What to do in Amsterdam? We’ve compiled the ultimate Amsterdam bucket list. Which of these Amsterdam experiences and attractions can you tick off, and where do you still want to go? If your time is limited to a weekend then you can’t tick all these off in one visit so get booking that next trip now!
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Skip the instagram lines at Fabel Friets, Chun, Winkel 43 or Van Stapele Koekmakerij and check out these options to enjoy the city instead.
A stroopwafel from Rudi
Forget the overpriced stroopwafels plaguing the city centre. For the real deal, head to the Albert Cuypmarkt and find Rudi’s Original Stroopwafels. The secret? It’s all in the dough, made with real butter.
Albert Cuypstraat 182 (Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, 11:00-17:00)
The Anne Frank House
Many Amsterdammers have never been to the Anne Frank House. But the old excuse of ‘not wanting to stand in that long queue’ no longer holds water. These days, you book a ticket with a specific time slot, and the museum remains open until 22.00, seven days a week.
Westermarkt 20
Canal Cruise
Amsterdam is stunning, but it is perhaps even more beautiful from the water. Booking a canal cruise allows you to get to know the city from a completely different perspective. For those seeking something beyond the standard tourist trail, there is a growing number of alternative tours available – such as boat tours where refugees share their personal stories.
‘Broodje kroket’ at Van Dobben
You can find a decent kroket in various spots across the city, but the experience at Eetsalon Van Dobben is a rare find. Take a seat on a bar stool and order a broodje kroket – served on a soft white roll spread with real butter – with a glass of milk on the side. Then, simply sit back and soak in everything you hear, see, and taste. Korte Reguliersdwarsstraat 5
Royal Palace on Dam Square
The palace is one of those landmarks you can cycle past hundreds of times without ever stepping inside. Yet, it truly pays to do so: the genuine grandeur of Amsterdam’s former town hall is only revealed once you cross the threshold. From the Citizens’ Hall (Burgerzaal) to the marble galleries, it is an architectural marvel. And for the city’s younger residents, the palace offers engaging, free audio scavenger hunts designed specifically for children aged 5–8 and 9–12.
A cup of coffee at De Nederlandsche Bank
With the reopening of De Nederlandsche Bank (The Dutch Bank) in March 2025, Amsterdam has gained a new hotspot. In the publicly accessible exhibition space, De Nieuwe Schatkamer (The New Treasury), you can admire art, study, drink coffee, and read a newspaper.
Frederiksplein 61
A’DAM Lookout
Admittedly, you aren’t likely to encounter many fellow Amsterdammers in the ‘disco elevator’ of the A’dam Lookout, that tourist magnet on the banks of the IJ. In just twenty seconds, you zoom up to the panoramic roof for the best view in the city. It is spectacular in every sense. Feel free to bypass the souvenir shop entirely.
IJpromenade 4 (take the ferry behind Central Station)
Taking the ferry across the IJ
For some, it’s a daily commute; for others, a free mini-holiday. In just a few minutes, you sail across the IJ with a fresh breeze in your hair. We love the ferry. Tourists often ask, ‘How much is this?’ and we say, ‘It’s free!’ Aee also the A’DAM Lookout.
Central Station (free)
Picnicking on the roof of science museum NEMO
The freely accessible rooftop square of NEMO is a place that never fails to impress. You can walk straight up from the street on the east side for a fantastic view of the city. At the top, you’ll find a large (free) terrace, the museum restaurant, and a conservatory bar, but you are also allowed to bring your own picnic.
Oosterdok 2
Grab an ice cream at Van der Linde
Life is complicated enough. Fortunately, at Van der Linde, they keep things simple by selling only one flavour: whipped-cream vanilla. It goes down like a creamy, sweet dream. Prices range from €1.70 to €2.40. The green interior has remained unchanged since the seventies, and the wall features a photo of the owners (two brothers) when they were still children. Bring cash, as they still don’t accept cards even in 2026, and pick up some homemade chocolate truffles (eight for €2.50).
Nieuwendijk 183
Van Eesteren Museum
The work of urban planner Cornelis van Eesteren is visible throughout Nieuw-West, Buitenveldert, and parts of Noord. The Van Eesteren Museum, housed in a stunning pavilion on the Sloterplas, is a must-see for anyone wanting to understand why Amsterdam’s districts and buildings look the way they do.
Noordzijde 31
Flea market at the IJ-Hallen
Europe’s largest flea market is right here in Amsterdam. The recipe for a successful day: arrive early, buy your ticket online in advance, and don’t be afraid to dig through the mountains of unorganised clothes. It’s not every week, so check the schedule here.
T.T. Neveritaweg 15
Café Nol
‘In Café Nol heb je altijd lol’ (In Café Nol, you’re always having fun). This is down to the Dutch hits, the ‘chic’ red interior (typical for the Jordaan neighborhood) and loads of gezelligheid. Be warned, though: Café Nol is also always packed. In fact, it gets so busy that the red carpet has to be replaced almost every month.
Westerstraat 109
Café-Restaurant Amsterdam
Good food without the fuss. Timeless and an institution where the service is always great and friendly and the food is always delicious.
Watertorenplein 6
Petronella’s Dollhouse
Yes, The Night Watch is mandatory viewing, but so is the dolls’ house of the wealthy Petronella Oortman. This impressively detailed piece (built between 1686 and 1710) is located near the Gallery of Honour in the Rijksmuseum. Dozens of craftsmen worked on it; the nursery features actual miniature paintings, and there is even running water in the kitchen.
Rijksmuseum, Museumstraat 1
Restaurant Toscanini
An Italian icon, established in the Jordaan since 1985 and at this Lindengracht location since 1990. It is the perfect place to celebrate life. Toscanini serves the best pasta in town, and before you know it, you’ve had one glass too many. But it’s primarily the relaxed, warm atmosphere that makes evenings here so memorable. The staff are super friendly too and if you can get a table overlooking the open kitchen all the better.
Lindengracht 75
Sipping Dutch gin at ’t Nieuwe Diep
Tucked away in the greenery of Flevopark lies ’t Nieuwe Diep, a small distillery and tasting room. It’s a magical spot overlooking the water. Here, you can enjoy a pikketanissie (a traditional Dutch gin) or one of the liqueurs distilled according to age-old recipes. Pair it with a slice of osseworst (raw meat) from Louman’s butchers, and life is perfect.
Flevopark
The Last Old Post Office
The former post office is a gem of ‘Amsterdamse School’ architecture. It is the last post office from the 1920s still in its original state. Now part of Museum Het Schip, it opens its doors during guided tours (five times a day, Tue–Sun). Reader Marreke Prins (82) is a fan: “A beautiful little post office, though the whole neighbourhood around it is lovely too.”
Oostzaanstraat 45
Aprilfeesten (21/4 to 27/4)
A traditional neighbourhood party of the Nieuwmarkt area has evolved into a festival for all Amsterdammers. Held in the week before King’s Day around the Waag, it’s a time to raise a glass, enjoy breakfast, take a ride on the La Molina carousel, and sing along at the Pub Choir Contest. As it’s April weather can dampen the fun a little but never fear the square also hosts the Senior Pride concert during Amsterdam Pride with better weather almost guaranteed (it is still the Netherlands after all).
Nieuwmarkt
Amsterdam Pride Canal Parade
Whether you find a spot along the Nieuwe Herengracht, the Amstel, or the Prinsengracht, the exuberant Canal Parade – as part of Pride – is something every Amsterdammer must see at least once. It’s the first Saturday of August. Check-out https://pride.amsterdam
’t Mandje, the city’s first queer café
It was the city’s very first queer café. The original facade is in a museum but the bar is still going strong. Use it or lose it is our motto for bars in the city.
Zeedijk 63
Climbing the Sluishuis
Another for the architecture fans amongst us. With the prestigious building Sluishuis, IJburg has gained its own landmark. Via a public staircase, you can climb the residential complex for a spectacular (and free) view over the IJ.
Haringbuisdijk
Döner at the Dappermarkt
The döner from Beste Döner at the Dappermarkt is a legendary greasy treat among chefs. Greasy, spicy, and made with lamb, it is the ultimate hangover cure. For vegetarians: they also make an excellent falafel wrap.
Dappermarkt
Dim Sum at Sea Palace
The old myth used to be: the higher you sit in the floating Sea Palace, the more expensive it is. I can’t confirm this but I know you can enjoy dim sum on every floor. You might think it’s a tourist trap, but the Chinese food is excellent.
Oosterdokskade 8
Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder
This exceptionally well-preserved 17th-century canal house hides a secret church in the attic. Catholics gathered here in secret to practice their faith. The moment you step inside, you feel what it means to have to hide your identity as a religious minority – a theme that remains timeless.
Oudezijds Voorburgwal 38
Noordermarkt and Lindengrachtmarkt
On Saturdays, all walks of life converge at the Noordermarkt and Lindengrachtmarkt. Browse organic vegetables and sourdough bread, slurp an oyster, and hunt for vintage treasures, perhaps with a fresh coffee in hand.
Check out the cakes from Felix Pastry or the Pork Belly Sandwiches from Mr. Brasa. No time for the Lindengracht? You can also get their sandwiches at the IJburg-Reuring market (IJburg), Westergas Sunday market (Westerpark), and the Museum Market (Museumplein).
Huis Bartolotti
This brand-new museum is among the best-preserved merchant houses in Amsterdam. Built in 1620 as a private residence for the urban elite, it feels like a real-life costume drama. The best part? You’re allowed to pull open almost every door and drawer and sit on centuries-old chairs
Herengracht 170
Window shopping in the P.C. Hooftstraat
Buying clothes in the city’s most luxurious street might not be for everyone, but window shopping and people-watching is just as entertaining. Time for P.C. Bingo: who will be the first to spot a Ferrari, a Louis Vuitton bag, a Dutch celebrity (known as BNers), and a Rolex?
P.C. Hooftstraat
The Olympic Stadium
The Olympic Stadium was built for the 1928 Games. It almost disappeared; it was slated for demolition to make way for housing. However, in 1992 the stadium received monumental status.
A good thing, too, as it is remarkable that such an old building is still in use. The stadium features a Wall of Fame with the names of all Dutch Olympic champions. You can book a tour, but even without going inside, you can admire the architecture: a unique mix of the architectural style ‘Amsterdam School’ and Frank Lloyd Wright.
Olympisch Stadion 2
Watching a film at cinema Tuschinski
The most beautiful cinema in the world? That title was bestowed upon Tuschinski by Time Out. The century-old cinema oozes Art Deco grandeur, all for the price of a regular cinema ticket. Be sure to pick a movie in Zaal 1 (the grand hall). You can also take a tour, to see the famous organ.
Reguliersbreestraat 26
Tigris & Eufraat
You could call Tigris en Eufraat a modern classic. What began as a fruit and veg shop on the Javastraat has grown into the place for Amsterdammers to buy falafel wraps, dips, and freshly pressed tahini. You first pay at the counter, where you’ll get a token for your desired wrap.
Javastraat 20
Rent a boat and hit the IJ
Explore Amsterdam in all its grandeur by heading out onto the IJ; sail past the Oranjesluizen and set a course for the island of Pampus. Prefer not to take the helm yourself? From April until the end of October 2026, the Amsterdam Ferry Service (Veerdienst Amsterdam) runs from IJburg to Pampus on weekends and during school holidays. Note: Not all the rental boats allow you onto the Ij.
Free concerts at the Concertgebouw
On Wednesday afternoons, sitting on the velvet chairs of the Concertgebouw is free of charge. The programming is broad, ranging from classical music to more swinging contemporary repertoires. Free tickets can be ordered a week in advance.
Concertgebouwplein 10
A cup of coffee at the Amstel Hotel
Go for a cup of coffee (or a cocktail) in the truly stunning Amstel Lounge. Walk straight through the majestic lobby, take a seat in the blue-and-white conservatory by the water, and feel like a VIP. It’s five-star luxury for the price of a coffee (€6). That includes gingerbread and sometimes chocolates. In good weather, the terrace is also open. Don’t forget to checkout the toilets!
Professor Tulpplein 1
Going to the Arena
If you are a football fan then you really must see the inside of the Johan Cruijff Arena at least once – whether for an Ajax match, a major concert, or an official stadium tour that grants you access to the players’ dressing rooms.
Johan Cruijff Boulevard 1
Visiting the Poezenboot
The Poezenboot (The Cat Boat) is a floating cat shelter that takes in about 250 cats a year and is a hit with tourists. However, locals are just as welcome to come aboard for a look on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays between 13.00 and 15.00.
Not recommended for those with cat allergies (me).
Singel 38
Openluchttheater in the Vondelpark
For over fifty years, there have been free summer performances at the Vondelpark open air theater. Legendary Dutch acts have performed here. While entry is free, a donation to the collection box is highly appreciated – it’s the only way this piece of Amsterdam heritage survives.
Vondelpark
Eating pancakes in the Amsterdamse Bos
They say the first pancake always fails… Not at Boerderij Meerzicht in the Amsterdamse Bos. After a walk through the woods, settle onto the terrace of this former farm and order a massive pancake. Bacon, apple, or raisin – the choice is yours. The best time of year is during Cherry Blossom Season but any other time is the next best time.
Koenenkade 56
Cherry blossom park
The Japanese cherry trees in the Amsterdamse Bos draw more than 150,000 visitors every year. Typically, the blossoms emerge between mid and late March. Take note, however: all the trees are slated for replacement in 2028 as they reach the end of their lifespan. If all goes to plan, the Bloesempark will be back in full bloom by the spring of 2029.
Doorweg 32
Apple pie at the schoolhouse in Holysloot
Of course you could join the queue at Winkel 43, but it’s much more fun to cycle to Het Schoolhuis in the little village of Holysloot. Located in a monumental former schoolhouse from 1875, they serve excellent homemade apple pie with whipped cream and an unobstructed view of the IJsselmeer dike. Just check on the weather before you set out, we had headwinds making the return trip less fun! Overall it’s about a 45 minute cycle each way unless you rent an electric bike.
Dorpsstraat Holysloot 38 (closed on Mondays)
Westerkerk
The Westerkerk, a church immortalized in so many songs, is free to visit every weekday between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Take a moment to walk past the memorial stone of Rembrandt van Rijn. Every Tuesday afternoon from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, a carillon concert rings out from the Westertoren, which can be enjoyed from the surrounding area.
Prinsengracht 279
Watching an ice hockey match at the Jaap Edenhal
For the Heated Rivalry fans amongst us then you can checkout the Dutch hockey players. Catching an Amsterdam Tigers ice hockey match costs 10 euros, lasts two hours, and is really fun to see at least once.
Radioweg 64
Playing with water at the Gaasperplas
The Gaasperplas water playground is one of the best swimming spots in the city for toddlers. Besides a nice pond, there is a water lock complex, where water is pumped through daily much to the delight of children (from April to October).
Swimming at Marineterrein
Hot day? Amsterdammers love nothing more than diving into the water at the Marineterrein, which has been an officially designated swimming location since 2025. It features plenty of ladders, areas for lounging, and various bars and restaurants just a stone’s throw away. There are so many beautiful swimming spots in Amsterdam, from the Nieuwe Meer to the quays of the Eastern Docklands (Oostelijk Havengebied). None as central as this gem.
Kattenburgerstraat 5
See the Sunflowers at the Van Gogh Museum
Everyone should see Van Gogh’s iconic sunflowers at least once. He painted three versions with fifteen sunflowers in a vase, one of which hangs in the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam.
Museumplein 6
The King’s Day flea market
King’s Day (April 26) turns Amsterdam into one giant flea market, with the Jordaan and Vondelpark at the centre. You have to buy something for a little price at least once in your life.
Shopping (and eating) at Dun Yong
There is very little that Amsterdam’s oldest Asian supermarket doesn’t stock. But whatever you do, make sure to head up to the fourth floor for a bowl of unsurpassed ramen noodles – it’s one of the best budget-friendly spots in the city.
Stormsteeg 9
See the parakeets in Oosterpark
Can you see them flying there? The bright green rose-ringed parakeets love nothing more than spending the night in the Oosterpark. It’s a pretty sight, but they also cause a fair amount of trouble. They peck away at building facades, leave a mess all over the pavements, and are aggressive towards other birds. But they do have a charming chatter, don’t they?
Oosterpark
The Portuguese Synagogue
Heritage expert Walther Schoonenberg: “Along with the Palace on Dam Square, I consider this one of our two most important monuments. It’s remarkable that such a large synagogue was built so openly in the 17th century while Jews elsewhere in Europe were confined to ghettos. Here, they were free, and that huge building proves it.”
Mr. Visserplein 3
Christmas circus at theatre Carré
An institution on the Amstel and a dream for many artists. Oscar Carré opened his ‘stone circus’ in 1887, and 139 years later, it is still the premiere theatre of the Netherlands. Seeing the Wereldkerstcircus (international Christmas circus show) there is a rite of passage.
Amstel 115
Ruigoord
A unique part of Amsterdam where time seems to have stood still for fifty years. Artist village Ruigoord, in the Western Docklands, is a place for makers and dreamers. In summer, the tea garden is open for a cup of tea in the greenery.
Explore old Sloten
Annexed by Amsterdam in 1921, the village of Sloten remains very much alive, thanks in part to its active community of residents. The area of Sloten stretches from its historic village core on the outskirts of Badhoevedorp – home to the smallest police station in the Netherlands, the Sloten Windmill (Molen van Sloten), and the Sloten Church – all the way to the IJ, where remnants of its history, such as the former town hall and St. Peter’s Church (Petruskerk), can still be found near train station Sloterdijk. At the police station in Sloten, you can purchase a cycling map for €3 that takes you on a 30-kilometre route past all of the village’s historical highlights. It’s about 30 minutes by bike from the city centre.
Skinny Bridge at twilight/sunset
Walk across the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) over the river Amstel at twilight and you’ll see Amsterdam at its best. The lights flicker on the bridge, boats glide by, and the city falls quiet for a moment.
Swim in the Zuiderbad
As the only swimming pool in the city with national monument status, it is certainly not the most modern – especially with its original wooden changing cubicles – but it is undoubtedly the most atmospheric. Tip: go early in the morning (on weekdays, it opens for lane swimming at 7:00 AM), when it is still peaceful.
Hobbemastraat 26
Water lilies at Hortus Botanicus
Every summer, the giant water lily blooms at the Hortus Botanicus. Its leaves are so strong that babies can be placed on them for a photo shoot. A rare tropical spectacle in the heart of the city.
Plantage Middenlaan 2a
Party during Amsterdam Dance Event
For three decades now, the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) has left an indelible mark on the international electronic music scene. There is a party for everyone: from the grand, immersive experiences at the Gashouder and the NDSM wharf to dozens of smaller, free events. The line-up even includes dance parties for the over-65s and dedicated events for people with physical or mental disabilities.
Prinsengracht concert
The Prinsengrachtconcert is the largest open-air classical music concert in the Netherlands, held annually (22 of August 2026) on Amsterdam’s Prinsengracht canal and free to the public. The best way to experience it is undoubtedly from your own boat. However, for that you do need to register in advance for a chance to secure an official entry ticket.
Prinsengracht 323, in front of hotel Pulitzer
Climbing dolls at Bijenkorf
Every year around the Sinterklaas season, six ‘climbing Pieten’ have been scaling large ropes in the De Bijenkorf atrium since 1964. Over the decades, the display has become a piece of cultural heritage in its own right. The figures have undergone several restorations, and their outfits are regularly replaced due to wear and tear. Since 2015, these climbing figures have been finished in a striking gold colour.
Bijenkorf, Dam square
Grachtenmuseum (Canal Museum)
Heritage expert Walther Schoonenberg: “A truly delightful museum about the history of the canal belt. Through the end of March, there is an exhibition on how Amsterdam was nearly demolished in the twentieth century; it really highlights the importance of preserving this World Heritage site. It’s a must-see.”
Herengracht 386
Queuing for the Heineken Experience
Should you visit the Heineken Experience? It’s a matter of debate. Nevertheless, the Heineken Experience is inextricably linked to Amsterdam; furthermore, it occupies an iconic building where beer was brewed until 1988. Every tourist should peek behind that facade at least once, if only to marvel at the magnificent old brew hall.
Stadhouderskade 78
What to do in Amsterdam? There are a lot of options. If you know one we should add to the list let us know! We are not even sure there are 101 things in the list there are probably more since we keep adding to it so please no complaints about our counting!