place to hang out with friends, family or on a solo trip.

Good to know: The food hall can get busy during peak hours, so it’s best to arrive early or be prepared to wait for a table. But trust me, the wait is worth it, as the food and drinks are top-notch and reasonably priced too.

If you’re a foodie with a taste for the finer things then read my guide to the best Michelin-star restaurants in Amsterdam. 

4. Moco Museum

Opening times: 

• Monday to Thursday: 09:00 – 20:00
• Friday to Sunday: 09:00 – 21:00

Prices: 

• Adult: €21.95
• 7-17 years: €18.95
• Student: €18.95
• 0-6 years: Free

Tickets: Book here

The Moco Museum is a contemporary art museum located in the heart of Amsterdam. It features a collection of modern and contemporary art from some of the world’s most renowned artists, including Banksy, Salvador Dali, and Roy Lichtenstein.

Housed in a beautiful 19th-century villa, the museum offers visitors a unique experience of art and culture. The exhibits are thought-provoking, interactive and engaging, and this was my personal favourite museum in Amsterdam.

Moco Museum’s most famous exhibit is the Banksy collection, which includes some of the artist’s most iconic works, such as “Laugh Now” and “Girl with Balloon.” It’s a must-see for any Banksy fan or street art enthusiast.

In addition to the Banksy collection, the Moco Museum also features works by other contemporary artists, such as KAWS and Jeff Koons. The exhibits are constantly changing, so visitors can expect to see new works every time they visit.

Good to know: Don’t miss the NFTs exhibition. However you may feel about the world of NFTs, the pieces were truly incredible and not like anything I’ve seen before. 

5. Canal Boat Tour

Opening times: Daily 10:00 – 21:00

Prices: From €19.95 (tour dependent)

Tickets: Book here

One of the best ways to experience Amsterdam is by taking a canal boat tour. See the city from a unique perspective, as you glide along the waterways that criss-cross the city. The one-hour tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can provide insights into the history and culture of Amsterdam.

Some of the highlights of a canal boat tour include:

• Seeing the beautiful architecture of the city from a different angle – spot the sloping buildings and other hidden gems.
• Learning about the history of Amsterdam and its canals.
• Passing under the many bridges that span the waterways, including the famous Skinny Bridge.
• Seeing some of the city’s famous landmarks, such as the Anne Frank House and the Red Light District from the water.

There are many different types of canal boat tours available, from hop-on-hop-off tours to more bespoke experiences. Some tours include food and drink, making it one of the most memorable things to do in Amsterdam. 

Good to know: There are various different tour operators to choose from, but my personal recommendation would be Flagship Amsterdam. These tours are a little bit more luxe and you can get extras like cheese and wine – what’s not to love!

Book your tickets here

6. Van Gogh Museum

Opening times: 

• Daily: 09:00 – 18:00
• Sometimes closed for private events so check the website.
• Hours differ slightly in November & December.

Prices: 

• Adult: €20.00
• Students: €10.00
• Under 18 years: Free

Tickets: Book here

Visiting the Van Gogh Museum is one of the most popular things to do in Amsterdam. The museum is dedicated to the life and work of Vincent van Gogh, one of the most famous Dutch artists of all time. It has the largest collection of Van Gogh’s paintings and drawings in the world.

Inside the museum, you can explore Van Gogh’s life and work through a variety of exhibits. The museum has over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 700 letters written by Van Gogh. Exhibits are arranged chronologically, so you can see how Van Gogh’s style developed over time.

A highlight of the museum is the Sunflowers painting, which is one of Van Gogh’s most famous works. Other iconic paintings on display include The Bedroom, The Potato Eaters, and Almond Blossom.

The museum also has a range of interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn more about Van Gogh’s life and work. Use touchscreens to explore Van Gogh’s letters, or take part in a virtual reality experience that allows you to step inside Van Gogh’s paintings.

Good to know: I’d recommend allowing one to two hours to visit the Van Gogh Museum. Try to avoid peak hours and weekends if you can, as it can get very busy which means it will take longer to see everything. 

Book your tickets here

7. Vondelpark

Opening times: 24/7

Prices: N/A

Tickets: See Vondelpark as part of a guided bike tour

Vondelpark is a beautiful and expansive park located in the heart of Amsterdam. A green oasis of peace amongst the chaos of city life, it’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

A variety of activities and attractions are on offer at Vondelpark and some of the best things to do here include:

• Cycling: The park has several cycling paths that are perfect for a leisurely ride or a quick commute through the city. Book a guided bike tour of Amsterdam. 
• Running: The park has a designated running track that is perfect for those looking to get a spot of exercise while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
• Picnicking: There are plenty of grassy areas throughout the park that are perfect for a picnic with friends or family in the summer months. 
• Outdoor Theatre: The park has an open-air theatre that hosts a variety of performances throughout the summer months.
• The Rose Garden: A beautiful garden filled with over 70 varieties of roses.
• The Vondelpark Pavilion: A pretty building that houses a restaurant and a gallery featuring local artists.

When the weather is good, I’d definitely recommend making the most of this beautiful green space in the city. 

Good to know: Stop by Blauwe Theehuis for a cup of tea in this impressive teahouse. Note that service can be a little slow; but as long as you’re not in a hurry then it’s worth dropping in.

Looking for amazing places to stay in Amsterdam? Discover my pick of the best hotels in Amsterdam.

8. A’DAM Tower & Lookout

Opening times: Daily 10:00 – 22:00

Prices: 

• Adult: €16.50
• Child: €10.50
• Swing ticket: €5.00

Tickets: Book here

A’DAM Tower is a 22-story tower located in Amsterdam North, just across the IJ river from the city centre. The tower was originally built in the 1970s as the headquarters for Royal Dutch Shell, but it was renovated and reopened in 2016 as a multifunctional building with restaurants, bars, offices, and a hotel.

One of the main attractions of A’DAM Tower is the LOOKOUT. An observation deck on the top floor, it offers panoramic views of Amsterdam and the surrounding area. Visitors can take a high-speed elevator to the 20th floor and then climb a spiral staircase to the 22nd floor to reach the observation deck. 

As well as the observation deck, A’DAM Tower also offers another of the best things to do in Amsterdam: a swing called “Over the Edge”. For an adrenaline hit, you can swing over the edge of the building at a height of 100 metres – the highest swing in Europe!

Good to know: On the 19th floor of the A’DAM Tower there is a revolving restaurant called Moon. Here you can indulge in a hearty lunch while admiring panoramic views over the city. You can book tickets which include both the LOOKOUT and the 360 lunch. 

9. NDSM Wharf & STRAAT Museum

Opening times: 

• NDSM Shipyard: 24/7
• STRAAT Museum:
  • Monday: 12:00 – 18:00
  • Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 – 18:00

Prices: 

• NDSM Shipyard: Free
• STRAAT MUSEUM:
  • Adults: €17.50
  • 13-18 years: €8.50
  • Under 12 years: Free

Tickets: Book STRAAT Museum here

NDSM Wharf is a former shipyard located in Amsterdam-Noord. It has been transformed into a cultural hotspot and a visit to this vibrant part of the city is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Amsterdam.

The wharf is home to a range of creative businesses, including artists’ studios, design shops, and music venues. Spend an afternoon wandering the area, discovering unique street art, sculptures, and installations. The STRAAT Museum is the world’s largest street art museum and an absolute must-visit while in the area.

One of the main attractions at NDSM Wharf is the IJ-Hallen flea market, which takes place once a month. With over 700 stalls, visitors can find everything from vintage clothing to antique furniture.

NDSM Wharf is a little outside the centre but is easily accessible by ferry from Amsterdam Central Station. It’s a great destination for those looking to escape the city centre and discover a different side of Amsterdam.

Good to know: For those looking for a unique dining experience, Pllek is a restaurant made from shipping containers. It offers stunning views of the river and a varied menu of organic and sustainable food.

Book STRAAT Museum tickets here

10. Van Wonderen Stroopwafels

Opening times: Daily: 08:30 – 22:00

Prices: N/A

Tickets: N/A

Van Wonderen Stroopwafels is a must-visit spot for anyone with a sweet tooth and a love for traditional Dutch treats. Located in the heart of Amsterdam, this small shop offers some of the best stroopwafels in the city.

Stroopwafels are a beloved Dutch snack made of two thin waffles with a layer of caramel syrup in between. At Van Wonderen Stroopwafels, the stroopwafels are freshly made and served warm. Choose from a variety of toppings, including chocolate, nuts, and sprinkles

Good to know: The shop can get extremely busy, making the wait incredibly long at peak times. I went first thing in the morning and I was the only person there – but then eating a super sweet treat that early in the morning is not for everyone! The prices are a little steep too, so if the queues are long then I would give it a miss, as you can get stroopwafels elsewhere.

11. Keukenhof

Opening times:

• Only open during spring
• 2024 dates: 21st March – 12th May
• Hours: 08:00 – 19:30

Prices: 

• Adults: €19.50
• 4-17 years: €9.00
• Under 3 years: Free

Tickets: Book here

For a day trip outside of the city, Keukenhof is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam. It is a large flower garden that is open only during the spring season. The garden is located in Lisse, which is about 35 km southwest of Amsterdam.

The Keukenhof garden covers an area of around 32 hectares and has over 7 million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. The garden is open from mid-March to mid-May, which is the peak season for these flowers. During this period, the garden is visited by millions of tourists from all over the world.

You can explore the garden on foot or by bike, by yourself or with a guided tour. There are several walking paths and bike trails that take visitors through the various sections of the garden. Several restaurants and cafes in the garden mean you can relax and soak in the beautiful scenery while refuelling.

Good to know: One of the highlights of the Keukenhof garden is the flower shows. These shows are held in several pavilions located within the garden and are perfect for the green-fingered enthusiasts amongst you!

Book a guided tour of Keukenhof & Windmill Village or book a small-group bike tour of the flower fields.

12. Heineken Experience

Opening times: 

• Sunday to Thursday: 10:30 – 19:30 (last entry 17:15)
• Friday to Saturday: 10:30 – 21:00 (last entry 18:45)

Prices: From €23.00

Tickets: Buy here

One of the most popular things to do in Amsterdam (especially with Brits!) is to visit the Heineken Experience. The interactive tour allows you to explore the brewery’s 150-year history, learn how its signature brews are made, and taste some of its world-renowned beers.

You can even learn how to properly pour a perfect pint of Heineken. But this tour isn’t just informative – it’s also a blast. One of the highlights is a 4D experience that makes you feel like you’re in a beer bottle production line, and there’s also a bar where you can sample different Heineken beers.

Even if you’re not a big beer drinker, the Heineken Experience is still worth a visit, especially if you’re with friends.

Good to know: You can buy limited edition Rooftop tickets, which I’d highly recommend for enjoying a beer with a spectacular view after the tour. 

Buy your tickets here

13. WONDR Experience

Opening times: 

• Monday to Friday: 11:00 – 19:00
• Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 – 19:00

Prices: From €25.95

Tickets: Buy here

WONDR Experience is a unique and immersive art installation located in the heart of Amsterdam. It is an interactive space that stimulates all the senses and encourages visitors to explore and create.

The installation features various rooms, each with its own theme and design. The rooms are filled with colourful and vibrant installations, including a ball pit, a confetti room, and a rainbow tunnel. It’s the place to bring out your inner child with reckless abandon!

You can take photos and videos in each room, making it a popular spot for Instagrammers and social media enthusiasts. The installation also offers a variety of props and costumes to use in the photos.

In addition to the visual experience, WONDR also features a café and a gift shop. The café serves colourful and Instagram-worthy drinks and snacks, while the gift shop offers unique souvenirs and merchandise.

Good to know: Roller Dreams is a pop-up experience at WONDR where you can don your roller skates and glide, dance, or flail across the disco floor. Tickets cost from €19.50.

14. Zandvoort aan Zee Beach

Opening times: 24/7

Prices: N/A

Tickets: N/A

Zandvoort aan Zee Beach is a beautiful sandy beach located just 30 minutes away from Amsterdam. This beach is a perfect destination for tourists who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend some time relaxing in the sun.

The beach is over 9km long and is one of the most popular beaches in the Netherlands. It is a great place to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the stunning views of the North Sea.

There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars where visitors can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal while taking in the beautiful views of the beach. There are also many shops and boutiques where you can engage in a bit of retail therapy.

Good to know: For those who want to do more than just relax on the beach, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. You can rent a bike and explore the surrounding area, go windsurfing or kiteboarding, or take a horseback ride along the beach.

15. Begijnhof

Opening times: Daily: 09:00 – 17:00

Prices: N/A

Tickets: N/A

Begijnhof is one of the oldest inner courtyards in Amsterdam, and it is a peaceful oasis in the bustling city centre. It was founded in the 14th century as a place for the Beguines, a group of unmarried religious women, to live and worship together. Today, it is a unique tourist attraction and a residential area for single women.

The Begijnhof is a hidden gem that is often missed by tourists, but it is definitely worth a visit. The entrance to the Begijnhof is a small doorway on the Spui square, and once you step inside, you will feel like you have entered a different world.

The courtyard is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings, including the oldest wooden house in Amsterdam, which dates back to 1475. The Begijnhof also has a charming English Reformed Church, which was built in the 17th century for the Beguines and is still in use today.

Good to know: Visitors are welcome to stroll around the Begijnhof, but it is important to be respectful of the residents who live there. There are also a few rules to follow, such as no loud noises, no littering, and no photography without permission. 

16. Cheese Museum

Opening times: Daily: 09:00 – 19:00

Prices: N/A

Tickets: N/A

The Cheese Museum is a must-visit attraction in Amsterdam for cheese lovers. Located in the heart of the city, the museum offers an interactive experience that takes visitors through the history of Dutch cheese-making.

Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by the sight and smell of various types of Dutch cheese. If you love cheese, this place is honestly like heaven on earth! The museum’s collection includes over 100 different kinds of cheese, including Gouda, Edam, and Leerdammer.

One of the highlights of the Cheese Museum is the cheese-making demonstration. Visitors can watch as a cheese maker demonstrates the traditional Dutch cheese-making process, from milk to cheese. As well as the demonstration, you can taste various different types of Dutch cheese from recognisable types to unique options like beer cheese!

Good to know: The Cheese Museum is just across the river from the Anne Frank House and entry is free, so it’s worth stopping by while you’re in the area. You won’t need long to explore, as it’s a very small space. 

Can’t get enough of cheese? (Me neither). Book a private cheese and beer tour of Amsterdam. 

17. Floating Flower Market

Opening times: 

• Monday – Saturday: 09:00 – 17:30
• Sundays: 11:30 – 17:30

Prices: N/A

Tickets: N/A

Amsterdam’s Floating Flower Market is a popular attraction in the city. It is located on the Singel canal, and it is the only floating flower market in the world. The market is open every day of the week, and visitors can find a wide variety of flowers, bulbs, and souvenirs.

The market has a long history, dating back to the 19th century when flower sellers would bring their boats to the canal to sell their wares. Today, the market is a popular tourist destination and one of the best things to see in Amsterdam.

In addition to flowers and bulbs, the market also sells souvenirs such as clogs, magnets, and postcards. Visitors can also find a variety of plants, including bonsai trees and orchids.

Good to know: The market is a great place to buy bulbs to take home, including tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils. They’re easy to transport and make great souvenirs or gifts for friends and family back home.

18. Our Lord in the Attic Museum

Opening times: 

• Monday to Saturday: 10:00 – 18:00
• Sunday: 13:00 – 18:00

Prices: 

• Adults: €16.50
• 5 to 7 years: €7.50
• Under 4 years: Free

Tickets: Buy here

Our Lord in the Attic Museum, also known as “Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder” in Dutch, is a unique museum located in the heart of Amsterdam. This hidden gem is a 17th-century canal house that features a secret Catholic church in the attic.

The museum offers visitors a glimpse into Amsterdam’s religious history and the Dutch struggle for religious freedom. The church was built during the Dutch Reformation when Catholicism was banned in Amsterdam. The museum is a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the Dutch people to practise their faith in secret.

Visitors can explore the three floors of the museum, which includes the church, sacristy, and living quarters. The church is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture, with ornate decorations and a stunning altar. The sacristy contains vestments, chalices, and other religious artefacts from the 17th century.

The living quarters on the lower floors of the museum provide a glimpse into the daily life of the people who lived in the house. The rooms are furnished with period furniture and decorations, giving visitors a sense of what life was like in Amsterdam during the 17th century.

Good to know: Free individual audio tours are available at the museum, providing a detailed history of the house and the church, as well as the political and religious climate of Amsterdam during the 17th century.

19. EYE Film Institute

Opening times: Daily: 10:00 – 19:00

Prices: Dependent on screenings and exhibitions

Tickets: Buy here

For film buffs, a visit to the EYE Film Institute is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam. This state-of-the-art museum is dedicated to the history of film and the art of cinema. With its impressive collection of over 40,000 films, it is a must-visit for film enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

The museum is located in a stunning modern building in the heart of Amsterdam, just a short walk from the Central Station. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece, with a striking design that is sure to impress visitors. Inside, the museum is divided into several different sections, each dedicated to a different aspect of film history.

One of the highlights of the EYE Film Institute is the extensive collection of film posters and other memorabilia. Visitors can see posters from some of the most famous movies of all time, as well as rare and unique items that are sure to delight film fans. There are also interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn more about the history of film and the art of cinema.

Good to know: The museum has several different screening rooms, each with its own unique atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy classic films, new releases, and special events throughout the year – so make sure you check the website to see what’s on while you’re in the city.

Buy your tickets here

20. Tony’s Chocolonely Super Store

Opening times: Daily: 10:00 – 19:00

Prices: N/A

Tickets: N/A

Tony’s Chocolonely is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam for chocolate lovers. This chocolate company was founded in 2005 with the aim of making chocolate 100% slave-free.

Today, Tony’s Chocolonely is one of the most well-known chocolate brands in the Netherlands, and its flagship store in Amsterdam is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

One of the unique features of Tony’s Chocolonely is its commitment to sustainability. The company sources its cocoa beans directly from farmers in Ghana and Ivory Coast, and pays them a fair price for their produce.

In addition, the company is committed to reducing its carbon footprint, and uses only 100% recycled paper for its packaging. Visitors to the store can learn more about the company’s mission and values through interactive displays and exhibitions. 

Good to know: There is a chocolate-making workshop in the store where you can make your own chocolate bar and learn about the chocolate-making process. I didn’t do this myself, but I watched with intent as others created their own chocolatey products!

21. Paddleboarding along the canals

Opening times: 

• Wednesdays at 18:30
• Saturdays at 09:30

Prices: €25.00

Tickets: Buy here

One of the most unique and enjoyable ways to experience Amsterdam is by paddleboarding along the canals. This summer activity allows you to see the city from a completely different perspective, while also getting some exercise and fresh air – win-win!

There are several companies that offer paddleboard rentals and tours in Amsterdam, with options for both beginners and experienced paddlers – I recommend the two-hour tour by M&M SUP Amsterdam.

Many tours include a guide who will take visitors to some of the city’s most scenic spots, such as the famous 17th-century canal ring or the picturesque Jordaan neighbourhood.

Good to know: For those who are new to paddleboarding, most companies offer introductory lessons and safety instructions for those who may be a little nervous about taking to the water.

Book a SUP tour here

Top-rated Amsterdam attractions

Discover and book some of the best tours, activities and things to do in Amsterdam:

If you’re planning to visit this incredible European city, check out my Amsterdam travel guide. Or discover the best luxury hotels in Amsterdam and my guide to the best Michelin-star restaurants in Amsterdam. 

If you want amazing discounts at hotels all over the world, learn more about my booking platform where you can access wholesale prices on hotel rooms.

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