I traveled to Amsterdam for the first time last summer and immediately fell in love. It quickly became one of my favorite cities in Europe. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Amsterdam offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern charm. We stayed at the Conservatorium Hotel which was the perfect location to explore city.
Before traveling to Amsterdam, I spent tons of time researching the top things to do in the city. Here are all my favorites and must-adds to your list!
1. Cycle Through Vondelpark
No visit to Amsterdam is complete without a bike ride. Vondelpark, the city’s largest and most famous park, offers the perfect starting point. The greenery, ponds, and charming bridges make for a beautiful bike ride. I was a little nervous about riding bikes in the street, so starting in the park was perfect. We then cycled all around the city, and it just felt incredible bicycling the streets of Amsterdam.
2. Explore the Canals by Boat
There’s no better way to see Amsterdam’s canals than from the water. We rented a private boat and took a sunset tour of the canals to celebrate our engagement. The romantic ambiance mixed with some vodka shots and the sun setting behind the historic houses and bridges, was one of the highlights of my trip.
We booked a private boat (Lucy) with Pure Boats, who offer private and small group charters with fully tailored experiences aboard their personally designed, luxurious electric boats. We added on the open bar and cheese board which I highly recommend.
3. Visit the Anne Frank House
Visiting the Anne Frank House offers a powerful glimpse into the life of Anne Frank and the history of the Holocaust. Located at Prinsengracht 263-267, the museum is housed in the actual building where Anne and her family hid for over two years during World War II.. I recommend booking your tickets well in advance, as it’s one of Amsterdam’s most popular attractions.
4. Wander the Jordaan District
With its narrow streets, quaint boutiques, and cozy cafés, the Jordaan district feels like a village within the city. It’s the perfect place to get lost and discover local art galleries and vintage shops.
5. The Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is a treasure trove of Dutch art and history. Home to masterpieces like Rembrandt’s “Night Watch” and Vermeer’s “The Milkmaid,” it’s a must-visit for any art lover. My fiancé and I spent hours here, completely immersed in the rich tapestry of Dutch culture.
6. Get Inspired at the Van Gogh Museum
Dedicated to the life and works of Vincent van Gogh, this museum houses the largest collection of his paintings and drawings. Standing in front of “Sunflowers” and “The Starry Night” was inspiring. The audio guide here is excellent and really brings Van Gogh’s story to life.
7. Indulge in Indonesian Cuisine
Amsterdam’s colonial history with Indonesia has left a delicious legacy: incredible Indonesian food. We went to Sampurna which is one of Amsterdam’s most popular Indonesian restaurants and tried a bunch of dishes which were all so delicious.
8. Experience the Red Light District
A visit to the Red Light District is a glimpse into Amsterdam’s liberal and progressive culture. Beyond the notorious windows, you’ll find coffee shops, sex theaters, fetish stores, mushroom shops. We checked out the famous peep show. I definitely recommend signing up for a walking tour to learn more in depth on the Red Light District.
9. Savor Dutch Cuisine
I always love trying local food during my travels. From stroopwafels to bitterballen, Dutch food is hearty and delicious. I tried everything from raw herring (an acquired taste!) to poffertjes, those delightful mini pancakes dusted with powdered sugar. Make sure to visit a local market for an authentic taste of Amsterdam. Here is a list of top 6 Foods to Try in Amsterdam.
10. Explore Albert Cuyp Market
I love a good market. The Albert Cuyp Market, one of the largest and most famous markets in Europe with 260 stands selling fresh produce and spices to clothes and souvenirs, this bustling market has it all. I loved wandering through the stalls, sampling street food, and picking up unique Dutch treats to bring home.
