Things to do in Amsterdam

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Red Light District featuring a city and a river or creek
Old Town Amsterdam showing a city and heritage architecture
Flower Market which includes a river or creek
Leidseplein which includes a city, night scenes and street scenes
Old Town Amsterdam featuring heritage elements

Amsterdam Attractions

Many people think the only reason why anyone visits the city of Amsterdam as a tourist is because they are a student on spring break, but the city offers way more than just a good party scene for young people. With more museums per capita than the majority of major European cities, Amsterdam is very rich in culture and history and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Holland as well as in the rest of Europe.

Amsterdam's best museums are located in the Museumplein district, but there are many fine smaller museums located in various places throughout the city. One of the must see museums in Amsterdam is the Van Gogh Museum, which is conveniently located in the edge of the Museumplein district. Other things to do in Amsterdam include attending outdoor concerts during the summer months in local parks, shopping at one of the city's many open-air markets, and enjoying world-class theater and musical performances at various venues located throughout the city. Because Amsterdam is a large city, guests are advised to procure a good map before starting out on their explorations.

If you are going to be paying a visit to Amsterdam soon, you should contact us here at Expedia for the most recent information on money-saving deals and specials you can obtain to leave you with more cash in your wallet to enjoy top Amsterdam excursions. One thing that may surprise you when you first begin to explore the city is the abundance of canals the city features. Amsterdam has so many canals that it is frequently referred to as the “Venice of the North".

Attractions in Amsterdam include the city's famous Red Light district. This area is one of the most popular visitor spots in the city, but guests should keep in mind there is much more to Amsterdam than this district. Because of the sheer abundance of Amsterdam activities available to guests, it can sometime be a challenge for those unfamiliar with the city to formulate an itinerary, which is why the professional staff here at Expedia can make your vacation go much more smoothly. We can provide you with cost-saving specials on Amsterdam tours and good deals on lodging and transportation.

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Amsterdam must see attractions

1. Van Gogh Museum

Head to the Van Gogh Museum to see some of the works of a groundbreaking 19th-century Dutch painter. Sadly, Vincent Van Gogh only sold one of his paintings during his short life, and never dreamed of the fame he’d enjoy after his death. Here you can browse the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh’s paintings and learn about his tormented life. The museum also displays works by other master painters of his time, including Monet, Gauguin and Seurat.
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Van Gogh Museum showing interior views

2. Dam Square

Amsterdam’s origins lie on Dam Square and you’ll get a sense of this history as you look at the structures here. Today the square is also a venue for mass events, fun fairs and pantomime artists. Join the locals and relax at the base of the National Monument while listening to street organs. Chase the pigeons and dodge the many cyclists when you cross the square to go shopping or explore some of the historical buildings.
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Dam Square showing a square or plaza, a city and street scenes

3. Anne Frank House

A visit to the Anne Frank House is a sober yet enlightening experience. The life story of Anne Frank has become one of the most famous accounts of a Jew hiding in Nazi Germany. Anne’s diary, which she started in 1942 when she was 13, is the most translated Dutch book of all time. Its first translation was in German, in 1950.
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Anne Frank House featuring street scenes and a city

4. Rijksmuseum

To understand how the tiny country of the Netherlands became a world superpower through both art and trade, visit the Rijksmuseum. Browse through over a million works of art and historical objects in more than 200 rooms. You’ll see famous paintings by Rembrandt and Vermeer, among hundreds of other artists, and admire the ornate building itself.
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Rijksmuseum which includes heritage architecture

5. Leidseplein

Delve into the many delights of buzzing Leidseplein to people-watch while enjoying a meal or just a drink after a day of sightseeing. In the warmer months, the area is packed with people gathered on the terraces of the restaurants and bars. Order a local beer and watch the street performers. In the winter, visit one of the many restaurants or clubs, or head to the ice rink surrounded by hot food and drink stalls for an atmospheric outdoor experience. If you love architecture, 17th-century Leidseplein has some interesting buildings for a walking tour.
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Leidseplein showing a city and heritage architecture

6. Vondelpark

Vondelpark is a State Monument and an Amsterdam hot spot in summer. This is where locals go to sunbathe, cycle or play outside. There are also concerts or other performances on weekends. Over 10 million visitors come here every year to enjoy nature and culture, as well as order drinks and meals on the restaurant terraces.
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Vondelpark featuring a pond, landscape views and a statue or sculpture

7. Heineken Experience

The Heineken Experience is a self-guided tour through interactive exhibits housed in the former Heineken brewery. The exhibits and displays aim to provide historical insight into the well-known Heineken pilsner as well as the brewing process. You’ll learn how the hop and malted barley are turned into this tasty pride of Holland, all from the point of view of a bottle of beer.
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Heineken Experience which includes interior views as well as an individual male

Recommended things to do in Amsterdam

Number of things to do
952
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Amsterdam: Unlimited Netherlands Internet with eSIM Mobile Data Plan: $4
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Amsterdam

Free Things to Do in Amsterdam

They say the best things in life are free. Be sure to explore the following around Amsterdam:

The Amsterdam VOC ship - Packed with thought-provoking displays and objects, this place is heaven for inquiring minds.

De Appel - If you'd love to learn more about the area's thriving arts and culture scene, make sure you stop by.

Poezenboot - Attention animal lovers — here's your chance to hang out with some unconventional new friends.

Rasphuis Gate - If you're intrigued by history, this is one attraction you ought to visit.

Dam Square - Find out for yourself why locals and travelers alike enjoy the vibe of this place.

Singel - Draw a deep breath — nothing beats being close to the water for some peace and calm.

National Monument - If you'd like to explore a few of the more important or unique places in the community, it's worth visiting this place.

New Church - Do a little quiet reflection and discover a few things about this site's spiritual importance.

Amsterdamse Bos - Contemplate the contrast between busy city life and nature's wonders at this spectacular place.

Begijnhof - If you're into digging about the garden, this place will fascinate your inner green thumb.

Things to Do in Amsterdam with Kids

There's fun for the whole family wherever you wander in Amsterdam. Here are some family friendly experiences you can try together that promise to make your vacation unforgettable:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Amsterdam? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Amsterdam

Dam Square showing a square or plaza, a city and street scenes

Dam Square

4.5/5(2,026 reviews)

Amsterdam’s iconic square, with its cobbled stones and grand historical buildings, is a lively gathering place and venue for protests and celebrations.

Dam Square
Van Gogh Museum showing interior views

Van Gogh Museum

4.5/5(1,687 reviews)

This modern museum houses the world’s largest collection of the legendary Dutch master painter who led a troubled life and never saw his work become famous.

Van Gogh Museum
Anne Frank House featuring street scenes and a city

Anne Frank House

4.5/5(1,347 reviews)

See where this brave and famous Jewish teenager hid from the Nazis during World War II and recorded her world-famous diary.

Anne Frank House
Rijksmuseum which includes heritage architecture

Rijksmuseum

4.5/5(1,978 reviews)

This palatial building full of Dutch paintings and international artifacts is the country’s largest public-funded museum.

Rijksmuseum
Leidseplein showing a city and heritage architecture

Leidseplein

4.5/5(1,035 reviews)

This lively square in the heart of Amsterdam’s cultural district offers dining and entertainment, with an array of theater, movie, music, comedy and street performances.

Leidseplein
Vondelpark featuring a pond, landscape views and a statue or sculpture

Vondelpark

4.5/5(517 reviews)

One of the oldest and largest public parks in Amsterdam is a relaxing place to rest, have lunch or watch a performance after visiting the nearby museums.

Vondelpark
Heineken Experience which includes interior views as well as an individual male

Heineken Experience

4.5/5(721 reviews)

Learn how a well-known Dutch beer is made, then drink a sample at this famous former brewery.

Heineken Experience
Armin van Buuren show May 2017 - Lights #Patterns

Johan Cruyff Arena

4.5/5(469 reviews)

Catch an event at Johan Cruyff Arena, and enjoy other activities in Amsterdam such as biking. Experience the acclaimed art scene and great live music in this vibrant area.

Johan Cruyff Arena
Rembrandt Square

Rembrandt Square

4.5/5(1,536 reviews)

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

Rembrandt Square

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Amsterdam

Flower Market showing a city, a river or creek and markets

Amsterdam City Centre

4.5/5(2,270 area reviews)

Dam Square and Nieuwmarkt Square are a few top attractions in Amsterdam City Centre. Hop around the city on the metro at Nieuwmarkt Station or Waterlooplein Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, charming cafes, and popular shops.

Amsterdam City Centre
Amsterdam Tulip Museum showing street scenes and signage as well as a small group of people

Jordaan

Upscale modern art galleries thrive in this historic area, while markets bustle at Noordermarkt, Westerstraat, and Lindengracht. Explore tranquil gardens and hidden courtyards (hofjes), or visit the Anne Frank House nearby.

Jordaan
Red Light District showing a city, a river or creek and a sunset

Red Light District

Explore this vibrant area with a mix of architectural styles and colorful streets known for adult entertainment. Visit local coffeeshops and the museums in the neighborhood for a unique experience.

Red Light District
Rijksmuseum showing a pond, views and a city

Museum Quarter

4.5/5(1,225 area reviews)

In the heart of Amsterdam-Zuid, Museumkwartier boasts major museums like Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Museum, and Van Gogh Museum. Enjoy concerts at Concertgebouw, unwind in Vondelpark, and access tram lines 2, 3, 5, 12, 16, and 24.

Museum Quarter
Amsterdam which includes a river or creek, boating and a city

Canal Ring

4.5/5(1,372 area reviews)

Discover Amsterdam's Grachtengordel, where 17th-century canal homes and small bridges adorn the Singel, Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht canals. Visit the Anne Frank House and other nearby museums for a rich cultural experience.

Canal Ring
Amsterdam showing a city, street scenes and a river or creek

Binnenstad

While you're in Binnenstad, take in top sights like Dam Square or National Monument, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Dam Stop or Paleisstraat Tram Stop.

Binnenstad
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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.

 

 

Popular day trips from Amsterdam

Amstelveen

Amstelveen

Photo by Lauren C

Badhoevedorp

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

Zaandam

Photo by Braden Jarvis

Vinkeveen

Photo by Lynette Lee

Aalsmeer

Photo by Jonathan Wisner

Abcoude

Amsterdam featuring interior views and an airport as well as a couple

Schiphol

Almere

Almere

Frequently asked questions

Is Amsterdam worth visiting?
With a mix of cycling and culture, there are plenty of things to do in Amsterdam. While you're here, head to Amsterdam Museum, a major attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Amsterdam?
Begin your day with a visit to Amsterdam Museum and Nemo Science Museum. Then, explore different areas of Amsterdam for local restaurants and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Amsterdam?
You can't leave without exploring Amsterdam Museum, ranked the top tourist attraction in Amsterdam.
Is three days enough to stay in Amsterdam?
Three days will be plenty of time to tick off the leading city attractions, including Amsterdam Museum, Nemo Science Museum and Rembrandt House Museum. The average stay in Amsterdam is three days. If you have the time to extend your vacation, Schiphol isn't far away.
Is Amsterdam a walkable city?
With exciting neighborhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city center, Amsterdam is a good place to see on foot. Wander between Amsterdam Museum and Nemo Science Museum. Then take a stroll around Amsterdam City Centre, located 0.3 miles from downtown, and Old Town Amsterdam, which is about 0.1 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Amsterdam with kids?
Whether you're traveling with young explorers or playful teenagers, a fun-filled itinerary makes all the difference. Browse our ideas for what to do in Amsterdam with kids.

What to do in Amsterdam for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or thrill seeker, there are loads of things to do in Amsterdam for adults including Ziggo Dome and Warmoesstraat.
Are there free things to do in Amsterdam?
One of the simplest ways to learn about free things to do in Amsterdam is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on vibrant neighborhoods, parks and other hotspots you can visit without opening your wallet. Blijburg Beach is one sight that doesn't charge an entrance fee.