Things to do in Amsterdam

Activities, attractions and tours

Amsterdam
Amsterdam
Amsterdam
Amsterdam
Amsterdam
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Top places to visit

1. Van Gogh Museum

At the Van Gogh Museum, you’ll find the largest collection in the world of this famous Dutch artist’s paintings and drawings. Discover how his style evolved, reflecting the key events in his short, but troubled life. The museum also displays a collection of pieces by Van Gogh’s contemporaries, giving visitors an overview of other well-known masters of the 19th century.
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Van Gogh Museum which includes cycling

2. Anne Frank House

A visit to the Anne Frank House is both sobering and enlightening at the same time. The museum is a commemoration of one of the most well-known figures of the World War II holocaust. Walk into the room in which Anne Frank composed her diary, charting the daily challenges of adolescence, daily life and the lack of freedom while in hiding from the Nazi invaders. This work has been translated from Dutch into over 60 languages, making it the most translated Dutch book of all time.
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Anne Frank House which includes a river or creek

3. Dam Square

Dam Square lies right at the heart Amsterdam, and dates back to the 13th century origins of this capital. Today, it is the focus for gatherings and events, including a large fun fair that is held several times a year. Join the crowds, relax and watch the world go by, or enjoy some retail therapy.
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Dam Square in Amsterdam, top view

4. Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is a fascinating place where visitors can see familiar famous masterpieces among the extensive collection of art and historical objects that chart the development of The Netherlands through the past 900 years. With over one million pieces in the collection, filling and incredible 200 rooms, art enthusiasts will be in their element.
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Rijksmuseum with big letters in Amsterdam, Holland (Netherlands)

5. Leidseplein

Leidseplein is a bustling square that sits at the heart of Amsterdam’s cultural district. Join the local residents in the many bars and cafés to soak up the vibrant atmosphere and indulge in people watching, or spend an evening enjoying theatre performances and live music shows.
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Leidseplein showing a city and heritage architecture

6. Vondelpark

Vondelpark is the largest of Amsterdam’s urban parks and a particular favourite with locals who come to this State Monument to relax. In warmer weather, catch some sun, cycle, play or just stroll among the trees and pretty gardens. Enjoy a bite to eat at one of the park’s restaurants and if you are visiting at the weekend, see a free performance in the park’s theatre
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Pond and tulips in Vondelpark, Amsterdam; Shutterstock ID 143198530

What to do in Amsterdam

Popular places to visit

Van Gogh Museum which includes interior views

Van Gogh Museum

Delve into the life of this legendary troubled artist with this unique collection of works and mementos.

Van Gogh Museum
Anne Frank House

Anne Frank House

See where this courageous Jewish teenager and her family hid from the Nazis during World War II, and where she penned her famous diary.

Anne Frank House
Dam Square

Dam Square

Visit Amsterdam’s lively central square, a venue that’s seen both protests and celebrations.

Dam Square
Rijksmuseum

Rijksmuseum

Explore The Netherlands’ largest publicly-funded museum, full of world-famous masterpieces.

Rijksmuseum
Leidseplein

Leidseplein

This lively square is an entertainment hub bursting with lively bars and restaurants, theatres and music venues, as well as engaging street performers.

Leidseplein
Vondelpark showing picnicking, a statue or sculpture and a park

Vondelpark

Spend a peaceful afternoon relaxing in the capital's most popular park. Enjoy a picnic and the entertainment on offer among the perfect mix of nature and culture.

Vondelpark
Johan Cruyff Arena

Johan Cruyff Arena

Catch an event at Johan Cruyff Arena and enjoy other activities in Amsterdam such as cycling.Experience the acclaimed art galleries and fascinating museums in this vibrant area.

Johan Cruyff Arena
Rembrandt Square

Rembrandt Square

You can find out about the history of Amsterdam with a stop at Rembrandt Square. Discover the acclaimed theatre scene in this vibrant area or seek out the cycling trails.

Rembrandt Square
The 9 Streets

The 9 Streets

During your trip to Amsterdam, you can do some window-shopping at The 9 Streets. While in this walkable area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

The 9 Streets

Areas of Amsterdam

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Amsterdam City Centre

4.5/5(2,168 area reviews)

Known for its fascinating museums, charming cafes and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Amsterdam City Centre. Top attractions like Dam Square and Nieuwmarkt Square are major draws. Catch the metro at Nieuwmarkt Station or Waterlooplein Station to see more of the city.

Amsterdam City Centre
Amsterdam which includes a city, a river or creek and street scenes

Binnenstad

If you're spending time in Binnenstad, check out sights like Dam Square or National Monument and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Dam Stop or Paleisstraat Tram Stop.

Binnenstad
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Jordaan

Get to know Jordaan and its many features like its breweries and churches. You might want to explore sights like Amsterdam Tulip Museum and Houseboat Museum, and you can jump on the metro at Bloemgracht Stop or Rozengracht Stop to get around the city.

Jordaan
Rijksmuseum showing views, a pond and a city

Museum Quarter

4.5/5(971 area reviews)

Known for its fascinating museums and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Museum Quarter. Check out top attractions like Van Gogh Museum and Stedelijk Museum, and jump on the metro at Van Baerlestraat Stop or Concertgebouw Tram Stop to see more of the city.

Museum Quarter
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Nieuwmarkt en Lastage

If you're spending time in Nieuwmarkt en Lastage, check out sights like Nemo Science Museum or Nieuwmarkt Square and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Nieuwmarkt Station or Mr. Visserplein Stop.

Nieuwmarkt en Lastage
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Red Light District

5/5(1 area review)

Visit this historic and famous area of Amsterdam, known for its many bars, brothels and adult entertainment venues.

Red Light District

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Amstelveen

Amstelveen

Photo by Lauren C

Badhoevedorp

Zaanse Schans showing a bridge, a lake or waterhole and a small town or village

Zaandam

Almere

Almere

Photo by Eric Rowbottom

Broek in Waterland

Photo by Ria✈️

Koog aan de Zaan

Photo by Tt Alex

Oostzaan

Frequently asked questions

Is Amsterdam worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Amsterdam is visit Amsterdam Museum. Check this major sight off your to-do list, then discover more of the area's cycling and culture.
How do I spend a day in Amsterdam?
After you've checked off top attractions like Amsterdam Museum and Nemo Science Museum, spend some time exploring Amsterdam's retail and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Amsterdam?
The top tourist attraction in Amsterdam is Amsterdam Museum, so be sure to put it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Amsterdam?
Three days in Amsterdam is plenty of time to visit the city's main highlights. Many travellers stay for three days on average. Amsterdam Museum, Nemo Science Museum and Royal Theatre Carre are among the most popular sights. Want to see more? Hang around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots like Schiphol.
Is Amsterdam a walkable city?
It all depends on what you want to see and do in Amsterdam. Several sights, including Amsterdam Museum and Nemo Science Museum, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Amsterdam's neighbourhoods, Amsterdam City Centre is 0.48 kilometres away from downtown, while Old Town Amsterdam is 0.16 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Amsterdam with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities takes your trip to the next level. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Amsterdam with kids.

What to do in Amsterdam for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Amsterdam, with activities for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Ziggo Dome or Warmoesstraat.
Are there free things to do in Amsterdam?
From enjoying parks to strolling around vibrant neighbourhoods, it's easy to find free things to do in Amsterdam. If you need new ideas, ask a local tour guide for recommendations. Moco Museum is a great spot for anyone planning to save on their travel adventures.

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