What to do in Amsterdam?
If you’re googling “What to do in Amsterdam” and you’re short on time, this guide gives you the essentials: museums that are worth it, soulful neighborhoods, easy night plans, and local tricks to spend less and enjoy more. Walk, hop on a tram, or cycle if you feel confident.
1) Museumplein: Big-name art
Start with the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. Buy tickets online, arrive early, and recharge on the Museumplein lawn. Add Moco if you like pop/contemporary art.
2) Anne Frank House
Book weeks ahead (online only). It’s intimate and powerful; plan ~90 minutes. Avoid peak hours.
3) Canal cruise (best at sunset)
The classic postcard, from the water. Pick a small or electric boat with a guide. In colder months, choose enclosed boats with big windows.
4) De Pijp + Albert Cuyp Market
Young, foodie neighborhood. Fresh stroopwafels, herring, and great coffee. Sarphatipark is next door for a green break.
5) Candlelight concerts
Music in historic venues (classical, jazz, folk). A different and memorable night plan.
6) Jordaan & The Nine Streets
Cute streets, vintage shops, and galleries. Wrap up in a brown café to feel old-school Amsterdam.
7) Heineken Experience or local craft beer
If you love immersive brand tours, go for it. Prefer indie? Try neighborhood microbreweries with rotating IPAs and sours.
8) A’DAM Lookout + free ferry to NDSM
Take the free ferry from Central Station. Enjoy 360° views on the swing, then explore NDSM’s murals, shipping containers, and waterside cafés.
9) Brunch & specialty coffee
Amsterdam is brunch-mad (benedict, waffles, shakshuka) with strong third-wave coffee. Tons of veg-friendly spots.
10) Begijnhof: Medieval oasis
A quiet hidden courtyard in the very center. Go early for a calm visit.
Extra. Amstel river, very close to our Onefam Amstel
There’s a lovely walking route along the Amstel through central parts of Amsterdam – passing museums, cultural landmarks, bridges, riverside terraces.
Bonus: 2-day mini itinerary (fast but tasty)
Day 1: Museumplein → Vondelpark → Jordaan & Nine Streets → sunset canal cruise.
Day 2: De Pijp + Albert Cuyp → Heineken/craft breweries → free ferry to NDSM → A’DAM Lookout → candlelight concert or brown café.
Tips: cluster by area, buy tickets online, and use tram/walk; bike only if you’re used to urban cycling.
Where to stay (without overspending)
For easy moves and a social vibe, base yourself in De Pijp. Onefam Amstel sits by Sarphatipark and the market: traveler-friendly atmosphere, daily activities, and staff who share real local plans. Book direct for the best rates and availability.
Budget, weather & logistics
Amsterdam isn’t cheap, but you can balance costs: markets for meals, free ferries, parks, and historic courtyards. Bring a no-fee card and a reusable bottle (there are fountains). Rain pops up unannounced—pack a light rain jacket and an extra layer. Tipping is optional (5–10% for great service).
English works everywhere; a simple “dankjewel” earns smiles. Handy apps: 9292 (public transport), NS (trains), and maps for cycling.
Top 10 FAQs
What to do in Amsterdam in 2 days?
Day 1: Museumplein, Vondelpark, canals at sunset. Day 2: De Pijp, Heineken/craft beer, NDSM and A’DAM.
What to do in Amsterdam at night?
Jordaan by night, candlelight concerts, A’DAM Lookout, and brown cafés.
Is a canal cruise worth it?
Yes. Go at sunset and pick a small or electric boat.
Do I need to book Anne Frank House in advance?
Yes—online only, and dates sell out fast.
Best area to stay for a first visit?
De Pijp and Jordaan: central-ish, local, and well connected.
Bike or public transport
Bike if you’re confident in city traffic; otherwise tram/metro + walking works great.
What to do in Amsterdam when it rains?
Museums, cozy cafés, covered markets, and short hops between nearby neighborhoods.
What to do in Amsterdam on a budget?
Free ferries, parks, historic courtyards, street food, and off-peak museum hours.
Is Amsterdam safe at night?
Generally yes in central areas; use common sense and avoid isolated spots.
When’s the best time to visit Amsterdam?
Spring/summer for light and weather; autumn for fewer lines and slightly better prices.
Ready to live Amsterdam like a local?
Book at Onefam Amstel, join our social activities, and kick off your trip with good vibes from minute one.
