Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is one of the most popular places to visit in Europe and for good reason. The city is known for its rich history, unique cultural scene, picturesque canal network, and of course, diverse tourist attractions.
Whether you want to go museum hopping or marvel at the architecture, Amsterdam offers something exciting and unique at every turn. To make the most out of your trip, check out these top 40 places you should definitely visit in Amsterdam!
Top 40 Places to Visit on Your Trip to Amsterdam
1. Rijksmuseum
If you want to learn Dutch arts and history, this national museum is the place to be!
Opened in 1885, Rijksmuseum currently displays around 8,000 objects. This includes antiques, medieval sculptures, traditional handicrafts, and artworks from renowned painters Rembrandt, Frans Hals, and Johannes Veemer.
Did You Know? Aside from art, Rijksmuseum also houses an extensive collection of more than 35,000 books and manuscripts.
2. Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House pays tribute to Anne and her family who lived at the time of World War 2. It displays information about her life, her famous diary, and other memorabilia.
Visit this place in Amsterdam for an eye-opener and memorable experience.
3. Royal Palace Of Amsterdam
This is one of the three palaces in the Netherlands where the Dutch royalty lives. The palace remains open to visitors who want to see and experience the grandiosity of royal life.
Feel free to marvel at the architecture and lavish interiors while visiting!
4. Van Gogh Museum
Another must-see attraction in Amsterdam is the Van Gogh Museum.
The museum displays more than 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 700 letters from Van Gogh himself. It perfectly shows his extraordinary talent but it also makes you feel sorry for his tragic life.
Did You Know? Every year, 1.5 million visitors visit the Van Gogh Museum, further proving that it’s one of the best places to visit in Amsterdam!
5. Rembrandt House Museum
Van Gogh isn’t the only one who has a museum dedicated to his art.
Famous Dutch painter Rembrandt’s works are displayed in his former house, now known as the Rembrandt House Museum. The place features some of his great works and contemporary art pieces.
6. Jewish Historical Museum
Head over to the Jewish Historical Museum if you want to learn about Jewish history, religion, and culture.
The building dates back to 1670 and features a large collection of religious artifacts and artworks.
7. Stedelijk Museum
Stedelijk Museum is an international museum where you can admire modern and contemporary art. It is home to almost 90,000 artworks, including famous pieces made by Picasso, Rothko, Monet, and Warhol among many others!
8. National Maritime Museum
Interested in nautical history? Prepare to be blown away by the National Maritime Museum’s 18 rooms of exhibits and artifacts. Each one details how the Dutch dominated the seas back in the 1600s.
Tip: Don’t leave this museum without seeing the replica of Amsterdam, an 18th-century ship that sailed the East Indies.
9. NEMO Science Museum
This world-class science center features 5 floors, each filled with interactive exhibits that can appeal to both kids and adults.
The NEMO Science Museum also includes a playground, a museum shop, and a rooftop café where you can enjoy the views of the city.
10. Museum of the Tropics
Founded in 1864, the Museum of the Tropics features art and everyday objects from the Netherlands’ former colonies. This attraction can fascinate anyone with an interest in the country’s history.
11. West Church
Westerkerk (West Church) is the largest church in Amsterdam. It is famous for its Renaissance architecture as well as its bell tower which is regarded as the city symbol.
Tip: For a truly unique experience, climb up the bell tower to enjoy the sweeping views of Amsterdam.
12. Vondelpark
Vondelpark is the largest and most popular park in Amsterdam. It features several restaurants and cafés, an open-air theater, a skate rental shop, and a rose garden.
You can easily spend your day here without feeling bored!
13. Sloterplas
Head over to Sloterplas Lake for an exciting water adventure in Amsterdam! Here, you can enjoy canoeing, sailing, and even water cycling. But you’re also free to walk, jog, or bike along the promenade.
14. Bloemenmarkt
The Bloemenmarkt (Floating Flower Market) is one of the unique places to visit in Amsterdam. Don’t leave the market without buying freshly cut blooms (preferably tulips) for which the Netherlands is famous!
15. Tulip Museum
For those who want to know the history behind the Netherlands ’ national flower, you can visit the Tulip Museum in Amsterdam.
It showcases the history of tulips through pictures. There’s also a flower shop by the entrance!
16. Amsterdamse Bos Park
If New York has Central Park, Amsterdam has Amsterdamse Bos Park.
Spend the day here where you can simply relax, take a walk, ride a bike, have a picnic, and so much more.
Did You Know? Amsterdamse Bos is approximately three times the size of New York’s Central Park.
17. Efteling Park
Do you prefer something exciting instead? Visit Efteling Park in Amsterdam.
This amusement park features a large number of theme rides and attractions based on Dutch fairy tales and legends. You’ll surely have a blast riding every one of them!
18. Amsterdam Dungeon
For those who are a little daring, head over to Amsterdam Dungeon.
This tourist attraction transports you inside a church where you can learn over 500 years of Dutch dark history. It’s definitely not the place for the faint of heart!
19. Canal Belt
Don’t leave Amsterdam without exploring the Canal Belt and getting to know the history behind the city’s network of canals.
This is one of the most attractive neighborhoods in Amsterdam, even earning its place on UNESCO’s World Heritage list!
20. Begijnhof
Situated in the center of Amsterdam’s circular canal system, Begijnhof is a must-visit district in the city. It is home to the English Reformed Church and the city’s oldest preserved wooden house.
21. Dam Square
This is one of the best places to go sightseeing and people-watching in Amsterdam. It is also conveniently located near the city’s most famous attractions so you can easily start your tour here.
22. National Monument
On the opposite side of the Dam Square is the National Monument. It is a spectacular 22-meter-high obelisk that serves as a memorial for the victims of the Second World War.
23. Oude Kerk
Oude Kerk, or Old Church, is the oldest structure in Amsterdam. It was originally built in 1306 as a Catholic church. Today, it is a center for contemporary art and heritage.
24. Nieuwe Kerk
Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) is another impressive building in Amsterdam. It is currently the church with the highest order in the city. It also hosts several public functions such as antique fairs and art exhibitions, every year.
25. Torensluis Bridge
Torensluis Bridge is one of the most spectacular sights in Amsterdam. It is one of the oldest bridges in the city where tourists can enjoy a quick stroll and watch exhibitions that take place on the bridge.
26. Westergas
What used to be a gasworks in Amsterdam is now a lively meeting point for all kinds of culture.
Here, tourists can find a wide range of cultural expressions from film and photography to theatre and performance among many others.
27. Artis Zoo
For those who are animal loves, you’ll surely enjoy a day at the Artis Zoo! You can see all your favorite animals here including elephants, giraffes, zebras, and lions among many others. There’s even a museum dedicated to microbes to pique your interest!
Tip: The zoo is open every day but Saturday is the best time to go. You can enjoy special performances and music!
28. Hortus Botanicus
Not really an animal lover? You can visit this place instead. Hortus Botanicus is one of the world’s oldest botanical gardens. Here, you can find a myriad of plant species and some animals that would surely fascinate you.
29. IJ-hallen
Want to go shopping? Head over to IJ-hallen, the biggest and most unique flea market in Europe! Don’t leave the place without buying second-hand items such as clothing, accessories, furniture, and more.
30. De Negen Straatjes
Another great place for shopping in Amsterdam is De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets).
It consists of nine side streets in the city, hence the name, where you can enjoy historical architecture and old-world charm on top of the shopping scene.
31. Albert Cuyp Market
Albert Cuyp Market is one of the Dutch’s favorite street markets. Here, you can find plenty of clothes, souvenirs, and delicacies at an extremely cheap price!
32. Het Schip
For those who want to marvel at unique architecture, go to Het Schip in Amsterdam. This residential building features the only example of Brick Expressionism architecture style. There’s also a lovely cafe and a museum souvenir shop in the area.
33. Concertgebouw
Concertgebouw is one of the finest concert halls in the world. It features an impressive organ, amazing orchestra music, and world-class performances. This is truly one of the best places to visit in Amsterdam if you love music!
34. De Wallen
Whether you want to experience something new or you’re just simply curious, De Wallen is a place you shouldn’t miss.
This is Amsterdam’s infamous red-light district which is surrounded by old-school bars, single room apartments, and “coffee” shops.
Tip: Dutch police regularly patrols the area so don’t be scared to roam around this neighborhood!
35. Leidseplein Square
For the best nightlife in Amsterdam, head over to Leidseplein Square! Here, you can find a vast range of bars and pubs that serve different European beers. You can also come across street performances and stand up comedy skits in this square.
36. Heineken Brewery
If you are a beer enthusiast, you should not pass up on the opportunity to visit Heineken Brewery in Amsterdam. You can learn more about the art of beer-making by taking a tour around the brewery.
37. Rozentheater
Want to experience a lively night out in Amsterdam? Instead of drinking, you can head over to Rozentheater to watch improv comedy shows. You’ll surely have a blast with the hilarious antics of the cast!
38. EYE-Film Museum
For the film buff, the EYE-Film Museum is the place to be! Here, you can watch screenings of both Dutch and international films. This is one of the best ways to learn more about the history and art behind filmmaking.
39. De Bakkerswinkel
Craving for a delicious piece of cake? Head over to De Bakkerswinkel which is situated on one of the oldest streets in the city. It is a quaint café known for its cakes, quiche, brioche, tea, and coffee.
40. Foodhallen
Don’t leave Amsterdam without visiting Foodhallen! This vast indoor food market features a wide variety of cuisine around the world that would satisfy your taste buds. Must-try dishes include fried dumplings, falafel pitas, and spinach bitterballs.
6 Essential Travel Tips When Visiting Amsterdam
To make the most out of your trip in Amsterdam, remember these essential travel trips!
1. Prepare for the Weather
Weather in Amsterdam can be pretty unpredictable. During the summer, occasional rain showers should be expected while in fall, it ranges from freezing cold to sweltering heat.
To be safe, pack an umbrella and some jackets so you can easily adapt to the ever-changing weather.
2. Bring a Universal Travel Adapter
In addition to the proper clothing, you also need to bring along a travel adapter to charge your devices.
This is due to the fact that the Netherlands uses type C and F electrical plugs instead of type A or B in the United States.
3. Get an Amsterdam Travel Pass
If you’re looking to enjoy the best of Amsterdam, then consider investing in an Amsterdam Pass.
The card grants you free access to over 30 attractions in the city! This can help you save a lot of money, depending on the length of your stay.
4. Mind the Cyclists
Cycling is pretty popular in Amsterdam. Everywhere you look, you’ll find locals and tourists alike riding a bike.
So, always observe your surroundings when crossing the road or walking along a busy promenade.
5. Rent a Bike
With that said, you should definitely try biking for yourself. You can easily explore the city’s tourist spots by doing so! Plus, you don’t have to take the public transpo which is pretty expensive.
6. Explore Beyond Amsterdam
Your trip to the Netherlands should not be limited to Amsterdam. Feel free to explore beyond the capital city and you’ll be surprised by the amazing wonders the other towns offer!
From world-class museums and architecture to a unique shopping scene and lively nightlife, Amsterdam offers a wide variety of attractions that can satisfy every kind of tourist.
ALSO READ: 10 Must-Visit Party Cities in Europe for the Best Nightlife Experience
Want to visit these tourist spots in Amsterdam? Make sure you have your ETIAS Visa waiver ready if you’re travelling by 2021.
The E.U. Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is an important authorization process for visitors to the Schengen zone in Europe. It has been introduced to keep all of residents and visitors alike safe.
For more information about ETIAS, contact us today! We are a non-government organization that offers ETIAS visa assistance for tourists who are planning to visit Europe.
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