Amsterdam, a city full of surprises, charm, and history. This vibrant metropolis is known for its art, culture, and attractions, while retaining the cozy character of a village. Whether you come for the museums, markets, historical neighborhoods, or the many nightlife options, Amsterdam offers something unique for everyone.
From iconic museums to charming neighborhoods, you’ll find everything that makes a visit to Amsterdam complete. Discover the highlights and plan your next adventure in this beautiful city!
Museums in Amsterdam: A Treasure Trove of Art and History
Rijksmuseum – This museum houses masterpieces by greats like Rembrandt and Vermeer, including the world-famous Night Watch. The beautiful garden surrounding the museum offers a peaceful oasis in the bustling Museum Quarter.
Van Gogh Museum – Home to the world's largest collection of paintings by Vincent van Gogh, from sunflowers to self-portraits. A visit to this museum is a must for art lovers.
Stedelijk Museum – Known for its modern and contemporary art collection, the Stedelijk offers art in all forms, from Mondrian to Banksy.
H'ART Museum – Formerly known as the Hermitage Amsterdam, this museum showcases a wide range of rotating exhibitions, often in collaboration with international museums.
Anne Frank House – This museum brings the story of Anne Frank and World War II to life. It's a place of reflection and one of the most visited museums in Amsterdam.
Landmarks: Iconic Spots You Won’t Want to Miss
Besides museums, Amsterdam boasts many landmarks that reflect the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Vondelpark – The city’s green heart is ideal for a picnic, a stroll, or a bike ride. Free concerts and theater performances are often held here in summer.
Nieuwe Kerk – Located on Dam Square, this church regularly hosts world-class exhibitions and is known for its stunning architecture.
Madame Tussauds – Ideal for a family day out, Madame Tussauds lets you pose with wax figures of celebrities and historical figures.
Canal Festival – During this annual festival in August, classical music is performed at unique locations in the city, such as gardens, courtyards, and even boats on the canals.
Sail Amsterdam – Every five years, the world’s most beautiful sailing ships gather in the Amsterdam harbor. Sail is one of the largest maritime events in the world.
Discover the City: Canal Cruises, Pedal Boats, and Artis Zoo
One of the best ways to explore Amsterdam is from the water. The city offers various options to explore the canals and admire the city from a different angle.
Canal Cruises – Throughout the canals, you can board a boat tour that takes you past beautiful canal houses and historic landmarks. Some boats offer themed cruises, like evening tours or culinary cruises.
Pedal Boats – For an active exploration of the canals, you can rent a pedal boat, set your own pace, and discover hidden spots along the waterways.
Artis – The oldest zoo in the Netherlands is located in the heart of the city. Artis is perfect for a family day out, with animals from all continents and a stunning botanical garden.
Canal Ring – The grand houses along the canals date back to the Golden Age and tell the story of a prosperous trading past.
Royal Palace on Dam Square – This former town hall is now a royal palace. During special occasions, you can admire the magnificent halls and art collections.
Nieuwe Kerk – Besides serving as an exhibition space, the church is a unique venue for royal events. Don’t miss the often impressive exhibitions.
Street Art and Murals – Amsterdam also has a lively street art scene. In neighborhoods like De Pijp and the NDSM area, you’ll find colorful murals and art installations.
Accommodation: From Luxury Hotels to Cozy Canal Houses
Historic Hotels – Many hotels are located in old canal houses, offering a unique overnight experience. Think of iconic places like the Pulitzer Hotel.
Luxury Hotels – For a luxurious experience, visit the Conservatorium Hotel or the Waldorf Astoria, where you'll be pampered with every possible amenity.
Budget Accommodations – Hostels like The Flying Pig and Stayokay offer affordable beds for backpackers and young travelers.
Boutique Hotels – Unique and intimate hotels such as Andaz Amsterdam and Hoxton Amsterdam are perfect for those seeking an authentic experience.
Food and Drink: Taste the World in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a culinary melting pot with flavors from around the world. From traditional Dutch cafés to exotic restaurants, the city has a diverse offering.
World Cuisine – Amsterdam has restaurants serving dishes from every corner of the globe. Think Indonesian on the Zeedijk, Italian in the Jordaan, or Japanese in De Pijp.
Dutch Delicacies – Try local specialties like bitterballen, poffertjes, and herring. For an authentic experience, visit a traditional Dutch café.
Concert Halls – The Royal Concertgebouw is known for its acoustics and hosts a broad range of classical music. The Ziggo Dome and AFAS Live host international pop and rock stars.
The Surroundings of Amsterdam: Explore Dutch Villages and Landscapes
There are plenty of unique places to discover outside Amsterdam. From picturesque villages to historic windmills, the surroundings of Amsterdam offer a glimpse into traditional Dutch life.
