Amsterdam Top 10 Things To Do

Amsterdam is one of the world’s most beloved cities, attracting millions of visitors each year with its distinctive architecture, vibrant culture, and canals. This iconic Dutch city lies on the banks of the River Amstel and is one of the most popular destinations in Europe. With its unique atmosphere and world-famous attractions, Amsterdam is the perfect place to explore and discover.

History of Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with origins dating back to the late 12th century. Founded as a fishing village, it quickly became an important trading hub. The city flourished during the Dutch Golden Age, when it was the center of the Dutch East India Company and a major port for many trading routes. Its strategic location also made it a hub for international banking, and by the 19th century, Amsterdam had become a major international financial center. Today, Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and one of the top tourist destinations in Europe.

Facts about Amsterdam

Amsterdam is home to more than 800,000 people, making it the largest city in the Netherlands. The city boasts a wide variety of attractions, from its iconic canals and bridges to its world-famous museums and galleries. Amsterdam is renowned for its nightlife and creative culture, with its numerous bars, clubs, and cafés providing locals and visitors with plenty of entertainment.

The city is also well known for its unique architecture. Buildings in Amsterdam are typically narrow and tall, due to the city’s long history with restrictive building regulations. Many buildings have been built with distinctive features such as gables, bay windows, and stepped gables. Amsterdam is also home to a number of bridges, which cross over the city’s many canals.

Things to Do in Amsterdam

There are plenty of things to do in Amsterdam, from exploring its iconic canals to visiting its world-famous museums. Here are our top 10 things to do in Amsterdam:

1. Visit the Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Amsterdam. Located in a 17th-century canal house, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into the world of Anne Frank, who wrote her famous diary while hiding from Nazi persecution during World War II. Inside the house, you can explore a replica of the Secret Annex where Anne and her family hid, as well as an exhibition on her life and legacy.

2. Stroll Through Vondelpark

Vondelpark is one of Amsterdam’s most famous parks and a great spot to relax and enjoy some fresh air. Located just south of the city center, it features lush green lawns, ponds, sculptures, and plenty of pathways to explore. It’s also home to a number of cafés and restaurants, so you can grab a bite to eat while you’re there.

3. Go Canal Cruising

One of the best ways to explore Amsterdam is by taking a canal cruise. You can take a tour along one of the city’s many canals and admire its iconic buildings from the water. As you cruise along, you’ll get an up-close look at some of Amsterdam’s most famous landmarks like the Magere Brug bridge and Westerkerk church.

4. Visit the Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is one of Amsterdam’s top cultural attractions and houses an extensive collection of Dutch art and artifacts from the past centuries. The museum features works by some of the country’s most famous painters such as Rembrandt van Rijn and Johannes Vermeer, as well as an impressive collection of furniture, silverware, ceramics, and more.

5. Explore Jordaan Neighborhood

Jordaan is an up-and-coming neighborhood in Amsterdam that is known for its narrow cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. You can explore Jordaan’s many galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and cafés as you wander through its charming streets. The area is also home to some of Amsterdam’s best market stalls, so you can pick up some souvenirs while you’re there.

6. Take a Bike Tour

Amsterdam is known for its extensive network of bicycle paths and bike lanes, making it one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in Europe. To take in all that Amsterdam has to offer, join a bike tour that will take you around the city’s most famous sights. From quaint canal houses to bustling markets, you’ll get an up-close look at some of Amsterdam’s most popular attractions.

7. Visit Westerkerk Church

The Westerkerk Church is an iconic landmark in Amsterdam that has been standing since 1620. It is located just off Dam Square and features a striking Renaissance-style tower that stands 85 meters tall. Inside the church, you can admire its impressive interior as well as its beautiful stained-glass windows.

8. See a Show at Concertgebouw

Concertgebouw is one of Amsterdam’s premier performance venues and hosts concerts by some of the world’s most renowned musicians. The concert hall features two auditoriums that can accommodate up to 1,900 people and offers excellent acoustics for any type of performance.

9. Check Out Bloemenmarkt

Bloemenmarkt is a unique floating market located along one of Amsterdam’s canals that has been around since 1862. Here you can find a variety of flowers, bulbs, plants, seeds, souvenirs, and more. You can also enjoy some Dutch snacks like stroopwafels or poffertjes while you browse the stalls.

10. Take a Food Tour

Amsterdam has no shortage of delicious food options from traditional Dutch favorites like bitterballen and poffertjes to international cuisine from all over the world. To sample some of these tasty treats, join a food tour that will take you around some of Amsterdam’s best restaurants and eateries.

Tours in Amsterdam

Along with exploring on your own, taking a tour is one of the best ways to get to know Amsterdam and discover its hidden gems. Here are two popular tours to consider while visiting Amsterdam:

Amsterdam Highlights Bike Tour

The Amsterdam Highlights Bike Tour is a great way to explore the city at your own pace while seeing some of its top attractions. This three-hour tour takes you around some of Amsterdam’s most famous sights on two wheels including Dam Square, Anne Frank House, Vondelpark, and much more. You’ll also get to take a break at some local cafés to grab a bite or a drink while you’re there. The tour includes a knowledgeable guide who will provide you with insights into each location as well as tips on where to go afterwards. Book an Amsterdam Highlights Bike Tour here.

Amsterdam Red Light District Walking Tour

The Red Light District is one of Amsterdam’s most notorious areas and a must-see for any visitor to the city. This two-hour walking tour takes you through this fascinating district where you’ll learn about its history, culture, and architecture as well as see some of its famous attractions like Oude Kerk (Old Church) and De Wallen (The Wall). You’ll also get an up-close look at the area’s many shops selling everything from sex toys to marijuana paraphernalia. With an experienced guide leading you around every step of the way, this tour offers an eye-opening experience into one of Amsterdam’s most unique neighborhoods. Book an Amsterdam Red Light Walking Tour here.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or simply want to relax and explore all that Amsterdam has to offer, there’s something for everyone here! With its rich history and vibrant culture, this Dutch city is sure to provide you with plenty of memorable experiences during your visit!