Amsterdam is filled with both a relaxing atmosphere and action-packed adventure, depending on where you go, which is why it’s listed as one of the best cities in the world to visit. With so many things to do in Amsterdam, it can be tricky to prioritize them all, especially if you have limited time in the city.
Whether it is the food, culture, history or nightlife bringing you to this magical city, we’ve compiled a list of the top 30 must-see things to do in Amsterdam to ensure your trip is fabulous.
1. Rijksmuseum
- Location: Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 4 to 5 hours
If visiting museums is your thing to do on vacation, make a stop at the Rijksmuseum for an afternoon you won’t forget. It’s the national museum of the Netherlands, housing Dutch Golden Age painting masterpieces from 1200 to the present day. Don’t miss out on seeing The Night Watch by Rembrandt or The Kitchen Maid by Johannes Vermeer while you’re visiting.
2. Jordaan Neighborhood
- Location: Keizersgracht 15, 1015 CC Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 1 hour
Located in the center of Amsterdam, the neighborhood of Jordaan boasts narrow streets, picturesque canals and beautiful houses—the quintessential Amsterdam attraction. You can easily spend an hour or more walking around and viewing the independent shops or cafes — or you can relax in one of the many green areas the neighborhood offers.
3. Van Gogh Museum
- Location: Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours
While Amsterdam has many unique museums, the Van Gogh Museum is certainly one to put on your to-see list. With over 200 paintings, 500 drawings and many of his personal items, the Van Gogh Museum is a place to see for art enthusiasts and first-time visitors to Amsterdam alike.
You can walk through the museum at your own pace or take a guided tour to learn more in-depth details about the life of this renowned artist. This must-see attraction also hosts lectures and workshops for plenty of learning opportunities.
4. Anne Frank House
- Location: Westermarkt 20, 1016 GV Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 45 minutes to 1 hour
While in Amsterdam, visit the Anne Frank House, a museum dedicated to the life and work of Anne Frank. Located in the building where she and her family hid for two years during World War II, the house offers a tour of the rooms where they lived and a chance to hear Anne Frank's story from her perspective.
Photography is not allowed in the museum since it can damage the artifacts and children under 10 are not permitted to enter the museum. While this attraction covers sensitive material, it is a thought-provoking experience that will stay with you long after your vacation.
5. De Wallen Neighborhood
- Location: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 39, Amsterdam
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
Also known as the Red Light District, De Wallen is one of the places to visit in Amsterdam that might not be for every traveler. The Red Light District is a designated area in Amsterdam where prostitution is legal and regulated.
Beyond the red-light windows, the Red Light District is also a residential neighborhood with charming canals, bridges and cafes. The Amsterdam Dungeon can be found in the De Wallen neighborhood, a popular tourist attraction that walks you through the past of Amsterdam. You can also find bars and other live entertainment venues to keep you busy while visiting this vibrant area.
6. Jewish Cultural Quarter
- Location: Nieuwe Amstelstraat 1, 1011 PL, Amsterdam
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours
The Jewish Cultural Quarter is one of the things you can do in Amsterdam and you can spend multiple hours there. This district has many Jewish institutions and attractions, keeping the rich history and culture alive. While visiting, stop at the Portuguese Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in Amsterdam or the Jewish Historical Museum, which discusses the history of Jewish people in the Netherlands.
This small but mighty neighborhood also has several cafes and restaurants, so you can grab a bite to eat while exploring the area.
7. Amsterdam Canal Ring
- Location: Herengracht 386, 1016 CJ Amsterdam
- Time needed: 2 to 4 hours
Are you wondering what to see in Amsterdam that is unique? Make sure to check out the Amsterdam Canal Ring, a network of canals that encircles the city. Easily one of the most popular tourist spots in the city, this canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, hosting 165 canals and 90 different islands.
During your visit, you can walk along the many canals or take a boat tour for a cost. The Prinsengracht canal is home to the Anne Frank House and the Museumplein is home to the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, so if these are on your itinerary, plan to spend a full day in this area of the city.
8. Royal Palace
- Location: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 147, 1012 RJ Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
Built in the 15th century, the Royal Palace is a prime example of Dutch Baroque architecture. The exterior reflects themes of justice and peace, while the interior features intricate carvings and stunning chandeliers.
While the palace served as the official residence of the Dutch monarchs for many years, it’s currently used for entertainment, like New Year’s receptions, city business and state visits. When there are no royal or official visits, the palace is open to the public for guided tours.
9. Heineken Experience
- Location: Stadhouderskade 78, 1072 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
One of the coolest activities in Amsterdam is the Heineken Experience. Not your average museum, the Heineken Experience takes you through the world of this ever-popular beer. You’ll tour the original brewery and learn about the brand's history and the technology that has been used throughout the years to transform it into the beer it is today. With interactive exhibits and sensory experiences, you’ll be sure to talk about this visit for years after your trip to Amsterdam.
It’s important to note that visitors under 18 are not permitted.
10. De Negen Straatjes
- Location: Wolvenstraat 9, 1016 EM Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
De Negen Straatjes or “Nine Streets,” is a popular tourist attraction in Amsterdam that is filled with vintage stores, cafes, canals and charming boutiques. There’s plenty of shopping to do in this quaint area of the city, but you can also take a canal cruise or simply stop to enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants in the area.
11. Vondelpark
- Location: Vondelpark, 1017 AA Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours
If you want to take a step back from the busy Amsterdam lifestyle, visit Vondelpark. This large park is perfect for fresh air and enjoying the beautiful gardens, ponds and playgrounds. While in the area, stop at the Open Air Theater to watch a performance or explore the breathtaking rose garden onsite. This is one place that families and solo travelers alike can explore to enjoy nature at its finest.
12. A’dam Lookout
- Location: Overhoeksplein 5, 1031 KS Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
Adventure seekers need to put visiting A’dam Lookout on their list of what to see in Amsterdam. This 20-story rooftop bar and restaurant has an over-the-edge swing overlooking Amsterdam — the highest swing in Europe. Beyond the unimaginable views of the city, you can immerse yourself in the city’s history and culture with a VR experience on the ground floor (if you’re not a fan of heights). Get your camera ready and enjoy the view.
13. Rembrandt House Museum
- Location: Jodenbreestraat 4, 1011 NK Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
Another attraction in Amsterdam for museums and art enthusiasts is the Rembrandt House Museum, which is housed in the building where Rembrandt lived and worked. Here, you’ll see a large collection of Rembrandt’s etchings and temporary exhibits that focus on his contemporary work. You can also participate in an interactive daily paint or etching demo to truly understand the magic of this artist.
14. Westergas
- Location: Pazzanistraat 33, 1014 DB Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours
The former gasworks turned events space Westergas, which is the perfect place to spend a few hours in Amsterdam. There’s the Gashouder, a former gasometer that is now used for concerts and the Tropenmuseum Amsterdam, a museum that explores the cultures and histories of the tropics, among other points of view.
Spend some time exploring, but be sure to finish your visit with a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in the area.
15. Hortus Botanicus
- Location: Plantage Middenlaan 2a, 1018 DD Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours
Hortus Botanicus is the perfect place to go if you enjoy nature or are traveling with a family. This botanical garden is one of the oldest in the country — it was founded in 1638 and is home to over 5,000 different plants from all over the world. The garden is broken up into different areas, so you can enjoy exhibits like the Rock Garden, the Japanese Garden and the Medicinal Garden, to name a few. If you're a true enthusiast, you can also attend a lecture or workshop on botany or horticulture.
It’s important to note that you cannot pay with cash at this location — they only accept cards.
16. Amsterdam Diamond Museum
- Location: Paulus Potterstraat 8, 1071 CZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
Diamonds might be a girl’s best friend, but the Amsterdam Diamond Museum is a go-to location to visit for anyone new to Amsterdam. Here, anyone can learn about diamond cutting and polishing, learn the history of diamonds and even see some of the most famous diamonds in the world. Interactive exhibits allow you to learn about diamonds' properties and value, making this a truly unique experience.
17. Old Church (Oude Kerk)
- Location: Oudekerksplein 23, 1012 GX Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 30 minutes to 1 hour
The Old Church is a must-see for anyone who loves history and significant buildings. It is the oldest parish church in the city. Known for its beautiful architecture and rich history, visitors can climb to the top of the church tower for panoramic views of Amsterdam or visit the church’s crypt, which contains the remains of over 2,000 people.
18. New Church (Nieuwe Kerk)
- Location: De Dam, 1012 NL Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 1 hour
While the Old Church hosts concerts, exhibitions and cultural events, the New Church is used for royal weddings and other special occasions. As the Amsterdam population grew, they needed a new church and the New Church was born in 1408. Here, you can see late Gothic and Renaissance styles, beautiful stained glass windows and royal tombs, so be sure to stop and explore this historic site.
19. Zaanse Schans
- Location: Zaandam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 2 to 4 hours
Another unique thing to do in Amsterdam is to visit the Zaanse Schans, a recreation of a 17th-century Dutch village. Admire the many windmills, museums and shops that this village houses or take a boat ride through the village canals for a sightseeing adventure. While admission to the village is free, there are fees for some of the attractions, like the Zaanse Schans Museum.
20. Amsterdam Museum
- Location: Amstel 51, 1018 EJ Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
If you want to learn about Amsterdam’s history and culture, it’s worth visiting the Amsterdam Museum. The permanent exhibitions tell the story of Amsterdam’s beginnings all the way to the vibrant city it is today as well as temporary exhibits that cover topics like art and fashion.
21. Bloemenmarkt
- Location: Singel 630, 600 Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 30 minutes to 1 hour
An Amsterdam attraction worth visiting is the Bloemenmarkt, the world's only floating flower market. Here, you can purchase various flowers, plants and other floral products or take a boat ride through the canals. The market is free to enter and while spring and summer are the best months to visit, you can find many available year-round options.
22. National Maritime Museum
- Location: Kattenburgerplein 1, 1018 KK Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours
The National Maritime Museum is a popular and fascinating stop in Amsterdam. It is dedicated to the history of Dutch shipping and navigation. Take time to explore the collection of artifacts, such as the replica of the VOC ship Batavia. Also, don’t forget to stop at the Maritime Library to see books and other documents related to Amsterdam’s maritime history.
23. Amsterdam Dungeon
- Location: The Amsterdam Dungeon, Rokin 78, 1012 KW Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
If you enjoy theatrical horror attractions, Amsterdam Dungeon is a must-see. You’ll learn about various themes from Amsterdam’s history through realistic sets and engaging actors, like the plague and the Inquisition. This attraction is not for the faint of heart, so be prepared to be scared and surprised during the 75-minute performance.
24. H’ART Museum (formerly Hermitage Amsterdam)
- Location: Amstel 51, 1018 DR Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 1 hour
Formerly known as the Hermitage Amsterdam, the H’ART Museum showcases a diverse collection of art from various periods and styles. While there are plenty of permanent exhibits, temporary exhibits always introduce new art and focal points.
25. Het Grachtenhuis (the Canal House)
- Location: Herengracht 386 1016 CJ Amsterdam The Netherlands
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
For an immersive experience to view the history of Amsterdam’s canal system and houses, visit Het Grachtenhuis. Learn how these structures were built and evolved over the years and explore a large-scale model of a canal house to see how it works. While best suited for history buffs, anyone visiting Amsterdam for the first time can find interest in this attraction.
26. EYE Filmmuseum
- Location: IJpromenade 1, 1031 KT Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours
The EYE Filmmuseum is perfect for movie lovers visiting Amsterdam. With its huge collection of films, from silent films to contemporary works, the many on-site cinemas and interactive displays, you can easily spend a few hours to a half-day here. Check the official website to see what’s being played when visiting, as you might just see your favorite movie in a unique cinema setting.
27. Frans Hals Museum
- Location: Groot Heiligland 62, 2011 ES Haarlem, Netherlands
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours
The Frans Hals Museum is dedicated to the Dutch Golden Age painter Frans Hals. Within this museum, you can find the most extensive collection of his paintings and artwork by Judith Leyster and Cornelis van Haarlem. This is genuinely one museum to not pass over if you want to see the rich history of the artwork from some of the area’s finest artists.
28. Het Concertgebouw
- Location: Concertgebouwplein 10, 1071 LN Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours
Known for its excellent acoustics, the Het Concertgebouw is a top place to see classical, jazz or pop concerts. Before a show, take some time to visit the Concertgebouw Museum, home to a collection of artifacts related to the hall's history. Remember that there is a dress code, so dress appropriately.
29. Keukenhof Gardens
- Location: Stationsweg 166A, 2161 AM Lisse, Netherlands
- Time needed: 2 to 4 hours
A prime place for nature lovers to visit, the Keukenhof Gardens is a unique attraction. Visitors can get lost in the maze made up of over 300,000 tulips or enjoy a picnic in one of the many green areas. While here, enjoy a boat ride through the canals and visit the koi fish at the Japanese Garden.
30. Verzetsmuseum Amsterdam - Museum of WWII Resistance
- Location: Plantage Kerklaan 61, 1018 CX Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours
The Verzetsmuseum Amsterdam is a must-see for visitors interested in WWII and the Dutch resistance movement. Here, you can see and explore photographs, documents and personal belongings of resistance fighters, truly taking a step back in time. For an interactive experience, take a tour or attend a workshop to get an even more in-depth account of the importance of this history.
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