Amsterdam is a city distinguished by its rich history, striking architecture, and vibrant culture, featuring picturesque canals and world-class museums. It offers diverse attractions, from iconic cultural sites to a liberal and open-minded atmosphere, drawing in a wide range of visitors.
For those seeking to socialize, the De Pijp neighborhood is a lively and trendy area, known for its bars, eateries, and a vibrant atmosphere where it is easy to meet people. The city center, particularly around Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein, also provides ample opportunities for nightlife with various bars and restaurants. Hostels, such as Flying Pig Uptown, are also recognized for fostering a social environment, offering spaces like bars and smoking areas where travelers can connect.
Top 7 Things to do in Amsterdam
Amsterdam offers a blend of historical immersion, artistic exploration, leisurely canal experiences, and opportunities for outdoor relaxation.
1. Visit the Anne Frank House
Stepping into the Anne Frank House provides a powerful and moving insight into the life of Anne Frank and her family during World War II. Exploring the Secret Annex, where they hid, offers a poignant understanding of their resilience and the atrocities of the war. Booking tickets in advance online is essential, as they sell out quickly due to limited capacity. This visit typically takes about 60 to 75 minutes.
Cost: Adult tickets are approximately €16, children aged 10-17 are €7, and children aged 0-9 are €1. An optional 30-minute introductory program is available for an extra €7 for visitors aged 10 and over.
Transport: The Anne Frank House is centrally located. It is about a 20-minute walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station. Alternatively, take tram 13 or 17 to the Westermarkt stop, or tram 17 from Centraal Station which takes about 10 minutes and costs €1-€2.
2. Explore the Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is a treasure trove of Dutch art and history, showcasing masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age, including Rembrandt's 'The Night Watch'. Spending time here allows for a deep dive into the nation's artistic heritage and cultural evolution. It is one of the world's great art institutions. The museum is accessible for wheelchairs and prams.
Cost: Adult tickets are around €19-€24, while visitors under 18 enter for free. An I Amsterdam City Card may offer free entry.
Transport: The Rijksmuseum is located on Museum Square. Trams 2, 5, or 12 stop directly at 'Rijksmuseum'. Buses 347, 357, and 397 also connect to the museum. Public transport tickets for trams, buses, and metro typically cost around €4 for a 1-hour ticket or €9 for a 1-day ticket.
3. Discover the Van Gogh Museum
Dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh, this museum offers a comprehensive look at his artistic development through his extensive collection of paintings, drawings, and letters. It is a fan favorite for those interested in a deep dive into one of the Netherlands' most famous painters. Allowing ample time to wander through the collections is recommended.
Cost: Basic entry tickets are approximately €21-€24 for adults. Visitors under 18 are free, and students may receive a discounted rate of €11 on weekdays. The I Amsterdam City Card no longer includes direct entry, but other passes like the Dutch Museum Card are valid.
Transport: The Van Gogh Museum is also on Museum Square. Take tram 2, 5, or 12 to the 'Van Baerlestraat' or 'Museumplein' stop. A taxi from the city center may cost €10-€13 and takes about 4-6 minutes.
4. Experience a Canal Cruise
Cruising along Amsterdam's picturesque canals offers a unique perspective of the city's charming canal houses and bridges. The 17th-century canals are a UNESCO World Heritage site, making this a quintessential Amsterdam experience. Many cruises offer audio commentary in multiple languages.
Cost: A standard one-hour canal cruise typically costs between €15.50 and €22.50 for adults, with children often receiving discounts. More luxurious options like dinner or wine and cheese cruises are available at higher prices.
Transport: Numerous departure points are available, including near Centraal Station, Leidseplein, and the Anne Frank House. From Amsterdam Centraal Station, many canal cruise departure points are within walking distance or a short tram ride (e.g., tram 17 to Leidseplein takes about 11 minutes and costs €1-€2).
5. Explore the Jordaan District
Wandering through the Jordaan feels like stepping back in time, with its picturesque canals, winding cobblestone lanes, and charming buildings. This former working-class area is now known for independent art galleries, antique shops, cozy cafes, and local eateries. It's an ideal place to experience authentic Dutch culture and enjoy canal-side strolls.
Cost: Exploring the Jordaan on foot is free. Costs will vary depending on shopping, dining, or visiting smaller, unique museums like the Houseboat Museum or Amsterdam Tulip Museum within the district.
Transport: The Jordaan is easily explored on foot or by bike from the city center. From Amsterdam Centraal Station, you can take tram 17 towards the Jordaan.
6. Relax in Vondelpark
As Amsterdam's largest urban park, Vondelpark is a sprawling green space perfect for relaxation and active pursuits. You can enjoy cycling, jogging, or simply lounging on the manicured lawns. The park features ponds, rose gardens, open-air art, and an open-air theatre that hosts free performances during warmer months. It's a vibrant, egalitarian space where locals and tourists alike gather.
Cost: Entry to Vondelpark is free. Bike rentals are available near and within the park, typically ranging from €9-€18 for a day, with options for insurance.
Transport: Vondelpark is centrally located and easily accessible by public transport or bike. It's near major museums. Trams and buses provide convenient access.
7. Visit the Heineken Experience
The Heineken Experience offers an interactive and educational tour of the historic Heineken brewery. It provides insights into the brewing process, the brand's history, and includes beer tasting. It's an engaging experience for those interested in the famous Dutch lager.
Cost: Tickets can be purchased online, often at a discounted price compared to buying at the entrance. All tickets typically include the tour and a complimentary Heineken beer. Specific prices can vary, but generally start from around €21.
Transport: The Heineken Experience is located just outside Amsterdam's inner canal belt. The nearest metro station is Vijzelgracht (Line 52), which is a 2-minute journey from Rokin and costs €1-€2. The nearest tram stop is Marie Heinekenplein, which is also a few minutes' walk away. A taxi from the city center may cost €12-€15 and takes about 5 minutes.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
