Top things to do in Amsterdam

Getting to know a new city is always fun and with these recommendations for what to do in Amsterdam you can start to truly discover Amsterdam life: the best steakhouse in town, hidden shopping treats, a city view to die for and some day-tripping. Despite Amsterdam’s nickname – the Venice of the North – it’s not just a picture-perfect city, it’s also a lifestyle. A bustling center of commerce and a cultural and religious melting pot, that has for centuries been a reflection of the rest of Europe.

It was a Flower Power city and also Anne Frank’s hometown. When you visit a major city like Amsterdam it can be easy to get caught up in all the tourist traps but there’s nothing quite like acting like a local and enjoying an experience away from the famous landmarks, long queues and throngs of visitors, some even speaking the accent from your own part of the world. Here are our top things to do in Amsterdam.

When you visit a major city like Amsterdam it can be easy to get caught up in all the tourist traps but there’s nothing quite like acting like a local and enjoying an experience away from the famous landmarks, long queues and throngs of visitors, some even speaking the accent from your own part of the world. Here are our 10 tips on how that can be achieved so you can really understand the culture and beauty of our capital.

1. Eat an incredible steak with the neighbors

When nothing is going to satisfy your hunger pangs like a good cut of meat, cooked just the way you like it, take a seat in Black and Blue, where they also pride themselves on their salads. Although situated fairly centrally in downtown Amsterdam, you’ll find yourself surrounded by residents of the city who know the best places to go.

2. Why shop in one street when you can have nine

In the heart of Amsterdam’s canal district you’ll find De Negen Straatjes (literally ‘Nine Streets’), which is home to a mosaic of vintage shops, designer boutiques and quaint art galleries in delightful surroundings away from the bustle of the main shopping areas.

3.The many museums of Amsterdam

Visiting some of the amazing museums available in the city is always a must when deciding what to do in Amsterdam. The magnificent Rijksmuseum (State Museum) houses the treasures of Flemish painting, enabling visitors to enjoy masterpieces such as The Milkmaid by Vermeer or The Night Watch by Rembrandt. Together with the Louvre, the Prado and the National Gallery, it is one of Europe’s largest art exhibitions. The majestic building that dates back to the 19th century was inaugurated in 2012 after the complete refurbishment made by the Spanish architects Antonio Ortiz and Antonio Cruz.

The neighboring Van Gogh Museum, on the other hand, is the treasure house that is home to the Dutch master’s largest collection in the world. You are advised to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines of tourists.

Leaving Amsterdam without visiting the home where Anne Frank was hidden is a sin. It is one of the most important things to do in Amsterdam. To avoid long lines that could take hours to get through, reserving admission on the website is recommended. Anne Frank’s hiding place is known as the “Secret Annex” and is a good starting point for exploring Jordaan, one of the more hip, bohemian neighborhoods in this Dutch city. If Amsterdam is famous for its hippie past, the hipster movement is headquartered here, with its quiet streets and cross-cutting canals, where cafes, art galleries, and designer shops abound.

4. Green space to unwind and observe

No matter what city you visit the green spaces created by town planners provide the perfect escape to watch people in their own surroundings, going about their daily business. Pick up some local food from the market, stroll down to Vondelpark to enjoy a picnic and feel part of the culture.

The park also hosts concerts and festivals in the summer, which can draw a crowd and a lively ambience.

5. Things to do in Amsterdam with children

If you’re traveling with children, be sure to take them to the NEMO Science Museum. This educational attraction will teach them, and almost certainly you, all about the world of science and technology and is full of interactive, fun activities. Just don’t be surprised if they ask to go back. More tips for exploring Amsterdam with the family can be found here.

6. A revolving room with a view

The lookouts on the 20th and 21st floor of the A’dam Tower give breath-taking views of the city and there is also a restaurant which revolves gently giving a 360-degree panoramic while you eat. What many people miss, though, is the free ferry trip to the tower, which offers more unique views of downtown and beyond.

7. Europe’s biggest market

A huge open-plan market doesn’t necessarily sound like a place that is off the beaten track but at the Albert Cuyp Markt, in the Pijp district, you’ll quickly see it is the residents of Amsterdam that dominate its stalls, cafés and shops.

If you want to feel part of the local culture then pop along and soak up the vibrant atmosphere while also having the chance to pick up a few souvenirs to take home. Try out the traditional raw herring to enjoy an authentic taste of the city.

8. A music hall that baffles science

Since the late 19th century the Concertgebouw has been delighting audiences with its unparalleled acoustics that even have modern music scientists scratching their heads trying to explain how it sounds so perfect. From world-renowned orchestras and conductors, solo cellists coming to prominence, and children’s concerts that will entertain all the family, this amazing venue is not to be missed.

9. For dinner try out the ‘fish theater’

The seafood at Pesca restaurant will not be dancing for you but after you’ve finished your meal you may be singing the chef’s praises. Take your pick from the plethora of fresh options available at the replica mini-market stalls there, then sit back, relax, enjoy something from the extensive wine list and await your specially prepared dish. Certainly, an alternative performance that’s worth it.

10.For some other gastronomical options

The De Blauwe Hollander restaurant will tempt you with its famous Dutch dishes, where the highlights of the menu include Erwtensoep soup – ideal for beating the cold if you travel in winter – or the raw herring, another specialty of this country of tulips. Those with a sweet tooth will take pleasure in the Poffertjes, typical pastries that are similar to pancakes but smaller in size and covered in powdered sugar. 

You can find them on the menu in a range of cafes, although we recommend you take a stroll through the Noordermarkt, a famous marketplace offering organic products that is open on Saturdays in the Jordaan neighbourhood. 

At its numerous stands, you can find the most delicious Poffertjes. Another must-see before leaving Amsterdam is Heineken’s first brewery, a beer sanctuary that was inaugurated in 1867. If you’re looking for a more traditional experience, the Brouwerij’t IJ brew house serves its craft beers in the historic De Gooyer windmill, east of Central Station.

11. The night is for the young…at heart!

For those that like to mingle with a younger crowd, the stimulating nightlife is one of the most interesting things to do in Amsterdam. Join people from the city who are just looking to relax and have fun in one of the many cocktail bars and clubs in the Leidseplein area. 

You could also take in a concert at the Paradiso venue, which is famed for its acoustics – well, the building used to be a church – and has been host to international bands such as The White Stripes and Queens of the Stone Age. As well as the bigger main room, local musicians and DJs get their chance to impress in the smaller upstairs hall and you leave with the name of a new artist to impress people with. Check out our Travel Guide about The Best Clubs and Concert Venues in Amsterdam.

12. Take a souvenir home

If you’re looking for a gift, you can’t go wrong with cheese (Gouda, Edam or Maasdam), Dutch clogs, or diamonds, but the Dutch symbol is the tulip. Don’t miss the flower market located in the Spui square district if you want to discover and purchase tulip bulbs in any color. Further ahead is the Waterlooplein open-air market. A possible stop along the way is the De Jaren café with a delightful terrace overlooking the Amstel River.

13.The striking architecture of Amsterdam

There are certain enchanting, must-see cities that you’ll always want to return to because they sweep you off your feet. In Amsterdam, this cupid’s arrow first strikes you at Dam Square – the heart of the city. A 360-degree turn reveals the Royal Palace, the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), and the De Bijenkorf, a Dutch department store. The Nieuwe Kerk dates back to the 15th century and embodies the transition from Catholicism to Protestantism.

The Royal Palace, dating from the 17th century was the first seat of the city council, but it is currently where the institutional activities of the monarchy take place. King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima Zorreguieta, on their wedding day, waved to the Dutch people from its balconies. The palace is open to the public from when not in use for official purposes.

14. Amsterdam locals do day-tripping

Any visitor to a big city can lose themselves in what it has to offer whereas those that live there know a break from its bright lights is just as fulfilling. When visiting Amsterdam, we’d recommend a trip to the Dutch countryside where you will see our wonderfully attractive windmills dotted over the flat horizon, surrounded by our famous tulips. Don’t forget the camera. 

Spend less on your accommodation and more having fun! Find out more about our budget hotels in Amsterdam.

Author: Lana de Wit

Guest Relations Manager at Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky

My name is Lana de Wit, Guest Relations Manager at Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky. Together with the Guest Relations and Guest Services team we are making sure that all guests are having the best experience at our hotel and look after their special requests, celebrations and expectations. I get energy out of solving problems and striving for the best there is possible and I love the fact that every day is different and full of surprises. I always wanted to work at Krasnapolsky since I was a little girl, so being able to work here the past years has been a dream together with my fantastic colleagues. My biggest mission is to let every guest leave with extraordinary stories and unforgettable memories to take home. I look forward to welcoming you here in Amsterdam to give you the true Anantara experience!