A Guide to the Best Places to See in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a city that has been beloved by visitors for centuries. From its stunning canals, to its vibrant nightlife, to its centuries-old museums and galleries, Amsterdam has something to offer everyone. As the nation’s capital, it’s no surprise that Amsterdam is packed full of attractions, sights and activities.

With so much to do in Amsterdam, it can be hard to know where to begin. To help you make the most of your visit to this beautiful city, here is a guide to some of the best places to see in Amsterdam.

Historical Landmarks and Attractions

No visit to Amsterdam would be complete without seeing some of the city’s most famous landmarks. From ancient churches and museums to grand canals and iconic buildings, you’ll find plenty of historical attractions in Amsterdam.

One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is The Royal Palace on Dam Square. Built in 1655 for the ruling family of the Dutch Republic, The Royal Palace is an impressive building that stands out against the surrounding cityscape. The palace is open to the public and offers guided tours.

Next, head to the Anne Frank House, located on Prinsengracht canal. This moving museum is dedicated to Anne Frank, a Jewish girl who kept a diary of her experiences during World War II as she and her family hid from Nazi persecution in an attic of this very building. Today, visitors can explore the house and learn more about Anne’s story.

To learn more about Amsterdam’s history, visit the Rijksmuseum. Located in Museumplein, this vast museum houses collections of Dutch art and artifacts, as well as works by renowned European masters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer and Hals.

No trip to Amsterdam would be complete without seeing some of the city’s stunning canals. Take a stroll along the Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht canals and admire their stunning architecture. Or, for a more unique experience, take a ride on one of the city’s iconic canal boats.

Finally, no visit to Amsterdam is complete without a visit to the world-famous Van Gogh Museum. Located in the heart of the city, this museum houses the largest collection of works by Dutch master Vincent van Gogh in the world.

Museums, Galleries and Other Cultural Attractions

In addition to its stunning historical attractions, Amsterdam is home to some of Europe’s best museums and galleries.

Start your cultural tour with a visit to the Stedelijk Museum. Located in Museum Square, this vast museum houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. From paintings by Dutch masters such as Mondrian and Van Doesburg, to works by international artists such as Picasso and Matisse, the Stedelijk has something for everyone.

Next, head to the Hermitage Amsterdam, located in the former Amstelhof building on Amstelkade. This museum is part of a larger network of museums around the world and showcases works from Russia’s imperial art collection. It also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

For a more unique museum experience, visit the Houseboat Museum on Prinsengracht canal. This museum is housed in a former houseboat and offers visitors a glimpse into Amsterdam’s maritime history.

Finally, don’t miss out on the city’s thriving art scene. From small galleries tucked away in narrow alleyways to large contemporary art spaces located in some of the city’s most iconic buildings, you’ll find plenty of galleries in Amsterdam showcasing works by both established and emerging artists.

Parks and Gardens

No visit to Amsterdam would be complete without taking some time out to relax in one of its beautiful parks and gardens.

Start your exploration with Vondelpark, located in the heart of Amsterdam. This vast park is a perfect place for an afternoon stroll or a picnic lunch. It also hosts various events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts and festivals.

Next, head to Westerpark. Located in the western part of Amsterdam, this park has something for everyone: peaceful gardens, art installations, a petting zoo and plenty of outdoor seating areas where you can sit back and relax.

For something a bit more off-the-beaten-track, take a walk through Sarphatipark in the De Pijp district. This tranquil park is home to a variety of plants and flowers as well as plenty of scenic walking paths.

Finally, don’t miss out on Amsterdam’s many gardens. From Hortus Botanicus, one of Europe’s oldest botanical gardens, to Begijnhof Garden in the center of town, there are plenty of gardens to explore in Amsterdam.

Shopping and Markets

Amsterdam is a great city for shopping enthusiasts too: from designer boutiques to flea markets and vintage shops, you’ll find plenty of places to shop in Amsterdam.

Start your shopping spree at Kalverstraat, one of Amsterdam’s busiest shopping streets. Here you’ll find everything from big-name stores such as H&M and Zara to smaller independent boutiques selling unique items from local designers.

Next, head over to Nine Streets for some vintage shopping. This area is home to a variety of second-hand stores selling everything from vintage clothing and furniture to antiques and collectibles.

For something a bit more off-the-beaten-track, take a trip to Waterlooplein flea market. Located near Rembrandplein square, this market offers an array of wares from antique books and furniture to handicrafts and second-hand clothes.

And finally, don’t miss out on Albert Cuypmarkt: one of Europe’s largest outdoor markets located in De Pijp district. Here you’ll find everything from fresh produce and spices to clothing and accessories.

Popular Tours

If you’re looking for a more immersive experience in Amsterdam then why not take a tour? There are plenty of tours available that offer insight into the city’s history and culture as well as its best attractions.

One popular tour is the ‘Historic Canal Cruise’. On this tour you’ll get an up close look at Amsterdam’s famous canals from an authentic Dutch barge and hear stories about their fascinating history from an expert guide. You’ll also learn about some of the city’s hidden gems including its many bridges, old warehouses and houseboats, as well as its unique architecture. Plus you’ll even get a glimpse of some of Amsterdam’s most famous sights such as The Anne Frank House and The Royal Palace from your vantage point on the water. Book a Historic Canal Cruise here.

Another popular tour is ‘The Best of Amsterdam Bike Tour’. On this tour you’ll explore Amsterdam on two wheels with an expert guide who will take you off-the-beaten-track and show you some of the city’s hidden gems. You’ll weave your way through the canalside streets taking in sights such as The Royal Palace and Anne Frank House before heading towards some lesser known attractions such as Westerpark and Vondelpark gardens. This tour offers an unbeatable way to get an insight into Amsterdam’s history and culture as well as its best attractions. Book The Best of Amsterdam Bike Tour here.

Finally for something truly unique why not take a ‘Taste Of Amsterdam Food Tour’. On this tour you’ll sample some of Amsterdam’s traditional foods such as cheese, herring, pancakes and stroopwafels while learning about its unique culinary culture from an expert guide who will take you on a culinary journey through some of the city’s best food spots including markets, cafes and even breweries! You’ll also get an insight into some of Amsterdam’s most iconic sights along your foodie adventure before ending with a food-inspired souvenir! Book A Taste Of Amsterdam Food Tour here.

As you can see there are plenty of tours available in Amsterdam that offer great insight into its fascinating culture and history as well as its best attractions and food scene!

Conclusion

As you can see there are plenty of things to do in Amsterdam – from historical landmarks and museums to gardens and markets – so you’re sure to find something for everyone! Whether you’re looking for an immersive cultural experience or just want to explore some of Amsterdam’s famous attractions you’re sure to have a great time! With so much to see and do it’s no wonder why Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most popular destinations!