15 Things To Not Miss in Amsterdam
Our AmaWaterways River cruise ended in Amsterdam. We spent three days here before returning home. We visited Amsterdam for two days. On day three we hired a guide to take us outside of Amsterdam to Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans.
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In this post, I’m recommending tours from GetYourGuide… I always book my tours through them. You can cancel any booking up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund. Some of these tours will sell out so book in advance.
If you have 3 days in Amsterdam but are having trouble figuring out what to do, you have come to the right place. Here’s my list of 15 things to not miss in Amsterdam!
TAKE A CANAL BOAT TOUR:
Taking a canal boat tour in Amsterdam is a must-do experience. Amsterdam has 60 miles of canals, 90 islands, and 1,500 bridges. A canal tour allows you to see many of Amsterdam's top attractions in a short amount of time. You’ll learn about Amsterdam's rich history, fascinating anecdotes, and unique urban planning, as you cruise along the city's picturesque waterways. Soak in the stunning views of historic architecture, charming houseboats, and iconic landmarks. We went during the day and again at night for the Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Tour. It was so cool to see the city illuminated at night!
Click here to book a boat cruise with a cheese & wine option.
2. SHOP AND SEE DAM SQUARE:
Dam Square is the vibrant heart of Amsterdam. It’s named after the dam built on the Amstel River in the 13th century, It's where the city originated and where important events have taken place. The square is home to several iconic landmarks, including the Royal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis), a stunning example of Dutch Classicism, and the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), a Gothic-style church used for royal ceremonies and exhibitions. Dam Square is surrounded by theaters, museums, and shopping streets, making it a cultural hub in Amsterdam. Some nearby attractions are Madame Tussauds, the Amsterdam Dungeon, and the National Monument, which commemorates the victims of World War II. The area around Dam Square offers a wide range of shopping and dining, from luxury boutiques and department stores to quaint cafes and traditional Dutch eateries. It's a great place to indulge in some retail therapy or enjoy a meal while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Buy your Madame Tussauds tickets here.
Amsterdam Dungeon tickets.
3. TAKE A WALKING TOUR:
Taking a walking tour in Amsterdam is a fantastic way to explore the city's history, charming neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks. Amsterdam is full of hidden gems, from quaint canal-side streets to tucked-away courtyards and local markets. A walking tour can take you off the beaten path and help you discover these hidden treasures.
Click here to book a walking tour of sites in Amsterdam.
Click here to take an Anne Frank walking tour.
4. OR A BIKE TOUR:
Renting a bike is one of the top things to do in the city. But it’s probably not as easy as you might think. Our friends from Amsterdam warned us not to rent a bike since it can be a chaotic experience. I recommend taking a bike tour instead. Bike tours are great since you’ll get a lesson on the rules of the road and local tips for keeping you safe. You won’t need to worry about getting lost and you get to learn about the city along your way.
Book your bike tour here.
5. STAY IN A CANAL VIEW ROOM:
Hotel Estherea
Staying in a canal view room in Amsterdam is a quintessential Amsterdam experience. It captures the city's charm and beauty offering a truly enchanting experience.
Many canal-view hotels are located in central areas, with easy access to top attractions, restaurants, and shops, allowing you to easily explore the city.
We stayed in Hotel Estherea and woke up to stunning views of Amsterdam's canals right outside our window.
6. Explore one of Amsterdams world-class musEUms:
Van Gogh Museum
This is a must-visit for art lovers! It houses the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings and drawings in the world.
Click here to purchase your entry ticket to the Van Gogh Museum.
RIJKSMUSEUM
Visiting the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is a must for art and history. The Rijksmuseum houses a collection of Dutch art and history, including masterpieces by artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh. It's a treasure trove of artistic excellence spanning centuries. The museum itself is a work of art, with its striking neo-Gothic architecture and grand halls. Gain a deeper understanding of Dutch art, history, and culture through informative exhibitions, guided tours, and interactive displays that cater to visitors of all ages and interests. The Rijksmuseum is near other major attractions such as the Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum, making it easy to explore multiple cultural institutions in one visit.
Click here to purchase your entry ticket to the Rijksmuseum
REMBRANDT HOUSE MUSEUM
The Rembrandt House Museum in Amsterdam offers a glimpse into the life and work of the legendary Dutch artist, Rembrandt van Rijn. Housed in the former residence and studio of Rembrandt, the museum showcases his etchings, sketches, and personal belongings, giving an insight into his artistic process and daily life. Explore the reconstructed interiors, including Rembrandt's studio, where he created some of his most iconic masterpieces.
Click here to purchase your entry ticket to the Rembrandt House Museum.
7. VISIT THE ANNE FRANK HOUSE:
Visiting the Anne Frank House is a profound and sobering experience. See where Anne Frank and her family hid during the Holocaust, and gain insight into their daily life and the challenges her family faced. It's a powerful way to learn about the horrors of the Holocaust, reflect on the importance of standing up against discrimination and prejudice, and honor the memory of Anne Frank and the millions who perished during that dark period of history. You need to get tickets in advance they do sell out.
8. STOP AND SMELL THE FLOWERS:
The Flower Market in Amsterdam, known locally as the "Bloemenmarkt," is a vibrant and colorful destination. Located along the Singel Canal, this floating flower market is the only one in the world, offering a unique shopping experience amidst a picturesque canal backdrop. Here, you'll find fresh flowers, bulbs, seeds, and other floral souvenirs, including the iconic Dutch tulips in a rainbow of colors.
9. Visit a Royal Palace:
The Royal Palace of Amsterdam is located on Dam Square in the heart of the city. It’s a stunning architectural gem and an important symbol of the Dutch monarchy. It’s often used for official receptions and state visits. It’s worth a visit to experience a bit of royal splendor and Dutch history.
Click here to buy your entry ticket to the Royal Palace of Amsterdam.
10. CHECK OUT A LOPSIDED PUB:
We met our Dutch friends at Cafe de Sluyswacht for drinks before dinner. This is an old-school lopsided pub in a unique octagonal building overlooking one of the city's picturesque canals. Known for its cozy ambiance and traditional Dutch pub fare, this hidden gem offers a perfect retreat with scenic views from its waterside terrace.
After drinks, our friends took us to Cafe Restaurant De Plantage, a stylish eatery located in the heart of Amsterdam's Artis Zoo. It’s in a beautifully restored 19th-century greenhouse with soaring ceilings supported by metal beams, exposed brick walls, birdcage-like chandeliers, a huge central fiddle-leaf fig tree, and enormous windows overlooking a volière (aviary). It’s a great spot to come after exploring the zoo or strolling through the nearby Oosterpark.
11. TRY DUTCH FRIES:
We stopped at Manneken Pis Verse Vlaamse Frie for the best fries! I have waited 25 years to return to Amsterdam and once again sample their yummy fries and famous dipping sauce. It was way too long of a wait!😋
12. SHOP AT THE 9 STREETS:
This charming neighborhood is known for its boutique shops and vintage stores. We saw quirky souvenirs, trendy fashions, and handmade jewelry.
13. TRY THE BEST DUTCH APPLE PIE:
Cafe Winkel 43 is a cozy and iconic cafe in Amsterdam, known for its delicious homemade apple pie. Situated in the lively Jordaan district, Cafe Winkel 43 is a beloved spot for locals and tourists who want to enjoy a taste of Dutch comfort food.
14. visit the RED LIGHT DISTRICT if you dare:
One of the best-kept secrets in the Red Light District is the climb up the Old Church Tower. Don’t miss the panoramic views from the oldest part of Amsterdam. Take the tour to learn about Amsterdam’s oldest building. It’s 9 Euros per person. Open Thu-Tue for tours closed Wednesdays. April 12-5, May-June 12-6, Jul-Aug 11:30-6:30, Sept 12-6, Oct 12-5.
Exploring Amsterdam's Red Light District is an eye-opening experience. The name “Red Light District” comes from the red lights that illuminate the windows where the (legal) prostitutes work. While known for its infamous windows showcasing sex workers, the area also has a vibrant nightlife, historical architecture, and eclectic shops and cafes. I do not recommend taking children there.
15. TAKE A DAY TRIP FROM AMSTERDAM:
GIETHOORN
Know as the "Venice of the North," it’s a picturesque village in the Netherlands famous for its idyllic canals, and charming thatched-roof houses. Giethoorn is a 1-hour 22-minute drive from Amsterdam. We explored the village by boat and saw restored farmhouses, beautiful canals, and picturesque wooden bridges. It’s such a charming Dutch village, and only accessible by boat.
Click here to book a tour from Amsterdam to Giethoorn.
ZAANSE SCHANS
Zaanse Schans in the Netherlands is a charming open-air museum where you step back in time to experience traditional Dutch life. We were there later in the day as the sun was setting, and it was about as magical as it gets! The drive time from Amsterdam is 20 minutes. We explored historic windmills, and wooden houses while learning about Dutch life. The Dutch have worn wooden shoes, or Klompen as they're known in the Netherlands since the 13th century. We learned how these are made and our tour guide told us he was raised wearing them.
Click here to book a tour from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans Windmills & cheese tasting tour.
Click here to book a tour from Amsterdam to Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Windmills.
Edam
Edam is a picturesque town in the Netherlands known for its traditional cheese, also called Edam. It’s famous for its cheese market, which used to be a vital part of the town’s economy. I visited Edam on my last visit to the Netherlands and fell in love with its charming canals, bridges, and well-preserved buildings. Don’t forget to try some authentic Edam cheese while you’re there.
Click here to book a tour from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam & Marken.
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN AMSTERDAM:
Moco Museum with Banksy & More Entry Ticket
The Upside Down Museum Entry Ticket
AMAZE Immersive Audiovisual Experience Entry Ticket
5D Flight Experience Ticket
ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo Entry ticket
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