What to do in Amsterdam

Activities, attractions and tours

Amsterdam
Amsterdam
Amsterdam
Amsterdam
Amsterdam

Amsterdam Attractions

Many people think the only reason why anyone visits the city of Amsterdam as a tourist is because they are a student on spring break, but the city offers way more than just a good party scene for young people. With more museums per capita than the majority of major European cities, Amsterdam is very rich in culture and history and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Holland as well as in the rest of Europe.

Amsterdam's best museums are located in the Museumplein district, but there are many fine smaller museums located in various places throughout the city. One of the must see museums in Amsterdam is the Van Gogh Museum, which is conveniently located in the edge of the Museumplein district. Other things to do in Amsterdam include attending outdoor concerts during the summer months in local parks, shopping at one of the city's many open-air markets, and enjoying world-class theater and musical performances at various venues located throughout the city. Because Amsterdam is a large city, guests are advised to procure a good map before starting out on their explorations.

If you are going to be paying a visit to Amsterdam soon, you should contact us here at Expedia for the most recent information on money-saving deals and specials you can obtain to leave you with more cash in your wallet to enjoy top Amsterdam excursions. One thing that may surprise you when you first begin to explore the city is the abundance of canals the city features. Amsterdam has so many canals that it is frequently referred to as the “Venice of the North".

Attractions in Amsterdam include the city's famous Red Light district. This area is one of the most popular visitor spots in the city, but guests should keep in mind there is much more to Amsterdam than this district. Because of the sheer abundance of Amsterdam activities available to guests, it can sometime be a challenge for those unfamiliar with the city to formulate an itinerary, which is why the professional staff here at Expedia can make your vacation go much more smoothly. We can provide you with cost-saving specials on Amsterdam tours and good deals on lodging and transportation.


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What to do in Amsterdam


Discover the most popular places to visit in Amsterdam

Explore areas of Amsterdam

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Amsterdam City Centre

4.5/5(405 area reviews)

Dam Square and Nieuwmarkt Square are a few top attractions in Amsterdam City Centre. Hop around the city on the metro at Nieuwmarkt Station or Waterlooplein Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, charming cafes, and popular shops.

Amsterdam City Centre
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Jordaan

Upscale modern art galleries thrive in this historic area, while markets bustle at Noordermarkt, Westerstraat, and Lindengracht. Explore tranquil gardens and hidden courtyards (hofjes), or visit the Anne Frank House nearby.

Jordaan
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Red Light District

Explore this vibrant area with a mix of architectural styles and colorful streets known for adult entertainment. Visit local coffeeshops and the museums in the neighborhood for a unique experience.

Red Light District
Rijksmuseum featuring a pond, views and a city

Museum Quarter

4.5/5(221 area reviews)

In the heart of Amsterdam-Zuid, Museumkwartier boasts major museums like Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Museum, and Van Gogh Museum. Enjoy concerts at Concertgebouw, unwind in Vondelpark, and access tram lines 2, 3, 5, 12, 16, and 24.

Museum Quarter
Amsterdam showing a river or creek, a city and boating

Canal Ring

4.5/5(232 area reviews)

Discover Amsterdam's Grachtengordel, where 17th-century canal homes and small bridges adorn the Singel, Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht canals. Visit the Anne Frank House and other nearby museums for a rich cultural experience.

Canal Ring
Amsterdam featuring street scenes, a river or creek and a city

Binnenstad

While you're in Binnenstad, take in top sights like Dam Square or National Monument, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Dam Stop or Paleisstraat Tram Stop.

Binnenstad

 

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Day trip destinations from Amsterdam