There are so many things to do in Amsterdam, that it can be hard to know where to start! This charming city is located in Holland and is well known for its beautiful architecture, canals, and abundance of bicycles. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out with friends or a romantic weekend getaway, Amsterdam has something for everyone.
Language Dutch
The currency Euro
Best time to visit Amsterdam
The best time to visit Amsterdam is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. The city comes alive in the springtime with the blooming of the tulips, and in the fall you can enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves.
If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting Amsterdam during shoulder season. However, if you don’t mind the cold, winter is also a great time to visit as the city is beautifully decorated for Christmas. No matter when you choose to visit Amsterdam, you’re sure to have a wonderful time!
Getting to Amsterdam
Getting to Amsterdam from London is easy and there are a few different transport options available. The most popular option is to take the Eurostar train, which takes around four hours.
You can also fly into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, which is just under an hour from the city center, some budget airlines fly into Amsterdam such as Easyjet and Ryanair or take a ferry from Harwich International Port.
Getting to Amsterdam is easy whether you’re coming from within Europe or further afield. The city’s Schiphol Airport is one of the busiest in Europe and is well connected to both major cities and smaller towns.
If you’re driving, Amsterdam is located just a few hours from Belgium and Germany, making it the perfect stop on a road trip through Europe.
Getting around Amsterdam
The best way to get around Amsterdam is on foot or by bicycle. The city is relatively small and flat, making it easy to walk or cycle from one place to another.
If you’re planning on doing a lot of sightseeing, we recommend renting a bike for the day. This will allow you to see more of the city than if you were walking and you’ll get some exercise in too! There are a number of bike rental companies located around Amsterdam, so it’s easy to find one that suits your needs. rentals starts from around €10.00
If you’re not comfortable cycling, the city has an extensive tram network that covers most of Amsterdam, as well as a bus system. You can purchase tickets for both trams and buses at any tram stop or from the driver. If you’re planning on using public transport frequently during your stay, we recommend buying a day pass, which gives you unlimited travel on all trams, buses, and ferries, you can always hop on a canal boat and see the beautiful sites from the water.
Where to stay
There are a number of great places to stay in Amsterdam, depending on your budget and what you’re looking for in a vacation. If you’re looking for a cheap and cheerful place to crash after a night out, there are several hostels located around the city center.
For those wanting something a little more luxurious, there are also several hotels, Airbnbs, and apartments that can be rented or if you are looking for a unique way to experience the city, try staying in one of the canal houseboat hotels.
Top 11 Things to see and do in Amsterdam
Visit the Anne Frank House
This museum is dedicated to the Jewish diarist Anne Frank, who was hiding from Nazi persecution with her family in Amsterdam during World War II. The museum is located in the house where she and her family hid, and it provides an intimate look at what their life was like during that time. Tickets start from €14.00 for an adult.
Explore the Canal Ring
The Canal Ring is a series of canals that were built in the 17th century to transport goods and people around the city. Today, it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike, and it’s easy to see why!
The Canal Ring is beautiful year-round, but it’s especially lovely in the springtime when the tulips are in bloom. You can explore the Canal Ring by foot, boat, or even bike!
Visit the Rijksmuseum. Don’t forget to mention the Night Watch!
The Rijksmuseum is Amsterdam’s largest and most famous museum, and it’s a must-see for any first-time visitor to the city. The museum houses a large collection of Dutch art, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
The Night Watch is one of the most famous paintings in the world, and it’s definitely worth a visit. Even if you’re not an art lover, the Rijksmuseum is worth a visit for its sheer size and scale. You could easily spend an entire day here!
Entrance prices start at €20.00 for people 18 years and up. Under 18 are free.
See the Windmills at Zaanse Schans
Zaanse Schans is a beautiful open-air museum that showcases a traditional Dutch windmill village. The windmills here are still in use, and you can watch as they grind wheat into flour. You can also explore the traditional houses and learn about the way of life in this historic village. Zaanse Schans is located just outside of Amsterdam, and it’s a great day trip for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Stroll Through Vondelpark
Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s largest and most popular park, and it’s the perfect place to take a stroll on a sunny day. The park is home to a number of sculptures and monuments, as well as a beautiful lake. You can also find a number of cafes and restaurants located within the park, making it the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat.
Visit the Van Gogh Museum
This world-renowned museum houses the largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh, and it’s a must-see for any art lover. The museum is located in the heart of Amsterdam.
Tickets start at € 19.00 for adults, under 18 years are free entry.
Explore the Jordaan Neighborhood
The Jordaan neighborhood is one of the most popular areas in Amsterdam, and it’s easy to see why. This charming area is filled with narrow streets, canals, and beautiful architecture. There are also a number of great shops, cafes, and restaurants located in the Jordaan.
Start at Noordermarkt square and then wander through the winding streets, stopping to grab a bite to eat or do some shopping.
Visit the Begijnhof
This lovely courtyard is one of the oldest in Amsterdam, and it’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The Begijnhof was originally home to a community of Catholic women, and today it’s a popular tourist attraction.
Take a Cruise on the Canals
Canal cruises are a great way to see Amsterdam from a different perspective. These cruises typically last around an hour, and they provide a great opportunity to see the city’s canals and landmarks up close. You can purchase tickets for canal cruises at a number of locations throughout the city.
Check Out the Flower Market
The Flower Market is one of the best places to go in Amsterdam if you’re looking for fresh flowers or souvenirs. The market is located on the Singel canal, and it’s open every day except Sunday.
Check out the Red Light District
The Red-Light District is one of the most famous areas of Amsterdam, and it’s easy to see why. This vibrant neighborhood is full of sex shops, strip clubs, brothels, and windows where prostitutes display themselves for potential customers.
It is also home to many bars, clubs, and coffee shops. his vibrant and colorful area is located in the heart of the city. It’s certainly an experience like no other (unique some might say), and one that you won’t forget! While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it’s worth checking out if you’re curious!
As you can see, there is no shortage of things to do in Amsterdam! Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s history and culture or just relax and enjoy the scenery, Amsterdam is the perfect destination for you. We hope this list has inspired you to start planning your trip to Holland’s beautiful capital!
Have you ever been to Amsterdam? What are your favorite things to do in the city? Or do you have any tips for first-time visitors to Amsterdam?
Let us know in the comments below!