Things To Do In Amsterdam City Centre

Nestled in the Netherlands, Amsterdam is a city renowned for its cosmopolitan culture, stunning canals, intriguing museums and art galleries, and liberal attitude. With a population of 1.1 million people, the city centre is a bustling hub of activity and there is never a shortage of things to do in Amsterdam City Centre.

A Brief History of Amsterdam

The city of Amsterdam has a rich and fascinating history. Founded in the 12th century, the city was originally a dam of the Amstel River, giving the city its name. The city quickly became an important trade centre due to its strategic location in the country. In the 16th century, Amsterdam experienced a period of prosperity and growth as it became a major centre for finance, banking and trade. By the 17th century, the city was known for its established commercial, cultural and religious traditions, and led the world in innovation and creative thinking.

The city underwent rapid transformation in the 19th and 20th centuries, as it was heavily affected by the World Wars, economic depression and social change. Today, Amsterdam is a vibrant and modern city that celebrates its rich history while embracing new ideas and technologies. It is known for its liberal attitude and vibrant nightlife, as well as its stunning canals and iconic architecture.

What To Do In Amsterdam City Centre

No matter what your interests are, there are plenty of things to do in Amsterdam City Centre. Here are some of our top picks:

Explore the Canals

Amsterdam is often referred to as the “Venice of the North’ due to its intricate network of canals, and it’s easy to see why. No visit to Amsterdam would be complete without a trip through the iconic canals, which are lined with beautiful gabled houses, bridges, and small boats. Taking a canal cruise is a great way to explore the city from a different perspective. There are a range of companies offering canal cruises, from traditional boats to luxurious dinner cruises. If you’d prefer to explore on your own terms, there are plenty of companies offering boat hire for an hour or more.

Visit Museums and Galleries

Amsterdam is renowned for its wealth of world-class museums and galleries. The Rijksmuseum is one of the city’s most iconic attractions, displaying works from the Dutch Golden Age such as Rembrandt’s The Night Watch. The Van Gogh Museum houses some 200 paintings and 500 drawings by Vincent Van Gogh, while the Stedelijk Museum displays modern art from contemporary artists. For more alternative art experiences, check out the Kunsthal or the Cat Cabinet.

Take a Walk Around Vondelpark

Vondelpark is the city’s largest park and one of its most beloved attractions. It’s a great spot for an afternoon stroll or a picnic in the sun – during summer months you’ll find locals enjoying barbecues and music in the park. There are plenty of paths to explore, as well as three lakes and plenty of green space. The park is also home to several restaurants and cafes, making it a great spot for lunch or dinner.

Shop at Albert Cuyp Market

Albert Cuyp Market is one of Amsterdam’s oldest markets and is renowned for its bustling atmosphere and wide selection of goods. Here you’ll find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts and vintage clothing. The market is open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 4pm, so make sure you get there early to avoid the crowds!

Experience the Nightlife at Rembrandtplein

Rembrandtplein is one of Amsterdam’s most lively nightlife hubs. It’s home to some of the city’s most popular bars, clubs and restaurants. It’s also a great spot for live music – check out venues like Paradiso or Melkweg for concerts from local and international acts.

Popular Tours in Amsterdam City Centre

Amsterdam Canal Cruise

One of the best ways to experience Amsterdam’s famous canals is on an Amsterdam Canal Cruise. These cruises take you on a journey through the city’s iconic waterways, passing by iconic landmarks such as Anne Frank’s house, the Skinny Bridge, and Magere Brug. You’ll have plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the views while learning about the history of Amsterdam from your knowledgeable guide. Most cruises last around an hour, but there are also longer options available if you’d like to explore further. Book an Amsterdam Canal Cruise here.

Amsterdam Food Walking Tour

Amsterdam is known for its delicious array of food, from traditional Dutch treats to modern fusion cuisine. A great way to experience it all is on an Amsterdam Food Walking Tour. On this tour you’ll visit some of the city’s best eateries, sampling dishes such as poffertjes (small pancakes), stroopwafels (syrup waffles), bitterballen (meatballs), and more. Your friendly guide will share stories about the history of Dutch cuisine as you sample some of Amsterdam’s best culinary delights. Book an Amsterdam Food Walking Tour here.

Amsterdam Red Light District Tour

The Red Light District has been part of Amsterdam life for centuries and it remains an important part of the city today. On an Amsterdam Red Light District Tour you’ll explore this fascinating area with an expert local guide who will share stories about its history, culture and people. You’ll learn about prostitution in the district and get an insight into life behind closed doors. It’s a must-see tour for anyone visiting Amsterdam! Book an Amsterdam Red Light District Tour here.

Conclusion

Amsterdam City Centre has something for everyone – whether you’re looking for cultural experiences or an exciting nightlife scene, you won’t be disappointed. Explore the canals on a boat cruise or walk around Vondelpark; check out world-class museums and galleries; shop at Albert Cuyp Market; or experience the nightlife at Rembrandtplein. For those looking for something a little different, there are plenty of popular tours to choose from including an Amsterdam Canal Cruise, an Amsterdam Food Walking Tour or an Amsterdam Red Light District Tour – something for everyone!