Amsterdam is a city that never gets boring. The Dutch capital is one of the unique cities in the world to visit. It has everything you may be looking for on an exciting vacation – from a bubbling night scene to the ever-changing stunning landscape, the trendiest shopping destinations, and some of the world’s top dining destinations. With its vibrant culture and history, the region also boasts of impressive old and new architectural designs, fascinating museums, and many other attractions you don’t want to miss. The scenic canal network all around the city caps off the city’s beauty with a relaxing and calm feel. This remarkable city attracts a lot of visitors every year, and it is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world. So whether you are allured by its landscape beauty or the thriving city life, here are the best places to visit in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
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1. Dam Square
Located in the heart of the city, Dam Square is among the essential areas in the region. Its position, close to Amsterdam Central station, makes it an even more bubbling spot. It started as a dam and fish market in the 13th century but has grown over the years to become one of the busiest hubs in the city. The spot has access to other major streets in the city and is home to some monumental buildings and several shops and cafes.
Dam Square
Address: Dam, 1012 JS Amsterdam, Netherlands
Website: Dam Square
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
2. Torensluis Bridge
Did you know? De Torensluis bridge from 1648 is the oldest and widest bridge of Amsterdam! #Amsterdam #Europe #amoretraveldesigns #travel
Posted by Amore Travel Designs on Friday, 28 June 2019
As a city surrounded by canals, bridges are an essential part of Amsterdam. Torensluis Bridge is one of the most historic and iconic bridges in the city. Constructed in 1648 over what was once the most significant canal in the city, the Singel, this bridge is the oldest in the city. It also has a prison beneath its tower that has been restored and can also be explored. Now laced with cozy cafés, restaurants, and a statue of legendary Dutch writer, Multatuli, it is a great place to experience.
Torensluis Bridge
Address: 1012 HG Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
3. Stedelijk Museum of Art
Home to one of the most famous collections of modern art and design in the world, Stedelijk Museum is a fantastic art gallery in the city. Sitting close to the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum, the building was renovated, expanded, and reopened in 2012 after years of closure. It has over 90,000 artworks on display, which include sculptures, paintings, graphic designs, abstract art, and contemporary pieces on display; it’s a place no art lover should miss. You can even book this skip-the-line ticket and avoid queuing for entry into this museum.
Book Tours : Amsterdam: Stedelijk Museum Entry Ticket
4. Amsterdam Dungeon
Amsterdam Dungeon is a favorite attraction in the city. This place will take you on a journey back to the country’s dangerous past. It features a horrifying but stimulating experience. As you walk through the site, you will see, feel, hear, and even smell the old days with some short funny and terrifying performances on display. With this entrance ticket, you get to see all the 12 “harrowing and torture” shows that reveal the scary history of the city and more. It’s not for the faint of heart.
Book Tours : Amsterdam: Amsterdam Dungeon Entrance Ticket
Amsterdam Tour Guide
Locally Louke
Hi, my name is Louke and I live and work in the historical city of Amsterdam. My style of guiding is custom. That feeling you get from meeting up with a friend that shows you around their city. Obviously, I will take you to see the things on your bucket list and I will help you get the lay of the land and share tips and tricks of how to get the most out of your stay in my city.
Tours by Locally
5. Amstel River
The Amstel River is a symbolic river that gave the city its name. The town was initially built around the river and still has it flowing through its waterways. The water body flows through many of the region’s significant buildings and landmarks down to the countryside. As the main water artery in the city, the Amstel features several exciting boat tours and cruises to choose from. You can walk or cycle along the river’s beautiful path and enjoy the captivating scenery.
6. NEMO Science Museum
Another unique attraction that will be fun for people traveling with children is NEMO Science Museum. This location offers an educative and engaging strategy to walk you through the wonders of science uniquely. It is located in a sizeable boat-shaped house close to Central Station in the town. An excellent venue for full family fun, you will be allowed to take part in games, perform guided science experiments, and much more. It is a favorite destination among families – both locals and visitors alike.
NEMO Science Museum
Address: Oosterdok 2, 1011 VX Amsterdam, Netherlands
Website: NEMO Science Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: 20 USD
7. Fo Guang Shan Holland Tempel
Right in the middle of the city lies a remarkable Buddhist temple – Fo Guang Shan Holland Tempel. Featuring traditional ornaments brought in directly from China, this temple is still used for meditation. Tourists frequently visit it and the entire grounds offer something out of the ordinary in the city. It remains the largest Buddhist temple in Europe and it is also known as the Zeedijk Temple. Visit this fascinating place for some mind-blowing insight into the Buddhist way of worship.
Fo Guang Shan Holland Tempel
Address: Zeedijk 106-118, 1012 BB Amsterdam, Netherlands
Website: Fo Guang Shan Holland Tempel
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 12pm - 5pm; Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: Free
8. Munttoren
The Munttoren, “Mint Tower” is located on busy Muntplein Square in Amsterdam, where the Amstel River and the Singel...
Posted by Dutch Culture on Sunday, 14 April 2019
Built as far back as in the 14th century, Munttoren (Mint Tower) has been an essential part of the city. It was once one of the main gates to the town. After it was destroyed by fire in 1618, it was rebuilt in 1620 with the design it still bears today. The tower features Dutch Renaissance-style architecture with a clock face and bells that still ring till today. If you love and appreciate stunning architecture, full of history, then you must visit this place.
Munttoren Tower
Address: Muntplein 12/14, 1012 WR Amsterdam, Netherlands
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 6pm (closed on Sun)
9. Van Gogh Museum
Vincent Van Gogh is one of the most famous artists of all time and Amsterdam has a full museum dedicated just to him. The Van Gogh Museum is almost as famous as the man himself, and it contains the most extensive collection of his works in the world. This site interests and attracts artists and art lovers from all over the globe. See the amazing collection of over 500 drawings, 200 paintings, and up to 700 letters from the iconic artist.
Book Tours : Amsterdam: Van Gogh Museum Ticket
10. De Riekermolen Windmill
De Riekermolen Windmill sits on its grand throne on the banks of the Amstel River. The location completes the landscape of Amsterdam’s windmills lining the countryside. This particular one, however, is special as it is the exact one Rembrandt used to draw from the riverbank. It is historic and dates back to 1636. Its old age doesn’t mean that it is out of order. It still spins on weekends, only when the winds are strong enough. Also along the riverbank, you’d find a statue of Rembrandt.
De Riekermolen Windmill
Address: De Borcht 10, 1083 AC Amsterdam, Netherlands
Website: De Riekermolen Windmill
11. Bloemen Market
Colorful, easy to navigate, and filled with stunningly beautiful flowers, Bloemenmarkt is a lovely place to see. The only floating market in the country, this flower marketplace, is located on the Singel. Flowers are sold in small shops on rows of floating barges. Known all over the world, Bloem Market is home to every kind of tulip – and every color, too. The location also has a wide variety of other flowers – including roses, lilies, hydrangeas, etc. you will also find plant seeds, house plants, and several gardening tools on sale here, too.
Bloemen Market
Address: Singel, 1012 DH Amsterdam, Netherlands
Opening hours: Sun: 11am - 5:30pm; Mon - Sat: 9am - 5:30pm
12. Oude Kerk
De Oud Kerk which translates to “The Old Church” is a massive, historic, and iconic building. It is the city’s oldest place of worship and used to be the most famous church in the town until the New Church was built. Constructed as a Catholic church, Oud Kerk is ironically located near the Red Light District, but that’s not what makes it an excellent place to visit. Aside from its tremendous and beautiful exterior, the church has an equally impressive interior. It features expensive decorative items, grand marble floors with a stunning architectural design, high stained-glass windows, and more. Oud Kerk is a fantastic place to check out.
Oude Kerk
Address: Oudekerksplein 23, 1012 GX Amsterdam, Netherlands
Website: Oude Kerk
Opening hours: Sun: 1pm - 5:30pm; Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm
13. Nieuwe Kerk
Over the years, Nieuwe Kerk has replaced Oud Kerk as the most famous church in the country. The sanctuary isn’t just an everyday place of worship; it is also used for other special duties events. It is where all princes and princesses are inaugurated before ascending the throne. The church is also home to the tombs of some of the most influential people in the country’s history – including Joost van den Vondel (the famous poet). It has beautiful architecture and great exhibitions for you to explore.
Nieuwe Kerk
Address: De Dam, 1012 NL Amsterdam, Netherlands
Website: Nieuwe Kerk
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 10 USD
14. The National Maritime Museum
The National Maritime Museum is replete with artefacts relating to maritime history. If you’re interested in learning about Amsterdam’s naval history, then you can check out this frequently visited museum and peruse through the vast collections of shipping and sailing equipment, as well as weapons, models, world maps, and art displayed here. This skip-the-line ticket also comes with a real-life 18th-century sailing experience you’d not want to miss.
15. Natura Artis Magistra Zoo
Brazilian Tapir (Tapirus terrestris) * Located in mixed exhibit including Anteater, Capybara, Mara, Vicuna & Screamers
Posted by Lynsey Syme on Tuesday, 17 July 2018
Natura Artis Magistra Zoo is the oldest zoo in the country. Also known as The Amsterdam Royal Zoo, this fascinating place to visit was opened in 1838 and is located in the eastern part of the country. The zoo features a lot of exciting attractions – including an aquarium filled with exotic animal life, a butterfly pavilion, insectariums, and a planetarium with over 200 plant and tree species. It features the only microscopic life exhibit in the world and a zoological museum boasting of more than 500 diverse animal species. It is an educating and entertaining site to spend an afternoon.
Natura Artis Magistra Zoo
Address: Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, 1018 CZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
Website: Natura Artis Magistra Zoo
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
16. Aviodrome Museum and Theme Park
Posted by Aviodrome on Sunday, 28 April 2019
If you’d like to explore rare exhibitions, then add Aviodrome Museum and Theme Park to your bucket list. This spot is a haven for aviation lovers and airplane enthusiasts. The National Aviation Museum of the Netherlands (its unofficial name), is a place that is dedicated to exhibiting the country’s important aviation heritage. Enjoy a fantastic time exploring this institution. See the different airplanes and helicopters on display in their real sizes – including a full Boeing 747 plane that visitors can climb into and get an authentic cockpit experience. With a flight simulator and full movie theater, it’s a great place to visit, especially for kids who wish to make a career in flying.
Aviodrome Museum and Theme Park
Address: Pelikaanweg 50, 8218 PG Lelystad, Netherlands
Website: Aviodrome Museum and Theme Park
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 17 - 19 USD
17. Muiden Castle
A fairy tale-style palace sitting on the banks of the River Vecht, Muiden Castle is a beautiful place to see. Muiderslot, as it is also called, was built in 1285 to defend the river; it was a significant waterway and still boasts of its original furnishings and parts even today. Although it’s not very large, this castle has a spectacular building complete with round corner towers, huge rooms, and an impressive collection of arms and armor. It also features an on-site amphitheater where you can watch a small video show on the castle’s fascinating history.
Muiden Castle
Address: Herengracht 1, 1398 AA Muiden, Netherlands
Website: Muiden Castle
Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 12pm - 5pm; Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm
18. Jordaan District
An entire district filled with beautiful houses, charming restaurants, and authentic local shops, Jordaan is a beautiful region to experience. Its sophisticated little streets and canals make for an exciting experience and a perfect location for picturesque photos. The entire district is always bubbling; whether you visit its markets or dine at its remarkable restaurants, you’d make the best of your time. Book a ticket for this food walking tour of the district where you get to enjoy delicious bites of local cuisines and fully experience the cultural heritage of the city.
Book Tours : Eating Amsterdam: Jordaan Small-Group Food Tour
19. Efteling Park
If you are visiting Amsterdam with children, then you must check out this place. Efteling Park was the very first themed amusement park in the country. Nicknamed “The World of Wonders,” this park offers a fairy tale-themed environment for you to explore. Get this day ticket, and enjoy exciting rides in any of the different themed “realms,” as well as see haunted houses. Also savor free shows, animated scenes, and walks on the forest paths; everyone can find something to enjoy
20. Royal Palace of Amsterdam
Royal Palace of Amsterdam is the most significant and most prominent building from the country’s Golden Age. This monumental palace is located in the heart of the city, on Dam Square. Once the largest building in Europe, the castle was built as a city hall for its magistrates. Now, it stands as the site of some of the well-kept collections of antique royal furniture, art decorations, sculptures, and marble floors. It is also used for royal events – including the king’s annual New Year’s celebration.
Book Tours : Amsterdam: Royal Palace Entry Ticket and Audio Guide
21. Body Worlds Museum
Do you think you know your body? Expand your knowledge of the human body at Body Worlds Museum Amsterdam. This institution takes you on an educational journey of the human body, telling you all you need to know about how the system works. See the real human bodies (plastinated) on display in different themed exhibitions. The site is one of its few permanent versions in the world. You get to skip the line at the entrance of this museum when you take this Amsterdam super saver tour – which also features a canal cruise.
Book Tours : Body Worlds Amsterdam & 1-Hour Canal Cruise
22. Leidseplein Square
A bustling square in the southern part of Amsterdam, Leidseplein is a popular destination. The square started as a road to the town of Leiden but gradually developed into an important transport hub. The center has plenty of exciting places for entertainment. You will regularly find street performers showing off amazing moves on the streets, bars lining the square, and several shopping outlets. You can enjoy a night out and meet people from all over the world when you join this Leidseplein pub crawl.
23. Keukenhof Gardens
If you happen to be in Amsterdam during spring, then a visit to this place is a no-brainer. Keukenhof Gardens is the largest and one of the most famous flower parks on the entire globe. Gorgeous and serene, this garden boasts of having over 7 million flower bulbs in its collection. From the world-famous Dutch tulips to lovely roses, orchids, daffodils, lilies, irises, hyacinths, and so much more, you will be awed by its collections.
24. Concertgebouw
A vital music venue in the country and one of the most prominent in the world, The Concertgebouw, is a place every music lover in Amsterdam should visit. This majestic venue has hosted some of the most excellent music concerts in the world and also featured a lot of legendary music icons. It is a unique home of classical and contemporary dance music, great orchestras, and fabulous stage performances. You can get an inside look of this location with this behind-the-scenes tour of the entire 19th-century building. Also enjoy unlimited access to the backstage area, changing rooms, Main and Recital halls, and more.
Book Tours : Amsterdam: Concertgebouw Behind the Scenes Tour
25. Rembrandt House Museum
Famous Dutch painter – Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn lived for 20 years of his life in this city, and his house has been converted into a museum dedicated to him and his works. Rembrandt House Museum is a 17th-century building that stands tall and beautiful. Renovated and restored to its original state, the site is open to visitors all day round. You can even book this fast-track entry into the museum and explore it with a complementary audio guide.
Book Tours : Amsterdam: Rembrandt House Museum Entrance Ticket
26. Rembrandt Tower
Amsterdam is known for its large classical buildings with ancient architecture that abounds. However, one thing it isn’t known for is very tall buildings. This attribute is why the Rembrandt Tower is an essential sight in the city. The tallest structure in Amsterdam, Rembrandt Tower stands at over 150 meters tall (492 feet) near the Amstel railway station. It is also visible from most parts of the city and offers spectacular views of the city’s landscape and skyline. Although it is not open for tourist visits as it is mainly an office complex, a close look is equally rewarding.
Book Tours : Amsterdam: Rembrandt House Museum Entrance Ticket
27. Albert Cuyp Market
When you think of shopping in Amsterdam, think of Albert Cuyp Market. This place is the most significant day market in the city. The bubbling street market is always active and filled with so many wares that there is a saying that “if what you’re looking for isn’t at the Albert Cuyp market, then it does not exist or has not been invented yet.” From clothing items to glass, electronic wares, foodstuff, jewelry, fruits, flowers, etc., there is something for everyone. Enjoy this 2-hour food tour of the market with a private guide through all the nooks and crannies of this place.
28. Anne Frank House
Anne Frank House tells the tragic story of Anne Frank and her family during World War II. It is in this house that the little girl with her family lived in hiding for over two years. Although only one member of the household survived the war, Anne Frank’s detailed diary from that trying period was discovered, published, and became a bestseller. Since then, people have been visiting this house to see the historical photos, film images, objects, and items that belonged to its occupants. Join this guided tour through the house and listen to sobering stories of the past.
29. Portuguese Synagogue
The Portuguese Synagogue is one of the oldest still in use in the country. It a massive building, which sits in the middle of the Jewish Cultural Quarter near central Amsterdam. Opened in 1675 (not 1672 as it says on its door), this synagogue features incredible and original interior decorations and has a main hall that is still lit only by candlelight. This tour includes an audio guide that explains various aspects of the building – including Jewish religious ceremonies, history, and culture – in sufficient detail for visitors. Also, enjoy a candlelit concert by talented musicians in this castle.
30. Rijksmuseum
If there is one thing this city has in abundance, it’s museums. Rijksmuseum, however, is the largest and most popular in the town. Also, one of the most famous museums in the world, Rijksmuseum is home to an amazing and captivating collection of Golden Age Dutch art pieces. This iconic institution also boasts of archaeological artifacts, cultural items, sculptures, paintings, Asian art, exquisite local and international prints, and a serene green garden where you can sit and relax. You can avoid long queues at the museum’s entrance with this fast-lane entry tour ticket.
Book Tours : Skip the Line: Rijksmuseum Amsterdam Entrance Ticket
Experience diverse, fun options in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a city that combines its rich history with an exciting culture and a uniquely European way of life to give you one of the best vacations ever. A town that boasts several amazing features like massive parks, fascinating museums, impressive architecture, iconic buildings, and heritage sites, there is something for everyone. With these many exciting places to visit in Amsterdam, Netherlands, a memorable experience awaits you. Come solo, with family or friends, and discover what the ‘Dutch Venice’ is all about.
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