The best things to do in Amsterdam
Planning a day in Amsterdam and not sure where to start? The city is packed, so here's our shortlist of the best things to do, from the canals to the museums, plus a few spots you might not think of yourself. Great with friends or with the whole family.
1. A canal cruise
Sounds touristy, and it is, but it's still one of the nicest ways to see the city. You sink into your seat, drift past the narrow houses and crooked facades, and don't have to be anywhere. Rather steer yourself? Rent a little boat and bring some drinks. A classic for good reason.
2. Up to A'DAM Lookout
At the top of the A'DAM Tower by the IJ you get a view over the entire city. There's also 'Over the Edge', a swing that pushes you out over the roof, a hundred meters up. Not for everyone, but definitely a story to tell. The ferry across from Central Station is free and takes five minutes.
3. The museums, and not just the Rijks
The Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh are the big names, and rightly so. Book ahead though, because the queues are no joke. Want something quieter? Try the Moco, or the Foam for photography. Raining? Then this is a safe bet anyway.
4. Hanging out in the Vondelpark
When the sun's out, the Vondelpark is where the whole city gathers. A blanket, some bread and cheese from the market, and you're set for hours. Kids can run wild at the playground, and there's a terrace for a beer. Free, green, and right in the middle of town.
5. VR, racing and free roam at A'DAM VR
In that same A'DAM Tower sits the largest VR park in Europe: 1,500 m², room for groups of any size and open from age 8. You race in an F1 simulator with a live leaderboard, roam a wireless free roam arena with your friends, or take on one of the five escape rooms. No experience needed. Passes run from Discover (€39) to All Access (€79), with the Action pass (€49) the favorite; a single racing session is €15 and free roam €35 per person per half hour. With 4.5 stars from over 850 reviews, you know what you're walking into.
6. Wandering the markets
The Albert Cuyp is the best known: stalls full of cheese, flowers, stroopwafels straight off the iron. The surrounding Pijp neighbourhood has plenty of good places to eat afterwards. Into vintage? Head to the IJ-Hallen in Noord on a Saturday, the biggest flea market in Europe. Bring cash, it makes life easier.
7. Eating, from a herring roll to a full plate
Amsterdam eats well. Grab a herring roll standing at a stall, or sit down for Surinamese, Indonesian, or something new in Noord. At the Foodhallen a big group can each just pick something different. And count on a terrace to finish, because here that's simply part of it.
8. How to build your day
A good day doesn't need to be crammed. Start at a museum or the market, grab lunch on the way, and keep the afternoon open. If you're in Noord, pair the Lookout with a few hours at A'DAM VR; it saves travel and you're covered if the weather turns. An evening terrace or the canals to close it off, and you're done.