Amsterdam / Top 20 Sightseeing & Attractions
Top 20 tourist attractions, sightseeing & things to do in Amsterdam
What are the tourist attractions in Amsterdam Netherlands? An overview of the tickets for the top 20 sightseeing, attractions, landmarks, highlights and best things to do in Amsterdam Netherlands.
Top 20 Attractions - Things to do in Amsterdam
Must See: 1. Rijksmuseum
The gigantic Rijksmuseum is Amsterdam's most popular attraction. With over 5,000 paintings, this museum tells the story of 800 years of Dutch history, including the 17th century, also known as the Dutch Golden Age. Witness world-famous paintings such as Rembrandt's 'The Night Watch' and Johannes Vermeer's 'The Milkmaid'.
- Tickets Rijksmuseum
2. Van Gogh Museum
The museum with the largest collections of paintings by Vincent van Gogh is a must do on the list of 'Best thing to do in Amsterdam'. This article will tell you everything you need to know to prepare your visit to the Van Gogh Museum. Important: Because of the visitor limit during the high season, you will always have to book your ticket in advance.
- Tickets Van Gogh Museum
3. Canal cruises
A boat trip on the canals is a must during your visit to Amsterdam. From the water, you can witness the true beauty of Amsterdam's canal houses. You can alraedy book this boat tour starting at just 16 euros. You may also opt for specially themed cruises, such as a dinner cruise or romantic candlelight cruise
- Canal cruises
4. Heineken Experience
The Heineken Experience is located in Heineken's oldest brewery. The 90-minute tour of the interactive Heineken Experience will tell you about the history, brewing process, and marketing of the Netherlands' most famous beer brand.
- Tickets Heineken Experience
Places to visit: 5. Red Light District
Amsterdam's Red Light District (‘De Wallen’ in Dutch) is the prostitution district of Amsterdam, with over 300 spots for window prostitution. The name is derived from the many red lights in these windows. The district also features plenty of sex shops, coffeeshops, sex shows, and a cannabis museum. The district has become one of the main tourist attractions in Amsterdam.
- Tips Red Light District
6. Anne Frank House
The Jewish girl Anne Frank became world famous because of the diary she kept in ‘Het Achterhuis’. This museum includes a tour of the room behind the movable bookcase where she hid. It is one of the most impressive sights in Amsterdam. You can only book tickets on the official website. Be sure to do this well in advance, as the museum is often sold out. Sold out? We can also recommend you this 2-hour walking tour which tells you the fascinating story of Anne Frank through Amsterdam (this tour doesn't include the Anne Frank House).
7. Vondelpark
The Vondelpark is the largest city park in Amsterdam. Entrance to the public and stretched-out park is free. It features ponds, fountains, statues, a rose garden, a teahouse, and more. There are also frequent concerts and open air theatre in the Vondelpark.
8. Sightseeing at The Dam
The Dam is Amsterdam's central square. Here you will find the Royal Palace of Amsterdam, the Nieuwe Kerk, and the National monument. The biggest shopping streets are directly connected to the square. In addition, the luxury department store 'De Bijenkorf' is also located on this square. Another attraction here is Madame Tussaud's wax museum.
9. Rembrandt House Museum
This is the former house and workplace of Rembrandt van Rijn, where he lived between 1639 and 1658. This beautiful and stately museum full of antique furniture, art, and objects will make you feel like you've travelled back to the 17th century. The actual Rembrandt house also contains a reconstruction of his living area and workspace.
- Tickets Rembrandt House Museum
10. The Jordaan
The Jordaan is a typical working class neighbourhood in the western part of Amsterdam's city centre. The neighbourhood was built in the 17th century and features beautiful canal houses, many restaurants, shops, and is known for its Dutch music. The 'nine little streets' shopping area is especially popular. The Jordaan is a fun neighbourhood to explore on your own during your city break in Amsterdam Netherlands.
Landmarks: 11. Concertgebouw
In part due to its excellent acoustics, the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam is one of the world's most famous concert halls. If you wish to experience this beautiful 1888 building, there are two options: A guided tour or attending a concert.
- Tickets Concertgebouw
12. Artis
The city zoo in the centre of Amsterdam is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands. It can make for a nice change of pace during your city break. You can easily purchase your tickets online.
13. Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder
A less touristy, but very interesting attraction is the Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder museum (Our Lord in the Attic). It is a former clandestine church, located on the Oudezijds Voorburgwal 38 in the centre of Amsterdam. Tickets for tours in this hidden gem are easily available online.
14. Begijnhof
The Begijnhof is a courtyard left over from medieval Amsterdam. Originally these were the houses of the unmarried and devout Beguines. Most of the façades are from the 17th and 18th century. The beautiful courtyard is an oasis of tranquillity in the city centre, and access to part of the little square is free. The other part is not open to the public out of consideration for the residents' privacy.
15. NEMO Science Museum
NEMO is Amsterdam's science museum, intended to get young people excited about science and technology, for instance by offering the chance to try experiments. It is a wonderful, interactive museum. Highly recommended if you are visiting Amsterdam with your children. The striking structure on the banks of the IJ is located near the central station.
16. Places to visit: A’DAM Lookout
A’dam LOOKOUT is a 360° observation deck offering the most beautiful panoramic view of the Amsterdam's harbour and city centre. The Edge Swing is a very unique attraction. It's the highest swing in Europe that lets you swing on the edge of the 10-metre high building. Not much of a daredevil? Simply enjoy a co*cktail from the rooftop bar or next to A'DAM Lookout you will find the This is Holland 5D Flight Experience.
17. National Maritime Museum
This museum takes you back through 500 years of Dutch maritime history, including the Dutch Golden age. It also covers the present day of this country long dependent on dykes. You will get the chance to visit the replica of the old Dutch East India Company ship, 'Amsterdam'. The collection includes paintings, model ships, weaponry, and maps.
18. Sightseeing tours by bike
Do things as the locals do! Amsterdam is a city that has more bicycles than people. It offers the perfect way to see many sights in very little time. Rent your own bicycle or join one of the guided bicycle tours.
- Bicycle tours
19. Leidseplein & Nightlife
The Leidseplein is Amsterdam's most vibrant square. The square is surrounded by many cafes, restaurants, theatres, and music venues. Tourist nightlife largely takes place around this Leidseplein. Want to get the most out of Amsterdam's nightlife? Check out our pub crawls.
20. Amsterdam Museum
The 'Amsterdam Museum' shows the seven-century history of the city of Amsterdam. From a small settlement on the banks of the Amstel river and the Dutch Golden Age of the 17th century to the present-day metropolis. The historical city museum is located in the city's centre and offers a great way to get to know the city better.
21. Keukenhof
The most popular attraction in March, April, and May is the Keukenhof. The Keukenhof is a beautiful park full of tulips and flowers. It's easy to plan a day trip from Amsterdam. You can opt for organised excursions or travel to the Keukenhof yourself using public transport.
- Tickets Keukenhof
22. Zaanse Schans
Windmills, traditional wooden houses, and Dutch shops make this one of Holland's best attractions. If you are based in Amsterdam, it is best to book this tour or this popular tour.
Special things to do in Amsterdam
More tourist attractions
Partner of: Reykjavik attractions, Porto sightseeing and Naples sightseeing
