Amsterdam blends history and modern culture like few other cities. Its UNESCO-listed canal ring is lined with gabled houses, its museums hold masterpieces by Rembrandt and Van Gogh, and its neighborhoods are full of cafés, markets, and creative spaces. Here are the 20 best things to do in Amsterdam, with tips on when to go.
1. Visit the Van Gogh Museum
Where: Museumplein 6. Tip: Book a timed ticket online, as tickets are not sold at the door.
The world's largest collection of Van Gogh's work traces his life and development, from early drawings to Sunflowers and The Bedroom.
2. Tour the Anne Frank House
Where: Prinsengracht 263-267. Tip: Tickets are only sold online and are released weeks in advance.
See the secret annex where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II, and learn the story behind her diary.
3. See the Masterpieces at the Rijksmuseum
Where: Museumstraat 1. Tip: Arrive at opening time on a weekday.
The national museum showcases the Dutch Golden Age, including Rembrandt's The Night Watch and Vermeer's The Milkmaid.
4. Relax in Vondelpark
Amsterdam's most famous park is perfect for picnics, cycling, and people-watching, with an open-air theater in summer.
5. Wander the Jordaan
West of the canal ring, the Jordaan is full of narrow streets, hidden courtyards (hofjes), galleries, brown cafés, and the Saturday Noordermarkt.
6. Visit the Floating Flower Market
The Bloemenmarkt on the Singel canal sits on houseboats. Buy tulip bulbs with an export certificate if you want to take them home.
7. Take a Canal Cruise
A boat trip is the classic way to see the canal ring. Choose a small open boat for a more personal experience, and try an evening cruise to see the bridges lit up.
8. Learn the City's Story at the Amsterdam Museum
Exhibits trace Amsterdam's history from a fishing village to a global trading city.
9. See an Exhibition at H'ART Museum
Located on the Amstel River in a 17th-century building, this museum, formerly the Hermitage Amsterdam, hosts major exhibitions in partnership with international institutions.
10. Shop the Nine Streets
De 9 Straatjes, in the canal belt, are lined with independent boutiques, vintage shops, and cafés.
11. Explore the Hortus Botanicus
One of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, founded in 1638, with greenhouses that make it a good choice on rainy days.
12. Visit the Moco Museum
This modern and contemporary art museum in a villa on Museumplein features works by artists such as Banksy and Roy Lichtenstein.
13. Climb the Westerkerk Tower
Climb Amsterdam's tallest church tower on a guided tour for views over the canals and rooftops. Tours run seasonally.
14. Eat at the Albert Cuyp Market
Amsterdam's largest street market, in De Pijp, is open Monday to Saturday. Try fresh stroopwafels, herring, poffertjes, and Dutch cheese.
15. Head to NDSM Wharf
Take the free ferry from behind Central Station to this former shipyard in Amsterdam Noord, now a hub for street art, studios, festivals, and waterfront restaurants. The monthly IJ-Hallen flea market is one of Europe's largest.
16. Visit the Royal Palace
Built as the city hall in the 17th century, the Royal Palace on Dam Square has a grand marble interior. It closes during royal events, so check before you go.
17. See Modern Art at the Stedelijk Museum
The Stedelijk's collection includes Mondrian, Malevich, and other influential modern and contemporary artists.
18. Hear a Concert at the Concertgebouw
Famous for its acoustics, the Concertgebouw hosts world-class classical concerts, including free lunchtime concerts on some weekdays outside summer.
19. Day Trip to Keukenhof
From about late March to mid-May, Keukenhof in Lisse displays around seven million bulbs, including tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. Book tickets and transportation in advance.
20. Visit the Windmills of Zaanse Schans
About 20 minutes by train from Amsterdam, Zaanse Schans has historic windmills, green wooden houses, and craft workshops. Read more in our guide to day trips from Amsterdam.
Amsterdam Travel Tips
- Use an OV-chipkaart or tap in with a contactless bank card on trams, buses, and the metro.
- Watch out for cyclists, and don't walk in bike lanes, which are usually red.
- Book popular museums in advance, especially in spring and summer.
- Consider staying outside the city center for better-value accommodation.
Stay Connected in Amsterdam
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FAQs: Things to Do in Amsterdam
How many days do you need in Amsterdam?
Three days is enough to see the main museums, canals, and neighborhoods. Add a day for a trip to Zaanse Schans, Keukenhof, or another city.
Do you need to book the Anne Frank House in advance?
Yes. Tickets are only sold online and often sell out, so book as soon as they are released.
When is the best time to visit Amsterdam?
April and May are popular for tulips and mild weather, while September and early October are quieter.
Is Amsterdam expensive?
Amsterdam is one of Europe's pricier cities, especially for accommodation, but many experiences, such as walking the canals, parks, and markets, are free.