Things to Do in Amsterdam This Weekend

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Its rich history, dynamic culture, and stunning architecture make it an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore the city and its surroundings. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Amsterdam veteran, there are plenty of attractions and activities to keep you entertained. Whether you prefer to explore the sights on foot, cycle through its streets, or sit back and enjoy the city from a canal cruise, Amsterdam has something for everyone.

A Brief History

Amsterdam is an exciting city with centuries of history, dating back to the 12th century when it was first established by a group of fishermen. Throughout the centuries, it grew in size and importance, first as a trading port and then as a major international financial hub. It was also the home of renowned Dutch painters like Rembrandt and Van Gogh, who left their mark on the city’s art scene.

Today, Amsterdam is a thriving city with a population of nearly 900,000 people. The majority of residents speak Dutch, though English is widely spoken as well. Amsterdam is renowned for its canals, which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Besides its famous canals, Amsterdam is also known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse cultural attractions. From its world-class museums to its iconic Red Light District, there’s something for everyone in Amsterdam.

Top Attractions

The best way to explore Amsterdam is on foot or by bicycle. There are numerous bike rental companies throughout the city, making it easy to rent a bike for a few hours or even a full day. Once you have your transportation sorted out, you can start exploring the city’s many attractions. Here are some of the best things to do in Amsterdam this weekend:

Visit the Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is one of Amsterdam’s most famous attractions. Located in the center of the city, it was the hiding place of Anne Frank, her family, and four other people during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. The house has been preserved and serves as a memorial to all those who suffered during the Holocaust. Visitors can take a tour of the house and explore its many rooms where Anne Frank wrote her famous diary.

Explore the Canals

Amsterdam is known for its picturesque canals and bridges, which have become an iconic symbol of the city. The best way to explore these stunning waterways is by boat. There are several companies offering canal cruises that take you along the city’s most famous canals, giving you an up-close look at Amsterdam’s stunning architecture and history.

Visit the Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is one of Amsterdam’s most important museums and is home to a vast collection of Dutch artwork from the Middle Ages up until the present day. Highlights include Rembrandt’s Night Watch painting, Vermeer’s The Milkmaid, and Van Gogh’s The Bedroom in Arles. The museum also houses an impressive collection of furniture and decorative items from throughout the ages.

Shop at Albert Cuyp Market

The Albert Cuyp Market is one of Amsterdam’s oldest and most popular markets. Located in the heart of De Pijp neighborhood, it offers an array of fresh produce, flowers, cheese, antiques, and other items from local vendors. It’s a great place to explore and shop for souvenirs or find unique items for your home.

Visit Vondelpark

Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s largest park. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in its lush greenery. The park features winding paths, flower gardens, and ponds where you can feed ducks and swans. It’s also home to several cafes and restaurants, making it an ideal spot for lunch or dinner with friends.

Popular Tours

Exploring Amsterdam on your own is great, but sometimes it’s nice to join a guided tour to get an insider’s look at what makes this city so special. Here are two popular tours you can book for this weekend:

Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Discover Amsterdam from a different perspective on this relaxing 1-hour canal cruise along its iconic waterways. Your experienced guide will point out famous landmarks such as Anne Frank’s House, Skinny Bridge, Magere Brug, and much more. You’ll also learn about Amsterdam’s rich history and culture as you sail past beautiful sights like the Amstel River and Rijksmuseum. Book this canal cruise tour for an unforgettable experience in Amsterdam!

Amsterdam Highlights Bike Tour

This 3-hour bike tour takes you to some of Amsterdam’s most iconic attractions including Dam Square, Royal Palace, Nemo Science Museum, Magere Brug bridge, and more. Along the way your knowledgeable guide will share interesting stories and facts about each site while providing valuable insight into Amsterdam’s unique culture and history. Book this highlights bike tour to gain an in-depth look at what makes Amsterdam so special!

Van Gogh Museum & Rijksmuseum Combo Tour

This 3-hour museum combo tour takes you inside two of Amsterdam’s most renowned museums – the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum. You’ll be guided through the galleries by an experienced guide who will share interesting stories about some of Van Gogh’s most famous paintings and provide insights into the Dutch Golden Age artwork housed at Rijksmuseum. Book this Van Gogh Museum & Rijksmuseum combo tour to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most famous artwork!

Final Thoughts

Amsterdam is an incredible city with many unique attractions and activities to keep you busy all weekend long. From exploring its iconic canals to visiting world-famous museums, there are plenty of things to do in Amsterdam this weekend that will make your stay unforgettable. And if you want to gain an insider’s perspective on what makes this city so special, be sure to book one of the popular tours mentioned above for a truly immersive experience!