Things to do in Amsterdam

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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
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Amsterdam must see attractions

1. 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 in Amsterdam, top view

2. 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 cycling

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 which includes a river or creek

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 with big letters in Amsterdam, Holland (Netherlands)

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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Pond and tulips in Vondelpark, Amsterdam; Shutterstock ID 143198530

What to do in Amsterdam

Discover the most popular places to visit in Amsterdam

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

Dam Square

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

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

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

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

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

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
Armin van Buuren show May 2017 - Lights #Patterns

Johan Cruyff Arena

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

Johan Cruyff Arena
The 9 Streets

The 9 Streets

During your trip to Amsterdam, you can enjoy retail therapy at The 9 Streets. While in this walkable area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

The 9 Streets
Rembrandt Square

Rembrandt Square

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 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
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
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
Dam Square which includes heritage architecture, street scenes and a city

Old Town Amsterdam

Historical city centre with a majority of landmarks, Amsterdam-Centrum boasts the UNESCO-listed canal belt and consists of fourteen distinct neighborhoods. Explore the charming streets and immerse yourself in the rich history.

Old Town Amsterdam
Nieuwmarkt en Lastage which includes street scenes and a river or creek

Nieuwmarkt en Lastage

While you're in Nieuwmarkt en Lastage, take in top sights like Nemo Science Museum or Nieuwmarkt Square, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Nieuwmarkt Station or Mr. Visserplein Stop.

Nieuwmarkt en Lastage

Popular day trips from Amsterdam

Amstelveen

Amstelveen

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

Zaandam

Photo by Braden Jarvis

Vinkeveen

Photo by Jonathan Wisner

Abcoude

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

Schiphol

Almere

Almere

Marken

Marken

Muiden

Muiden

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 travelers stay for three days on average. Amsterdam Museum, Nemo Science Museum and Royal Theater 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 neighborhoods, Amsterdam City Centre is 0.48 kilometers away from downtown, while Old Town Amsterdam is 0.16 kilometers away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Amsterdam with kids?
Whether you're vacationing 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 neighborhoods, 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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