Best Things to Do and Activities in Amsterdam

There’s no shortage of unforgettable activities in Amsterdam, no matter what kind of traveler you are. The city effortlessly blends history and innovation, offering everything from world‑class architecture and iconic museums to charming canals and vibrant neighborhoods.

Beyond its cultural landmarks, Amsterdam boasts a rich and diverse food scene shaped by global influences and local traditions, making it a destination just as exciting for food lovers as it is for art and design enthusiasts. Whether you’re exploring centuries‑old streets, cycling along picturesque waterways, or discovering local flavors in hidden cafés, Amsterdam delivers memorable experiences at every turn.

Visit Amsterdam’s Museums: Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House and more

Old European cities like Amsterdam have hundreds, if not thousands, of years of history packed into their winding streets. Part of any sightseeing experience in Amsterdam has to include a visit to the Rijksmuseum, which houses hundreds of paintings and other works of art from the Dutch Golden Age to the present. 

As any art historian will know, Vincent van Gogh himself has his own museum here, which is well worth the experience of seeing the great painter’s original artwork in the way he would have wanted to present it. 

After visiting the Van Gogh Museum, take a tour of the Heineken original brewery. You can take a self-guided tour of the first Heineken brewery in the world and learn about how the now-famous beer got its start. Experience 3D multimedia exhibits and get yourself a couple of beers on the house for your trouble. 

For anyone at all interested in history, visit the Anne Frank House and discover the details and hidden stories behind the famous diary. Anne Frank and her family lived there for more than two years during the Second World War, in a small hidden space, concealed behind a movable bookshelf. Walking through the rooms makes her stories feel real in a way books rarely can.

Parks, Dungeons, and Wax

For some downtime or a relaxing walk, join the locals in Vondelpark where, if the sun is shining, you’ll find roller-skaters showing off their moves, families and friends gathered around barbecues, and couples taking a romantic stroll. It’s much quieter there during the winter months, but still an escape from the pace of the city, and it remains one of the most popular activities in Amsterdam year-round.

More active fun – for all the family – can be had in Madame Tussauds, where you can meet your favorite celebrity in wax form. And for brave souls, why not head to Rokin to the Amsterdam Dungeon for a creepy thrill that takes you through 500 years of its dark history. A less scary way to learn is within the NEMO Science Museum, with interactive exhibits, experiments, and secrets that will amaze young and old.

Enjoy a 360-degree View of Amsterdam

One of the most popular tourist activities in Amsterdam is visiting the lookout on the 20th and 21st floors of the A'DAM Tower. Here, you can experience a breathtaking view of the city. There is also a restaurant on the 19th floor that revolves gently, giving diners a 360-degree panoramic view while they eat. What many people miss, though, is the free ferry trip to the tower, which offers more unique views of downtown and beyond.

Eat Dutch Fries in Amsterdam

Some of the best things to do in Amsterdam involve eating. With so many fry shops across the city, here is our guide to a few local favorites. Don’t miss out on these famous fries in Amsterdam.

Vleminckx

Located near the Spui tram station, this small shop is easy to miss at first, if not for the long lines outside. Do not be scared off, as the line moves rather quickly and the prices are easy on the wallet, and the service is friendly. You can choose from different toppings such as samurai sauce, garlic sauce, or the classic Dutch mayo, thicker and creamier than its international counterparts. While drinks are not served, nearby bars in the vicinity serve chilled beer to wash down your specialty Dutch fries in Amsterdam. Vleminckx closes at 7 pm, so make sure to be there on time.

Manneken Pis

Known for serving the best fries in the Netherlands, Manneken Pis is a famous chain that stays busy until late at night. The portions are quite generous, and the potatoes are crisped to perfection. They offer a wide selection of toppings and sauces to choose from, including the traditional Dutch curry sauce. Manneken Pis is close to Central Station, near the Damrak, making it easy to hunt down. The lines may be long, but that is only because the fries are a must-try. Even without outdoor seating, plenty of locals are happy to stand outside and eat their fries. 

Frites Uit Zuid

For a more relaxed dinner on a terrace with a glass of wine in hand, try Frites Uit Zuid. Its gourmet, homemade fries are expertly prepared, perfectly seasoned, crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Try pairing them with in-house delicacies such as shrimp croquettes, soft shell crab, oysters, mussels, and frikandel (minced hot dog). Their friendly service and relaxed atmosphere make the experience even more enjoyable.

Fabel Friet

The lines are long at this famous fries shop in Amsterdam but take heart: the line moves fast and the fries are well worth the wait. Fans of Dutch fries praise Fabel Friet for its creamy, high-end take on this classic snack.

Heertje Friet

Visitors and locals alike flock to Heertje Friet for their uniquely thick-cut fries. If you take a trip here, be sure to try their truffle parmesan option.

Fries are somewhat of a culinary obsession in Holland. Make sure you feast on them while in Amsterdam!

Discover Amsterdam’s Shopping Streets 

One of the best activities in Amsterdam is perusing the world-class shops and boutiques that populate this city’s old canals and streets.

Downtown Amsterdam has everything required for the avid shopper. There are two long shopping streets, Kalverstraat and Nieuwendijk, which are the most well-known and host the likes of Zara, H&M, and Primark.

If, however, you are looking for something a little more authentic, we have De Negen Straatjes (literally, nine streets). Here you can find local merchants in quaint boutiques with their own unique products. 

For more upmarket brand names, including Louis Vuitton and Hermes, head to De Bijenkorf (Beehive), a huge department store at Dam square, or try PC Hooftstraat, which has been labeled the Rodeo Drive of Amsterdam.

Make a Day Trip to Zaanse Schans and Volendam

Zaanse Schans and Volendam are two small Dutch villages just outside of Amsterdam. They make a quaint and easy day trip from the city. Zaanse Schans is known for its windmills, which still work as they did centuries ago, its famous clog workshop and its cheese farm. Volendam is a bit more popular with tourists but is still worth a visit. There, you can peruse traditional clothing stores, its harbor and ferry on Markermeer Lake, and its exquisite, higher-end dining options.

Rent a Bike and Cycle around Amsterdam Parks

Cycling like a local is easily one of the most authentic things to do in Amsterdam.  While cycling through the city center can be a bit overwhelming at first, you can start with quieter areas like Vondelpark or Amsterdam Bos, which have wide paths and green surroundings. It’s a great way to slow down and experience it. 

Bike rentals are easy to find across the city, whether you want to explore for a few hours, cycle through the countryside, or take a bike tour.

Experience Amsterdam Culture in the Red Light District

You know of Amsterdam’s reputation as a party city, but the Red Light District is much more than a place to have a good time. There is history, culture, and the beating heart of the city in this area. Learn more about it and how it came to be known as a place of revelry the world over. 

Discover Rembrandt’s Techniques in a Paint-Making Workshop

Join a paint-making workshop guided by a Rembrandt expert and create your own pigments by grinding minerals and mixing them with oils. Afterwards, visit the Rembrandt Museum to learn more about the artist’s techniques and the craftsmanship behind Dutch Golden Age painting. 

The mix of these two activities is a great way to understand more about the creative process behind Rembrandt’s work while connecting with one of Amsterdam’s most influential artistic periods.

Explore Amsterdam Canals with a Private Amstel Boat Tour 

For a different kind of sightseeing in Amsterdam, head to the canals. You will depart from a private dock on an exclusive boat tour that takes you along the Amstel River and Amsterdam’s historic canals.

As you glide past historic houses, bridges, and hidden courtyards, the route offers a deeper sense of the city’s character, architecture and relationship with the water. It’s a relaxing and memorable way to experience the city.

Follow Rembrandt’s Story Through Amsterdam’s Historic Landmarks

Take a private walking tour through Amsterdam’s Golden Age, following in the footsteps of one of its most famous painters: Rembrandt. A local guide will take you to key locations across the city center, to learn more about his life, such as his former home and studio, the Zuiderkerk, and the historic De Waag.

Along the way, you’ll gain a better understanding of his work and his connection to the city. The tour starts at Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam Hotel, the historic hotel where Rembrandt’s The Night Watch hung for more than 70 years before being moved to the Rijksmuseum.

Taste Traditional Dutch Sweets

Amsterdam is also known for its sweet snacks and bakeries, and no visit feels complete without trying fresh stroopwafel, thin waffle cookies with warm caramel syrup. There are Dutch classic and can be found across the city, at local shops like Rudi’s Original Stroopwafels or the markets.

For another treat, stop at Van Stapele Koekmakerij, a bakery famous for its chocolate cookies with soft filling. The shop bakes a small batch every day and closes when it sells out, so expect a line if you are visiting in the afternoon.

Experience Dutch Tulips in Bloom on a Spring Day Trip

Spring is one of the best times to visit the Netherlands, and one of the reasons is the tulip season. 

Usually from March and May, you can experience a unique trip to the tulip fields just outside the city. Take a ride in a vintage car to the Tulip Experience Amsterdam, where you can see rows of colorful flowers in full bloom.

All of these activities in Amsterdam are easily accessible via the city’s renowned public transit system, which connects to all the most popular sightseeing destinations and runs frequently throughout the day. Night buses are available on selected routes. 

Don’t miss your opportunity to stay and play at one of our hotels in Amsterdam. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What cool things to do in Amsterdam are family-friendly?

The short answer is that almost all of Amsterdam’s famous attractions are made for everyone. Museums are great for children, as are Amsterdam’s many parks and bike lanes. If you’re traveling with children, be sure to take them out to the countryside or get them a plate of Dutch fries!

How long should I expect to stay in Amsterdam if I want to experience everything on this list? 

If you want to visit some of the most popular attractions and try different activities around Amsterdam, take at least 3 days. To do it right, you should try to stay for at least a week in Amsterdam to fully experience everything it has to offer. 

Is the Red Light District safe? 

Yes, Amsterdam’s laws regarding the sale of things that are illegal in other countries actually make the Red Light District in Amsterdam safer than similar areas in other cities. It comes alive at night. As with any popular area, it’s still important to be aware of your surroundings and be respectful of the locals and workers in the area. We recommend not taking photos, especially in the windows. 

When is the best time to visit Amsterdam?

The best season to visit Amsterdam is probably spring, from March to May, when the tulips are in full bloom, and the weather is pleasant. Another good option is between June and September, when you enjoy warmer days and festivals around the city. 

Amsterdam is known for its unpredictable weather and frequent rain throughout the year, so a sunny day is always something to appreciate. 

Is cycling in Amsterdam safe for visitors?

Cycling in Amsterdam can feel a bit intimidating at first, especially in the busier areas, where locals move fast. But once you get used to the bike lanes and the rhythm of the city, it becomes much easier.

If it’s your first time riding in the city, quieter areas like the parks or the canals outside the city center are a better place to start. Take it slow and pay attention to the cyclists around you.

What food is Amsterdam known for?

Amsterdam's food scene offers a mix of hearty comfort dishes, sweet treats and fried snacks. You cannot miss trying the famous fries in Amsterdam, typically served with a traditional Dutch mayonnaise or other sauces. 

The city is also known for local favorites like stroopwafels, herring, and bitterballen, which you’ll often find in markets, street stalls, and casual bars.

What are the best things to do in Amsterdam for young adults?

The city is full of interesting museums, like the Moco Museum and social activities such as canal cruises. If you want to feel like a local, biking through the city is a great idea.

Head to neighborhoods like De Pijp or Jordaan, and stroll along its trendy cafés, local markets, and lively bars. Amsterdam is also known for having a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of pubs, music venues and clubs to explore.