10 Best Things To Do In Amsterdam

Amsterdam also known as the Venice of the North is the capital and main financial and economic hub of the Netherlands. Have you ever wondered what makes this city so enchanting? Its renowned historical sites, outstanding art collections, and the unique color and flavor of its older neighborhoods, which have been conserved so well contribute to its charm. Did you know out of every major town worldwide, the Dutch capital boasts the most museums in every square meter? Fascinating right? Furthermore, compared to Venice and Paris, Amsterdam boasts more bridges as well as canals and is also home to the tiniest house in all of Europe.

No matter what time of the year, Amsterdam offers a plethora of activities because of its charming network of canals, vibrant culinary scene, extensive history, and amazing building designs, which make it among the most visited cities. So, without any further ado, let’s explore the 10 best things to do in Amsterdam:

If you want to experience a lot of the city's highlights in a single day, the Museumplein is without a doubt among the greatest sites to visit in Amsterdam. In addition to a number of well-known museums that are all accessible by foot in this region, there's the Royal Concertgebouw. Because of its excellent acoustics and in-house orchestra—which is among the greatest in the world—this music venue has received great praise. What’s more, among the most romantic activities to do around Amsterdam is to attend an evening performance here. Furthermore, on all Wednesdays, they also provide free midday concerts (with the exception of July & August).

Are you looking for the best Amsterdam attractions to visit? Check out this place. The world's biggest collection of paintings and sketches by Van Gogh, which includes "Sunflowers" as well as "Almond Blossom," is kept in the Van Gogh Museum. The institution itself is among the most popular in the Netherlands, but also a major attraction within Amsterdam. Furthermore, visitors travel from across the globe to view the artworks produced by the artist.  Lastly, due to Van Gogh's fame, tourists are strongly advised to buy tickets online to avoid long lineups.

National Tulip Day is celebrated throughout the country, but Amsterdam stands out with its particularly delightful gardens. The temporary garden created for this event bursts with color, showcasing over 200,000 tulips. To attend, plan your visit for the third Saturday of January, when the celebration occurs. The festival takes place at Dam Square, conveniently located in the heart of the city in Burgwallen Oude Zijde.

Vondelpark is the largest and most popular park in Amsterdam, offering a family-friendly café, several eateries, and an outdoor theater. It’s one of the best spots in the city for a picnic and soaking up the sun. After a long day of museum visits, it’s the perfect place to unwind, especially since it’s located just a short distance from the famous Museumplein. Additionally, Vondelpark is a great destination for birdwatching, with a variety of species such as white storks and grey herons to spot. If you're looking for the best activities to enjoy with kids in Amsterdam, taking them to Vondelpark is a must!

Visiting the Anne Frank House offers a profound insight into life in Amsterdam during the Occupation. The Frank family lived in a hidden annex here from 1942 until 1944, supported by individuals who provided them with food obtained illegally. Tragically, in 1944, German authorities discovered their hiding place, and the entire Frank family was deported—first to the Westerbork transit camp and later to Bergen-Belsen and Auschwitz. During this harrowing time, Anne documented her experiences in her famous diary. After the war, her father, the only family member to survive, published her writings. This museum is undoubtedly one of the most moving places to visit, offering a poignant reminder of the impact of the Holocaust.

Among the top tourist destinations in Amsterdam is this charming neighborhood named Jordaan, where you may just go around while enjoying your time. It has two parts, Jordaan North serves as a tangle of bustling workshops, peaceful eateries, and narrow lanes and it also boasts numerous ‘true’ Jordaaners, open-minded students, craftsmen, and tradesmen who were born and raised in the quarter. On the other hand, individualistic stores line the charming small lanes of Jordaan South, which are next to the bigger canals making everything about it idyllic.

Searching for what to see in Amsterdam? Well!  Visit this place. Slightly towards the north lies the renowned Rijksmuseum also known as the Museum of the Netherlands featuring a huge, jumbled collection that finds its influence from the city itself. After ten years of renovations, this national cultural asset house reopened with a beautiful new appearance! Moreover, the newly constructed Phillips Wing here features a café, a photographic gallery, and space for temporary exhibitions. With approximately 8,000 items spread across eighty galleries, it provides a comprehensive overview of eight hundred years of Dutch history as well as art, spanning from medieval times to the Mondrian.

The Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) is a vibrant shopping district in Amsterdam, renowned for its unique blend of independent boutiques, vintage shops, and trendy cafés. This charming area features nine picturesque streets nestled between the Prinsengracht and Singel canals, making it a perfect spot for leisurely exploration. Here, you can discover local designers, quirky fashion finds, and artisan products that capture the spirit of Amsterdam. Don’t miss the opportunity to relax at one of the many cozy cafés, such as Café de Flore or The Cold Pressed Juicery, while enjoying the stunning views of the historic 17th-century architecture that lines the canals. With its hip atmosphere and distinctive offerings, the Nine Streets is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the city’s stylish side.

Looking to escape the crowds while still enjoying the trendy vibe of the Nine Streets? Head to De Pijp! Once a working-class area, it has transformed into a fashionable neighborhood that’s reminiscent of Shoreditch. While there are no canals here, De Pijp is the ideal place to gain a deeper understanding of Amsterdam and see how the city truly operates.

It’s also a great spot for breakfast, boasting a variety of fantastic restaurants and bars, such as Scandinavian Embassy and Little Collins, known for their delicious brunch offerings. If you want an authentic Amsterdam experience, be sure to visit the Albert Cuyp Market, one of the best places in the city to try stroopwafels. And for beer enthusiasts, the Heineken Experience is also located in this vibrant district!

Oude Kerk, or the Old Church, is the oldest building in Amsterdam and the first church of the Amestelledamme fishing community. Remarkably, its 13th-century tower and 15th-century chapel have survived numerous fires over the years. Not only is it a historical landmark, but it’s also one of the most stunning structures in the city, making it one of the best things to do in Amsterdam for those who love historic places.

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