Things to Do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam welcomes you with canals, narrow houses, bicycles and freedom like no other. History, culture, nightlife and cozy corners where you can sit by the water and watch the boats pass by. For visitors the choice is endless. Famous museums, quiet green parks, buzzing cafes, floating flower markets and lively neighborhoods form a never boring palette. You can start with a morning walk in Jordaan, continue with a canal cruise and end with a music night at a legendary venue. The rhythm changes with every district and every place opens up new sides of the city. You can get lost in its streets but in a good way. This is not a one time visit, as every time you come back you’ll discover new highlights and experiences. From quiet moments to fun gatherings, from art to nightlife, Amsterdam is the reason why it’s on every traveler’s list.

Contents

1. Canal Cruise
2. Rijksmuseum
3. Anne Frank House
4. Van Gogh Museum
5. Vondelpark
6. Red Light District Walk
7. Jordaan Neighborhood
8. Heineken Experience
9. A’DAM Lookout
10. Albert Cuyp Market
11. Royal Palace
12. NEMO Science Centre
13. Bloemenmarkt
14. Artis Zoo

Canal Cruise

A canal cruise is often the first thing visitors do in Amsterdam and it’s clear why. The city’s famous canal ring forms a beautiful ring of merchant houses, warehouses and bridges that shine with charm. From the water you see gabled facades, hidden gardens and iconic landmarks from a completely different angle. Evening cruises sparkle with lights reflected on the water, day tours give you a clearer view of the details. Some boats offer dining, drinks or live music, others have headphones with stories in many languages. Families prefer glass roof boats, small open boats feel more personal. Floating through the canals is both relaxing and fascinating, it’s one of the top things to do in Amsterdam.

• Location: Main docks at Central Station, Damrak, Museumplein
• Hours: Daily, departures every 30–60 minutes
• Price: Standard €15–20; dinner/evening €40–60

Tip: Choose sunset cruise for the best views

Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum has treasures of Dutch history and art from centuries. Masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer and Hals fill the vast galleries, smaller rooms show silverware, sculptures and Delftware. The Night Watch draws the biggest crowds but works like Vermeer’s Milkmaid are quieter. Architecture lovers admire the building itself with its Gothic-Renaissance design and library full of old books. The museum also has temporary exhibitions that add new layers to the permanent collection. Families can enjoy the interactive areas, serious art lovers can linger over the details. It’s one of the top things to see in Amsterdam and a highlight that will stay with you.

• Location: Museumstraat 1, Museumplein
• Hours: Daily 09:00–17:00
• Price: €22.50 adults, free under 18

Tip: Book tickets online to avoid queues

Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is a very moving experience that connects you with history on a personal level. Inside the hidden annex where Anne Frank and her family lived during the war, the rooms are preserved in a way that makes you imagine daily life under constant fear. Objects, photographs and the diary itself bring her words to life. Exhibitions explain the persecution of Jews, the rise of intolerance and the courage of those who helped. Walking through the narrow stairs and small rooms is emotional and unforgettable. This experience makes you think about freedom, resilience and hope, that’s why it’s one of the most powerful things to do in Amsterdam.

• Location: Prinsengracht 263–267
• Hours: Daily 09:00–22:00 (seasonal variation)
• Price: €16 adults; €7 ages 10–17; free under 10

Tip: Tickets online only, sell out weeks ahead

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum lets you follow the journey of a genius. More than 200 paintings and hundreds of drawings show his path from dark Dutch works to bright southern landscapes. Iconic pieces like Sunflowers, Almond Blossom and Wheatfield with Crows shine with color and emotion. Letters between Vincent and his brother Theo reveal struggles, ambitions and thoughts on art. Temporary exhibitions show other artists connected to him, adding context. Multimedia displays explain techniques and influences. The museum feels personal, intense and inspiring. For many visitors it’s the most memorable cultural experience in Amsterdam.

• Location: Museumplein 6
• Hours: Daily 09:00–17:00 (weekends until 18:00)
• Price: €20 adults; free under 18

Tip: Go early morning or late afternoon

Vondelpark

Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s green heart where locals and visitors blend. Cyclists ride shaded paths, joggers train, families picnic and couples enjoy quiet moments walking by the ponds. In summer the open-air theater hosts concerts and plays, turning the park into a cultural hotspot. Spring brings fresh blossoms, autumn leaves golden and winter offers frosty beauty. Sculptures, playgrounds and cafes add variety, it’s more than just a park. Many consider it an essential stop for a true sense of Amsterdam’s lifestyle. Sitting here feels like stepping into the rhythm of the city, away from the hustle and bustle yet fully alive.

• Location: Between Stadhouderskade and Amstelveenseweg
• Hours: Open 24 hours
• Price: Free entry

Tip: Best explored by bike, like locals

Red Light District Walk

The Red Light District, or De Wallen, is famous worldwide yet surprises many visitors with its mix of history and culture. Beyond its windows, streets reveal medieval churches, hidden courtyards and canals lit at night. Oude Kerk, the city’s oldest church, stands in the middle. Today the area also has cafes, bars and small museums adding more layers to its reputation. Guided tours explain Dutch approaches to freedom, policy and social changes. While it attracts curiosity it’s also a historic neighborhood that challenges your preconceptions. Exploring here responsibly can be an eye-opening part of discovering Amsterdam.

• Location: De Wallen, near Central Station
• Hours: Evenings until late night
• Price: Free area access; tours €15–20

Tip: No photos of workers allowed

Jordaan Neighborhood

The Jordaan is one of Amsterdam’s most charming districts. Narrow streets, small canals and hidden courtyards make it feel like a village within the city. Once a working-class area it has turned into a trendy hotspot full of galleries, boutiques and cozy cafes. Markets like Noordermarkt on Saturdays sell antiques, food and local crafts. Art studios hide in small alleys and street musicians add to the charm. Houseboats line the water making walks even more picturesque. Wandering here is about discovery: every corner reveals something unexpected, from an old church to a hidden bar. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors.

• Location: West of central Amsterdam
• Hours: Always open; market Saturdays 09:00–17:00
• Price: Free entry, costs only for purchases

Tip: Try traditional apple pie at a café

Heineken Experience

The Heineken Experience inside the old brewery combines history and fun. Interactive displays tell the brand’s story from its early beginnings to global fame. You walk through brewing halls, see copper kettles and learn about hops and malt. Videos, games and virtual bartending make it lively. Old commercials and memorabilia show how Heineken built its image worldwide. The tour ends with fresh beer in a modern tasting room where music and atmosphere complete the visit. It’s popular with groups of friends and adults looking for a mix of entertainment and education.

• Location: Stadhouderskade 78
• Hours: Daily 10:30–21:00
• Price: €23, includes two drinks

Tip: Book in advance, weekends are busy

A’DAM Lookout

The A’DAM Lookout tower across the IJ River offers city views. From the deck you see the canal belt, Central Station and even countryside on clear days. The highlight is “Over the Edge,” a swing that takes you out over the edge of the building, 100 meters above ground. It’s thrilling, slightly scary but unforgettable. The tower also has exhibitions on city development, a rooftop bar and a restaurant. In the evening the lights add magic and sunsets are stunning. It’s one of the best things to do in Amsterdam for travelers who like heights and new perspectives.

• Location: Overhoeksplein 5, Amsterdam Noord
• Hours: Daily 10:00–22:00
• Price: €16.50 entry; swing €6

Tip: Free ferry from Central Station to Buiksloterweg

Albert Cuyp Market

Albert Cuyp Market is Amsterdam’s most famous street market, bustling with energy. Rows of stalls stretch for blocks selling fresh produce, cheese, fish, clothes and flowers. The air is filled with the smell of stroopwafels baked on the spot and herring ready to eat. Locals shop here daily making it lively and authentic. It’s the best place to try Dutch street food, meet residents and find affordable souvenirs. Saturdays are especially busy but that’s part of the charm. For many this market is the taste of Amsterdam and wandering its rows is a fun cultural experience.

• Location: De Pijp district
• Hours: Monday–Saturday, 09:30–17:00
• Price: Free entry

Tip: Bring cash for small vendors

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace on Dam Square is a monument of power and beauty. Built in the 17th century as a city hall it impressed visitors with marble halls, sculptures and maps of the world. Later it became a royal residence and is still used today for state ceremonies. Inside the Citizens’ Hall with its huge globe mosaics feels majestic. Visitors also see paintings and furniture that reflect the wealth of the Golden Age. It’s centrally located so you can easily fit it in during a city walk. Touring the palace gives you a sense of Amsterdam’s importance in European history.

• Location: Dam Square
• Hours: Daily 10:00–17:00, except on royal events 
• Price: €12.50

Tip: Check website for closures

NEMO Science Centre

NEMO Science Centre excites kids and adults with hands-on experiments. Its green ship-like building invites you in where five floors show energy, sound, chemistry and technology. You can make giant soap bubbles, build circuits or test optical illusions. The museum encourages touching, playing and learning by doing. Families spend hours here and kids love the interactive displays. On top a large rooftop terrace offers open-air views of the city. For families this is one of the best fun things to do in Amsterdam, combining education and entertainment.

• Location: Oosterdok 2
• Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–17:30
• Price: €17.50, free under 4

Tip: Go early on weekends

Bloemenmarkt

Bloemenmarkt is the world’s only floating flower market. Stalls line houseboats along the Singel canal creating a colourful parade of tulips, orchids and souvenirs. Even outside spring bulbs are on sale to take home. The smell of flowers mixes with the sight of canals, making it a favourite photo spot. Tourists browse bulbs and seeds while locals buy bouquets. In spring the stalls overflow with blossoms and the place becomes a living postcard. For those looking for Amsterdam’s floral soul Bloemenmarkt is a must-visit place.

• Location: Singel canal, between Koningsplein and Muntplein
• Hours: Daily 09:00–17:30
• Price: Free entry

Tip: Visit in spring for the most vibrant displays

Artis Zoo

Artis Zoo combines animals, gardens and history. Founded in 1838 it features lions, giraffes, birds and reptiles in green enclosures. Beyond animals it has an aquarium, planetarium and even a library. Its architecture blends 19th century buildings with modern additions giving it unique charm. Families love to spend a full day here, moving from elephants to butterfly pavilions. The zoo feels calm, educational and scenic all at once. For travellers with kids it’s one of the top things to do in Amsterdam.

• Location: Plantage Kerklaan 38–40
• Hours: 09:00–18:00
• Price: €12.50

Tip: Check website for closures

Amsterdam has something for every mood and interest. From quiet canals to busy markets, from masterpieces to a rooftop swing, the city combines old with new. Travellers looking for culture find top museums. Families find fun in parks, zoos and interactive science. Foodies enjoy markets and cafes, nightlife lovers head to the hotspots. With so many things to do and see in Amsterdam, every visit is new. Every street, every canal, every corner has a story to tell. The city never runs out of surprises, that’s why it’s one of Europe’s best.