Updated on 25/11/2025 ｜ Published on 06/01/2025
Plan your Amsterdam trip with top 12 things to do, 7 day trips, a 5-day itinerary, where to stay, how to get around, and tips for first-time visitors.
Read Before Your Trip
City Guides：Amsterdam｜Rotterdam
Amsterdam：Top Attractions｜Day Trips｜Passes Comparison｜Red Light District｜Cannabis Experience｜Heineken Experience
Other Cities：Kinderdijk｜Cube Houses｜Alkmaar Cheese Market
Passes：I Amsterdam City Card｜GoCity Amsterdam｜Museum Card｜Amsterdam Transport Pass｜Rotterdam Transport Pass
Anne Frank House：Book Ticket｜Walking Tour
Van Gogh Museum：Get Your Guide｜KLOOK
Heineken Experience：Get Your Guide｜KLOOK
Kinderdijk：Book Ticket｜Water Bus
Day Trip to GiethoornGet Your Guide｜KLOOK
Amsterdam Attractions Map
This map includes must-visit attractions in Amsterdam and its nearby areas, along with my recommended restaurants and local delicacies.
The map is set to English by default. Simply click on the 'Enlarge Map' icon in the top right corner to switch to your preferred language!
Things to Do in Amsterdam
Amsterdam Canals
One of the best things to do in Amsterdam include exploring the city’s beautiful canals, which were built in the 17th century and are still in great condition today. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, you can experience these canals by boat, take a leisurely stroll along the banks, or rent a bike to cycle through, enjoying the stunning historical buildings and iconic landmarks that line the waterways.
- How Long to Spend at Amsterdam Canals
- Boat tour experience: approximately 1 hour
- Walking: around 1.5 to 2 hours
- Book in Advance (Some tickets with free cancellation/discounts)
- Opening Hours
- Open All Day
- Boat service hours vary depending on the season and company
Anne Frank House
Another best things to do in Amsterdam is visiting the Anne Frank House, the hiding place where Anne Frank and her family lived during the Nazi occupation. The house has been transformed into a memorial museum, displaying Anne’s heartfelt diary manuscripts, which offer a deep insight into her thoughts and emotions. Visitors can tour the secret annex where Anne and her family hid, and while photography is prohibited inside, the site continues to attract countless people eager to learn about this poignant chapter in history.
- How Long to Spend at Anne Frank House
- 2 Hours
- Tickets must be purchased on：official website
- Tickets must be booked on the official website at least a month in advance! If you miss out, you can try again a week before your visit, as a small number of tickets are released during that time.
- Free Entry with Museum Card
- You can also opt for additional options：
- Anne Frank Walking Tour（entrance ticket not included）
- GoCity Amsterdam Includes Anne Frank Walking Tour (entrance ticket not included)
- Opening Hours
- Open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, though hours may vary on weekends and public holidays.
- Find on Google Map
Van Gogh Museum
A top item on the list of things to do in Amsterdam is visiting the Van Gogh Museum, home to the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works in the world, with over 200 paintings and more than 500 drawings. The museum also regularly hosts special exhibitions related to Van Gogh and his contemporaries, offering a deeper understanding of the artist’s life and creative journey.
- How Long to Spend at Van Gogh Museum
- 2 Hours
- Book in Advance (Some tickets with free cancellation/discounts)
- Opening Hours
- Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours until 9:00 PM on Fridays.
- Find on Google Map
Rijksmuseum
A visit to the Rijksmuseum is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Amsterdam. This iconic museum houses a vast collection of Dutch Golden Age masterpieces, including Rembrandt’s renowned "The Night Watch". As you wander through the galleries, you’ll be surrounded by centuries of art and history. Don’t forget to explore the museum’s beautiful garden, where sculptures and art installations offer a refreshing contrast to the rich cultural treasures inside.
- How Long to Spend at Rijksmuseum
- 2 Hours
- Book in Advance (Some tickets with free cancellation/discounts)
- Opening Hours
- Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Find on Google Map
Royal Palace Amsterdam
The Royal Palace of Amsterdam, once a city hall, now serves as the venue for official events and receptions, making it one of the essential things to do in Amsterdam. Situated at the heart of the city, Dam Square is a lively hub surrounded by significant landmarks, including the National Monument, which honours the victims of World War II. This bustling area is also home to a wide array of shops, cafes, and restaurants, with street performers adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
- How Long to Spend at Royal Palace Amsterdam
- 2 Hours
- Book in Advance (Some tickets with free cancellation/discounts)
- Royal Palace Amsterdam Opening Hours
- Daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Find on Google Map
Red Light Secrets
The Red Light Secrets Museum is a unique attraction, being the only museum in the world dedicated to the theme of sex work. Located in one of the most fascinating things to do in Amsterdam, the museum explores the history and realities of Amsterdam’s iconic Red Light District. Visitors can delve into the area’s evolution and learn about the lives of sex workers through interactive exhibits and simulated working rooms, which offer a glimpse into their daily routines. Additionally, the museum provides insightful educational content on the legalisation of sex work, enriching your understanding of this complex social issue.
- How Long to Spend at Red Light Secrets
- 1 Hour
- Book in Advance (Some tickets with free cancellation/discounts)
- Red Light Secrets Opening Hours
- Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Find on Google Map
Heineken Experience
The Heineken Experience is a brand-centric museum that offers an in-depth look into the history of Heineken beer, making it a top choice for things to do in Amsterdam. Visitors can learn about the brewing process, explore the brand’s rich history, and take part in engaging, interactive exhibits. As part of your ticket, you can enjoy two to three fresh Heineken beers (though, I had to finish my partner’s because he couldn’t drink much, and for some mysterious reason, the staff gave us an extra one. Oh, and another appeared on the rooftop… That day, let’s just say my memory was a bit foggy!).
You’ve got to pay attention to the staff's explanations—because if you answer the questions correctly afterwards, you get an extra drink! That day, one of the group members was so eager to answer that they ended up scoring three drinks!!!
- How Long to Spend at Heineken Experience
- For most people: 2 hours
- For beer enthusiasts: 3 hours
- If you accidentally get drunk: 4 hours
- Book in Advance (Some tickets with free cancellation/discounts)
- Opening Hours
- Daily: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Find on Google Map
A’DAM Lookout
A’DAM Lookout is an observation deck located in central Amsterdam, providing incredible panoramic views of the city. As one of the exciting things to do in Amsterdam, it also features a rotating restaurant and Europe’s highest swing, giving visitors a chance to enjoy both stunning views and thrilling experiences in one place.
- How Long to Spend at A’DAM Lookout
- 1.5 Hours
- Book in Advance (Some tickets with free cancellation/discounts)
- Opening Hours
- Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Find on Google Map
The Bulldog Coffeeshop (Cannabis)
The Bulldog is one of Amsterdam's most famous coffeeshops, offering cannabis products and beverages. It's a must-visit spot for many tourists. I only tried the lowest dosage, and my reaction was being fully alert yet talking nonsense.
- Average spending per person：€15-€30
- Google Ratings：4.3/5
- Opening Hours：08:00-01:00
- Find The Bulldog Coffeeshop on Google Map
Important Notice：
Cannabis is not legal in the Netherlands, but there is a so-called "tolerance policy" (gedoogbeleid), meaning the law is not enforced for the retail of small amounts of cannabis for personal use in designated "coffeeshops." (Plain language translation: Cannabis is decriminalised in Amsterdam, but only for use within coffeeshops.) Everyone's physical condition is different, so please assess your own tolerance and control your dosage.
Red Light District
The Red Light District is one of Amsterdam's most famous areas, known for legal sex work and its unique nightlife. The bars, nightclubs, and cannabis coffee shops offer a vibrant experience of the city’s after-dark scene. For those wanting to learn more about the area’s history and culture, guided tours are available for a deeper insight.
- The Red Light District is free to explore, but you can opt for a guided safety tour
- Opening Hours
- Open all day, but it becomes more lively after 7:00 PM.
- Find on Google Map
Casa Rosso Theatre Sex Show
Casa Rosso Theatre is a famous live adult performance venue in the Red Light District, with over 50 years of history. The performances are legal and strictly regulated.
- Tickets can be purchased on-site, starting from €65 per person in 2024.
- Opening Hours
- Daily from 19:00 to 02:00
- Find on Google Map
Albert Cuyp Market
Albert Cuyp Market is the largest open-air market in Amsterdam, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, clothing, and handmade goods.
I recommend trying herring! I originally went in with a "let's see how bad it is" attitude, but surprisingly, I ended up really enjoying it!
- How Long to Spend at Albert Cuyp Market
- 1.5-2 hours
- Opening Hours
- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- Sunday: Closed.
- Find on Google Map
Day Trips From Amsterdam
Day Trips From Amsterdam – Top 7 Nearby Towns and Attractions
- Zaanse Schans
- Keukenhof
- Alkmaar Cheese Market
- Giethoorn
- Kinderdijk
- Day Trip to Rotterdam
- Day Trip to The Hague
How Many Days In Amsterdam? 5-Day Itinerary
If you’re visiting Amsterdam for the first time, it’s recommended to allocate at least three days to explore the city’s classic attractions. For nearby regions and other Dutch cities, five to six days would give you a more relaxed schedule.
My Suggested 5-Day Amsterdam Itinerary
- Day 1：Breakfast@Winkel 43 > Anne Frank House > The Lunch@Pancake Bakery > Royal Palace Amsterdam > Dam Square > Amsterdam Canal Cruise > Dinner@The Pantry
- Day 2：Van Gogh Museum > Rijksmuseum > Lunch@Albert Cuyp Market > Heineken Experience > Dinner@The Seafood Bar
- Day 3：Breakfast@Omelegg > A’DAM Lookout > Canal District Photos + Lunch > Red Light Secrets Museum > Cannabis Experience > Manneken Pis Fries > Red Light District > Casa Rosso Theatre Sex Show
- Day 4：Day Trip: Alkmaar Cheese Market (only open Fridays from April to September in the morning) > Zaanse Schans
- Day 5：Day Trip from Amsterdam: Rotterdam + Kinderdijk
Day 4 and Day 5 can also be flexibly arranged with the following day trips：
- Day Trip from Amsterdam: Giethoorn
- Day Trip from Amsterdam: Rotterdam, Delft, and The Hague
- Keukenhof Park tickets and round-trip shuttle service
Comparison: I Amsterdam City Card, Museum Card, GoCity Amsterdam
Detailed Comparison：Amsterdam City Pass: I Amsterdam, Museumkaart, or GoCity?
| I Amsterdam Card | GoCity Amsterdam | Museum Card | |
| Price | 24 Hours: €65 | 1 Day: €99 | 1 Year: €75 |
| 48 Hours: €90 | 2 Days: €119 | ||
| 72 Hours: €108 | 3 Days: €119 | ||
| Purchase Link | Buy I Amsterdam City Card Here | Buy GoCity Amsterdam Here | Official Website of Museum Card |
| GVB Transport Pass | Ｏ | Ｘ | Ｘ |
| Canal Cruise | Ｏ | Ｏ | Ｘ |
| Anne Frank House | Ｘ | Ｘ | Ｏ |
| Van Gogh Museum | Ｘ | Ｘ | Ｏ |
| Heineken Experience | Ｘ | Ｏ | Ｘ |
| Rijksmuseum (National Museum) | Ｏ | Ｏ | Ｏ |
| A’DAM LOOKOUT | Ｏ | Ｏ | Ｘ |
| Keukenhof Gardens | Ｘ | Ｏ | Ｘ |
| Zaanse Schans Windmill Village | Ｏ | Ｏ | Ｘ |
| Day Trip from Amsterdam: Rotterdam, Delft, and The Hague | Ｘ | Ｏ | Ｘ |
In addition to the popular attractions mentioned, there are many other museums, tours, bike rentals, and activities available. I recommend researching the must-see spots in advance and deciding which tickets to purchase based on your needs. Sometimes, you can get better deals through the purchase links I provide, especially with GoCity!
Amsterdam Transport: City, Airport
Transportation from Amsterdam Airport to the City Centre
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (IATA: AMS) is the Netherlands' main international airport, connecting Europe and the rest of the world. There are several convenient transportation options from the airport to Amsterdam city centre:
- Train：You can take a train operated by Dutch National Rail (NS) directly to Amsterdam Central Station (Centraal Station), which takes around 15-20 minutes and is the most economical and quickest option. ➡️ Train Transfers Between Airport and City Centre
- Shuttle Buses：The 397 bus departs from the airport and stops at multiple locations in the city centre, making it a good option for travellers staying away from Central Station. ➡️ Bus Transfers Between Airport and City Centre
- Taxies or Uber：Taxis and ride-sharing services are available at the airport, with a journey time of about 20-30 minutes, though the cost is relatively high.
Public Transportation in Amsterdam
In Amsterdam, if you don't use the I Amsterdam City Card, it's recommended to purchase a public transport pass, which allows unlimited use of trams, buses, ferries, and the metro within a specified period. Based on my experience, you'll easily get your money's worth after just three trips in one day.
- Metro one-way ticket price：€3.20 (2025)
- Public transport pass：€9.00 (one day) | €15.00 (two days) | €21.00 (three days)
Buy Amsterdam Transport Pass Here
Amsterdam Train Travel to Other Cities
If Amsterdam is your stopover in Europe, taking the train is a great option from nearby cities. The main railway operator in the Netherlands is NS, connecting cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Groningen. You can check schedules via Google Maps, and buying tickets on-site is suitable for flexible itineraries.
If you can finalise your dates or routes in advance, you can enjoy early bird discounts or opt for passes to save on costs.
Eurail Global Train Pass for 33 European Countries
Where to Stay at Amsterdam
In conclusion, it's advisable to stay in the city centre, close to the Central Station or the canal district. This location can save you a lot on transportation costs and time, making it easier to explore nearby attractions. Alternatively, you might consider staying in a hotel near the museum district, where accommodation tends to be slightly cheaper (though still quite pricey). This area also has many attractions, but walking to the city centre will take about half an hour or you’ll need to take a metro ride.
My Bad Experience
During this trip, I chose to stay at the Aston City Hotel, which became a little episode in my journey. Considering that accommodation prices in central Amsterdam are generally quite high, especially during the last week of June, it wasn’t easy to find options under 1,000 HKD per night. In the end, I opted for this hotel, located not far from the Heineken Experience, with a rate of around 2,200 HKD for a three-night stay in a double room (after deducting membership points).
However, I hastily booked the hotel without thoroughly checking the reviews. As a result, the only advantages of this hotel were its low price and proximity to the museum district. The hotel facilities were outdated, the hallways were not clean, and the room even had an unpleasant smell! I couldn’t stand such an environment, so I hurriedly left the hotel at 5 a.m. the next morning to take photos as soon as the sun rose. Surprisingly, I captured stunning views of the canals and the sunrise, turning a misfortune into a blessing.
Frequently Asked Questions for an Amsterdam Trip
Is Cannabis Legal in Amsterdam?
Important Notice：Cannabis is not legal in the Netherlands, but there is a so-called "tolerance policy" (gedoogbeleid), meaning the law is not enforced for the retail of small amounts of cannabis for personal use in designated "coffeeshops." (Plain language translation: Cannabis is decriminalised in Amsterdam, but only for use within coffeeshops.) Everyone's physical condition is different, so please assess your own tolerance and control your dosage.
What payment methods are accepted in Amsterdam, and how much cash should I prepare?
The main payment methods include credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), debit cards (Visa Debit, MasterCard Debit), cash, and mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Cash is less commonly used, as most payments can be completed via card or mobile payment.
When is the best season to visit Amsterdam?
The best times to visit are spring (March to May) and summer (June to August), when the weather is pleasant, and daylight hours are long. Spring is ideal for seeing tulip fields, while summer is great for outdoor activities and city strolls. Autumn (September to November) is also a good option, with cooler weather and fewer tourists.
What is the voltage and plug specification in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands uses a voltage of 220V and C-type and F-type plugs. It is advisable to bring an international power adapter.
