Welcome to Amsterdam, where centuries-old canals meet cutting-edge culture, and stroopwafels are basically a food group! Whether you’re here for the world-class museums, the quirky neighborhoods, or just to master the art of cycling without falling into a canal (it’s harder than it looks), this vibrant city has something for everyone. From Anne Frank’s hidden world to Van Gogh’s swirling masterpieces, Amsterdam serves up history, art, and adventure with a side of Dutch charm. Ready to dive into the best things to do in Amsterdam? Grab your bike helmet and let’s explore this wonderfully eclectic city together!
1. Anne Frank House: A Moving Journey Through History
The Anne Frank House is more than just a museum—it’s a deeply moving experience that brings one of history’s most important stories to life, making it an essential stop for anyone seeking to understand Amsterdam’s complex past.
Walking through the secret annex where Anne Frank and her family hid for over two years, you’ll encounter original artifacts, diary excerpts, and interactive displays that create an incredibly authentic atmosphere. The preserved bookcase entrance and Anne’s actual bedroom walls, still decorated with her movie star photos, offer a haunting glimpse into a young girl’s world during one of humanity’s darkest chapters.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Visit duration: 60-90 minutes
- Perfect for: History enthusiasts, families with older children (10+), and anyone interested in World War II
- Tickets: €16 for adults, €7 for children (must book online in advance)
- Location: Prinsengracht 263-267, Amsterdam
- Pro tip: Book tickets weeks ahead—they sell out quickly! Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
This isn’t just sightseeing; it’s a profound reminder of resilience and hope that will stay with you long after you leave Amsterdam.
2. Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is home to the world’s largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s masterpieces, making it an absolute must-visit for art lovers and curious travelers alike. Here, you’ll come face-to-face with iconic works like “Sunflowers,” “The Potato Eaters,” “Almond Blossom,” and “The Bedroom” – paintings you’ve probably seen on coffee mugs but never imagined experiencing in person.
The museum brilliantly chronicles Van Gogh’s turbulent life through his art, letters, and personal belongings, offering insights into the man behind the legend. Interactive displays and audio guides make even the most art-averse visitors surprisingly engaged.
- Time needed: 2-3 hours for a thorough visit
- Perfect for: Art enthusiasts, couples, and curious minds of all ages
- Tickets: €22 for adults (book online in advance!)
- Location: Museumplein 6, Amsterdam
- Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, and don’t miss the museum shop for unique Van Gogh-inspired souvenirs
This isn’t just a museum visit – it’s an emotional journey through one of history’s most fascinating artistic minds.
3. Rijksmuseum: A Journey Through Dutch History
The Rijksmuseum is Amsterdam’s crown jewel and the ultimate museum experience that takes you on a captivating journey through 800 years of Dutch art and history. This completely renovated national treasure houses an incredible collection including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other Dutch masters that will leave you speechless.
Wander through beautifully curated galleries showcasing everything from medieval artifacts to 20th-century pieces, with highlights including Rembrandt’s famous “The Night Watch” and Vermeer’s intimate domestic scenes. The museum’s stunning architecture is an artwork itself, blending historic grandeur with modern functionality.
- Visit duration: 3-4 hours (could easily spend a full day)
- Perfect for: Art lovers, history buffs, families, and culture enthusiasts
- Ticket price: €22.50 for adults (free for under 18)
- Location: Museumstraat 1, Amsterdam
- Pro tip: Book online in advance and visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Don’t miss the beautiful garden behind the museum!
Whether you’re an art aficionado or just curious about Dutch culture, the Rijksmuseum offers an unforgettable experience that perfectly captures the soul and artistic heritage of the Netherlands.
4. Red Light District – Amsterdam’s Notorious Nightlife Hub
Amsterdam’s Red Light District is the city’s most infamous neighborhood where history, controversy, and curiosity collide in a neon-lit spectacle that’s been drawing visitors for centuries. While it’s known worldwide for its window displays and adult entertainment, this historic area offers much more than meets the eye, including charming canals, cozy bars, and fascinating museums.
Stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets to admire the historic architecture bathed in red neon lights, or dive deeper into the area’s culture at the Red Light Secrets Museum. The district also houses some excellent brown cafés, quirky shops, and the beautiful Oude Kerk (Old Church) – creating an intriguing contrast between sacred and profane.
- Visit duration: 1-2 hours
- Best for: Adults only (18+), couples, curious travelers
- Cost: Free to walk around, Red Light Secrets Museum €14
- Location: De Wallen area, central Amsterdam
- Pro tip: Visit in early evening for the best atmosphere, avoid taking photos of workers, and keep valuables secure
Whether you’re here for the history lesson or the headline attraction, the Red Light District remains one of Amsterdam’s most unforgettable experiences.
5. The Jordaan – Amsterdam’s Bohemian Heart
The Jordaan is Amsterdam’s answer to Greenwich Village – a delightfully bohemian neighborhood where narrow cobblestone alleys wind between leafy canals lined with perfectly preserved 17th-century houses, making it an absolute must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Amsterdam charm.
This former working-class quarter has evolved into the city’s most picturesque district, where you’ll discover quirky specialty shops tucked into historic buildings, cozy brown cafés serving local beer, and designer boutiques that feel more like treasure hunts than shopping trips. The area comes alive on Saturdays with the famous Noordermarkt, where locals gather for organic produce and vintage finds.
Practical info for your visit:
- Time needed: 2-3 hours for a leisurely stroll
- Perfect for: Couples, culture enthusiasts, and anyone who loves wandering without a map
- Cost: Free to explore (budget for café stops and shopping)
- Location: West of Amsterdam’s city center, bordered by Prinsengracht and Lijnbaansgracht
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds and catch the neighborhood at its most authentic
The Jordaan proves that sometimes the best travel experiences can’t be planned – they’re discovered one charming alley at a time.
6. Vondelpark: Amsterdam’s Green Oasis
Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s beloved 120-acre green sanctuary where locals and tourists alike escape the bustling city streets for a breath of fresh air and a dose of nature therapy. This sprawling English-style park offers the perfect blend of outdoor recreation and people-watching opportunities that’ll make you forget you’re in one of Europe’s busiest capitals.
Whether you’re cycling along the winding paths, having a picnic on the manicured lawns, or catching an impromptu performance at the open-air theater, Vondelpark delivers endless entertainment. The park comes alive with joggers at dawn, families with strollers by midday, and young locals sharing beers and laughter as the sun sets.
- Ideal visit duration: 2-4 hours
- Perfect for: Families, couples, solo travelers, and anyone seeking outdoor relaxation
- Entry fee: Completely free!
- Location: Vondelpark, 1071 Amsterdam (multiple entrances)
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings for peaceful strolls, or weekend afternoons for the full Amsterdam park experience with street musicians and food vendors
Vondelpark isn’t just a park—it’s Amsterdam’s living room where the city’s soul truly shines.
7. Heineken Experience
Step into the world of Holland’s most famous beer at the Heineken Experience, where you’ll discover that learning about brewing history can be surprisingly entertaining (and slightly intoxicating). Located in Amsterdam’s former Heineken brewery, this interactive museum takes you through 150 years of beer-making heritage with multimedia exhibits, tasting sessions, and even a chance to “become” a beer bottle in a wild 4D ride.
The self-guided tour winds through historic brewing halls where you’ll learn about the Heineken family legacy, witness the brewing process, and enjoy multiple tastings of perfectly poured pints. The experience culminates in the stunning rooftop bar with panoramic city views – the perfect spot for your obligatory Instagram shots.
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours
- Perfect for: Beer enthusiasts, groups of friends, adults 18+ (ID required)
- Tickets: €21-25 (includes 2-3 beer tastings)
- Location: Stadhouderskade 78, near Rijksmuseum
- Pro tip: Book online in advance and visit on weekday afternoons to avoid crowds
It’s cheesy, it’s touristy, but it’s undeniably fun – making it the perfect Amsterdam experience for anyone who believes beer culture is indeed culture worth celebrating.
8. Our Lord in the Attic Museum: Amsterdam’s Best-Kept Secret
Hidden behind the façade of an ordinary 17th-century canal house lies one of Amsterdam’s most extraordinary secrets: Our Lord in the Attic Museum (Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder), a perfectly preserved clandestine Catholic church that will make you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a Da Vinci Code mystery.
This remarkable three-story hidden church was created during the Dutch Golden Age when Catholics had to worship in secret. As you climb the narrow wooden stairs, you’ll discover beautifully preserved living quarters, kitchen, and finally the breathtaking church complete with baroque altar, wooden pews, and original artwork – all tucked away where no one would ever suspect.
Essential visitor info:
- Duration: 1-1.5 hours
- Perfect for: History buffs, couples, and curious explorers (not ideal for very young children due to steep stairs)
- Tickets: Around €15 for adults
- Location: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 40, in the Red Light District
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds and book online in advance
This hidden gem offers an intimate glimpse into Amsterdam’s complex religious history that most tourists never discover.
9. A’dam Lookout – Sky-High Thrills Above Amsterdam
A’dam Lookout isn’t just another observation deck – it’s Amsterdam’s adrenaline-pumping answer to the London Eye, offering panoramic 360° views that’ll make your Instagram followers weep with envy. Perched atop the 22-story A’dam Tower in Amsterdam North, this iconic viewing point combines breathtaking cityscapes with Europe’s highest swing for those brave enough to dangle 100 meters above the ground.
The highlight? “Over The Edge” – a swing that literally hurls you over the building’s edge at nail-biting speeds. If swinging isn’t your thing, the indoor observation deck and rooftop bar provide equally stunning views of the historic city center, canals, and beyond.
Essential info for your visit:
- Duration: 1-2 hours average
- Perfect for: Thrill-seekers, couples, and brave families with teens
- Tickets: Around €22-27 for observation deck, €5 extra for the swing
- Location: Overhoeksplein 5, Amsterdam North (free ferry from Central Station)
- Pro tip: Visit during sunset for magical golden hour photos, but book ahead as it gets busy!
Whether you’re swinging into the void or simply soaking up those killer views, A’dam Lookout delivers that perfect blend of terror and wonder that makes Amsterdam unforgettable.
10. Amsterdam Centraal Station
Amsterdam Centraal Station isn’t just your typical train hub – it’s a stunning architectural masterpiece that deserves a spot on your Amsterdam itinerary. This neo-Renaissance beauty, completed in 1889 by the same genius architect P.J.H. Cuypers who designed the Rijksmuseum, serves as both the city’s main transportation gateway and an impressive historical landmark.
Beyond its practical function, the station showcases intricate brickwork, ornate towers, and beautiful Victorian-era details that make it a photographer’s dream. The building sits majestically on artificial islands in the IJ bay, offering lovely waterfront views and easy access to canal cruises and ferries.
- Visit duration: 15-30 minutes for sightseeing
- Perfect for: Architecture enthusiasts, photographers, history buffs, and transit travelers
- Cost: Free to admire (train tickets separate)
- Location: Stationsplein, 1012 AB Amsterdam
- Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting, and don’t miss the beautiful ceiling details inside
Whether you’re catching a train or simply appreciating Dutch architectural prowess, Centraal Station proves that even transportation hubs can be works of art worth celebrating.
11. Body Worlds: A Mind-Bending Journey Through Human Anatomy
Body Worlds isn’t your typical Amsterdam attraction – it’s where science meets art in the most fascinating (and slightly unsettling) way possible, offering visitors an unprecedented look inside the human body that will leave you both amazed and grateful for your own working organs.
Gunther von Hagens’ BODY WORLDS: The Happiness Project features over 200 real human specimens that have been preserved through plastination, exploring how happiness and lifestyle choices impact our physical health. You’ll witness real human hearts, brains, and entire body systems displayed as intricate sculptures, each telling a story about what makes us tick – literally.
Perfect for curious minds and science enthusiasts (though perhaps not ideal for squeamish visitors or very young children), this exhibition requires about 1.5-2 hours to fully appreciate. Located in the heart of Amsterdam, tickets typically cost around €21-25 for adults. Pro tip: visit during weekday mornings to avoid crowds and give yourself time to process what you’re seeing – it’s genuinely mind-blowing.
This is one attraction that will fundamentally change how you think about your own body and maybe inspire you to treat it a little better.
12. Museum Het Rembrandthuis: Step Into the Master’s World
Museum Het Rembrandthuis offers art lovers a rare chance to walk through the actual home where Rembrandt van Rijn lived and created his masterpieces from 1639 to 1658. This beautifully preserved 17th-century house in Amsterdam’s Jewish Quarter provides an intimate glimpse into the daily life and creative process of one of history’s greatest painters.
The museum showcases Rembrandt’s original etchings, period furniture, and reconstructed artist’s studio where you can witness live demonstrations of 17th-century painting techniques. The house itself tells the story of Rembrandt’s rise to fame and eventual bankruptcy, offering fascinating insights into Golden Age Amsterdam.
- Visit duration: 1-2 hours
- Perfect for: Art enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious couples
- Ticket price: Around €14 for adults
- Location: Jodenbreestraat 4, Amsterdam
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds and book online for faster entry
This hidden gem delivers an authentically Dutch cultural experience that’s both educational and surprisingly personal – you’ll leave feeling like you’ve actually met the master himself.
13. Verzetsmuseum Amsterdam: A Moving Journey Through WWII Resistance
Step into the shoes of ordinary Dutch citizens who faced extraordinary choices at the Verzetsmuseum Amsterdam, where history comes alive through personal stories of courage, survival, and resistance during World War II.
This immersive museum doesn’t just display artifacts behind glass – it recreates entire street scenes, secret hideouts, and everyday situations that forced people to choose between collaboration and resistance. You’ll walk through a simulated wartime Amsterdam, complete with authentic sounds, smells, and the tension of living under occupation. The museum brilliantly presents multiple perspectives, showing how the war affected everyone from Jewish families to NSB collaborators to underground fighters.
Perfect for history buffs, families with teenagers (recommended 12+), and anyone seeking deeper understanding of human resilience. Plan 2-3 hours for the full experience. Entry costs around €12 for adults, with discounts for students and children.
- Location: Plantage Kerklaan 61, near Artis Zoo
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds and fully absorb the emotional impact
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with elevators
This isn’t your typical dusty museum – it’s an emotional time machine that transforms how you see Amsterdam’s streets forever.
14. Dam Square: The Beating Heart of Amsterdam
Dam Square is Amsterdam’s grand central stage where centuries of Dutch history unfold before your eyes, making it an absolute must-visit for anyone wanting to feel the city’s pulse. This sprawling cobblestone plaza serves as the perfect starting point for your Amsterdam adventure, surrounded by architectural gems including the majestic Royal Palace, the Gothic Nieuwe Kerk, and the solemn National Monument.
Watch street performers entertain crowds while you soak up the bustling atmosphere, or simply people-watch from one of the many cafés lining the square. The square transforms throughout the day – from morning market bustle to evening golden hour magic when the historic buildings glow beautifully.
- Time needed: 30-45 minutes for the square itself, longer if visiting attractions
- Perfect for: Everyone – families, couples, solo travelers, and history buffs
- Cost: Free to explore the square; Royal Palace €10, Nieuwe Kerk varies by exhibition
- Location: Dam, 1012 JS Amsterdam (easily reached by tram or on foot)
- Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds, and bring comfortable shoes for the cobblestones
Dam Square isn’t just a tourist spot – it’s where Amsterdam’s soul lives, breathing life into every corner of this incredible city.
15. Albert Cuyp Market
Albert Cuyp Market is Amsterdam’s largest and liveliest street market, stretching nearly a kilometer through the trendy De Pijp neighborhood – it’s where locals actually shop, making it perfect for experiencing authentic Amsterdam life beyond the tourist bubble.
This bustling marketplace offers everything from fresh stroopwafels (grab them warm!) and local cheeses to vintage clothing, quirky souvenirs, and exotic spices. The energy is infectious as vendors call out deals while cyclists weave through the crowds, creating that quintessentially Dutch organized chaos.
- Time needed: 1-2 hours
- Perfect for: Families, food lovers, bargain hunters, and culture seekers
- Cost: Free to browse (bring cash for purchases)
- Location: Albert Cuypstraat, De Pijp district
- Pro tip: Visit Monday-Saturday mornings for the best selection and freshest food – avoid rainy days when many stalls close
It’s the rare tourist attraction where you’ll leave with both a full stomach and a genuine taste of how Amsterdammers live their daily lives.
16. The Amsterdam Dungeon
Step into Amsterdam’s darkest corners at The Amsterdam Dungeon, where 500 years of the city’s most sinister history comes alive through theatrical horror shows that’ll make your spine tingle and your friends squeal.
This immersive experience takes you on an 80-minute journey through Amsterdam’s murky past, complete with live actors playing everything from witch hunters to soul merchants. Expect jump scares, interactive storytelling, and enough historical drama to make even the most seasoned horror fans clutch their pearls. The combination of education and entertainment makes it surprisingly engaging – you’ll actually learn something between the screams!
- Duration: 80 minutes
- Best for: Teenagers and adults who enjoy horror experiences (not recommended for young children)
- Pricing: Around €25-30 per person
- Location: Rokin 78, Amsterdam city center
- Pro tip: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds, and don’t wear your best white shirt – things might get messy!
It’s the perfect blend of Amsterdam history and heart-pounding thrills that you won’t find in any traditional museum.
17. Moco Museum Amsterdam – Where Street Art Meets High Culture
If you’re tired of stuffy traditional museums and want to see art that actually speaks to your Instagram feed, Moco Museum is your colorful salvation in Amsterdam’s prestigious Museumplein. This rebellious little gallery champions modern, contemporary, and street art in a way that makes even the most art-phobic visitor suddenly feel cultured.
Inside this intimate space, you’ll encounter works by Banksy, Kaws, and other contemporary legends who’ve transformed alleyways into galleries worldwide. The museum rotates exhibitions regularly, so there’s always something fresh to discover – from thought-provoking installations to pieces that’ll have you questioning everything you thought you knew about art.
Perfect for art enthusiasts, young travelers, and anyone seeking an alternative cultural experience, plan to spend 1-2 hours exploring. Tickets cost around €13.50 for adults, and the museum is located at Honthorst Park 20. Pro tip: visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds and get better photos with the interactive installations.
Moco proves that museums don’t have to be boring – it’s where street credibility meets museum sophistication, making art accessible and exciting for everyone.
18. ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo
ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo offers a delightful escape into nature without leaving the bustling city center, making it perfect for families seeking both entertainment and education in one charming package. This historic zoo, dating back to 1838, combines traditional animal exhibits with modern attractions including a planetarium, aquarium, and butterfly pavilion, creating an immersive experience that goes far beyond your typical zoo visit.
Wander through beautifully landscaped grounds where you’ll encounter everything from majestic lions to playful penguins, plus rare species like the Przewalski’s horses. The highlight? The stunning glass-domed butterfly house where colorful tropical species flutter around you like living confetti.
- Time needed: 3-4 hours for a leisurely visit
- Perfect for: Families with children, nature lovers, and curious travelers
- Admission: Adults €25, children (3-9) €21
- Location: Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, Plantage district
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds and catch feeding times when animals are most active
ARTIS proves that sometimes the best adventures happen when you combine learning with wonder, all while staying refreshingly close to Amsterdam’s vibrant heart.
19. Royal Palace Amsterdam: Where Royalty Meets Tourism
The Royal Palace Amsterdam isn’t just another pretty building on Dam Square – it’s an active royal residence that opens its golden doors to curious visitors, making you feel momentarily regal without the crown-wearing responsibilities.
Step inside this 17th-century architectural masterpiece to discover opulent State Rooms adorned with marble sculptures, crystal chandeliers, and paintings that have witnessed centuries of Dutch history. The Great Hall with its impressive floor maps will make you feel like you’re walking on the world, while the Throne Room offers that perfect Instagram moment (though sitting on the actual throne is sadly off-limits).
- Visit duration: 1.5-2 hours
- Perfect for: History buffs, architecture lovers, and anyone wanting to live their royal fantasies
- Admission: €12.50 for adults, €11 for students
- Location: Dam Square, 1012 KB Amsterdam
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds, and check the royal calendar – sometimes real royalty kicks tourists out for official business!
It’s the only place in Amsterdam where you can legally pretend to be royalty while learning about Dutch Golden Age glory.
20. NEMO Science Museum: Where Science Meets Fun
NEMO Science Museum is Amsterdam’s largest science center and a playground where curiosity comes alive, making it perfect for anyone who’s ever wondered why soap bubbles are round or how bridges don’t collapse under your feet. Housed in a striking ship-shaped building designed by Renzo Piano, this hands-on wonderland transforms complex scientific concepts into interactive adventures that’ll have you experimenting, building, and discovering for hours.
From creating your own lightning bolts to exploring the human body from the inside out, NEMO’s five floors are packed with mind-bending exhibits that prove science isn’t just for lab coats and textbooks. The rooftop terrace offers stunning city views and outdoor experiments, while the museum’s workshops let you dive deeper into everything from chemistry to renewable energy.
- Ideal visit time: 3-4 hours
- Perfect for: Families with children, curious adults, rainy day activities
- Ticket price: Around €17.50 for adults, free for children under 4
- Location: Oosterdok 2, easily accessible by public transport
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings to avoid school groups, and don’t miss the free rooftop even if you’re not entering the museum
NEMO proves that learning can be absolutely addictive – you’ll leave with a head full of ‘aha!’ moments and probably a few new party tricks to impress your friends.
21. Molen Van Sloten: Amsterdam’s Last Working Windmill
Meet Molen Van Sloten, Amsterdam’s only functioning windmill that’s open to the public daily – a charming escape from the city’s bustling canals where you can actually see Dutch heritage in action rather than just posing for photos with it.
This authentic 17th-century draining mill still does its job of managing water levels while offering visitors a glimpse into traditional Dutch engineering. Climb the steep wooden stairs to witness the massive grinding mechanisms up close, and if you’re lucky, catch the miller demonstrating the ancient art of flour production. The surrounding Sloten village feels like a peaceful time capsule, complete with historic buildings and tranquil waterways.
- Duration: 1-2 hours including village stroll
- Perfect for: Families, history buffs, and anyone seeking authentic Dutch culture
- Entry: Around €5-7 for adults
- Location: Akersluis 10, Amsterdam Nieuw-West
- Pro tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and catch the windmill actually working
It’s the perfect antidote to Amsterdam’s tourist overload – real Dutch heritage that’s still spinning strong after centuries.
And there you have it – your roadmap to Amsterdam’s greatest hits! From world-renowned museums to hidden gems tucked away in charming neighborhoods, these things to do in Amsterdam will keep you busy from sunrise to stroopwafel time. Whether you’re channeling your inner art critic at the Van Gogh Museum, getting lost in the romantic Jordaan district, or simply people-watching in Dam Square with a coffee in hand, Amsterdam rewards the curious traveler. So pack your sense of adventure (and maybe some comfortable walking shoes), because this city of canals is ready to steal your heart – one Dutch experience at a time!