Hi there! Planning a trip and wondering what are the best things to do in Amsterdam in 2025? Whether you’re coming for a weekend or staying longer, this city is packed with cool stuff to do – from the must-see museums and canals to quirky neighborhoods, delicious food, and cozy local spots you wouldn’t find in typical guides.
I’ve been living here for a few years, and I still get excited about this city. So here’s a personal guide from someone who lives and bikes here daily – full of practical info, local tips, and hidden gems to make your visit unforgettable.
P.S. Only have 24 hours? No worries – we’ve got you covered with our quick and fun 24 Hours in Amsterdam Itinerary, perfect for squeezing the best of the city into just one day.
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Rent a Bike and Explore Like a Local
Amsterdam is built for bikes – literally. There are more bikes than people here, and locals use them for everything: commuting, shopping, even going on dates. So renting a bike is one of the top things to do in Amsterdam and a great way to see more of the city.
- You can rent a bike from Bike in Town, King Bikes, or even use apps like Donkey Republic. If you spend some more time in Amsterdam, you can rent a bike for a whole month from Swapfiets.
- A basic bike costs around €10/day.
- Where to bike: If you’re new, avoid rush hours and stick to quieter areas like Vondelpark, Amsterdamse Bos, or take the ferry to Amsterdam Noord.
Insider Tip: Always lock your bike properly – bike theft is unfortunately common!
Visit the Red Light District (De Wallen)
It’s one of the most talked-about areas in Amsterdam – and while it might not be for everyone, the Red Light District is definitely part of the city’s history and culture. Beyond the obvious, the area is full of cute canals, old buildings, and lots of bars and snack spots. It’s especially lively at night, but also interesting during the day for a different vibe.
Tips:
- Be respectful: no photos of the windows or workers
- You can also book a guided tour to learn about the history and laws behind it
- Stop by the nearby Oude Kerk (Old Church) – the oldest building in Amsterdam!
How to get there: Right in the city center, just a short walk from Dam Square.
If you want a deeper look into the Red Light District, including the history, politics, and cultural context of both sex work and Amsterdam’s coffeeshop scene, consider booking a guided tour. It’s a great way to explore the area with more understanding and respect.
Relax in the Parks – Not Just Vondelpark!
Amsterdam has beautiful green spaces where locals love to hang out when it’s sunny (and trust me, that’s a big deal here!). One of the best things to do in Amsterdam when the weather is nice is just to grab snacks and chill in a park.
- Vondelpark is the most famous – close to the museums and perfect for picnics or renting a rollerblade.
- Westerpark has more of a creative vibe with food trucks, exhibitions, and even an old gas factory turned café.
- Oosterpark is more local, super peaceful, and great if you’re staying in East Amsterdam.
Good to know: Parks are public and free, you can even drink alcohol (in moderation) in many of them!
Take a Canal Cruise – But Pick the Right One
You can’t come here and not see the canals – they’re literally what Amsterdam is known for. Taking a canal cruise is one of the most classic things to do in Amsterdam, and it’s also one of the best ways to learn about the city.
Options:
- Big cruises (like Lovers or Blue Boat): more touristy, a lot of talking, but still nice
- Small-group or eco boats: cozier and quieter – try Those Dam Boat Guys or Flagship Amsterdam
- DIY: Rent your own electric boat with friends and float around!
Pro Tip: If the sun is out, book a sunset cruise – the light is magical and the bridges light up at night.
Looking for something special? You can find cruises with unlimited drinks, food, snacks, and more here – there’s a type for every vibe:
Dive Into Amsterdam’s Museums – More Than Just the Big Names
The city is full of art and history. Even if you’re not a “museum person”, visiting at least one is one of the must-do things to do in Amsterdam.
Must-visits:
- Rijksmuseum – Dutch masters like Rembrandt and Vermeer (book in advance!)
- Van Gogh Museum – his most famous works and personal letters
- Anne Frank House – a powerful and emotional experience, tickets go super fast, book weeks ahead!
Lesser-known gems:
- Moco Museum – Banksy, modern & street art
- Our Lord in the Attic – a hidden church in a canal house attic (so unique!)
- NEMO Science Museum – super fun, especially with kids or if you like interactive exhibits
Walk Through the 9 Streets (De 9 Straatjes)
In between the main canals lies a little area called De 9 Straatjes (the 9 Streets). It’s like a postcard – full of vintage shops, boutique stores, stylish cafés, and old buildings. It’s one of the most charming things to do in Amsterdam for anyone who likes slow walks, window shopping, and cute photo spots.
Tip: Go on a weekday morning for fewer crowds and soft light if you’re taking pictures.
Try Local Dutch Food (It’s Better Than You Think!)
Okay, Dutch food doesn’t always get the best reputation, but there are a few things you have to try. One of the tastiest things to do in Amsterdam is just… eat!
Must-tries:
- Stroopwafels – thin waffle cookies with syrup in between (try warm ones at Albert Cuyp market!)
- Bitterballen – crispy beef ragout balls, perfect with beer
- Poffertjes – mini pancakes with powdered sugar
- Dutch fries – thick and crispy, always with mayo (or try peanut satay sauce!)
- Rijsttafel – a whole spread of Indonesian dishes (a legacy from Dutch colonial times) – try Sama Sebo
Many snack bars serve quick bites – check out FEBO for a fun vending machine food experience!
If you want to dive deeper into what typical Dutch food is and where to try it, check out our blog Best Food in Amsterdam – What to Eat & Top Restaurants.
Cross to Amsterdam Noord (Free Ferry + Cool Vibes)
From behind Central Station, there’s a free ferry that takes you across the river IJ to Amsterdam Noord – a totally different part of the city.
What to do there:
- NDSM Wharf – old shipyard now full of street art, festivals, cafés in containers
- Pllek – beach bar with beanbags and city views
- Eye Film Museum – modern architecture + film exhibitions
Local tip: This area feels way more local and raw – perfect if you’ve already seen the main sights.
Go Street Art Spotting
You don’t need to go to a gallery to see art here. Street art is everywhere – and it’s one of the more unexpected things to do in Amsterdam.
- Spuistraat is a whole street of constantly changing murals
- NDSM in the north is packed with graffiti
- De Pijp also has loads of colorful surprises
Visit Hidden Courtyards (Hofjes)
A hofje is a peaceful inner courtyard, often built hundreds of years ago for retired women or widows. Today, many are still private, but some are open to the public and feel like a secret garden in the middle of the city.
Check out:
- Begijnhof near Spui (beautiful and historical)
- Karthuizerhofje in the Jordaan (a local secret)
They’re super quiet – so be respectful and keep your voice low.
Explore Amsterdam’s Cozy Café Scene
Don’t confuse cafés with coffee shops (the ones that sell weed). If you want a great latte or cozy brunch, Amsterdam has so many cool cafés.
Favorites:
- Coffee & Coconuts – relaxed beach vibe in a former cinema
- Bocca Coffee – proper third-wave coffee
- Back to Black – cozy with nice canal views
Most cafés have oat milk and pastries too. Take your time – locals love to linger.
Visit a Local Market
Markets are great for people-watching and getting a feel of the local life. Some of the best things to do in Amsterdam if you love food, vintage finds, or souvenirs.
Top picks:
- Albert Cuypmarkt – big, busy, lots of food and Dutch snacks
- Noordermarkt – organic market + flea market every Monday and Saturday
- Ten Kate Market – another big food market
Stroll the Canals at Night
This might sound simple, but trust me – it’s pure magic. One of my favorite things to do in Amsterdam is just walking around the canals after sunset. Everything lights up, the water reflects the lights, and it feels like you’re in a fairytale.
Walk from Leidsegracht through Jordaan toward Prinsengracht – the bridges are super photogenic.
Bonus tip: Head to the corner of Reguliersgracht and Herengracht – from there, you can spot seven bridges in a row. It’s one of the most iconic and peaceful views in the city, especially at night.
Experience the Nightlife (or Just a Chill Brown Café)
Whether you’re into wild parties or quiet bars, there’s something for everyone here. For a real local feel, skip the clubs and try a brown café – traditional Dutch pubs with wooden interiors and good vibes.
Try:
- Café de Dokter – tiny and full of history
- Café Papeneiland – famous for its pies
- For more lively nights, check out Leidseplein or Rembrandtplein
Visit A’DAM Tower for Views + Swing Over the Edge
For a unique perspective of the city, head to A’DAM Tower in Amsterdam Noord. From the top, you get one of the best panoramic views of the city – canals, rooftops, and all. But the real highlight?
Over the Edge – Europe’s highest swing, where you literally swing over the edge of the building at 100 meters high. Super thrilling and definitely not something you do every day!
What else to do there:
- Enjoy a drink at the rooftop bar or dinner at the rotating restaurant
- The elevator ride itself is a light show!
- Perfect for sunset or night views
How to get there: Take the free ferry behind Central Station (just a few minutes), then it’s a short walk.
Bonus: Practical Tips for Visiting Amsterdam
Grab a Transport Card & Explore Easily
Public transport in Amsterdam is super efficient and easy to use. A GVB card (1 to 7 days) gives you unlimited access to trams, buses, and the metro. You can get one at Schiphol Airport, major train stations, or order online in advance. If you plan to move around a lot, this will definitely save you time and money.
Thinking of Biking? Be Prepared
Amsterdam is made for biking, but the bike traffic can feel intense if you’re not used to it. Locals bike fast and don’t always stop, so stay alert. If you’re not a confident cyclist, try quieter neighborhoods or parks like Vondelpark to ease into it.
Card Payments Are the Norm
Many places in Amsterdam, including supermarkets and cafés, don’t accept cash. Make sure to bring a debit or credit card with contactless payment.
Book Ahead When You Can
Museums like the Anne Frank House or Van Gogh Museum often sell out days in advance. Booking online saves time and avoids disappointment. The same goes for some popular restaurants or boat tours.
Pack for Unpredictable Weather
Even in summer, rain can come out of nowhere. A lightweight rain jacket or small umbrella is always a smart addition to your bag.
Final Thoughts
There are so many unforgettable things to do in Amsterdam – whether you want to explore history, dive into the local culture, eat everything, or just wander the beautiful streets. I hope this guide gave you a good mix of top sights, personal favorites, and local secrets.
If you’re planning your trip and need help with an itinerary or picking a place to stay – feel free to reach out! We’d be happy to help!