What To Do In Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is known for its rich culture, history and beautiful scenery. But when you’re in this exciting city it can be hard to decide what to do first. If you’re looking for some ideas to fill your time and make the most of your time in Amsterdam, read on for our top tips!

Visit the Anne Frank House

No trip to Amsterdam would be complete without visiting the Anne Frank House. As a UNESCO world heritage site, the house draws visitors from all over the world, coming to pay their respects and learn the history of what happened within those walls. Not only can you explore the house and read Anne Frank’s diary, but the museum also has galleries, an interactive exhibit, and a bookshop. Opening times are 10:00am – 7:00pm with tickets costing €9.50 per person.

Take a canal tour

Amsterdam’s canal belt includes more than 100 kilometres of interconnected waterways and makes up a third of Amsterdam city centre. Taking a canal tour is a great way to get an overview of the city and introduce yourself to the beauty of Amsterdam. Canals tours come in a variety of packages, from luxury cruises with dinner and drinks to budget-friendly hop-on-hop-off boat rides. If you’d rather go it alone, you could hire a boat for the day.

See the art at the Rijksmuseum

For art lovers, visiting the Rijksmuseum is an absolute must. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city and hosts one of Europe’s largest art collections. The museum houses works by the great Dutch masters and modern artists alike, including Vincent Van Gogh and Johannes Vermeer. You can buy tickets in advance or pick them up on the day. Opening times are 9:00am – 6:00pm daily.

Shop at Bloemenmarkt

The world’s only floating flower market, Bloemenmarkt has been around since 1862. Open daily from 9:00am – 5:30pm, the air around this Venice-esque market is filled with the smell of fresh flowers and plants. It’s a great place to pick up a unique souvenir from Amsterdam or purchase some fresh cut flowers to take home with you. If you’re feeling hungry after you shop, there are several restaurants nearby.

Experience Amsterdam’s nightlife

When the clock hits 8pm, Amsterdam’s nightlife is just getting started! Its many bars and nightclubs open for business and its streets light up with revellers heading out for a good time. Amsterdam has something to offer everyone’s taste. From live music venues to hip-hop clubs and beer gardens, there’s something for everybody.

Explore historical museums

Amsterdam has some wonderful museums that offer an insight into its vibrant culture and history. If you’re interested in learning about Amsterdam’s maritime heritage, visit the National Maritime Museum or if art galleries are more your thing, check out the Van Gogh Museum or Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art. The majority of these museums are open every day except Monday.

Get adventurous on an Amsterdam And Red Light Pub Crawl 2 Night Pass in Leidseplein

One thing that can’t be missed on any visit to Amsterdam is the experience of the nightlife. For those looking for something a little different, why not take part in an Amsterdam And Red Light Pub Crawl 2 Night Pass in Leidseplein? With this tour you will get to experience some of Amsterdam’s most popular bars whilst exploring some street art and engaging in games along the way! You’ll also get to visit Amsterdam’s famous Red Light District – home to some of the most controversial areas of the city. This fun tour promises a great night out and is certainly an experience like no other. GetYourGuide offer this tour with prices starting from €31 per person. Book your spot now to ensure your tickets!

Overall, Amsterdam is a city full of history and life, and no trip there is complete without experiencing some new things! Whether it’s boating around its famous canals, exploring the culture at its many museums, or a night out experiencing the unique atmosphere of its Red Light District – Amsterdam promises something for everyone! So, if you’re looking for things to do in Amsterdam then look no further – with so much choice covered you’ll definitely have a wonderful adventure!

An Insider’s Guide to Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, is a vibrant and colorful destination that attracts millions of tourists every year. If you’re planning to visit Amsterdam, you’re in for a treat. This city has a lot to offer, from picturesque canals and historic landmarks to a buzzing nightlife and a rich cultural scene. In this insider’s guide, we’re going to share some off-the-beaten-path suggestions and hidden gems that will add a unique flavor to your Amsterdam experience.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

One of Amsterdam’s hidden gems is the Begijnhof, a secluded courtyard that dates back to the 14th century. This tranquil oasis is located in the heart of the city, yet it feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of the streets. Another lesser-known attraction is the Rijksmuseum’s garden, a lush green space that houses sculptures, fountains, and picturesque bridges. If you’re looking for a quirky and fun experience, head to the Electric Ladyland museum, a fluorescent art exhibit that will make you feel like you’ve entered a neon wonderland.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine and Culture

Amsterdam is famous for its stroopwafels, a delicious treat made of two thin waffles with a caramel-like syrup in the middle. For a classic and authentic Dutch meal, try the pea soup, or erwtensoep, a hearty soup made with bacon, sausages, and vegetables. If you’re feeling adventurous, go for some raw herring, a traditional Dutch snack that is usually served with chopped onions and pickles. For a modern twist on Dutch cuisine, head to Restaurant De Kas, a farm-to-table restaurant that offers a daily-changing menu based on seasonal ingredients.

Cultural Experiences: Traditions And Festivals

If you’re visiting Amsterdam in April, you’ll have the chance to witness one of its most famous traditions, the Tulip Festival. This month-long celebration showcases the city’s beautiful tulips, which are in full bloom during this time of the year. If you’re more into music than flowers, check out the Amsterdam Dance Event, a 5-day electronic music festival that takes place every October and attracts thousands of fans from all over the world. For a dose of traditional Dutch culture, head to the Museum of Dutch Folklore, where you can learn about traditional costumes, crafts, and customs.

Local History: Fascinating Tales

One of Amsterdam’s most fascinating stories is that of Anne Frank, the young girl who wrote a diary while hiding from the Nazis during World War II. You can visit the Anne Frank House, the building where she and her family spent two years in hiding before being discovered and sent to a concentration camp. Another interesting historical landmark is the Schreierstoren, a tower that used to be part of the city’s medieval defensive walls and served as a lookout post for ships entering the harbor. Legend has it that this tower was also the site where Henry Hudson set sail on his journey to America in 1609.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences

For a truly unique and unforgettable experience in Amsterdam, why not try a cheese tasting tour? You’ll get to taste some of the city’s best cheeses, learn about the history and production of Dutch cheese, and visit local cheese shops and markets. Another one-of-a-kind experience is a tour of Amsterdam’s Red Light District, led by former sex workers who will share their personal stories and insights into the world’s oldest profession. Finally, if you’re a fan of street art, make sure to check out the NDSM Wharf, a former shipyard that has been transformed into a vibrant creative hub, with graffiti artworks, galleries, and music venues.

In conclusion, Amsterdam is a city that will capture your heart and imagination, whether you’re looking for history, culture, food, or fun. With this insider’s guide, we hope to have shown you a different side of Amsterdam, one that goes beyond the typical tourist spots and gives you a deeper understanding and appreciation of this fascinating place. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget.