Things to do and places of interest in Amsterdam
A vibrant metropolis that effortlessly combines its historic old-world charm with contemporary chic, Amsterdam has something for everyone. Spend your days walking across picturesque bridges, exploring cutting edge art museums, biking along the canals, and lounging in the parks. In the evenings, enjoy leisurely strolls along streets filled with musicians, and choose from a wide range of al-fresco restaurants to simply relax, unwind and dine under the stars.
- Admire a host of art masterpieces in the massive galleries at the Rijksmuseum, as well as the Het Rembrandthuis and Van Gogh Museum.
- Stop by several other interesting museums such as the NEMO Science Museum for interactive technology displays and the National Maritime Museum for Dutch maritime history. Don’t miss the Anne Frank House museum for a glimpse into the young diarist’s life and times.
- Stroll through the leafy green Vondelpark. Carry a picnic lunch, ride a bike, or just spend an afternoon relaxing and people-watching.
- Head to the Het Concertgebouw concert hall for an opera or music concert. You can also opt for a guided tour of the hall and enjoy a 30-minute, free concert that takes place every Wednesday from September – June, at 12.30 p.m.
- Explore the rich history and interiors of the magnificent Royal Palace Amsterdam.
- Shop at countless vintage and designer shops at Negen Straatjes (9 little streets).
- Book the 90-minute tour, The Heineken Experience, to learn about Heineken’s heritage, processes, and innovations in beer brewing.
Tips and tricks for visiting Amsterdam
Enjoy Amsterdam’s gastronomic and cultural offerings
Sample several breweries and a wide range of international cuisine at the eateries in Foodhallen, an international food hall set in former tram sheds. At the massive cultural complex De Hallen Amsterdam, explore a host of food stalls, lively daily markets (except on Sundays), and themed weekend markets. Buy a drink and listen to vintage jazz music at the In’t Aepjen brown bar. The bar is housed in a 15th-century wooden building, 1 of the only 2 wooden buildings that remain in Amsterdam. Spend an evening at the Amsterdam Roest, a laid back bar and beer garden that features a terrace overlooking the canal, a huge playground, hammocks, street art, and a sandy beach.
Explore the unique neighborhoods
Each neighborhood in Amsterdam offers unique sights and local flavors and is worth exploring on foot or by bike. Check Jordaan, a quintessential Amsterdam neighborhood that offers delicious Dutch food options, and some of the best ‘brown’ bars in the city. Head to Haarlemmerstraat for a variety of specialized boutiques for budget-friendly as well as extravagant finds. Explore the local bars serving unique cocktails. In the trendy De Pijp neighborhood, sample some of the tastiest Middle Eastern cuisine. For modern cafés, flea markets and chic outdoor dining, wander around the modern neighborhood, Amsterdam-Noord. In Oud West, visit the historic De Otter windmill and also walk along Bilderdijkstraat and De Clerqstraat streets for interesting sights and food options. If you are exploring the infamous De Wallen (The Red Light District), be aware of the rules and regulations in the area.
