Heading to Amsterdam and not sure what to do? These top things to do in Amsterdam are the essentials that no one should miss when they visit this fun and vibrant city.
Did you know, there is no marketing budget to promote Amsterdam? The destination is so popular with tourists and day trippers that it doesn’t need to actively try and attract them. Anyone who has visited this exciting and yet somehow still tranquil location will know exactly why it continues to be so enduringly popular as a place to stay in Europe. From chic restaurants to world-class art, relaxed boat trips to buzzing bars and clubs, the city really does offer something for everyone. We take a look at the enduring appeal of this destination, some of the best things to do in Amsterdam, and how you can live the rockstar life in the city.
A Classic Bike Ride
This is one of the top things to do in Amsterdam for those who are more active and like to be part of the culture.
Travelling around by bike is definitely a key way to see this beautiful city – the centre is criss-crossed with an extensive and well maintained cycle network and bikes are definitely the best way to get around. There are few major cities that are so geared up as Amsterdam for pedal power, so make sure you experience it this way.
Bike hire is easy, inexpensive and plentiful. Hire out a bike and a lock from about €30 per day – you can also source family bikes with compartments on the front for carrying children! Whether you are a novice or an expert cyclist, the compact centre and cycle path network make it super easy to explore on two wheels and you’ll experience some stunning views – as well as getting that obligatory #healthylife Instagram shot of you grinning on top of your bike. Plan in plenty of stops along the way at the picturesque cafes and bars for a cold pint of Amstel and a delicious lunch.
Grab a Culture Hit
Amsterdam is absolutely packed with museums and galleries just waiting to be discovered, from art of international importance to historical exhibits to very niche subjects indeed! Almost any taste is catered for here. Museum Square is the aptly-named place to start. Here you will find the stunning Rijksmuseum, full of masterpiece artwork from iconic artists such as Rembrandt and Vermeer, while the similarly incredible Van Gogh museum is located nearby.
If you’ve soaked up enough classical culture, why not try the Moco Museum? This institution showcases works by art world pioneers, highlighting diverse movements within contemporary art using a wide range of guest curators and an ever-shifting roster of exhibitions starring the likes of Banksy and Salvador Dali. For lovers of more niche exhibitions, you can find museums dedicated to subjects as diverse as cheese, pipes, diamonds, torture, psychedelic glow-in-the-dark pictures, the history of sex, marijuana, street art, and music photography.
Sample The Nightlife
If you want to party like the most decadent of rockstars there really is no better place than Amsterdam, where clubbing is almost elevated to a religion. All the top name and up and coming DJs find the city a Mecca for all kinds of electronic music, from dub-step to deep house, trance, funk and trip-hop. From large scale dance music festivals to cosy weekly club nights, going ‘out out’ is an artform here. Housed in slick bars, old industrial buildings, converted factories and private basements, locations such as Sugarfactory, Escape and Undercurrent offer an ever changing parade of nights to satisfy any taste.
The city is also home to plenty of ‘nachtcafes’, or designated late night venues hosting more chilled out after parties until 5am at the weekend. Most of the clubs do not operate strict dress codes, but clubgoers are expected to be basically smart. Check the door policy of individual venues before you arrive as some are for 21 plus only.
Sample The Street Food
The city’s street food scene is thriving, along with the treats on offer at various quirky restaurants and cafes. Make sure to try some of the city’s famous waffles – savoury or sweet – along with bagels and coffee. As well as native cuisine, Amsterdam has a great selection of Indonesian food. In season, vendors also sell beautiful fresh sweet strawberries in cups ready to eat. It’s definitely worth a wander down the little cobbled streets to see what you can find.
Do you have any tips for top things to do in Amsterdam? Tell us in the comments below
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