Top 6 activities in Amsterdam

Good news for tourists stopping off in Amsterdam, because you’re not likely to get bored. There’s so much to do and so much charm in the city that it’s easy to get lost admiring the architecture and the strolling onlookers. However, don’t daydream for too long, or you might miss out on the best of it!

Amsterdam offers a wealth of cultural opportunities. Internationally renowned museums abound, and the local art of living attracts travellers from all over the world. Amsterdam’s activities will propel you to the heart of Dutch heritage. Succumb to the romance of a boating trip on the canals at the end of the day, vibrate in the half-light of the red light district, or uncover the secrets of the cobbled streets before nightfall.

But don’t forget that Amsterdam is not all fun and excess! On the contrary, the Netherlands is keen to rid the city of its libertine reputation. It’s time to see Amsterdam in a new light. Immerse yourself in the city’s artistic, gastronomic and cultural heritage with the best activities.

Discover the top things to do and see, and do it all on foot or by bike, just like the locals!

What to do in Amsterdam? 6 ideas for activities

Your stay in Amsterdam is approaching and you don’t know what to do to entertain yourself? Don’t worry, friends, you’ve come to the right place! Our selection will enhance your stay without missing out on the must-sees. The city is an ideal destination for a few days’ getaway. An extended weekend along the canals is an activity in itself! The atmosphere is calm and intimate… Provided you avoid the hustle and bustle of the high season. In this more-than-usual case, you’ll have to be extra resourceful to take part in Amsterdam’s best activities. The best thing to do is to plan ahead, thanks to our selection of the best things to do.

1. Take a wine and cheese cruise on the canals

photo credit shutterstock

Category: €€ / Gastronomic

Description: It’s unthinkable to stay in Amsterdam without exploring its famous canals. Thanks to this cruise tour, you can do so in the most gourmet way possible. First, climb aboard this charming covered boat to begin this 1-hour excursion through the city. For those who wish, a wine and cheese tasting session will stimulate the rocking of the waves. On this nautical tour, you’ll sail past some of the city’s most famous landmarks. These include the Maritime Museum, the Gouden Bocht and the Anne Frank House.

2. Turn your head upside down at The Upside Down museum

photo credit Go-Kids.nl

Category: €€ / Unusual

Description: Amsterdam is a city where culture is everywhere! The locals are particularly keen on museums, exhibitions and other unusual events. You too can discover the stunning atmosphere of Amsterdam’s museums by visiting the Upside Down Museum. This unusual experience will take you on a journey through the Netherlands via 25 immersive and interactive decors. The designs are stunning and the backdrops are designed to create stunning optical illusions. Don’t miss out on a visit during your stay!

Good to know: Are you an Instagrammer at heart, or do you simply enjoy taking out-of-the-ordinary photos? If so, this unusual visit is for you!

3. Visit an iconic café in the red light district

photo credit shutterstock

Category: €€ / Unusual / Cultural

Description: You hear a lot about Amsterdam’s famous red light district. With this activity, you’ll rediscover its permissive streets through the eyes of the locals. During this rich and confidential experience, you will learn how Amsterdam developed its libertine reputation. This tour will take you to several cafés in the red light district, including Amsterdam’s first café. Wind your way through the narrow streets and canals, then be amazed by the red neon shop windows… Your guide will give you a behind-the-scenes look at the history and culture of an entire region.

4. Through the gates of the former Heineken brewery

photo credit shutterstock

Category: €€ / Cultural

Description: Meet new people on this cultural and gastronomic tour of Amsterdam’s former Heineken brewery. It will take you almost 1.5 hours to learn about the history of the company, the brewing process and the many innovations involved in creating this pillar of world beer. Naturally, at the end of this immersive discovery, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a cold beer with your friends and family.

5. Experience mini-golf in the dark

photo credit Get Your Guide

Category: €€ / Unusual / Sporty

Description: Here’s a golf session you won’t soon forget! In Amsterdam, discover the joys of mini-golf in a fabulous, fluorescent world. The pirate setting will add a whole new dimension to your game. After this experience, you’ll have had enough of classic mini-golf. You’ll create new memories with your loved ones in a fun and unique atmosphere.

6. Feast on local street food at the market

photo credit shutterstock

Category: €€ / Gastronomic

Description: Amsterdam promises some amazing culinary discoveries. The best of Dutch cuisine can be found here, as well as many culinary influences from elsewhere. Accompanied by a gastronomic guide, take a gourmet stroll through the aisles of Amsterdam’s most famous market. Discover the flavours of the local cuisine, the specialities on the go and the captivating stories that surround them.