10 Best Things to Do and See in Amsterdam
Exploring Amsterdam on foot is one of the best ways to feel the city’s atmosphere, connect its landmark places and discover its neighbourhoods at a more natural pace.
In this guide, you will find the attractions not to miss when planning a walking route in Amsterdam, with simple reference points.
To go further, you can also enjoy a private guided tour in Amsterdam. It is a smoother way to connect places, understand details you might miss on your own and enjoy a more human, personal discovery adapted to your trip.
1. Rijksmuseum Amsterdam
The Rijksmuseum of Amsterdam is the great national museum of the Netherlands, a must-see for discovering the country’s history and art. Housed in an iconic building, it brings together a vast collection of works ranging from Dutch painting to decorative arts, as well as historical objects and remarkable pieces from different periods. Visitors can admire masterpieces by the great masters of the Dutch Golden Age, along with galleries showing the evolution of Dutch culture and craftsmanship. It is an essential visit for understanding Amsterdam’s artistic identity.
2. Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam is a must-see place to discover the world of the famous Dutch painter. The exhibition presents the largest collection of his works in the world, with paintings, drawings and letters that let visitors follow the evolution of his style and better understand his artistic life. You can admire his landscapes, portraits and still lifes, as well as temporary exhibitions devoted to 19th-century art and its influence. It is an essential visit to appreciate the richness of his work up close.
3. Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House in Amsterdam is a moving memorial site located in the house where the Frank family hid during World War II. Visitors can discover preserved rooms, period objects, and exhibitions that tell the story of daily life in the Secret Annex, as well as the broader context of the persecution of Jews in the Netherlands. The visit is sober and deeply moving, offering a powerful immersion in the history of the place and a reflection on freedom, persecution, and the passing on of memory.
4. Vondelpark
Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s most famous large urban park, loved for its wide lawns, shaded paths and peaceful ponds. Visitors come here to stroll on foot or by bike, take a break on a terrace, watch local life and enjoy a green setting in the heart of the city. A lively and welcoming place, it also offers relaxation areas, spaces for outdoor activities and a pleasant atmosphere in every season.
5. NEMO
Located in Amsterdam, NEMO is an interactive science museum that invites visitors of all ages to explore science and technology in a fun way. In its exhibition spaces, you can discover hands-on experiments about energy, chemistry, water, the human body, and physical forces, with plenty of interactive displays and demonstrations. The museum emphasizes learning through observation and experimentation, making it an ideal family visit. Its modern architecture and rooftop terrace also offer a pleasant view over the city.
6. Artis
Artis is Amsterdam’s famous zoo, set in a large green space in the heart of the city. Visitors can discover a wide variety of animals from around the world, as well as areas dedicated to nature and scientific discovery. The visit makes it possible to observe mammals, birds, reptiles, and sometimes rarer species, while enjoying peaceful paths, well-kept enclosures, and historic buildings. It is a popular outing for families and curious visitors alike, combining a walk, animal watching, and learning.
7. Madame Tussauds
In the heart of Amsterdam, Madame Tussauds is a wax museum where visitors can discover famous figures and spectacular scenes in an interactive, fun atmosphere. You’ll find statues of personalities from film, music, sports, politics, and popular culture, all created with great attention to detail. The visit also includes themed areas and opportunities to take photos alongside these iconic figures, for an enjoyable experience that is accessible to everyone.
8. A’DAM Lookout
A’DAM Lookout is an iconic Amsterdam observation deck that offers spectacular panoramic views over the city, the harbor, and the canals. Located in the A’DAM Tower, it lets visitors take in Amsterdam’s main cityscapes from great heights, in a modern and lively setting. It also features a visitor-friendly space with installations that highlight the panorama and the atmosphere of the place. It is an ideal stop to admire the Dutch capital from a different perspective, by day or at sunset.
9. Moco Museum | Amsterdam
Located in the heart of Amsterdam, the Moco Museum is a modern art museum showcasing contemporary works and creations accessible to a wide audience. It often features exhibitions dedicated to well-known artists from street art, pop art, and modern art, with immersive installations, striking visual pieces, and sometimes socially engaged messages. The visitor route highlights a contemporary and playful approach to art, in an intimate setting that lets visitors view the works up close and enjoy a unique visit, right at the forefront of today’s artistic trends.
10. Royal Palace on Dam Square
The Royal Palace on Dam Square, located on Dam Square in the heart of Amsterdam, is one of the city’s most remarkable landmarks. This palace impresses with its classical architecture and imposing elegance, drawing in both visitors and passersby. Inside, you’ll discover vast ceremonial halls, reception rooms, and refined decor that reflect its official importance. It’s an ideal visit for admiring an iconic site and understanding a prestigious aspect of Dutch heritage.
Antony M
During my travels, I looked for guides who spoke my language. This search turned out to be long and tedious. That is why I created MYTOGU (My Tourist Guide): a matching site between tourists and professional tourist guides.
