Top 21 Things to SEE, DO and EAT in Amsterdam
Planning a trip to Amsterdam can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming. The city is packed with history, culture, and fun activities that can keep even the most discerning traveler entertained.
I’ve been to this beautiful, culturally rich city several times now, and have picked up some of the top tips and tricks on things to see and do along the way. My favorite thing was riding bikes to all these fun attractions!
Whether you’re interested in exploring world-famous museums, taking a scenic canal cruise, or indulging in some delicious Dutch treats, there’s something for everyone.
To help you make the most of your visit, I’ve put together a list of the top 21 things to do, see, and eat in Amsterdam. This guide will make sure you hit all the must-see spots and enjoy the best local flavors, without the stress of figuring it out on the fly.
21 Things To DO and SEE and EAT in Amsterdam
From the iconic Anne Frank House to the lively Albert Cuyp Market, Amsterdam offers a mix of educational and fun experiences that are perfect for kids and adults alike. Imagine wandering through the Van Gogh Museum, taking a relaxing break in Vondelpark, and topping off the day with a delicious stroopwafel.
Plus, don’t miss out on the chance to see the city from the water with a family-friendly canal cruise. With this list, you’ll have a roadmap to some of the best sights, activities, and foods that Amsterdam has to offer, making your trip both memorable and hassle-free.
1. Anne Frank House
- Location: Prinsengracht 263-267
- Tickets: €16 Adults, €7 Youth, €1 under 9
- Time spent: 1 hour or more
The Anne Frank House is a must visit in Amsterdam. This is where Anne Frank and her family lived for years while in hiding during WWII. You’ll see the warehouse below and enter through the hidden bookcase. You’ll walk through the rooms that the family lived in and get a sense of the space and absolute confinement.
It it mandatory to purchase a timeslot and ticket ahead of your visit. They allow a set number of people in per time slot, so you will not have the rooms to yourself. It can feel a little claustrophobic, just as a heads up. There is a great museum to walk through afterwards at which point you can really take your time and understand the depth of this ultimate tragedy.
2. Rijksmuseum
- Location: Museumstraat 1
- Tickets: €22.50 Adults, Free for Under 18
- Time Spent: 3-4 hours
The ultimate collection in Europe of Rembrandt, Vermeer and Van Gogh. This amazing museum has a knack for transporting people back in time through the amazing collection of art on display. There are over 8000 pieces of Dutch art and history here.
This museum is clean, and easy to navigate with free maps provided upon entry. Make sure you take the opportunity to visit the quiet library, fabulous bookstore and souvenir shop.
3. Keukenhof Gardens
- Location: Stationsweg 166A, 2161 AM Lisse, Netherlands
- Tickets: Available starting in the fall of 2024 for the 2025 season
- Time Spent: 2-3 hours
The Keukenhof Gardens are some of the most impressive gardens in all of Europe. Only open for a few weeks in Spring, they are an absolute must if you can time your visit to Amsterdam correctly.
It is estimated that every year, 40 gardeners plant 7 million bulbs in this 32 hectare park in Lisse, just outside of the city center of Amsterdam. Millions of people flock to this wonderous garden every spring, and let me tell you – is it ever worth it! There are many paths to wander, cafes to enjoy and play structures for kids to burn off some energy.
—– > Skip the line, and get round trip transfers from Amsterdam to the Keukenhof < —–
4. Zaanse Schans Windmills
- Location: 5 Zaandam
- Tickets: €17.50 Adults, €12.50 Youth, €10 Children
- Time Spent: 2-3 hours
The amazing and beautiful open air history museum of De Zaanse Schans is not to be missed when visiting Amsterdam. Only 17 minutes from Amsterdam central station, and then a short walk to the museum itself, you’ll see real working windmills up close and in action!
Kids and adults alike love this picturesque area set on the banks of the Zaan river. There are 11 windmills to explore, plus a museum, bakery, cheese shop and gift store. There are lots of opportunities for fun photos and videos. The staff are all very friendly and more than willing to demonstrate their unique skills. Stop by the cafe for some yummy pannenkoeken (Dutch pancakes).
5. Van Gogh Museum
- Location: Museumplein 6
- Tickets: €22 Adults, Free for Under 18
- Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Visit this incredible museum in Amsterdam to view the beautiful works of Vincent Van Gogh. Please buy your ticket ahead of time to avoid disappointment in gaining entry, and instead have a time slot assigned to you.
This museum is very well run, easy to navigate. Move through the artists life and be moved by his beautiful and inspirational works. Come away from this museum with a greater appreciation for art and artist.
6. Canal Cruise
- Location: Multiple Locations
- Tickets: Multiple Prices
- Time Spent: 1-3 hours
There is no better way to explore Amsterdam than from a beautiful cruise on one of the many canals the city has to offer. There are so many different cruise options available from your basic cruise with a glass or open top, to dinner cruises and booze cruise. Pick your journey below!
—- > Grab the best cruise options and prices here before they sell out < —-
7. NEMO Science Museum
- Location: Oosterdok 2
- Tickets: Over 4 years of age € 17.50
- Time Spent: 3-4 hours
This museum located down near Amsterdam Central Station. It is a wonderful place for kids to explore with hands-on exhibits covering physics, chemistry, biology, and technology, encouraging learning through play.
At the NEMO Science museum, you can take part in live demonstrations everyday. Conduct experiments in the lab and discover workshops in The Makery. Head up to the roof for epic views of Amsterdam, or enjoy a slice of apple pie at the cafe and restaurant.
8. Rembrandt House Museum
- Location: Jodenbreestraat 4
- Tickets: €19.50 Adults, €10.00 Youth, €6.00 Child
- Time Spent: 1-2 hours
The Rembrandt House Museum in Amsterdam is one spot that should not be missed and is one of the top things to do in Amsterdam. It is like a time capsule of the artists life, and likened to stepping back through a time machine.
The studio is set up to show how Rembrandt would have lived and worked, along with live demonstrations of how paint colors were mixed and used. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable. I highly recommend picking up the audio guide, there are tidbits of information that you can learn no-where else!
9. Jordaan District
- Location: Jordaan Neighborhood
- Tickets: Free to Stroll or Pay to Cruise
- Time Spent: 2-3 hours
The Jordaan is a wonderfully peaceful, quintessential neighborhood in Amsterdam. Think tree-lined streets dotted with beautiful canals. Many of the great restaurants of the city are located within the Jordaan neighborhood, and it is a perfect starting place to explore the rest of the city.
The Prinsengracht and Brouwersgracht canal make up part of the Jordaan are the most picturesque canals in all of Amsterdam.
— > Take a tour of these canals by booking a Classic Boat Tour with Wine and Cheese, one of the top things to do in Amsterdam! < —-
10. A’DAM Lookout
- Location: Overhoeksplein 5,
- Tickets: €16.50 Adult, €10.00 for children
- Time Spent: 1-3 hours
The A’DAM lookout is a unique attraction; it is a sky deck that offers a 360 degree birds eye view of Amsterdam and the surrounding areas. Experience the highest swing in Europe, or try the VR rollercoaster for an adrenaline rush! Enjoy lunch, or dinner with a fabulous view at the restaurant at the top.
Enjoy the elevator ride up to the sky deck with a cool light and sound show. Be sure to download the app LOOKOUT on your phone to get your free audio guide that explains exactly what it is you’re looking at around the city in 30 minutes.
Free Things To Do In Amsterdam
There are actually a ton of free things to do and enjoy in Amsterdam, and I have to say that some of the very TOP things to do are in fact – FREE. From the Redlight District, to the beautiful parks that seem to be around every corner, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Amsterdam at no cost.
11. Vondelpark
- Location: Between the Oud-West Neighborhood and The Museum Quarter
- Tickets: FREE
- Time Spent: 1-2 hours
This beautiful park in Amsterdam is located just behind all the famous museums to see in the city. It is 47 hectares in size, and a wonderful place to bike, picnic and relax! There is variety of flora and fauna, ducks, birds and lakes to see.
Visit 4 fabulous restaurants to grab a bite to eat and something to drink. There are several playgrounds and structures dotted all over the park, along with many statues and works of art.
Pro Tip: Try Groot Melkhuis, a chalet-style, waterside cafe in the park serving snacks & drinks, plus a terrace & kids’ playground.
12. Amsterdam Cheese Museum
- Location: Prinsengracht 112
- Tickets: Free
- Time Spent: 1 hour or less
If you love cheese, then the Amsterdam Cheese Museum is a must stop. Located just across the canal from the Anne Frank House, you’ll find this two story business. Entry to the museum downstairs is free.
The museum part is small, and a little bit touristy; but you’ll get the gist of cheese making in Amsterdam.
Upstairs there are many different cheese samples to try. It is a cheese-lovers dream! My favorite type of Dutch cheese will always be smoked gouda – be sure to give it a try!
13. Redlight District
- Location: De Wallen neighborhood
- Tickets: Free
- Time Spent: 1-2 hours
The Area of Red Light District or De Wallen was established in the 14th century. At that time, the harbor was not far from there. Sailors were coming to this area in order to enjoy drinks in taverns and pay women for prostitution.
Today it is still used as a hub for 18+ entertainment, and there are many clubs, shows and coffeeshops (used to sell legal marijuana) in the area.
During the day it is quite tame, although you still may run into women tapping on the windows they are displayed in. The place gets pretty crowded around 11pm and typically runs until 3am every night.
It is worth noting that smoking marijuana in public here is against the law and you will be fined. It is perfectly legal to smoke it inside and outside the coffeeshop premises however.
The beauty of De Wallen’s buildings is a reason why everyone should walk around this area during the day. Be sure to see the Oued Kerk which offers contemporary art displays, or Our Lord in the Attic church (located inside of a typical Dutch townhouse).
14. Albert Cuyp Market
- Location: Albert Cuypstraat
- Tickets: Free
- Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Albert Cuyp market located in the the De Pijp neighborhood and is a traditional Dutch market dating from 1905. It is one of the largest in Europe with over 260 vendors open 6 days a week (closed Sundays).
You can browse to your hearts content at things like handicrafts, clothing, flowers, and fabrics. Purchase fresh ingredients like fruit, vegetables, and of course cheese! You can also try typical Dutch foods like Stroopwafel, fresh & pickled herring, and bitterballen. Shopping local helps support Dutch people living in Amsterdam.
15. Royal Palace of Amsterdam
- Location: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 147
- Tickets: FREE (to look from the outside)
- Time Spent: 30 minutes
The Royal Palace of Amsterdam is located on the touristy Dam Square. Dam Square is considered the Biggest Tourist Traps to Avoid in Amsterdam. If you find yourself on Dam Square, take a few minutes to admire the beautiful architecture and the substantial size that is the Royal Palace.
If you decide to take the tour inside, be warned that the palace is only open for a few weeks a year, and the tour is confined to two floors only of the building. That is why I recommend this as a free activity to view from outside, if you are passing by in Amsterdam.
16. Noordermarkt
- Location: Next to the Noorderkerk
- Tickets: Free
- Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Noordermarkt has been an institution in Amsterdam for over 400 years. There are two distinct markets every week. The one on Monday runs from 9am-2pm and is ‘General Goods Market’ with items like records, textiles, books, vintage clothing, and food.
The Saturday market is an organic farmers market and runs from 9am – 4pm. Strike up a conversation with a local on the intricacies of cheese making in The Netherlands.
Pro tip: Stop by the Noordermarkt playground to let the kids blow off some steam! Amsterdam is a very family friendly city, and we love exploring all of the local parks and playgrounds.
17. Begijnhof
- Location: Narrow Vaulted Entrance near Spui Square
- Tickets: Free
- Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Nestled away in the heart of the city is this serene oasis of the Begijnhof estate. The Begijnhof was originally designed for pious women to escape the world, although they took no religious vows. Within the private estate, they learned healing arts and taught children.
Inside the courtyard, you’ll find some buildings of historical significance. There are two churches: the Begijnhof Chapel and The English Reformed Church. It is possible for the public to attend services at these churches. You can check their websites for times. Begijnhof Amsterdam.
There are 47 tall townhouses facing the central courtyard with facades dating from the 17th and 18th centuries. The Houten Huys (34 Begijnhof) is located within, it is one of two original wooden houses from central Amsterdam, dating from around 1528.
It is asked that tourists that visit remain silent as this peaceful place is still used for daily worship and prayer as it has done since the 14th century. Dogs and bicycles are also not allowed. Be sure to visit this peaceful area, it is now one of the top things to do in the city of Amsterdam!
Food to Try in Amsterdam
There is some fun and different foods to try in Amsterdam, and we tried them all! My favorite is a fresh stroopwafel, and my husbands is pickled herring. Find the list of must-try foods in Amsterdam below!
—- > Short on time? Embark on a delightful morning food tour through Amsterdam and discover the best food shops that serve local specialties, such as Dutch cheeses, herring and stroopwafels < —–
18. Stroopwafel:
A Stroopwafel is a delicious Dutch cookie that looks like a small waffle. Each is filled with a spiced buttery caramel syrup. The Dutch word for this is stroop. Hence, the name of this cookie means syrup waffle.
Where to buy:
- Get a fresh Stroopwafel made for you in the Albert Cuyp market
- Premade Stroopwafels in all sizes can be found at any Alberta Heijn Supermarket
19. Herring:
Herring is a local favorite, and a must try when you’re visiting the city of Amsterdam. You can get either fresh herring, or pickled. It is typically served with fresh onion, and pickled cucumbers. Herring season begins in June every year.
Where to buy:
- Vishandel MOP- Jan Evertsenstraat 116, De Baarsjes
- Haringhandel Frens – Singel 486, Centrum
- Albert Cuyp Market – Albert CuypStraat
20. Bitterballen or Krokett:
Bitterballen and Kroket are comfort foods in the Netherlands. They are made from a thick ragout of beef or veal, a signature broth, and vegetables. They are then rolled in breadcrumbs and then deep fried. I find the texture and taste to be similar to a crunchy ball of gravy. This is my favorite thing to eat in Amsterdam or the Netherlands!
The top place to try them would be any FEBO location. FEBO is a futuristic vending machine on steroids. You can try lots of different foods here, and it is a Dutch staple. You have to stop by, even if just to check out what’s on the menu!
Where to buy:
- FEBO – Various locations
- De Foodhallen in Oud West – De Ballen Bar
- Gent aan de Schinkel – South of Vodelpark
- Holtkamp – A famous Patisserie on Vijzelgracht
21. Poffertjes:
One of the top things to try in Amsterdam are these miniature fluffy pancakes, perfect for kids and adults alike! Typically served with powdered sugar on top, or you can get things like lemon curd or Nutella on the side.
The most fun location to buy these is the Carrousel Restaurant at the Vijzelgracht terminus.
Where to buy:
- De Carrousel Pannenkoeken Amsterdam – H.M. van Randwijkplantsoen 1
- Albert Cuyp Market – Albert Cuypstraat
- The Pancake Bakery – Prinsengracht 191
—- > Short on time? Embark on a delightful morning food tour through Amsterdam and discover the best food shops that serve local specialties, such as Dutch cheeses, herring and stroopwafels < —–
Where To Stay In Amsterdam
There are plenty of really great options to stay in Amsterdam. The Netherlands prides itself on sustainability, so many of the hotels on offer not only help the local economy, but are eco-conscience.
We have stayed at Airbnbs in the city, with wonderful Dutch hosts but not since the city of Amsterdam brought in the new rules.
To help with the rising costs of housing, and the disruption to citizens lives due to over-tourism, the City of Amsterdam has some stringent rules around Airbnbs.
With a permit, residents may rent out a portion of the property they live in for no more than 30 days a year. So there are still Airbnb options out there, but they are far and few between.
Budget Option ($):
As a budget-friendly hotel, that feels luxurious I recommend Jaz in the City. It is a little further out from the city center, but immediately next to the Johan Cruyff Arena and the Ziggo Dome.
It is a 5 minute walk to the nearest train station that will take you straight into the city center.
Jaz in the City offers spa and wellness services. Enjoy the sauna with a view on the property!
The rooms are comfortable and modern in design, and the breakfast on offer has everything you need to fuel your body for a day of sight seeing.
—- > Book Your Room At: Jaz in the City – Amsterdam < —-
Mid-Range Option ($$):
This next hotel is in the heart of the city in the Jordaan, and only a few minutes walk to major attractions like the Anne Frank House, the shopping district of De 9 Straatjes, and the Rijksmuseum.
The Grand Canal Boutique Hotel offers comfortable family rooms, complimentary snacks in the room along with refreshments in the lobby.
This quirky old building is located on the beautiful Keizersgracht Canal. Please note that there is no elevator in this historic location.
—- > Book Your Room At: The Grand Canal Boutique Hotel – Amsterdam < —-
Luxury Option ($$$) :
A superb luxury hotel is The Dylan Amsterdam. This fabulous property is on the Keizersgracht Canal in the heart of the city. It offers 3 restaurants, including the Michelin Starred ‘Vinkeles’ which is located in an 18th century bakery.
Bikes are available for guests to explore the city, there is also a fitness center, a massage service and a garden with terrace. There is a lounge and bar to relax.
This location is unsurpassed, as is guest services at this sustainable 5 star hotel.
—- > Book Your Room At: The Dylan Amsterdam < —-
FAQs
You’re sure to have a lot of questions when visiting the beautiful city of Amsterdam. I’d like to put your mind at ease and answer a few of the most asked about questions below.
Is there a Beach close to Amsterdam?
Yes! There is plenty of beaches close to Amsterdam. The Dutch people love the water and sea. Did you know every New Years Day, the Dutch people gather on beaches all over the world to take a restorative dive into the water? It is a tradition that is 60 years old now!
The best beach to visit that is close to Amsterdam is the Zandvoort. It is located just over an hour from the center of Amsterdam via public transit.
You’ll find beautiful sand dunes, and lots of places to dip your toe in the North Sea. Local cafes and cool beach bars offer up live music.
Is Amsterdam Safe to Visit?
Amsterdam is a very safe city. I have travelled there with my family multiple times (with young children) and never once felt unsafe.
It is in fact ranked via Go City as one of the safest major cities in the world. There is of course minor crime, as there is everywhere in the world.
When you travel, you should take note of your surroundings and keep important belongings close to your person as no city, is completely immune from petty thievery like pickpocketing.
Pickpockets have been known to frequent the area around Amsterdam Central Station.
Is Amsterdam worth visiting?
If I could scream from the rooftops, I would tell EVERYONE to visit Amsterdam at least once in their lifetime. Amsterdam is a city of contradictions.
From the Red Light district, to amazing art and food, you will not be disappointed to visit Amsterdam.
It has been recently named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and often is referred to as Venice of the North with it’s extensive canal network.
The beautiful canals, kind and welcoming people and narrow townhouses will delight any guest to the city. You’ll be surprised to learn just how much the Dutch rely on bicycles here. There are two bicycles for everyone 1 person in the city!
Quick Facts on Bicycles in Amsterdam
- Did you know there are more bikes than people in Amsterdam?
- There are 23.9 million bicycles in Amsterdam, but only 17.9 million people.
- Children in grade 5 and 6 need to complete bike safety training with a practical exam at the end.
- People in Amsterdam transport everything on bikes from sofas to suitcases.
- It is not a requirement to wear a helmet in Amsterdam.
Conclusion
Amsterdam truly has something for everyone, from history buffs and art lovers to families looking for fun and unique experiences.
In this vibrant city, you can explore world-class museums like the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, enjoy leisurely canal cruises, and visit historic sites such as the Anne Frank House.
The city’s charming neighborhoods, like the Jordaan district, offer a mix of quaint shops, delightful cafes, and picturesque streets perfect for a relaxing stroll.
For families, there are plenty of kid-friendly attractions, including the interactive NEMO Science Museum and the delightful Artis Zoo.
When visiting Amsterdam, you can expect a city that is rich in culture and history, yet modern and welcoming. The locals are friendly and the city is easy to navigate, with an excellent public transportation system.
You’ll find plenty of green spaces like Vondelpark to relax in, and markets like the Albert Cuyp Market to explore local flavors and crafts.
Whether you’re sampling traditional Dutch foods such as stroopwafels and herring or marveling at the windmills at Zaanse Schans, Amsterdam offers a diverse array of experiences that will leave you and your family with unforgettable memories.
I hope you enjoy Amsterdam as much as my family and I have.
All the best in your travels,
Tanya
There are some Big Tourist Traps to Avoid in Amsterdam, head over to my other post to find out what you should avoid and do instead!
I wish I had this list when we visited in 2019. I’ll pin this just in case we get there again.
I loved amsterdam when I went but missed out on the Anne frank Museum because I did not get tickets. I loved the canal tour. Thanks for including some free things. i will add those to my list for my next visit.
I’m dying to visit Amsterdam, I can’t believe I didn’t make time for it on my last Europe adventure!
I didn’t realize Rembrandt had a house / museum you could visit. He is one of my favourite artists and I’m excited to see how many works Amsterdam hosts.
Thanks for sharing.
Amsterdam is full of things to eat, see and do. I am adding it to my list in hopes of traveling next year! You had me at “cheese museum.”
Goodness. I know I would love Amsterdam, but the more you show of it, the more sure I am! Good food, fabulous flowers, pretty architecture aaaand all the art!? It’s like they bundled all the best parts of travel and squished them into one city!
I would want to visit the Anne Frank museum too, but for different reasons to the rest. I think it is important to learn about these things.
Fab post Tanya!
I was in Amsterdam back in December. It was so beautiful I hope to go back one day and I will be looking at this post to get some ideas on where to go. Great post.
I always enjoy visiting Amsterdam. One of my best friends lives there and she always takes me to get some fries and mayonnaise – that never gets old!