Europe · Netherlands

35+ Incredible Things to Do in Amsterdam, Netherlands

ByDestiny Snyder Last updatedMarch 18, 2026

1. Take a Canal Cruise

One of the most classic things to do in Amsterdam is take a canal cruise. With so many miles of canals weaving through the city, it’s one of the best ways to see the historic canal houses, bridges, and neighborhoods from a different perspective.

There are a ton of canal cruise companies to choose from, and something I didn’t realize before going is that not every boat follows the exact same route. We actually asked our captain about this, and he told us each company has its own route, which makes it fun because every cruise can be a little different. That said, they all pass many of the iconic highlights you won’t want to miss.

We ended up booking our tour with Mokumboot and had such a great experience. You can grab drinks on board if you’d like, and our captain shared a few interesting facts about the city along the way. Somehow, we were the only two people on the boat, so we basically ended up with a private tour! It was a little chilly the day we went, and our boat wasn’t enclosed, so I’m guessing that played a role, but we honestly loved it.

If you plan to get the I Amsterdam City Card, it’s even better because several canal cruise options are included with the pass. If ours hadn’t been included, I probably would have booked one of the wine and cheese cruises or Captain Jack’s all-inclusive boat tour, which also looked like a really fun option.

2. Visit the Anne Frank House

One of the most meaningful things to do in Amsterdam is to visit the Anne Frank House. This historic museum is located in the actual building where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II, and walking through the space where her famous diary was written is an incredibly powerful experience.

This is one attraction you’ll want to book well in advance, as tickets often sell out weeks ahead of time. When reserving your ticket, you’ll select a specific entry time, so it’s best to plan this early while mapping out your Amsterdam itinerary.

The experience itself is very somber but deeply important. As you move through the museum, you’ll see the rooms where the Frank family and others lived in hiding, including the hidden annex behind the famous bookcase. It’s hard not to feel emotional imagining what they endured during that time.

Your ticket includes an audio guide, which adds so much context and really helps you understand the history as you walk through. I recommend giving yourself at least a little over an hour to fully take it all in and move through the museum at a thoughtful pace.

3. Eat a Stroopwafel

You can’t leave Amsterdam without trying a stroopwafel! This classic Dutch treat is made with two thin waffle cookies pressed together with a layer of warm caramel syrup in the middle. They’re often served fresh and warm.

If you start looking into where to try one, you’ll quickly notice there’s a lot of stroopwafel discourse online. Some places, like Hans Egstorf, are known for the extra-decorated versions loaded with toppings like chocolate, pistachio, or candy. Naturally, I’m very much an I’ll be the judge of that type of person, so I had to try one for myself. I went with the chocolate pistachio version, and while it was fun to try, the half of the stroopwafel without all the toppings was honestly my favorite part.

These more elaborate versions also tend to come with inflated prices, so later in our trip we made it a point to try a more traditional one. We ended up getting a freshly made stroopwafel from Rudi’s at the Albert Cuyp Market, and yep… that was the one. It was warm, perfectly chewy, and a fraction of the price.

All that to say, I totally get wanting to try both if you’re curious. But if you want the classic experience, I definitely recommend grabbing a freshly made OG stroopwafel at a market stall.

4. Albert Cuyp Market

Since I just mentioned it, it only makes sense to talk about the Albert Cuyp Market itself. This is one of the most famous street markets in Amsterdam, and such a fun place to explore. It’s open Monday through Saturday, 9:30 AM to 5 PM, and the street fills up with hundreds of stalls selling everything from fresh food and snacks to clothing, souvenirs, flowers, and random little finds.

One of the things I love most about markets when I travel is that they give you such a good feel for the local vibe, and this one definitely delivers. There’s so much to wander through, and it’s easy to spend a good amount of time just browsing.

I actually ended up finding the cutest hat and scarf here for really great prices. Unfortunately, after a few too many glasses of wine later in the day, I somehow left the hat somewhere along the way (still mourning that one a little). But finds like that are exactly why I love checking out markets while traveling!

And of course, this is also where we grabbed the fresh stroopwafel from Rudi’s that I mentioned earlier.

5. Explore De Pijp

While you’re in the area for the Albert Cuyp Market, I definitely recommend spending some time exploring De Pijp. It’s such a cool neighborhood with a more local feel and tons of great cafes, wine bars, and restaurants. This ended up being one of our more wander-with-no-plan kind of days, and it was so much fun! We basically walked around, and anytime a place looked cute, we popped in.

Here are a few of the spots we checked out:

• AMI – We started here for lunch, and it was such a vibe. Everything we ordered was really good, and it was the perfect place to kick off the afternoon.
• GlouGlou – This was recommended to us by locals, and we totally get why. Such a fun, natural wine bar with a great atmosphere.
• Wijnbar Paulus – We walked past this spot, and it looked so cozy we had to pop in. I loved the vibe here.
• Café Restaurant De Duvel – Quick stop for an espresso martini, and it was amazing.
• Kaasbar – Cool concept where cheeses move around on a conveyor belt, and you grab what you want. Unfortunately, it didn’t quite hit for us. We kept seeing the same cheeses, and when we ordered a few directly, they never came, so we ended up leaving. This one you could probably skip.
• Arie – A great stop for small bites and drinks. We had carpaccio, salmon, and a couple of martinis and really enjoyed it.
• The Seafood Bar – We wrapped up the evening here, and the pasta was incredible. Such a good way to end the day.

6. Heineken Experience

Another popular stop in De Pijp is the Heineken Experience, which is located inside the brand’s original brewery. If you enjoy beer (or just want a fun, interactive attraction), it’s a great place to add to your 3-day itinerary.

I’ll be honest, we had every intention of doing this and somehow never made it in. But one of my friends who had recently visited Amsterdam told me it ended up being one of her favorite things she did in the city, and she said it’s the perfect way to kick off a day of exploring (and day drinking).

The experience takes you through the history of the Heineken brand and how their beer is made, with a mix of interactive exhibits, behind-the-scenes looks at the brewing process, and a few fun surprises along the way. At the end of the tour, you’ll also get to enjoy a couple of beers included with your ticket.

7. Eat Your Way Through Amsterdam’s Sweet Treats

I know we already talked about stroopwafels, but the reality is, Amsterdam is full of incredible desserts. Honestly, it’s a bit of a problem because everywhere you turn there’s another bakery or sweet shop that looks amazing. I wanted to try them all!

Here are a few other sweet spots that are definitely worth adding to your list:

• Saint Jean – Go for the pistachio cruffin. This one is a non-negotiable. My favorite sweet treat from the trip!
• Van Stapele – Famous for their cookies made with a rich dark chocolate dough and a gooey white chocolate center.
• Lourens – Home of the crookie, which is exactly what it sounds like: a croissant and cookie combined into one dangerously good pastry.
• Canela – We unfortunately ran out of time (and appetite) to try it, but their cinnamon rolls looked incredible and came highly recommended.

All that to say, the desserts here are dangerously good, so definitely leave some room in your itinerary—and your stomach—for a few sweet stops.

8. Eat Dinner on a Ferry

While we’re on the topic of delicious things to do in Amsterdam, I have to tell you about one of the best meals we had on the entire trip: Restaurant Ferry.

The concept alone is so cool—you’re literally dining inside a 100-year-old ferry that’s been turned into a restaurant. The space is cozy and unique, and the whole experience just feels really special from the moment you step aboard.

But the food is what really blew us away. The menu pulls inspiration from Mediterranean, South American, and Asian flavors, and every single thing we ordered was incredible! We shared the ceviche, steak tartare, carrots, little gem salad, and the house steak, and I’m not exaggerating when I say everything was memorable. Even the little gem salad felt special.

I’m not sure how often the menu changes, but if any of those dishes are available when you visit, I can’t recommend them enough. This was one of those meals I’ll genuinely think about for years, and it’s already a place I know I’ll return to every time I’m back in Amsterdam.

It might be a little out of the way from where many visitors stay, but trust me—it’s worth it. I honestly could’ve eaten here every night.

9. Visit the Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is one of the most famous museums in Amsterdam and is home to the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s work in the world. Inside, you’ll find hundreds of paintings, drawings, and letters from the Dutch artist, including some of his most recognizable pieces.

It’s a really interesting look at both his artistic evolution and his life story, which honestly makes the experience feel more personal than just walking through a gallery. They also have a temporary exhibition space that rotates different themes and collections. When I visited, the exhibit focused on Van Gogh’s use of the color yellow, which added another layer of insight into his work!

If you’re interested in going, tickets are around €25 (about $29 USD), and you’ll need to book a timed entry slot.

10. Bike Through Amsterdam

You’ll hear people say to bike through Amsterdam “like a local,” and while that sounds great in theory… I’ll be honest, it can feel a little intimidating. Even though there are dedicated bike lanes, there are also tons of pedestrians, trams, and cars moving through the city, and watching locals zip around like pros can be a lot.

Our hotel, Kimpton De Witt, offered free bike rentals, and we also had a free one-day bike rental through A-Bike included with the I Amsterdam City Card (there are actually several rental options included with the card, and some even offer guided tours or bike delivery). Since we were a little nervous about jumping straight into biking around the city center, we decided to take the tram to the Vondelpark area and start there instead.

Biking through Vondelpark ended up being the perfect introduction. It was peaceful, scenic, and much less chaotic than the city streets. I can only imagine how beautiful it is in the spring and summer when everything is in full bloom—there were a few flowers starting to pop through when we visited, but not too many yet.

One of the bike rental employees also suggested we ride over to Rembrandtpark, which isn’t too far away and tends to be more of a locals’ spot with fewer crowds. The short ride between the parks was a little nerve-wracking at times, but overall we really enjoyed the experience, and I’m glad we did it.

We only had the bikes for a couple of hours, which honestly felt like the perfect amount of time. And of course, we made a quick stop at De Vondeltuin inside the park to grab a drink and hydrate a little before continuing our ride!

Check here for affordable bike rentals in different areas!

11. Explore the Rijksmuseum

Another one of Amsterdam’s most famous museums is the Rijksmuseum, which is dedicated to Dutch art and history. Inside, you’ll find thousands of works spanning centuries, including masterpieces from artists like Rembrandt and Vermeer. The museum itself is also stunning architecturally, so even just walking through the building is impressive.

That said, Amsterdam has some truly world-class museums, but don’t feel like you have to visit them just to check them off a list. I included these because they’re historically significant and widely loved, but if art museums aren’t really your thing, it’s okay to spend your time exploring other parts of the city instead.

One part of the Rijksmuseum I personally loved was the library. If you’re anything like me and always seek out beautiful bookstores and libraries when you travel, this one is definitely worth admiring. The tall shelves, spiral staircases, and historic feel make it one of the most unique spaces inside the museum.

If you do decide to visit, plan to give yourself a couple of hours to wander through the galleries and take in the highlights at your own pace. Tickets are €23.50 for adults (about $25 USD), or entry is included with the I Amsterdam City Card, which can be a great value if you’re planning to visit several museums during your trip.

12. Visit the A’DAM Lookout + Over the Edge Swing

If you’re looking for some of the best views in the city, head up to the A’DAM Lookout in Amsterdam Noord. The observation deck sits at the top of the A’DAM Tower, a modern building right across the IJ River from Amsterdam Central Station. Even just visiting the lookout gives you incredible panoramic views of the city, the canals, and the river.

Now let’s talk about the famous Over the Edge Swing. I’m not going to lie—this was terrifying for me, but also so cool. The swing literally sends you back and forth over the edge of the building, high above the city. If that sounds like your nightmare, don’t worry—you can absolutely just enjoy the lookout without doing the swing and still have a great experience.

Entry to the lookout is included with the I Amsterdam City Card, and the swing itself costs about €7.50 (around $9 USD), which honestly feels pretty reasonable for such a unique experience. They also take photos of you while you’re swinging that you can download for free afterward, which is a fun little bonus.

13. Check Out Amsterdam’s Nightlife Scene

The A’DAM Tower is also known for its nightlife. Shelter, a very popular nightclub, is located in the basement, and Madam is the rooftop restaurant and bar that the lookout turns into after dark.

If you’re interested in checking them out, I’d recommend looking into tickets ahead of time since they can sell out—we actually got lucky and were able to snag door tickets after finding out they were already sold out online.

14. Wander the Streets of Amsterdam

One of the best ways to experience Amsterdam is simply by wandering the streets with no real plan. The city is incredibly walkable, and everywhere you turn there seems to be another charming canal, colorful row of canal houses, or cozy cafe that makes you want to stop and explore.

Two streets you’ll often hear people mention are De 9 Straatjes (The Nine Streets) and Warmoesstraat. De 9 Straatjes is a picturesque network of small streets lined with boutique shops, vintage stores, cafes, and little wine bars. It’s one of the cutest areas in the city and a great place to browse, grab a coffee, or do a little shopping.

Warmoesstraat, on the other hand, is one of the oldest streets in Amsterdam, dating back to medieval times. It’s full of history and sits right in the heart of the city near Amsterdam Central Station.

That said, some of my favorite moments in Amsterdam happened on streets that weren’t even on my list. This is truly a city that rewards wandering. So while it’s worth checking out places like De 9 Straatjes and Warmoesstraat, don’t be afraid to put the map away and just get a little lost. Amsterdam is one of those cities where that’s half the fun.

15. Visit Amsterdam’s Historic Churches

Amsterdam is home to several beautiful historic churches, and many of them are located within walking distance of each other in the city center. Even if you’re not someone who typically seeks out churches while traveling, these are worth admiring for their architecture, history, and unique stories.

St. Nicholas Basilica

One of the easiest churches to visit is St. Nicholas Basilica, located right near Amsterdam Central Station. It’s completely free to enter, which makes it a great quick stop if you’re already in the area. From the outside, the basilica’s twin towers and large dome make it one of the most recognizable religious buildings in the city.

Inside, the space is incredibly beautiful and peaceful. You’ll find intricate details, ornate decorations, stained glass windows, and an impressive central dome that draws your eyes upward the moment you walk in. It’s a nice contrast to the busy streets outside and a great place to take a quiet moment while exploring the city center.

Zuiderkerk

Another church worth noting is Zuiderkerk, located in the Nieuwmarkt area, not too far from the city center. It’s known as Amsterdam’s first Protestant church, built in the early 1600s after the Dutch Reformation.

The tall clock tower makes it easy to spot from different parts of the neighborhood, and the architecture has a slightly different feel from the older medieval churches in the city. Today the interior is often used as an exhibition and event space, and while it’s not always open to visitors, it’s still worth walking by if you’re exploring the surrounding canals and streets.

Even if you just admire it from the outside, Zuiderkerk is another beautiful example of the city’s historic architecture and an interesting part of Amsterdam’s religious history.

Oude Kerk

In the heart of the Red Light District, you’ll find Oude Kerk, which translates to “Old Church.” True to its name, it’s actually Amsterdam’s oldest building, dating back to the early 1300s. The contrast between this centuries-old church and the surrounding neighborhood is pretty striking, which honestly makes it even more memorable.

Inside, the church is known for its massive wooden ceilings, historic tombstones built into the floor, and beautiful stained glass windows. Over the years it has also evolved into a cultural space, hosting art exhibitions and events while still preserving its historic character. Walking through it really gives you a sense of just how old Amsterdam’s history is.

De Nieuwe Kerk

Located right off Dam Square, De Nieuwe Kerk (which means “New Church”) is another historic landmark worth noting. Despite the name, it was actually built in the 15th century, making it anything but new.

Unlike some of the other churches in Amsterdam, De Nieuwe Kerk no longer functions primarily as a place of worship. Instead, it’s used as a major exhibition space and cultural venue, hosting rotating exhibits, art displays, and historical installations. The building itself is still beautiful to see, with large stained glass windows and impressive Gothic architecture, even if you just admire it from the outside while exploring the square.

Our Lord in the Attic

One of the most unique churches in the city is Our Lord in the Attic, located in a canal house in the Red Light District. This one requires a timed entry reservation in advance, but it was personally the one I found most interesting. The museum tells the story of house churches, which were hidden Catholic churches built inside homes during a time when public Catholic worship wasn’t allowed in the Netherlands. As you move through the canal house, you eventually reach an entire church hidden in the attic, which is honestly pretty incredible to see.

The last three churches—Oude Kerk, De Nieuwe Kerk, and Our Lord in the Attic—do require admission, but they’re included with the I Amsterdam City Card. If you’re paying separately, you probably don’t need to visit all three interiors. But if you’re curious about the history of house churches and want something a little different, Our Lord in the Attic would be my top recommendation.

16. Take a Free Walking Tour

One thing I always try to do when visiting a new city is start my trip with a free walking tour, ideally on my first morning or first full day. It’s such a great way to get your bearings, learn about the city’s history, and hear interesting stories from a local guide.

Most tours operate on a tip-based system, meaning the tour itself is technically free, and you simply tip your guide at the end based on what you feel the experience was worth.

Walking tours usually cover major landmarks and neighborhoods, but the best part is often the local recommendations and insider tips you pick up along the way. It’s a great way to get ideas for places to eat, areas to explore, and things you might want to come back to later in your trip.

There are several different tour options depending on what you’re interested in. Some focus on specific neighborhoods, and others even offer bike tours if you’re already renting a bike. Just be sure to book in advance, as guides plan their tours and group sizes ahead of time.

17. See the Dancing Houses

One of the most iconic sights in Amsterdam is the row of “dancing houses” along the canals. These narrow canal houses lean slightly in different directions, which makes them look like they’re swaying or dancing next to each other.

The tilted appearance actually has a few practical reasons. Many of the buildings were constructed on wooden piles driven into the soft, marshy ground, which has shifted over time. On top of that, the houses were intentionally built tall and narrow because property taxes were historically based on the width of the building along the canal.

If you look closely, you’ll also notice many of the houses lean slightly forward. This was done on purpose so that goods being lifted into the upper floors with the hook and pulley systems wouldn’t hit the façade of the building! I thought that was so cool to learn.

You can spot these charming houses all over the city, but some of the most famous views are along the Damrak canal near Amsterdam Central Station. It’s one of those classic Amsterdam scenes that almost feels like something out of a postcard.

18. Staalmeestersbrug Bridge (Classic Photo Spot)

If you’re looking for one of those classic Amsterdam photo spots, head to Staalmeestersbrug Bridge. This small bridge offers a beautiful view down the canal toward the Zuiderkerk, making it one of the most photographed perspectives in the city.

From the bridge, you get that perfect Amsterdam scene—canal houses lining the water, bikes parked along the railings, and the church tower rising in the distance. It’s a simple stop, but one that really captures the charm of the city.

Because it’s a pretty popular photo spot, you may see a few other people stopping for pictures, but it’s still a lovely place to pause for a moment while exploring the surrounding streets.

19. See the Royal Palace of Amsterdam

Located right on Dam Square, the Royal Palace of Amsterdam is one of the most important historic buildings in the city. The palace was originally built in the 17th century as Amsterdam’s city hall during the Dutch Golden Age and later became a royal palace used by the Dutch monarchy.

Today, it’s still used by the royal family for official events and ceremonies when they’re in the city. You can purchase tickets to tour the interior, where you’ll find grand halls, marble floors, and impressive artwork.

We personally didn’t go inside, but we found ourselves passing by the palace frequently while exploring the city center. Even just admiring the building from the outside is impressive, and Dam Square itself is always lively with street performers, shops, and cafes nearby.

20. Visit the Tulip Fields

Seeing the famous Dutch tulip fields is one of the most iconic experiences associated with visiting Amsterdam. That said, the fields themselves are actually located outside the city, so you’ll need to plan a short trip if you want to see them in person.

Some of the best places to see the tulips include Keukenhof Gardens, which is the most famous and curated display, as well as the surrounding Lisse region, where you’ll find the large, colorful flower fields you’ve probably seen in photos.

Unfortunately, we were in Amsterdam a couple of weeks before peak bloom, which was such a bummer because the fields are one of the most iconic things that bring people to the Netherlands in the spring. Tulip season is typically mid-March through early May, with the best chance of seeing full blooms usually in April, depending on the weather.

Even though we missed the fields, we did visit the Amsterdam Tulip Museum in the city, which was actually really interesting. One thing I learned that surprised me is that tulips aren’t even native to the Netherlands. They originally came from Central Asia and the Ottoman Empire before being introduced to the Dutch in the 16th century.

The Netherlands eventually became world-famous for tulips thanks in part to a period known as Tulip Mania in the 1600s, when tulip bulbs became so valuable that some sold for the price of an entire house. Today, the country is still one of the world’s largest exporters of tulips and flower bulbs!

21. Waterlooplein Market

If you enjoy browsing markets while traveling, Waterlooplein Market is another great one to check out while exploring the city. Located in the Waterlooplein area near the Jewish Quarter, this is Amsterdam’s oldest flea market and has been around since the late 1800s!

Unlike the Albert Cuyp Market, which focuses more on food and everyday goods, Waterlooplein has more of a flea market vibe. You’ll find stalls selling vintage clothing, antiques, records, books, jewelry, and all kinds of unique secondhand treasures. It’s a fun place to wander through, especially if you enjoy hunting for one-of-a-kind finds.

There were so many cool coats for great prices when we visited. If I had any room left in my suitcase, I definitely would’ve taken one home! The market is typically open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 AM to 6 PM.

22. Visit the MOCO Museum

If you’re interested in modern or contemporary art, the MOCO Museum is another popular Amsterdam attraction. Located in Museumplein near the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, MOCO focuses on modern artists and pop culture-inspired art.

Inside, you’ll find works from well-known artists like Banksy, Andy Warhol, and Keith Haring, along with rotating exhibitions and immersive installations. The museum tends to feel a bit more playful and interactive compared to some of the traditional art museums in the city, which makes it appealing even for people who don’t normally gravitate toward museums (like me!).

Even if you’ve already visited some of the bigger museums nearby, MOCO offers a completely different style of art that’s more contemporary and thought-provoking. It’s also relatively small, so it’s easy to explore without needing to dedicate an entire afternoon.

This is included with the I Amsterdam City Card, but if you don’t have one and still want to visit, tickets are a little cheaper here than buying them at the door.

23. Damrak Waterfront + the Iconic Canal Houses

One of the most recognizable views in Amsterdam is along the Damrak waterfront, right near Amsterdam Central Station. This is where you’ll find the famous row of colorful, narrow canal houses reflected in the water—one of those postcard-perfect scenes that people often associate with the city.

It’s a great place to pause for photos or just take in the view while you’re walking through the city center!

24. Try Dutch Fries

While you’re exploring the city, you’ll probably notice Dutch fries (patat or friet) everywhere. They’re thicker than traditional fries and typically served in a cone with a generous amount of sauce on top. There are tons of places throughout Amsterdam where you can try them, so you really won’t have trouble finding a spot.

One place that gets a lot of attention is Fabel Friet, which has several locations around the city. It’s definitely one of those places that people either rave about or say is overhyped—but I’m here to tell you that I’m normally not even a fries person and these had me hooked. I ordered mine with parmesan and truffle mayo, and they were so good.

I think the main complaint people have is the line, which can get pretty long. We got lucky and only had one person in front of us. Personally, there’s not much I’d wait 40+ minutes in line for, so if it’s that long, I’d just come back another time or try a different location.

But if you’re wondering whether they’re a tourist trap or overhyped… I don’t know, consider me happily trapped because I really enjoyed them.

25. Explore STRAAT Museum

If you’re interested in street art, the STRAAT Museum is one of the coolest places to check out in Amsterdam. Located in Amsterdam Noord inside a massive former shipyard warehouse, STRAAT focuses entirely on street art and graffiti, featuring large-scale works from artists around the world.

The museum space itself is huge, which allows artists to create full wall murals and massive installations that you wouldn’t normally be able to see in a traditional gallery. It’s a really unique concept and one that has become a must-see for people who enjoy modern art and creative spaces.

I unfortunately didn’t have time to visit during my trip, but it’s definitely high on my list for the next time I’m in Amsterdam!

26. Enjoy Some Craft Cocktails

Amsterdam has an incredible cocktail scene, and if you enjoy well-crafted drinks, there are a few bars that are definitely worth checking out. Zum Barbarossa and Flying Dutchmen Cocktails were a couple of our favorites during the trip.

Zum Barbarossa is an underground cocktail bar lit with red lighting and a DJ, which gives it a really fun, energetic feel while still serving excellent drinks. Very vibey here, we loved it!

Flying Dutchmen Cocktails is a much smaller bar, but the cocktails are incredible. We didn’t have a reservation and ended up joining a table that said they didn’t mind making new friends. It turned into such a fun night and is one of those travel moments that make a trip memorable!

Door 74 is a classic speakeasy-style bar. We tried to go here, but they were booked up. So you’ll definitely want to make a reservation ahead of time. The cocktails look to be creative and beautifully presented.

If you plan on visiting any of these spots, I’d definitely recommend making reservations.

27. IJ-Hallen Flea Market (Largest Flea Market in Europe)

If you’re in town the dates it’s happening, another one of the coolest things to do in Amsterdam is check out the IJ-Hallen Flea Market, the largest flea market in Europe! It takes place in Amsterdam Noord and attracts hundreds of vendors selling everything from vintage clothing and antiques to records, furniture, and unique secondhand finds.

The market only happens on select weekends throughout the year, so if you’re hoping to visit, it’s worth checking the schedule in advance. For anyone who loves treasure hunting or vintage shopping, this one looks like an absolute dream.

28. Bloemenmarkt (Amsterdam Flower Market)

The Bloemenmarkt is known as the world’s only floating flower market, with stalls sitting on houseboats along the Singel canal in the city center. It’s been around since the 1800s and is one of those places you’ll often see mentioned on lists of popular stops in Amsterdam.

That said, I’ll be honest about this one. While it’s a cool concept, you can’t really tell that it’s floating when you’re walking through it. The market itself is lined with stalls selling flower bulbs, souvenirs, and a few fresh bouquets, but it feels more like a typical street market than something truly unique.

We were also visiting a little before peak tulip season, so many of the tulip bouquets hadn’t fully bloomed yet. I was really hoping to grab some photos with a big bouquet of colorful tulips and was a little disappointed that they weren’t quite there yet. I will say though, if you’re visiting during peak tulip season, it’s probably a different experience.

You’ll likely pass by Bloemenmarkt while exploring the city center, so if you’re already nearby it’s worth taking a quick stroll through. But personally, it’s not something I’d go out of my way to see.

29. Visit NDSM Werf

NDSM Werf is another area worth exploring while you’re in Amsterdam Noord. This former shipyard has been transformed into one of the city’s most creative districts, filled with colorful street art, creative studios, waterfront bars, and cultural spaces.

It’s known for its massive murals and graffiti, which makes it a really cool place to walk around and take photos. There are also restaurants, cafes, and event spaces scattered throughout the area.

Unfortunately, we ran out of time before making it over here, but it’s definitely somewhere I’d prioritize on my next trip.

30. Explore the Jordaan Neighborhood

Another beautiful area to explore is the Jordaan neighborhood, which is known for its charming canals, narrow streets, and relaxed atmosphere. Originally built as a working-class district in the 17th century, Jordaan has transformed into one of the most desirable and picturesque neighborhoods in Amsterdam.

Walking through this area feels a little quieter and more residential compared to some of the busier parts of the city center. You’ll find independent boutiques, art galleries, cozy cafes, and small restaurants tucked along the canals. It’s the kind of neighborhood where you can wander without much of a plan and still stumble across something interesting.

Jordaan is also home to a few notable attractions, including the Anne Frank House, which sits along the edge of the neighborhood.

31. Visit Hortus Botanicus

If you enjoy botanical gardens, Hortus Botanicus is another place worth looking into while visiting Amsterdam. Located in the Plantage neighborhood, it’s one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, dating back to the 1600s.

The garden is home to thousands of plant species from around the world, along with beautiful greenhouses, butterfly houses, and tropical plants that create a really peaceful environment right in the middle of the city. Many people visit to wander through the gardens, explore the historic palm house, and enjoy a quieter side of Amsterdam away from the busy streets.

We didn’t end up visiting during our trip because we were there when the city wasn’t quite in bloom yet, so we figured it probably wasn’t the best time to experience it. But if you’re visiting in spring or summer, when everything is green and full of life, I imagine this would be a really beautiful stop.

Admission is also included with the I Amsterdam City Card, which makes it an easy addition if you’re already planning to explore that part of the city. Otherwise, adult tickets are €13.50 (about $15 USD).

32. Keep an Eye Out for the Flower Bikes

As you wander around Amsterdam, you might notice bicycles completely covered in bright flowers chained to bridges or railings along the canals. They’re such a cheerful sight and make for fun photos, but there’s also a really sweet story behind them.

Our canal cruise captain told us that the bikes were placed around the city by a man whose wife had dementia. He decorated the bikes with colorful flowers and placed them throughout Amsterdam so that if she ever got lost while walking around, the bright bikes would help her recognize where she was and find her way home.

The flower bikes have become a small symbol of love and creativity in Amsterdam, and spotting them along the canals is one of those little details that make exploring the city even more special.

33. Noordermarkt

If you happen to be exploring the Jordaan neighborhood, you may want to check out Noordermarkt, a small but charming market held in the square next to the Noorderkerk church. It’s not nearly as large as some of the other markets in the city, but it has a really nice local feel.

The market takes place on Saturdays and Mondays, and each day has a slightly different vibe. Saturday is the bigger and more popular market, featuring a mix of organic foods, fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and artisan products. It’s a great spot to grab a snack or browse some local goods while wandering through Jordaan.

On Mondays, the market shifts more toward antiques, vintage items, and secondhand treasures, making it a fun stop if you enjoy flea markets and browsing for unique finds.

34. Take a Food Tour

If you love trying local food when you travel, a food tour is a great way to experience Amsterdam through its flavors. There are several guided food tours led by locals that take you through different neighborhoods while introducing you to traditional Dutch snacks, local favorites, and hidden spots you might not find on your own. This one and this tour are two of the most highly rated food tours!

If you’d rather explore at your own pace, the I Amsterdam City Card also offers self-guided food tours through certain neighborhoods like De Pijp and Jordaan. These routes highlight different food stops and local specialties so you can create your own little tasting adventure while wandering through the area.

I actually didn’t realize this option was included with the pass until after we had already explored both neighborhoods, which was such a bummer because it would have been a really fun way to plan our stops along the way.

35. Take a Day Trip from Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a great base for exploring other parts of the Netherlands, and there are plenty of beautiful places you can visit within an hour or so of the city. That said, if you have four days or less in Amsterdam, I personally wouldn’t recommend taking a day trip. There’s so much to see and do within the city itself that it’s easy to fill your entire itinerary without leaving.

But if you have extra time, here are a few of the most popular day trips people love taking from Amsterdam:

• Zaanse Schans – One of the most famous day trips, known for its historic windmills, wooden houses, and traditional Dutch crafts like cheese-making and wooden shoe demonstrations. It’s a great place to see the classic Dutch countryside scenery.
• Keukenhof Gardens – If you’re visiting in the spring during tulip season, Keukenhof is one of the most colorful places you can go. Millions of tulips bloom across the gardens each year, making it one of the most famous flower displays in the world.
• Haarlem – A charming historic city just 15 minutes away by train. Haarlem has beautiful canals, a lively market square, great restaurants, and a slightly quieter atmosphere compared to Amsterdam.

Food + Coffee Spots Worth Checking Out

Amsterdam also has a ton of great spots for breakfast, coffee, and dinner. I mentioned Restaurant Ferry earlier, but here are a few others that really stood out to me during the trip:

• Bagelboy – Amazing bagel sandwiches and, honestly, the perfect breakfast after a night out. They also have a location near Museumplein, which makes it a great place to fuel up before visiting the museums.
• Coffee District – Another great coffee spot with a location near the museums. They don’t really do flavored syrups (which can be tough for some of us Americans), but I loved mine with brown sugar and honey.
• Chun Cafe – This is another place that people either love or think is overhyped, but I personally thought it was really good. Their Japanese-style fluffy egg sandwich was insanely good, and I really enjoyed my matcha. If there’s a huge line, I probably wouldn’t wait since there are so many good spots in the city, but we got there right when they opened and didn’t have much of a wait. Ordering to-go can also help you skip some of the line.
• Secret Garden – Incredible Asian food in a stunning restaurant. It’s also located near several of the cocktail bars I mentioned earlier, so it’s a great dinner option before or after drinks.
• Little Bonfire – Such a cool, cozy, and romantic spot with amazing food. We ordered the grilled artichoke, scallops and shrimp, the entrecôte (steak), and the pan-fried cod, and everything was fantastic. They absolutely crushed it.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam

When researching where to stay in Amsterdam, I kept seeing people recommend the Jordaan neighborhood because of its charming canals, boutique hotels, and quieter atmosphere.

We actually ended up staying at the Kimpton De Witt Hotel in the Historic Center (Centrum) area, and I thought it was the perfect location for a first visit to Amsterdam. It’s about a 5-minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station, which made getting to and from the airport really easy with luggage. It’s also a short walk to the free ferries that take you across the IJ River, and there’s a tram stop right outside the hotel that connects to areas like Museumplein, where many of the museums are located.

The hotel itself is super stylish, the staff were amazing, and their cafe had some of my favorite coffee from the trip. They also have a bar, restaurant, and the free Kimpton wine happy hour, which is always a nice bonus. Overall, I was really happy with our choice and would absolutely stay here again.

If you’d prefer to stay closer to Jordaan, a few hotels we considered were Pulitzer Amsterdam and The Hoxton Amsterdam, which are both trendy canalside stays, and Hotel Mercier, a cute boutique hotel with art deco style!

For pricing and all available options for your dates, check here!

FAQ When Visiting Amsterdam

Getting Around Amsterdam

Getting around Amsterdam is actually really easy, and one of the things I loved most about the city is how many different transportation options you have. During our trip we ended up using just about every method—walking, trams, trains, bikes, ferries, and even the occasional Uber—and everything was surprisingly simple to navigate.

• Walking – Amsterdam is an incredibly walkable city, especially in the city center where many of the main attractions are fairly close together. Some of my favorite moments were just wandering along the canals and exploring different neighborhoods on foot. We were putting in 20-30,000 steps/day!
• Trams – The tram system is one of the easiest ways to get around the city. The routes cover most of the main areas and run frequently throughout the day. If you have the I Amsterdam City Card, tram rides are included, which makes hopping around the city really convenient.
• Metro – The metro is helpful for getting to areas that are a bit farther outside the central canal belt. We used it a few times and found it just as easy to navigate as the tram system.
• Trains – Trains are mainly useful if you’re arriving from the airport or planning day trips outside the city. Amsterdam Central Station is the main hub and connects to cities all over the Netherlands.
• Bikes – Biking is one of the most common ways locals get around. You’ll see bikes everywhere. While it can feel a little intimidating at first, renting one is a great way to explore areas like parks and quieter neighborhoods.
• Ferries – Amsterdam also has free ferries that cross the IJ River from behind Amsterdam Central Station to Amsterdam Noord. We used the ferry to get to the A’DAM Lookout, and there are a couple of different ferry routes that run frequently throughout the day.
• Uber – If you need a ride late at night or just want something quick and direct, Uber is widely available and easy to use throughout the city.

Between all of these options, getting around Amsterdam is really straightforward, and you’ll likely find yourself using a mix of them throughout your trip.

Tips for Visiting Amsterdam

• Give yourself time to wander – Some of the best moments in Amsterdam come from getting a little lost exploring the canals and neighborhoods, so try not to overpack your itinerary.
• Consider the I Amsterdam City Card – If you plan to visit several attractions, the pass can be a great value. It includes entry to many museums and experiences, canal cruises, bike rentals, and unlimited public transportation on trams, buses, and metros, which makes getting around the city really easy.
• Book popular attractions in advance – Some of the most popular spots, like the Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum, require timed entry tickets, and the Anne Frank House can sell out weeks in advance, so it’s best to reserve those early.
• Most places take cards (and many prefer it) – Amsterdam is very card-friendly, and in many cases, places actually prefer or only accept card payments. During our trip, the only place we encountered that wanted cash was Waterlooplein Market.
• Use an eSIM for data – If you want reliable data while traveling, an eSIM is a really convenient option. I used Airalo, and it was super easy to set up and worked great throughout our trip.
• Tipping works a little differently – Since service workers are paid a livable wage, tipping isn’t as expected as it is in the U.S., but it’s still appreciated. Around 5% at cafes and 10% at bars and restaurants is typical. One thing to note is that sometimes you have to tell them you want to add a tip before they run your card, which can be easy to forget if you’re not used to it.
• Watch out for bikes – Amsterdam has more bikes than people, and cyclists move quickly through the city. Always check bike lanes before stepping into the street.
• Pack layers – The weather can change a lot throughout the day. We visited in early March, and some days we were very chilly even with sweaters and coats, while other moments a short-sleeve shirt would have been perfectly fine.
• Rain is common – Amsterdam is known for unpredictable rain, so it’s a good idea to check the forecast before heading out and bring a small umbrella or rain jacket just in case.

Are you ready to experience the best things to do in Amsterdam?!

Amsterdam is one of those cities that’s just really fun to explore! Between wandering the canals, popping into cozy cafes, checking out world-class museums, and discovering new neighborhoods, there are so many amazing things to do in Amsterdam, no matter what kind of traveler you are.

I hope this guide gave you a few ideas for your own trip. And if you’re anything like me, don’t be surprised if you leave already planning your next visit!

Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Europe blog posts:

How to Spend 2 Days in Budapest

Must-Try Food Italy is Famous For

Culture Shock You May Experience in Europe