Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is one of the most interesting and controversial cities in Europe. Despite its worldwide popularity as the center of legal “coffeeshops”, there are ample other unforgettable things to do in Amsterdam.
Last updated: June 30, 2025
Traveling to Amsterdam
Amsterdam with its fairytale architecture and incredible things to do indoors and outdoors in some way has reshaped my idea of travel. The capital of the Netherlands has definitely changed the way I explore new places now. Before Amsterdam, I was that paper-and-pen girl with a detailed itinerary who was slowly crossing the items off as she goes.
To tell the truth, my Holland adventures almost started with a pen and the four-day itinerary in one hand and a camera in the other. I knew there were plenty of unforgettable things to do in Amsterdam (I had done my research beforehand, after all). However, I couldn’t even imagine how these same activities and unique attractions that you can see only in Amsterdam would affect my travel in the most profound way.
Before I could even finish my walk across the Albert Cuyp Market, I knew I didn’t need a piece of paper outlining the best and worst things to do in Amsterdam. There was a spontaneous energy to the bustling city where every street, every park and square promised an exciting adventure. Armed with an umbrella, I wandered across the city well past sunset (I wouldn’t recommend it and almost never do it myself). I let the city unveil its treasures and tell stories it has collected over the centuries.
I don’t believe you need to follow my Amsterdam guide to a T, but having some ideas of what to do and see in the city is essential. Therefore, I have compiled this list of some of the best things to do in Amsterdam merely as a reference point.
13 INCREDIBLE THINGS TO DO IN AMSTERDAM
1. Ride a Bike
Riding a bike is a must-to thing in Amsterdam if you want to explore the city like a local. The place is nicknamed the “bicycle capital of the world” for a reason. It’s estimated that all residents of Amsterdam, young and old, have at least one bicycle. To be exact, the number of the two-wheeled vehicles slightly exceeds the number of people that call Amsterdam home.
With that being said, bicycles are everywhere, on the streets, “parked” along narrow bridges, and stored in front of every house. Riding a bicycle is a convenient and affordable way to get around for locals. For visitors, it’s also one of the best things to do to immerse themselves in the unique culture of Amsterdam.
2. Take a Boat Tour
After renting a bike, taking a boat tour is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Amsterdam in the evening. The tour lasts on average one hour and allows you to see the city from its main attractions, the canals of Amsterdam. Additionally, endless stories told by a local tour guide let you dive deeper in the history of the city.
3. Wander through the Arty Jordaan
With its trendy shops, cozy pubs, organic food stalls and eateries, the Jordaan truly deserves to be called the social hub of Amsterdam. The charming district is home to many incredible sites, including Anne Frank House, Westerkerk, and the Amsterdam Tulip Museum.
4. Visit Anne Frank House
Since we’re in the Jordaan area, it’s a perfect time to visit the Anne Frank House. The place shows you how the Jewish diarist spent her days in hiding during the Nazi regime. The place pays a heart-breaking tribute to all Jews killed during World War II.
READ MORE: Skirball Cultural Center: Discover Jewish Culture in Los Angeles
5. Buy Flowers at Bloemenmarkt
Located on the Singel canal, the Bloemenmarkt is the only floating flower market in the world. It was established in 1862 and up to this day offers fresh flowers and bulbs. Locals often avoid it as the place attracts many tourists. But if it’s your first time in the city, don’t hesitate to add it to your must-do things in Amsterdam.
6. Spend a Day in the Rijksmuseum
Spending a few hours or a day in the Rijksmuseum is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam for art lovers. The largest museum in the Netherlands, the place is dedicated to the art and history of Amsterdam.
If you also happen to love books as much as I do, then make sure to check out the Cuypers Library. The research center is located inside the Rijksmuseum. Only scholars are allowed to step inside. Visitors can steal a sneak peek at the room filled with massive floor-to-ceiling bookshelves from a balcony on the second floor of the museum.
7. Eat Vegan Crepes at The Happy Pig Pancake Shop
I don’t remember how I found out about the Happy Pig Pancake Shop. But after not being able to find places that offered vegan pancakes, I decided to give this place a chance. Would you believe me if I tell you that I still remember the taste of their pancake with banana and chocolate-hazelnut sauce? It was incredible! Eating at The Happy Pig should fall straight into the category of the best things to do in Amsterdam.
8. Try Amsterdam Vegan Fast Food
I was surprised to find out that Amsterdam can be rightfully classified as your next vegan darling. From formal sit down restaurants to small take-out places and supermarkets, the city offers some of the best vegan dishes. If you’re looking for vegan fast food in Amsterdam, check out MaozFalafel. I can’t recommend this place enough. The food they serve is amazing. The service is quick and efficient. Just grab and go.
9. Shop at Albert Cuypmarkt
The Albert Cuyp Market is one of the most visited open-air markets in the city. Located in the De Pijp area, this street market specializes in fresh produce, sweets, gifts, and souvenirs. It’s a place where you stay on a budget, splurge if that’s what you want, people watch, and meet locals. In other words, the Albert Cuyp Market satisfies the interests of a wide number of people.
10. Visit the Oude Kerk
As a solo traveler, I made sure to leave the infamous Red Light District of Amsterdam out of my itinerary. Yet as fate would have it, I accidentally wandered into the notorious area and only realized it after noticing ladies in seductive lingerie posing in large display windows. But the most bizarre thing is that next to the Red Light District is one of the most important churches of the city.
The Oude Kerk is the oldest church in Amsterdam. This Gothic structure in the heart of the Red Light District was founded around 1213 and consecrated in 1306. Today it’s also one of the youngest centers for contemporary art and heritage.
READ MORE: 10 Tips for Your First Trip to Amsterdam
11. Go for a Morning Walk in Vondelpark
One of my favorite things to do in Amsterdam was taking a morning walk in Vondelpark. The largest park in the city, Vondelpark was opened in 1865. Since then every 30 years it goes through a total renovation in order to avoid being covered by water. The park is good for walking, jogging, biking, dog-walking, and people-watching. In the summer, it’s a host of frequent free outdoor concerts.
12. Find the Begijnhof
The Begijnhof is one of the oldest hofjes (courtyards) in Amsterdam. These hidden squares originally were places where poor or elderly single women lived. What set the Begijnhof apart was the fact that it was intended as a home for religious women who didn’t take vows.
If you don’t really care about history, the Begijnhof is not as visually appealing as the majority of other things to do in Amsterdam. But finding this place is quite an adventure. By definition, the Begijnhof is a hidden place. To find it, you need to walk through and see some off-the-tourist-radar places that you otherwise wouldn’t even think of visiting.
13. Swing on “Over the Edge” at A’DAM Tower
Known as Europe’s highest swing, Over the Edge is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam for its selective visitors. Swinging back and forth at a height of 100 meters over the edge of the A’DAM Tower certainly asks for some bravery.
