The top 10 things to do in Amsterdam that go beyond the postcards
When I first set foot in Amsterdam, I was expecting the classic postcard canals and the renowned museums. But what I found was so much more; it felt like embarking on a treasure hunt.
Every turn unveiled something delightful and unexpected. I stumbled upon quirky little museums and creative spaces that appeared in the most unexpected places.
Amsterdam is so much more than just a collection of sights. It’s a vibrant experience filled with discovery, culture, and creativity.
With that, here’s our guide to the top things to do in Amsterdam that go beyond the typical tourist itinerary.
1. Visit the Anne Frank House
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Website: https://www.annefrank.org/nl/
Address: Westermarkt 20, 1016 GV
Contact Details: +31 20 556 7105
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Pricing: €
The Anne Frank House is situated in the original canal house on Prinsengracht, where Anne Frank and her family spent over two years in hiding during World War II.
As visitors enter, they first walk through the former Opekta office before proceeding down into the Secret Annexe. It’s where eight people lived quietly behind a hidden bookcase.
One of the most striking features is the display of Anne’s original diary, showcased in a softly lit glass case. I had the chance to visit last year, and I was deeply touched by the thoughtful exhibit design. It included Otto Frank’s pencil marks showing his daughter’s height.
Pro Tip:
To secure your tickets, book online at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, six weeks before the event. Don’t miss out on the introductory programme to enrich your visit.
2. Explore royal grandeur at the Royal Palace Amsterdam
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Website: https://www.paleisamsterdam.nl/
Address: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 147, 1012 RJ
Contact Details: +31 20 522 6161
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Pricing: €
The Royal Palace in Amsterdam is situated directly on Dam Square. It’s where the elegance of 17th-century Dutch Baroque beautifully intertwines with official royal events.
Tickets are quite reasonable, priced at €13.50 for adults and €9 for students (and hey, if you’re under 18, you get in for free!) Your ticket also includes a handy multilingual audio to help you explore the stunning Citizens’ Hall, the majestic Throne Room, and the impressive Mozes Hall.
From June to October, the palace will host Artus Quellinus – Sculptor of Amsterdam, an extraordinary retrospective featuring over 100 statues and reliefs by the 17th-century artist whose work has significantly influenced the palace’s interiors and exteriors.
Pro Tip:
Try to plan your visit during the Royal Award for Modern Painting exhibition, from February to March, to catch a glimpse of emerging Dutch artists showcasing their work in these regal halls.
3. Wander through the Van Gogh Museum
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Website: https://www.vangoghmuseum.nl/
Address: Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ
Contact Details: +31 20 570 5200
Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM | Friday: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM | Saturday to Sunday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Pricing: €
The Van Gogh Museum is home to the largest collection of his masterpieces. That’s over 200 paintings, 400 drawings, and 700 letters that trace his incredible journey as an artist.
I had the pleasure of visiting the place and loved wandering through the permanent gallery. Seeing iconic pieces like Sunflowers, Almond Blossoms, and The Potato Eaters up close was a real treat.
Beyond the art, the museum also offers audio guides in 11 languages, peaceful garden areas, and a lovely cafe in the Rietveld building. These are the perfect spots to enjoy serene views and delicious pastries, ideal for recharging between gallery visits.
Pro Tip:
Book tickets here in advance! The museum sells out almost every day, with limited admissions (around 5,000 visitors per day) to improve the visitor experience.
4. Take a scenic ride on Amsterdam Canal Cruises
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Website: http://www.amsterdamcanalcruises.nl/
Address: Stadhouderskade 550, 1072 AE
Contact Details: +31 20 679 1370
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Pricing: €€
Jump aboard a classic Amsterdam Canal Cruise and see the city from its most stunning angle—its historic 17th-century waterways.
Tickets start at just €16 for adults, providing a smooth journey past beautiful gabled houses, bridges, and famous spots like the Anne Frank House and the Westerkerk.
You can pick from day or evening cruises, luxurious salon boats, or even indulge in cheese and wine tastings while you float along.
I went on their 100 Highlights Cruise, and I enjoyed the relaxing vibe combined with the informative audio guide, which is available in 19 languages. It’s also a fantastic way to witness the city’s enchanting glow at night, ideal for couples or solo adventures.
Pro Tip:
Try to board early in the day to beat the crowds and get the best window seats. Don’t forget to check their website for any special events or themed cruises offered by Amsterdam Canal Cruises.
5. Discover great music at Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw
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Website: http://www.concertgebouw.nl/
Address: Concertgebouwplein 10, 1071 BB
Contact Details: +31 20 671 8345
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday: 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM | Saturday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Pricing: €€
The Concertgebouw has an impressive lineup of over 700 concerts each year, filling the air with symphonic masterpieces to jazz and pop. Ticket prices range from €25 to €125, depending on your seat and programme.
The concert also hosts open events that give you free daytime access (just remember to reserve online) to explore its breathtaking halls, enjoy an audio tour, and even check out a mini instrument room for kids.
Also, don’t miss the free Wednesday lunchtime concerts in the Recital Hall that often showcase chamber music or emerging talent. I went here and truly loved a pop-crossover performance in the Mirror Hall.
For a unique experience, consider taking a behind-the-scenes tour for about 75 minutes where a local guide will take you through hidden rooms, backstage corridors, and even the attic, all in small groups.
Pro Tip:
Be sure to check the schedule before your visit. If you’re in the town during one of their OPEN days, you’ll be treated to free performances, great photo opportunities, and interactive zones.
6. Explore visual stories at Foam Photography Museum
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Website: https://www.foam.org/
Address: Keizersgracht 609, 1017 DS
Contact Details: +31 20 551 6500
Operating Hours: Monday to Wednesday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM | Thursday to Friday: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM | Saturday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Pricing: €
If you’re a photography lover or just someone with a creative spark, you have to check out the Foam Photography Museum. It’s a goldmine of cool art from both new artists and legendary figures, such as Helmut Newton and Vivian Maier.
The exhibitions change regularly, so each time you go, there’s something new to discover. Admission is €13.50 for adults, and students can get in for just €10.50.
But the experience doesn’t stop at the galleries. There’s a cafe and a bookstore that’s a dream for anyone who loves photography. I always enjoy flipping through their collection of photobooks—some of them are real gems and make for great souvenirs.
Foam also hosts talks, workshops, and guided tours that dig into the stories behind the images. It’s a fantastic place to take a moment, unwind, and reflect on the art.
Pro Tip:
Don’t forget to ask about the hidden garden behind the museum. It’s a quiet escape from the city’s hustle and bustle and is often overlooked by visitors.
7. Swing into thrill at A’DAM Lookout
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Website: https://www.adamlookout.com/
Address: IJpromenade 4, 1031 KT
Contact Details: +31 20 242 0100
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Pricing: €
A’DAM Lookout is a must-visit if you wanna experience some of the best panoramic views of Amsterdam from its impressive 100-meter-high observation deck.
But it’s not just about the sights—you can also take a thrilling ride on the Over The Edge swing, which is the highest in Europe, giving you an adrenaline rush as you soar above the city skyline. The standard entry fee is €16.50, and if you wanna try the swing, it’s an additional €6.
You’ll also find an interactive exhibition about the city’s history, along with a VR rollercoaster that lets you experience the sensation of flying over Amsterdam. I loved how immersive the cityscape felt.
Pro Tip:
Try to visit just before dusk to catch that magical golden hour glow. It’s ideal for capturing dramatic photos with fewer photobombers.
8. Stroll through nature at Vondelpark
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Website: http://www.hetvondelpark.net/
Address: Vondelpark 5a, 1071 AA
Contact Details: +31 0 20 664 6111
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Pricing: Free
Vondelpark is a peaceful escape right in the city’s heart, and the best part? It’s free to enter. Across 47 hectares, there’s so much to discover. In the summer, you can catch open-air theatre performances or find a lovely spot by the ponds for a picnic.
The park beautifully combines nature and culture. You’ll see cyclists, joggers, dog walkers, and tourists all enjoying the tree-lined paths, and I can’t help but adore the rose garden in a quiet corner—such a lovely place to take a break.
Don’t miss the Blauwe Theehuis cafe, which is perfect for grabbing a coffee while taking in the view, and some playgrounds make it a great spot for families. The art enthusiasts can check out Picasso’s “The Fish” sculpture near the northern entrance.
Pro Tip:
Visit on a Sunday morning to enjoy local musicians playing acoustic sets near the open-air theatre. It’s a hidden treasure.
9. Feast your way through Foodhallen
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Website: http://www.foodhallen.nl/
Address: Hannie Dankbaarpassage 16, 1053 RT
Contact Details: [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM | Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM | Sunday: 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Pricing: €
Foodhallen is a lively indoor food market located in a former tram depot, featuring over 20 food stalls that serve a diverse range of dishes, from Vietnamese bao buns to gourmet burgers. There’s no entrance fee, so you can stroll around and try whatever tickles your taste buds.
Beyond just food, you’ll also find a gin and wine bar, a central bar serving beers, and even live music on weekends. I enjoyed the shared seating. It’s a great way to meet new people and try bites from different stalls without the hassle of making a reservation.
If you’re looking to make a day of it, there’s a cinema and some boutique shops nearby to check out.
Pro Tip:
Arrive early on weekdays since seating fills up quickly during peak hours, especially near the DJ booth on Friday nights.
10. Discover Red Light Secrets Museum
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Website: https://www.redlightsecrets.com/
Address: Oudezijds Achterburgwal 60h, 1012 DP
Contact Details: +31 20 846 7020
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM
Pricing: €
The Red Light Secrets Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Amsterdam’s notorious Red Light District, pulling back the curtain on its hidden stories. The museum shares firsthand accounts from sex workers, recreates authentic rooms, and even gives visitors the chance to sit behind a real red-lit window.
You can get in for €14.50 if you book online, and that includes a free audio guide in several languages. I was particularly taken by the interactive confession wall, where visitors can anonymously share their secrets. Reading those felt surprisingly personal.
In addition, you’ll come across historical artefacts, legal insights about the profession, and exhibits that handle safety, consent, and stigma. It’s both educational and unexpectedly moving.
Pro Tip:
Visit the website to book tickets in advance and explore special exhibits before you go to avoid long queues.