Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most charming cities: a web of tree-lined canals and tall, gabled houses, world-class art museums, cosy “brown cafés” and more bicycles than people. It is compact enough to explore on foot or by bike, yet packed with things to see. Here are the best things to do in Amsterdam, where to stay and where to shop.
Top things to do in Amsterdam
The Rijksmuseum
The national museum of the Netherlands is home to masterpieces of the Dutch Golden Age, including Rembrandt’s The Night Watch and Vermeer’s The Milkmaid. Allow at least half a day.
The Van Gogh Museum
Just across Museumplein, this museum holds the world’s largest collection of paintings by Vincent van Gogh, including Sunflowers and many of his self-portraits. Tickets must be booked online for a time slot.
The Anne Frank House
The canal house where Anne Frank and her family hid during the Second World War is one of the most moving places in Europe. Tickets are sold only online and are released in advance, so book as early as you can.
Jewish Amsterdam
The Jewish Cultural Quarter includes the magnificent 17th-century Portuguese Synagogue, the Jewish Museum and the National Holocaust Museum. Together they tell the story of a community that shaped the city for centuries.
A canal cruise
The 17th-century canal ring is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a boat trip is the best way to see it. Evening cruises, when the bridges are lit up, are especially beautiful.
The Flower Market and Vondelpark
The Bloemenmarkt is a floating flower market on the Singel canal, famous for its tulip bulbs. For a break from the crowds, head to Vondelpark, the city’s favourite green space.
Recommended hotels in Amsterdam
- Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam: a luxury hotel set in a row of grand 17th-century canal palaces on the Herengracht.
- The Hoxton, Amsterdam: a stylish, relaxed boutique hotel in canal houses in the heart of the city.
- Conservatorium Hotel: a contemporary luxury hotel in a former music conservatory, steps from the main museums.
- Hotel Estherea: a family-run boutique hotel with characterful decor on one of the prettiest canals.
- Pulitzer Amsterdam: an elegant hotel spread across 25 historic canal houses, with a beautiful garden.
Where to shop in Amsterdam
- Kalverstraat: the main shopping street, with international brands and department stores.
- De Negen Straatjes (the Nine Streets): charming canal-side lanes full of boutiques, vintage shops, galleries and cafés.
- Albert Cuyp Market: a huge, lively street market in De Pijp – try a fresh stroopwafel.
Tips for visiting Amsterdam
- Book museums in advance: the Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum often sell out.
- Rent a bike, carefully: cycling is the local way to get around, but stay out of bike lanes when walking and follow local rules.
- Consider a city card: the I amsterdam City Card gives free entry to many museums, a canal cruise and unlimited public transport.
- Getting from the airport: trains from Schiphol reach Amsterdam Centraal in around 15 to 20 minutes.
- When to go: spring is the most beautiful season, with tulips in bloom from late March to early May.
Coming with children? Read why Amsterdam is perfect for a family trip. Visiting in spring? Do not miss the tulip bloom in the Netherlands. Planning a longer European trip? See our Paris travel guide.
