More than just its neon-lit streets and famous coffee shops, Amsterdam is an enchanting city with narrow canals, romantic bridges and historic townhouses. It’s an instantly likeable city with a long list of unmissable sights, shaped by world-class museums, street cafes and quaint restaurants that add to its cosy ambience.
Things to do in Amsterdam
A simple stroll through the picturesque streets of Amsterdam yields its biggest attractions, where you can shop for fresh produce at Nieuwmarkt, pick up souvenirs from the boutiques on the Nine Little Streets, or pop into one of the bars and nightclubs along Leidseplein. For a look at the city’s ethnic restaurants and famous street market, head to De Pijp, known by locals as “the Latin Quarter”.
Amsterdam is full of fascinating places to explore. The Heineken Experience teaches you about the world-famous beer company’s brewing process in a centuries-old factory, while also providing beer tastings and multimedia experiences. You can also see the industrial landscapes of Amsterdam-Noordor shop for quirky souvenirs on Warmoesstraat, one of the oldest streets in Amsterdam.
In a city famous for its museums, you absolutely must head to Rijksmuseum in Museumplein to see beautiful masterpieces by Rembrandt or admire the hundreds of post-Impressionist artworks at the Van Gogh Museum located right next door. For a moving experience, take a day to visit the Anne Frank House and see where her family hid from Nazis during World War II.
Looking for a place to unwind? Pack a picnic and head to the 48-hectare Vondelpark to laze around in its green patches of grass and picturesque lakes. For a perfect sunny-day excursion, hop on the train for a 30-minute ride to Zandvoort, a Dutch coastal town with a long sandy beach.
Getting Around
Amsterdam is a pedestrian-friendly city with designated bike lanes, so walking or riding a bike around its inner canals is a great way to see the city’s hidden treasures. Amsterdam also boasts an excellent public transportation system, where trams, metros and buses make it easy to traverse the city. For a unique view of Amsterdam, hop on a canal boat tour to see 16th-century buildings that line the waterways.