Trying to decide which activities to do in Amsterdam?

I’ve visited these attractions myself and put together my nine favorite things to do in Amsterdam. I’ve included how long I recommend spending at each one, approximate costs, and my personal tips to help you plan your trip.

While Amsterdam is full of amazing experiences, make sure you add the following activities to your itinerary. These are what make Amsterdam so unique!

All prices reflect the cost during April, 2025.

1. Anne Frank House Museum

• What is it? The original house where Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis during World War II. It is now a museum that educates visitors about Anne’s life and the horrors of the holocaust. This was my favorite experience in the city.
• Where is it? Westermarkt 20, 1016 GV Amsterdam, Netherlands
• How long to spend there? 1.5-2 hours
• Cost: 16 euros
• My tip: Book your tickets 6 weeks in advance

2. Van Gogh Museum

• What is it? A museum showcasing the artwork of Vincent Van Gogh. It’s the largest collection in the world put together by his sister-in-law. Beautiful and extremely educational regarding Van Gogh’s life and inspirations.
• Where is it? Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, Netherlands
• How long to spend there? 2 hours
• Cost: 32.50 euros
• My tip: Splurge for the 3 euro audio guide at the door!

3. Canal Cruise

• What is it? A tour on the canals of the city offering city insight from an expert tour guide. Learn about local customs, history and stories. The guides are fun and informative, so the cruise becomes so much more than just seeing Amsterdam from the water – it becomes an important way to understand the city.
• Where is it? Most depart from Prinsengracht near the Anne Frank House
• How long to spend there? 1 hour
• Cost: Varies (The tour I took with wine and cheese was $40 per person at peak season)

4. Explore the Jordaan neighborhood

• What is it? A beautiful district of Amsterdam with bridges, canals, old houses, adorable shops and cats. It’s where to go when you want some relaxed exploring and people watching.
• Where is it? District in the center city
• How long to spend there? 15 mins – 1 hour
• Cost: Free
• My tip: Take photos on the bridges over the canals

5. Try stroopwafels from Hans Egstorf

• What is it? The oldest bakery in Amsterdam with the most amazing fresh stroopwafels.
• Where is it? Spuistraat 274, 1012 VX Amsterdam, Netherlands
• How long to spend there? 5 mins
• Cost: 7.5 euros

Check out more details about my stroopwafel tasting experience in my article here.

6. Heineken Experience

• What is it? An interactive experience and tour in the original Heineken brewery. Learn about the history of this famous beer, how it’s made, and end your visit with the freshest taste of Heineken you’ve ever had.
• Where is it? Stadhouderskade 78, 1072 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands
• How long to spend there: 2 hours
• Cost: 24.95 euros

7. Rijksmuseum

• What is it? The national museum of the Netherlands full of art and historical artifacts.
• Where is it? Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Netherlands
• How long to spend there? 2 hours
• Cost: 25 euros
• My tip: See Rembrandt’s famous “The Night Watch” being restored

Best Things to Do Near Amsterdam During Tulip Season

Tulip season in Amsterdam is from mid-March through early May, however it changes each year based on the way the flowers bloom that given year.

8. Keukenhof Gardens

• What is it? A beautifully organized tulip garden with millions of tulips on display
• Where is it? Stationsweg 166A, 2161 AM Lisse, Netherlands
• How long to spend there? 2-3 hours
• Cost: $56 including bus fare and entrance to the gardens
• My tip: Book your ticket in advance and try to visit during peak season (mid-April)

Important: Keukenhof is a seasonal attraction and is only open for a limited period each spring. Check the official opening dates before planning your trip.

9. Bike ride through Dutch tulip fields

• What is it? Rent bikes outside of Keukenhof Gardens. Ride around the Dutch countryside to see flowers fields in full bloom. It’s an unreal experience!
• Where is it? Stationsweg 166A, 2161 AM Lisse, Netherlands
• How long to spend there? 1.5-3 hours
• Cost: 11 euros
• My tip: This is the best way to see the authentic tulip fields in the Dutch countryside

Note: Only available with a view of the tulips during peak tulip season!

Those are my Amsterdam must-dos.

If I had to narrow this list down to my three favorite experiences, I’d choose the Anne Frank House, a canal cruise and exploring the Jordaan. But if you’re visiting during tulip season, I’d absolutely make time for Keukenhof and the surrounding tulip fields, too.

Amsterdam is an easy city to explore at your own pace, so don’t feel like you need to pack every attraction into one trip. Pick a few activities you’re genuinely excited about, leave some time to wander, and of course, leave room for food!

Not sure what type of food to try? Find a list of inspiration in my article 6 Food to Try in Amsterdam.

How Many Days Do You Need in Amsterdam?

Clearly, there is a lot of great ways to spend your time in the city. Three days is a great amount of time to spend, especially for your first time. It gives you a relaxed introduction to Amsterdam.

But if you only have two days, I have a detailed itinerary that will help you make the best of the city. Read my 48 Hour Itinerary article.