Amsterdam is one of those cities that instantly charms you. With its picturesque canals, historic architecture, world class museums and relaxed atmosphere, there is a wonderful mix of things to see and do at every turn.
During our time in the city, we found ourselves wandering from canal to canal, hopping between museums and cozy cafes. Here are the things that stood out to us most and are absolutely worth doing while exploring Amsterdam.
Cruise the Canals 🚤
Amsterdam's UNESCO listed canals are the heart of the city, and seeing them from the water is a must.
A canal cruise offers a beautiful perspective on the historic houses, bridges and waterways. Whether during the day or in the evening when the bridges are lit, it is a magical way to experience the city.
It is one of the most memorable things to do in Amsterdam.
Visit the World Class Museums 🎨
Amsterdam is home to some of the best museums in the world.
From the masterpieces of the Rijksmuseum to the moving Van Gogh Museum and the powerful Anne Frank House, there is something for every interest. These museums offer a wonderful mix of art, history and culture.
Booking tickets in advance is well worth it to avoid the queues.
Explore the Jordaan 🌿
The Jordaan is one of the most charming neighborhoods in the city.
With its narrow streets, independent shops, cozy cafes and beautiful canals, it is a lovely area to wander without a plan. It offers a more local, relaxed side of Amsterdam.
It is a perfect place to spend a slow afternoon.
Explore by Bike 🚲
Amsterdam is one of the most bike friendly cities in the world, and cycling is a wonderful way to explore.
Renting a bike lets you experience the city like a local, gliding along the canals and through the neighborhoods. It is a fun and easy way to see more of the city.
Just remember to watch out for the busy bike lanes.
Relax in Vondelpark ☀️
Vondelpark is the city's most famous green space and a lovely place to relax.
On a nice day, it is perfect for a walk, a picnic or simply people watching. It offers a peaceful break from the busy city streets.
It is a great spot to unwind between sightseeing.
What Makes Amsterdam So Special ✨
What we loved most about Amsterdam is how it combines history, culture and a relaxed atmosphere.
Beautiful canals, world class museums, charming neighborhoods and green spaces all sit within easy reach. It is a city that is a joy to explore on foot or by bike.
That variety is exactly what makes exploring Amsterdam so enjoyable.
Make the Most of Your Trip 🌍
Some of the best places in Amsterdam are easy to miss if you do not know where to look beforehand.
That is exactly why we created our Amsterdam Travel Map. It includes the highlights, museums, restaurants, viewpoints and hidden spots that truly stood out to us, all clearly organized in one easy to use digital map.
So instead of spending time searching while traveling, you can simply enjoy the very best of Amsterdam from the moment you arrive.
