Things to do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a city that mixes history, culture, and everyday local life. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or staying longer, there’s always something to discover.

Explore the canals

A canal cruise is the most iconic way to see the city. Choose from classic tours, dinner cruises, or evening rides when the bridges and houses are beautifully lit. Walking or cycling along the canals at sunrise also offers a unique, quieter perspective.

Highlights:

Classic canal cruises for sightseeing
Dinner or themed cruises (wine, music)
Evening cruises when bridges and houses are lit
Walking or cycling along canals at sunrise

World-class museums

Amsterdam is home to some of the world’s most famous museums. The Rijksmuseum features Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Dutch Golden Age art. The Van Gogh Museum houses the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works. For a moving historical experience, visit the Anne Frank House. Always book tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

Must-visit museums:

Rijksmuseum: Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Dutch Golden Age art
Van Gogh Museum: Largest collection of Van Gogh’s works
Anne Frank House: Historical and powerful experience
NEMO Science Museum: Interactive and family-friendly

Local neighbourhoods

Beyond the main attractions, Amsterdam’s charm is in its neighbourhoods. The Jordaan is filled with narrow streets, cafés, and boutique shops. Nearby, De 9 Straatjes (Nine Streets) is perfect for small fashion stores and local brands. For a lively, multicultural atmosphere, visit De Pijp, home to the Albert Cuyp Market.

Top areas to explore:

Jordaan: Narrow streets, boutique shops, cafés
De 9 Straatjes: Small fashion stores, local brands
De Pijp: Vibrant, multicultural area with Albert Cuyp Market
Oost & Westerpark: Trendy areas with parks, street art, cafés

Green spaces and parks

Take a break from the busy streets in Vondelpark, the city’s most famous park. Locals come here for cycling, running, or simply relaxing in the sun. Smaller parks such as Westerpark and Oosterpark also offer space for walking, picnics, and open-air events.

Popular parks:

Vondelpark: Cycling, running, picnics
Westerpark: Outdoor events, cafés
Oosterpark: Relaxation and local vibe

Markets and street life

Amsterdam’s markets are a mix of culture and daily life. Waterlooplein is famous for vintage and flea market finds. Noordermarkt is known for organic food and crafts. For a taste of Amsterdam’s diversity, Dappermarkt offers international street food and fresh produce.

Notable markets:

Waterlooplein: Vintage and flea market finds
Noordermarkt: Organic food and crafts
Dappermarkt: Multicultural food and fresh produce
Albert Cuyp Market: Iconic street food and souvenirs

Amsterdam Noord and ferries

Take a free ferry across the IJ River to explore Amsterdam Noord. This area has grown into a cultural hub with street art, waterfront cafés, and the NDSM Wharf — once a shipyard, now filled with creative spaces. Ferries are free for pedestrians and cyclists, making it an easy and affordable trip.

What to do in Noord:

NDSM Wharf: Creative spaces, street art
Waterfront cafés and restaurants
Free ferries for pedestrians and cyclists
Local galleries and exhibitions

Nightlife and evening walks

Amsterdam offers nightlife for every taste. From live jazz bars and breweries to nightclubs, there is something for everyone. A quieter option is an evening walk along the canals, when the bridges and historic houses are lit up.

Evening options:

Jazz bars and live music venues
Craft beer breweries and pubs
Nightclubs and entertainment districts
Evening walks along canals and bridges

Day trips beyond the city

Trains from Amsterdam connect you to nearby towns within 30–40 minutes. Visit Haarlem for history and shopping, Utrecht for canals and cafés, or Zaanse Schans to see traditional windmills and Dutch crafts. Coastal towns like Zandvoort are also great for a beach day.