What to do in Amsterdam? An Extensive Guide to the Dutch capital’s Best Attractions
Amsterdam is one of the most iconic cities in Europe with its picturesque 16th century architecture, unique atmosphere and wealth of attractions. From art galleries and museums to the nightlife and local cuisine, the Dutch capital has something to offer everyone. With so much to explore and experience, it can be difficult to decide what to do in Amsterdam, so we’ve compiled an extensive guide to the city’s best sights and activities.
Visit the Anne Frank House
One of Amsterdam’s must-visit attractions is the famous Anne Frank House. This museum and memorial honors the young Jewish girl Anne Frank, who wrote one of the most famous books of all time about her experience of hiding from the Nazis during World War II. Located in the heart of Amsterdam, the museum offers an educational and timeless experience of the city’s history. Step inside Anne Frank’s actual home where she wrote her diary, and explore around historic photographs, films, and special exhibitions.
Admire the Canals
The canals running through Amsterdam are as much a part of the city’s character as bicycles and tulips. A trip to Amsterdam would not be complete without taking a boat tour along its rings of canals, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Go for a tour on an open-air sloop, admire the elegant 17th-century buildings lining the canals, or cruise along at sunset to see a wholly different kind of beauty. The best way to see Amsterdam is from the water and be sure to have your camera ready!
Experience Art at Van Gogh Museum
Amsterdam is home to some of the world’s best-known art galleries and museums, and the Van Gogh Museum is unmissable. Take the time to explore around this impressionist masterpiece of a museum located at the edge of Museumplein, where you’ll find works of art by Rembrandt van Rijn and Johannes Vermeer. The museum houses the largest collection of van Gogh’s paintings and drawings in the world as well as a selection by his contemporaries. The permanent collection displays countless masterpieces from over 1000 paintings, 40000 prints and 1300 letter documents.
Visit the Heineken Experience
Amsterdam isn’t just about brown cafes (typical Dutch pubs) — you can also enjoy a good beer-tasting tour at the Heineken Experience! Learn how Amsterdam’s favorite beer is brewed every step of the way and enjoy interactive activities such as virtual reality experiences and photo booths. If you’re thirsty for more after your tour, there’s also a bar serving delicious Heineken beverages for you to try.
Explore Cycling City with a Bike Tour
Amsterdam is renowned for its bike culture — so much so that it has been labelled the cycling City! Roll with the locals by exploring some of Amsterdam’s most scenic areas on two wheels; you can rent your own bike or join an organised half-day bike tour with an experienced guide who’ll show you all the hotspots. There are many bike companies around town providing rental, repairs, tours and also an opportunity to experience cycling with an electric bike if that’s more your style.
Visit Jordaan Neighbourhood
No visit to Amsterdam would be complete without exploring its most charming neighbourhood, Jordaan. This once working-class area is now one of Amsterdam’s most fashionable districts, filled with boutique shops, cafés, restaurants, galleries and music venues. Start your exploration at Westerkerk, one of Amsterdam’s iconic churches, then find your way down into Jordaan’s narrow alleyways for some classic window-shopping. Afterward, head down to Noordermarkt, where you can indulge in organic treats from local organic purveyors or visit an outdoor market selling second-hand trinkets from vintage stalls.
Visit Rijksmuseum
Another must-visit sight in Amsterdam is Rijksmuseum (Dutch National Museum) located right next door to Van Gogh Museum. This grand museum is home to a vast collection of artistic masterpieces spanning 800 years of Dutch history. The impressive collection includes works by Rembrandt van Rijn, Johannes Vermeer, Frans Hals and Jan Steen who are considered some of the most iconic Dutch painters. With over 8 million objects in their permanent display, visitors can wander around identifying and admiring works by their favorite Dutch masters as well as choose from a variety of guided tours.
Discover Dutch Cuisine at Traditional Restaurants
Finally, no trip to Amsterdam would be complete without tasting some of its delicious local cuisines such as Stamppot (a classic mashed potato dish) and Bitterballen (breaded deep-fried snacks). Amsterdam has plenty of restaurants offering traditional Dutch fare – from Michelin-starred restaurants such as De Kas to more affordable eateries scattered throughout town serving up affordable Dutch dishes. Look out for establishments like FEBO for Dutch fast food served out of vending machines or stamppot restaurants like De Kromme Watergang for delicious mashed potato dishes served with crispy bacon on top.
If you’re looking for an activity in Amsterdam to combine with your sightseeing vacation while tasting some local beer, be sure to join an Amsterdam Private Beer Tasting Tour. This special tour will give you an insight into some of Amsterdam’s most interesting breweries while tasting their very own craft beer followed by other locally produced beverages accompanied by traditional Dutch snacks. Your guide will be with you every step of the way through vibrant streets and you’ll even have chance to learn more about Amsterdam’s brewing history along with tasting local products such as kanjers beer cheese or bitterballen snacks. You will also get to experience authentic Dutch pubs or a classic ‘brown café’ – book your private tasting tour here: Amsterdam Private Beer Tasting Tour.
In conclusion, visitors in Amsterdam are spoilt for choice when it comes to sightseeing attractions: art galleries and museums often get top billing but there’s so much more than that to explore! From exploring historic canals by boat or bike riding around town through charming alleyways visiting Anne Frank House or Heineken Experience — any type of traveler will find plenty of entertainment here. Foodies can visit traditional eateries and try some local Dutch cuisine while beer lovers can explore Amsterdam’s delightful beer scene on one of their organized beer tasting tours. Plan your trip ahead carefully: prioritize attractions or activities that appeal most to your personal interests for a fun and successful exploration in Amsterdam!
