Top 10 Things to Do in Amsterdam

Are you planning a day trip to Amsterdam and wondering what to see in this amazing city? With all there is to see and do, where should you start? Here are our suggestions for the top 10 things to do in Amsterdam.

We recently took a cruise to the Baltics and had a free day in Amsterdam before our cruise departed. With a list of things to do and a map in hand, we wandered the streets, enjoying seeking out as many of these top ten suggestions as possible in a day. It was impossible to see them all, of course, and we were disappointed to find the museums sold out for the day, but we had a wonderful day, regardless, and got a great feel of the city. From museums to historic landmarks to charming neighborhoods, Amsterdam has something for everyone.

Tickets cost € 16.00 for adults and are hard to get because the museum books up weeks or months in advance. If you can’t get tickets, an alternative is to do a tour of the Jewish Quarter and learn about its history.

2 | Dam Square

Dam Square is the heart of Amsterdam and is surrounded by historic buildings, shops, and cafes. You can see the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) from the square. It’s a great place to sit and people-watch or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in the area.

3 | Jordaan Neighborhood

The Jordaan neighborhood is a charming area filled with narrow streets, quaint cafes, and boutique shops. You can stroll through the streets and admire the beautiful architecture or visit one of the many galleries and studios that line the streets. It’s a great place to get a taste of local life and culture.

4 | Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is a must-see for art lovers and is often at the top of visitors’ lists of things to do in Amsterdam. This museum houses the largest collection of Van Gogh’s artwork in the world, including famous pieces like “The Starry Night” and “Sunflowers.” The museum has over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 700 letters by the artist, making it one of the most comprehensive collections of his work in the world.

The ticket price is € 20 per person; admission is free for those under 18 years old. Guided tours are available. Tickets sell out quickly, so book yours in advance.

5 | Vondelpark

Vondelpark is a beautiful green oasis in the heart of Amsterdam. This park is a popular spot for picnics, jogging, and biking. You can rent a bike and ride through the park or just relax on one of the many benches and enjoy the scenery.

Admission is free.

6 | Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is another must-see museum in Amsterdam. This museum houses an impressive collection of Dutch art and history, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other famous Dutch artists. You can also see artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Dutch history and culture.

Ticket price is € 22.50 for adults; guided tours are available. Tickets sell out quickly, so book yours in advance.

7 | Canal Cruise

No trip to Amsterdam is complete without a canal cruise. This is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and admire the beautiful architecture along the canals. You can choose from a variety of cruises, including hop-on-hop-off tours and evening dinner cruises.

Ticket prices range from about € 20 and up, depending on what is included. Some cruises include dinner or snacks and open bar. These tours are widely available, but book in advance if you want an evening cruise.

8 | Natura Artis Magistra

Natura Artis Magistra is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands and is home to a variety of animals, including lions, elephants, and penguins. You can also see exhibits about the history of the zoo and the animals that live there.

Ticket prices are € 25 for visitors 13 and older.

9 | Foodhallen

For the foodies, Foodhallen is an indoor food market with a variety of high-concept eateries that feature elevated street food. The food is pricey, as is everything in Amsterdam, but eating here will allow you to explore tastes from around Europe in one central place.