23 Best Things to do in Amsterdam, Netherlands (2023)

In any weather, there are countless things to do in Amsterdam, and many of the most worthwhile activities are outside of the well-travelled tourist routes of the city center. We have narrowed the options down to this crucial guide in order to assist you through the abundance of wonders.

The Dutch capital of Amsterdam is one of the most visited cities in all of Europe. Amsterdam is also the nation’s top cultural hub because of its universities, academies, and research organisations. Not just that it houses over 40 museums, countless theatres, and entertainment venues.

The city have lots of national historic buildings. The windmill-like structure of these historically significant buildings rests on piles driven through an upper layer of muck and into the firm, 18 metres below.

Over 6,750 structures from the 16th to 18th century are crammed into 2,000 acres, which is divided into sections by 160 canals, many of which are home to houseboats. 

It should come as no surprise that Amsterdam is a fantastic place to explore on foot given the numerous charming bridges that connect the city’s 90 islands. Eight of them are wooden suspension bridges including the city’s most popular photo subject, the Mager Bridge.

Our list of the top Amsterdam attractions will help you find the greatest spots to visit in this vibrant city. Amsterdam is also one of the cheapest places to travel in July.

1. Explore the Arty Jordaan

Arty Jordaan is Amsterdam’s most picturesque neighbourhood, and entering there is like travelling through time. 

The Jordaan, once a working-class neighbourhood, is now one of Amsterdam’s most popular districts. It is lined with independent art galleries, thrift stores, patio gardens, and ambience-filled bars and restaurants. 

The region is also full of the best things to do in Amsterdam, from taking a leisurely stroll through the many lovely streets to spending time at the abundant prime attractions.

Jordaan Tourist Attractions

On Saturdays, Lindengracht transforms into a sizable outdoor market where you may purchase regional goods for picnic basket fillings like local handicrafts, vegetables, florals, and goods. 

On Mondays, Westerstraat is filled with 200 vendor stalls selling a variety of things in a bazaar-style flea market, and is one of the best Amsterdam tourist attractions. 

Restaurants and coffee shops in Jordaan have emerged as the swankiest spots to relax and people-watch while listening to old-fashioned Dutch folk music.

2. Explore the Century-old City on a Bicycle

In Amsterdam, there are more than 2 million bicycles. More bikes than people, that is! The city’s unrivalled network of bike lanes and flat terrain make cycling in Amsterdam a lifestyle. 

There is no better way to discover the region’s attractions than by pedal power, and Amsterdam consistently top lists of the world’s most bicycle-friendly towns. You can hop the cycle at no cost, and it is one of the free things to do in Amsterdam.

Century-old City Tourist Attraction

Get on your bike and ride to Sloterplas to cool off in the expansive lake, or ride to Ouderkerk aan de Amstel to see a picturesque 12th-century village full of historical landmarks. You can explore a lot of Amsterdam’s best-kept secrets while paddling comfortably in your saddle. This is one of the top activities in Amsterdam.

3. Spend Your Evening at Dam Square

The centre of Amsterdam is Dam Square. Unlike in the past, Dam Square is currently a rather calm space that is home to a large number of pigeons and street performers.

Naturally, a wide variety of cafés, restaurants, and shops line this enormous public area, which is often frequently crowded with vendors serving food and handicrafts.

Hop to a Ferris Wheel to have a fresh and bird-eye view of the city. One of the best tourist attractions in Amsterdam serves you a tonne of entertainment options, from excellent music festivals to street performers and panhandlers.

Dam Square Main attraction

The most notable feature of Dam Square is the 17th-century Royal Palace, which served as both the Dutch royal family’s old residence and as a location for royal events today.

The other main attraction includes the National Memorial Statue, which honours the Dutch troops who died in World War II. Also not to miss the New Church and the Madame Tussauds which is one of the cool things to do in Amsterdam.  

4. Taste The Majesty at the Royal Palace of Amsterdam

One of Amsterdam’s most significant historical sites is the majestic Royal Palace on Dam Square. 

The magnificent structure in the heart of the city was dubbed the “eighth wonder of the world” in the 17th century. 

Currently, it is mostly utilised for ceremonial parties and royal functions, but the public can visit the historic interior and stunning art collection any time of year.

Royal Palace Tourist Attractions

The Citizens’ Hall, the largest hall in the Palace, is among the 17 magnificent halls, rooms, and galleries that are accessible to the general public. 

The chamber serves as a metaphor for the cosmos. The northern celestial hemisphere, as well as the eastern and western hemispheres, are depicted on the marble floors. 

The building’s rich history is on exhibit every summer, together with artefacts from the Golden Age. While in the fall, the emphasis is on up-and-coming new artists who get honoured with the Royal Award for Modern Painting.

5. Visit the Anne Frank House

The Frank family were Jewish exiles from Frankfurt, Germany, and it was here that Anne Frank wrote ‘The Diary’ which later became a best-seller on a global scale. 

It was released not long after she passed away at the age of 15, two months before the war came to an end.

A significant portion of the house has been preserved in its former state, serving as a moving memorial to a terrible time in history. And, is one of the best cultural things to do in Amsterdam.

Be sure to make your online reservations as soon as possible, ticket sales can sell out up to two months in advance. 

Anne Frank House Main Attraction

This is the actual house where Anne’s family hid for most of World War II and is dedicated to the tragically short life of one of the most well-known Holocaust victims in history. This is one of the prime Amsterdam attractions that you must visit. 

6. Marvel at the Most Visited Gothic-era West Church

One of the most visited churches in the city is Amsterdam’s West Church, which is situated right adjacent to the Anne Frank Museum. 

Unquestionably, it’s among the most picturesque, and one of the best tourist attractions. 

Due to its numerous internal and external Gothic aspects, this magnificent Renaissance church that was finished in 1630 is remarkable in its own.

West Church Tourist Spots

The tallest building in the city is Tall John, an 85-metre tower. 

A sizable replica of the emperor’s crown that was erected there in honour of Emperor Maximilian of Austria sits at the top of its spire. A clock tower inside the tower plays the time.

Other notable features include a beautiful keyboard from 1622 and a noteworthy marble column that was erected in this location in 1906 in honour of Rembrandt. 

Originally buried outside the chapel, the famous artist was subsequently moved inside. Don’t miss out on this, as this is one of the top Amsterdam tourist attractions. 

7. Marvel the Artist’s Greatest Work at its Namesake Van Gogh Museum

This Dutch establishment, which had more than 3 million visitors in 2019, is the most frequented museum not in the country but also in the world. 

The 200-piece painting collection includes the Potato Eaters, Wheatfield with Crows, and, yes, the picture-perfect Sunflowers series. 

Van Gogh Museum Tourist Attractions

The incredible “Meet Vincent Van Gogh Experience,” an engaging multimedia exhibition of the painter’s life and times through lifelike digital reproductions of his work, is a must-see experience. 

A video display traces the artist’s rise, there are drawings and letters that explore his despair, and there are pieces by the first generation of artists who were influenced by him. Do not skip one of the best tourist attractions in Amsterdam.

8. Cruise Past Picturesque Houses and Bridges

The UNESCO-protected canal belt in Amsterdam was built in the 17th century to keep the sea at home. It is the epitome of a picture-perfect Amsterdam scene. 

It is a really lovely sight, especially after sunset when street lamps are strung across the bridges and the entire area seems magical and is counted as the best tourist attraction in Amsterdam.

You can discover a lot of interesting information while floating through the canals on a guided boat trip, like why the tilting houses along the canals are known as “dancing houses” and other insights into the inner workings of the city.

Cruise Past Picturesque Houses Main Attraction

There are several various canal cruises available, ranging from hop-on, hop-off sightseeing trips to romantic, candlelit, food-and-wine-inclusive cruises at night. And, is one of the romantic things to do in Amsterdam.

With the I Amsterdam City Card or the Canal Cruise Ticket, you may reserve a canal cruise online and receive one for free.

9. Visit Tall Ships at the National Maritime Museum

The National Maritime Museum is a must-see for anyone with an interest in ships and the lengthy, fascinating history of the Dutch military and trade fleets. 

Uses its numerous exhibits to highlight its amazing collection of maritime-related objects. The museum offers a fascinating look into the historical influence this small nation of sailors had on the world. It is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

In addition to exhibitions on sailing and shipping, the museum has a sizable collection of model ships, antique weapons, maps, and artwork, many of which feature key sea wars in which the Netherlands was involved.

Cruise Past Picturesque Houses Tourist Attraction

Exploring the magnificent Amsterdam, a precise reproduction of one of the nation’s most famous ships will be a highlight of your trip. The ship and the museum both offer guided tours, and English-language audio guides are also available. Additionally on-site are a café and a store.

10. Family Fun at Amsterdam’s Version of Central Park

The 120-acre Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s biggest and busiest park, offering a wide variety of entertaining activities. The park is home to a stunning rose garden with more than 70 distinct varieties of flowers. 

In addition, there are vast expanses of green space punctuated by tranquil lakes and covered by extensive paths.

Central Park Main Attraction

This expanse of green provides a wonderful visual contrast to downtown Amsterdam’s brick-only skyline. It is one of the family things to do in Amsterdam.

Don’t miss Pablo Picasso’s “The Fish” statue. During the summer attend one of the many kinds of music, dance, or cabaret acts held at the outdoor theatre.

11. Take a Visit to the Wooden House of The Begijnhof

The backyard of the Spuiplein is one of Amsterdam’s most unusual locations. It leads to the mediaeval inner courtyard known as the Begijnhof (Beguinage), where the Catholic sisterhood’s female members dwelt.

Visitors often wander from one attraction to another but miss The Begijnhof. It is one of those rare quiet inner-city locales. And that’s a shame because this breathtakingly beautiful historic area of Amsterdam begs to be discovered.

Even though the majority of the historic residences are occupied, the narrow lanes and walks around them are open to the public, so feel free to go about.

Wooden House Tourist Spots

The most well-known Beguine to reside in this region was Cornelia Arens. She preferred to be buried in the sewer rather than a chapel. 

She was laid in the church against her desires. 

The following morning, her coffin was in the gutter as she had requested, not in the church. This happened repeatedly until it was decided that the sewer would serve as her final resting place. You must visit here, and it is one of the unique things to do in Amsterdam.

12. Visit the Famous Rembrandt House Museum

The Rembrandt House Museum is a must-see if you find yourself in the city. Between 1639 and 1658, this house belonged to the Rembrandt family.

The Rembrandt House Museum in Amsterdam is a fascinating recreation of the artist’s daily activities, living space, and workspace. 

Those who are interested in learning more about the life of the well-known painter, his graphic creations, and the Dutch Golden Age in general could find The Rembrandt House Museum to be of interest. This is one of the top Amsterdam attractions. 

Wooden House Main Attractions

Rembrandt spent 20 years living here, and the home is decorated with many etchings and personal items in the manner of the 17th century. There are guided tours offered in English.

South Church where three of Rembrandt’s children and one of his pupils are buried, is just a two-minute stroll away. 

13. Walk Through Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam

In the very centre of the city, Amsterdam provides a pleasant amount of nature. 

The city’s botanical garden, Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam, is among the oldest in the world and ought to unquestionably be one of the best things to do in Amsterdam.

This popular destination had humble beginnings as a herb garden for physicians and herbalists when it was first established in 1638. 

Today, it includes uncommon plants and trees, unusual flowers, and a sizable greenhouse featuring several tropical ecosystems.

Hortus Botanicus Tourist Attraction

Exploring the wonderful historic pavilion, a hexagonal building from the late 17th century, as well as the 1870s Orangery are highlights of a visit. Another noteworthy building is The Palm House, particularly for its architectural design.

The gardens are home to numerous rare plant and tree species, which is fascinating for plant lovers. Examples of Persian Juniper trees and numerous tropical plants can be found in the old greenhouse. There is a café on the premises for those who want to stay longer. This is one of the free things to do in Amsterdam, Netherlands. 

14. Visit all Museums and Majestic Buildings at Museumplein

The space between the Concertgebouw and the Rijksmuseum is known as Museumplein (Museum-square in English). 

Due to the numerous museums that surround the square, the region is also known as the Museum Quarter or Museum District. 

The square is distinctive to Amsterdam and has a remarkable history, just as it would be in any large European city. 

All tourists in Amsterdam congregate in the Museumplein, which is near the lively city centre.

The square serves crucial leisure importance in the city. 

The square resembles a park because it features both large and small lawns, spaces, a pond, and other recreational opportunities. Large demonstrations are frequently staged on the Museumplein as well. 

Museumplein Tourist Attractions & Places

Museumplein houses the top Amsterdam attractions such as the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum, and Royal Concertgebouw. 

The lush and stunningly designed 19th-century neighbourhood of Oud-Zuid has recently undergone world-class renovations, making it a haven for art lovers. 

With open-air exhibits, markets, and a sizable paddling pool to put your toes in on warmer days, the open area between the buildings buzzes with activity throughout the day. 

A huge outdoor ice rink is added to the square throughout the winter.

15. Take a Day out for the Picturesque Countryside Tours

If you intend to stay in the city for more than a few days, make plans for a day excursion to the beautiful countryside. 

It comprises beaches, windmills, and historic cities all within easy driving distance of Amsterdam. 

The charming city of Haarlem is only 20 minutes by train from Amsterdam Central and is brimming with history and culture in addition to having a wide variety of stores, cafes, and restaurants.

Picturesque Countryside Main Attractions

And if lounging on the beach is more your style, Bloemendaal aan Zee and Zandvoort aan Zee will be delighted to accommodate with their gorgeous golden stretches, waves, and abundance of activities. 

You’re looking for picturesque views of windmills, grassy fields, and winding canals. 

Focus on the Zaanse Schans, a pastoral haven that is so picturesque that it is essentially the reason Instagram was created. Visiting here is one of the cool things to do in Amsterdam, Netherlands. 

16. Toast to the City’s Bird-Eye View at the Canvas Terrace Bar

Cocktails are the perfect way to celebrate Amsterdam’s gorgeous skyline and magnificent architecture. 

At Canvas, the terrace bar of the Volkshotel is renowned for its inexpensive cocktails and a priceless view of Amsterdam.

Canvas Terrace Bar Tourist Attractions

You can soak up the expansive view while taking a dip in one of the outdoor jacuzzis. 

Alternatively, head over to A’DAM Tower for chilly sunsets and evenings. You’ll get a sense of being on top of the world, and it is one of the cool things to do in Amsterdam. 

17. Indulge in Fun and Learning at NEMO Science Museum

One of the most striking examples of contemporary architecture can be seen in the heart of Amsterdam. 

The largest science museum in the Netherlands, NEMO, is housed in the eco-friendly Renzo Piano building. 

You may enjoy a breathtaking view of Amsterdam from its roof-top square, and it is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam with kids. 

NEMO Science Museum Tourist Attraction

Partake in the interactive exhibits to learn more about topics including how electricity is produced, why you occasionally see things that aren’t there, and how bridges function. 

Your NEMO day is concluded by talks, videos, demonstrations, and displays. You will view the world through new eyes after visiting NEMO, whether it be a rainbow or a garment that is creaking.

In “Constructions,” you can experiment with shaky towers or build a bubble that you can stand-in. Perform the role of a chemist and conduct experiments in a lab. 

The Technium exhibits technological advancements that the Netherlands has had over the last three decades.

18. Spend a Day at the Tulip Farm

A vacation to the Netherlands wouldn’t be complete without admiring the stunning tulips, which are unquestionably an emblem of Dutch culture.

Tulip Farm Main Attraction

Take the quick 20-minute drive to Bollenstreek, the world-famous tulip fields that extend across kilometres of lowland fields between Haarlem and Leiden and are a must-see Amsterdam attraction in the spring. 

During the entire month of April, the Tulip Festival, the bulbs seem to bloom from every planter and flow out of bouquets at the Bloemenmarkt and the windows of the Tulip Museum.

19. Sample a Beer at the Century-old Brewery

The most accessible of Amsterdam’s eight extant windmills is De Gooyer, located in the Eastern Islands district. And, is one of the top Amsterdam tourist attractions. 

And this isn’t just any windmill either, as Brouwerij ‘t IJ is an artisan microbrewery with an outdoor drinking terrace and guided tasting tours, it is located beneath the sails of this distinctive monument.

Century-old Brewery Attraction

Composed entirely of malts made with organic grains top the menu. On a warm day, it’s worth going in just to relax with a decent beer next to the canal.

20. Take a Ferry to Amsterdam Noord

The free ferry service in Amsterdam is a crucial component of the city’s transportation network. 

Ferrying people on foot, bicycles, and mopeds to Amsterdam-Noord every day over the IJ River. 

The most popular path, to Buiksloterweg, takes less than five minutes and essentially places you at the base of the A’DAM Tower and the spectacular EYE Film Institute. 

The other takes passengers for a 15-minute trip to NDSM, a former industrial shipyard that has been turned into one of the hippest neighbourhoods in the city.

Amsterdam Noord Tourist Spots

A quick and free boat ride will get you to a number of drop-off locations, including the cultural hub NDSM,. You can take advantage of a variety of cool waterfront hangouts and frequently occurring festivals and events.

A countdown clock next to the dock displays the next departures. Ferries depart from behind Centraal Station typically every four to six minutes. It’s a pleasant activity and is one of the top 23 things to do in Amsterdam. 

21. Bars, Restaurants, and Culture at Westergas

Westerpark is a wonderful green space with expansive lawns, exquisite canals, shady trees, and zigzagged walking and cycling pathways. 

It is located just west of the charming Jordaan neighbourhood. But the main attraction in this area is Westergas, a sizable former gas plant that has been transformed into a buzzing entertainment district. 

The industrial monument-designated 19th-century red-brick structures are packed with hip eateries, microbreweries, and independent theatres. 

The most interesting of them is Gashouder, an abandoned gas tank that now holds techno concerts for up to 3,500 people inside its enormous oval chamber. It is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam for adults. 

Westergas Tourist Attraction

Watch out for the frequent food markets, mini-festivals, and events that are held in this area. The showstopper is a thriving Sunday market that is held on the first Sunday of every month. Watch out for the frequent food markets, mini-festivals, and events that are held in this area. 

22. Visit the Amsterdam Royal Zoo

The superb “royal zoo” of Amsterdam, Artis, is only a short five-minute stroll from the botanical gardens. One of the first zoos in Europe, this top Amsterdam attraction opened its doors in 1838.

It features numerous animals from all over the world in a shady garden setting sprinkled with numerous old structures. For instance, the aquarium, built-in 1882, has unique exhibits like a look under an Amsterdam canal and a coral reef system.

Royal Zoo Main Attraction

The nocturnal animal house, zoological museum, insectarium, Butterfly Pavilion, and Planetarium are the main highlights here. A library with a sizable collection of old books, prints, and artwork is also one that should not miss. 

An exact duplicate of the Normaal Amsterdams Peil, which displays the average sea level of the North Sea, is also of interest next to these enjoyable natural sights. This is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam with kids. 

23. Experience the Beautiful Amsterdam From the Oude Kerk’s Tower

Since Rembrandt’s time, little has changed in the city’s oldest building, the Oude Kerk, which was constructed in 1306. 

This magnificent work of building served as North Holland’s first hall church and served as a template for numerous future churches in the area.

Over the years, other extensions were made, including the massive chapel from the early 1500s. 

A doorway leading to the Iron Chapel, where records of the city’s privileges, notably the freedom from taxes granted in 1275, were kept locked behind an iron door, is also from this time period. 

The carillon in the tower, which dates from 1658 and is regarded as one of the best in the nation, was added to it in the 16th century. 

Additionally, it offers beautiful city views and is one of the top Amsterdam attractions.

Oude Kerk’s Tower Tourist Attractions

The church’s interior has elements that predate the Reformation. 

One of them is windows from the Dutch High Renaissance windows dated 1555 and intricately carved choir stalls. 

The structure is well-known now for hosting exhibitions of modern art.

Take a two-minute trip across the bridge to Zeedijk, one of Amsterdam’s oldest districts, after exploring this lovely historical building. 

The home at Number 1 is believed to be the city’s oldest remaining structure, and several of the dwellings along this stretch slant away from the vertical.

What to Eat in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam may be better known for other activities, but you risk missing out on the gourmet pleasure in the Dutch metropolis. Amsterdam is a city that values ideas, and as a result, gastronomic innovation has blossomed there without sacrificing enduring traditions. Old recipes are presented here gleaming with fresh paint, which is only good news for hungry guests.

As one of the major hubs of cultural exchange in Europe, Amsterdam is also incredibly diverse, and its menus proudly reflect this. Since people have been exchanging commodities and ideas in this place for ages, what better way to bridge cultural gaps than with mouth watering flavours? The top eateries in Amsterdam bridge the gap between the young and old, the nearby and far.

Jansz

There is a subtle beauty to everything here, from the food to the imported marble side tables, spread across multiple rooms with modest yet beautiful décor. While night is the main event, they also serve a fantastic lunch and gladly accommodate children. Chef Jeroen Robberegt’s cooking is powerful and delicious, whether it’s the Normandy fish, tenderloin steak, or pasta alfredo.

Location – Reestraat 8, 1016 DN Amsterdam

Hap Hmm

Try the butter-soft sirloin steak, superb schnitzel, and meatballs won’t break the budget. The quantity is generous. It’s a cosy little spot, but they don’t take reservations. So arrive early or be ready to wait because it’s really popular.

Location – Eerste Helmersstraat 33, 1054 CZ Amsterdam

Restaurant Blauw

This lively place is decorated in black, white, and red, with a large family portrait taking up much of one wall. Traditional rijsttafels are available here (including a vegan option), or you may choose the “Experience Menu” to try a variety of Indonesian street foods.

Location – Amstelveenseweg 158-160, 1075 XN Amsterdam

De Kas

A visit to De Kas is essential if you want the best, freshest produce prepared artfully. They provide a fixed daily menu prepared with vegetables and herbs cultivated in their own nursery, hidden inside a complex of greenhouses that date back to 1926. You simply choose how many courses you want. Their farm-to-table credentials are flawless, and each item is used to great effect in the recipes.

Location – Kamerlingh Onneslaan 3, 1097 DE Amsterdam

Where to Stay in Amsterdam (Netherlands)?

The city centre commonly referred to as the “Canal Ring,” which is classified as a World Heritage Site, is the ideal place to stay if you’re visiting Amsterdam for the first time. 

The Leidseplein and Museumplein, which are home to the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and Stedelijk Museum, are the city’s northern and southern borders. To the west lies the Jordaan neighbourhood, which is surrounded by chic cafés and art galleries. 

The majority of the city’s prominent tourist attractions are concentrated in this small, walkable region. In these attractive areas, the following hotels have received great reviews:

The Hoxton, Amsterdam

The Hoxton Amsterdam skillfully mixes a classic Amsterdam experience with boutique hotel flair, all at reasonable pricing, with a tonne of personal touches and loads of elegance. You can simply walk past The Hoxton Amsterdam while wandering along the Herengracht in the canal ring. 

Address – Herengracht 255, 1016 BJ Amsterdam

Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam

The Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam pampers visitors with its individualised concierge services, Michelin-starred restaurant, spa, and opulent design amid a series of 17th-century palaces on the coveted Herengracht in the centre of the city.

Address – Herengracht 542-556, 1017 CG Amsterdam

Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht

The Andaz Amsterdam, a former unremarkable public library building in the heart of Amsterdam, has been turned into a spectacular dreamscape. The hotel makes allusions to the Golden Age, Dutch Delft Blue, and the city’s thriving, innovative industry. A location where history and modern living collide, where luxury pulses with the same heart as the city. The Bluespoon restaurant and martini bar, a gym, spa, library, indoor heated pool, and conference facilities are all added benefits of the Andaz.

Address – Prinsengracht 587, 1016 HT Amsterdam

Hotel La Boheme

The eco-friendly Hotel La Boheme offers clean rooms with comfortable beds within a short stroll from Museumplein and the Leidseplein. Breakfast and parking are included in the prices.

Address – Marnixstraat 415, 1017 PK Amsterdam

So there you have it! We hope you’ve found our guide to the top Amsterdam attractions helpful. You can never see too much of Amsterdam, so be sure to visit often.

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