Amsterdam buzzes with excitement as it celebrates its 750th anniversary. The city hosts vibrant festivals and engaging exhibitions. I visited this canal-filled city last month, and it remarkably captures your heart. You can bike past gabled houses or enjoy jenever in cosy brown cafés. There’s something for everyone. If you love art, history, or the Dutch vibe, check out these 20 top experiences for first-time visitors. It also includes tips for a smooth and memorable trip.
Why Amsterdam in 2025 Is a Must-Visit
Amsterdam is going all out this year as it celebrates its 750th birthday. The city is having exclusive events like 24 Hours, where each district conducts various workshops and tours (the next ones are on September 6 and October 11), and SAIL Amsterdam (August 20–25), a grand nautical festival with tall ships harboring along the IJ. The A10 ring road will be transformed into a 15-km parade on June 21, with music, dance, and even city-funded weddings if you are a romantic! Such events are not only the attractions of Amsterdam’s culture in 2025, but the city’s perennial canals, museums, and fantastic neighborhoods are in the spotlight all year round.
Things to Do in Amsterdam: A Quick Overview
There is nothing that any individual would not do in Amsterdam if he/she wanted to have a good time. People could be doing things like viewing a Van Gogh “brushstroke” in a museum, having “stroopwafels” at a market, or chilling out on the canals of the UNESCO-protected city. You can also go cycling in the Vondelpark, visit beautiful parts like De Pijp, and hear the life stories of people from the Anne Frank House, and that is not even all! Although Amsterdam is small, it is a place where it is possible to do more than one thing in a day, and at the same time, be kind of liberal and open to new things and ideas. Whether you like art, food, or exciting things, Amsterdam will give you the best experience as it is a place where you can fit in with various cultures.
Your Amsterdam Adventure: Top 20 Experiences
Here’s the lowdown on the 20 best things to do, with insider tips to keep your trip hassle-free. I’ve included a mix of classics and offbeat gems, plus a handy table to help you plan.
| Activity | Location | Why Do It? | Pro Tip |
| Canal Cruise | Various docks | See the city from its iconic waterways | Book a small-boat tour for a personal vibe |
| Van Gogh Museum | Museumplein | World’s largest Van Gogh collection | Pre-book tickets to skip lines |
| Anne Frank House | Westermarkt | Powerful WWII history | Reserve online weeks ahead |
| Rijksmuseum | Museumplein | Dutch art masterpieces | Download the free app for audio guides |
| Vondelpark | Oud-Zuid | Relax or cycle in a green oasis | Rent bikes nearby for €10/day |
1. Glide on a Canal Cruise
A trip to Amsterdam isn’t complete without its 165 canals. I took an electric boat tour near the Anne Frank House. The captain’s stories of the Golden Age made the city feel alive. Evening cruises show bridges sparkling with lights.
2. Discover the Van Gogh Museum
It showcases more than 200 of Vincent’s paintings, like Sunflowers. I spent two hours mesmerised by his vibrant colours. Book tickets online for a specific time to beat the crowds.
3. Visit the Anne Frank House
Walking through the Secret Annex where Anne hid is humbling. Tickets are released six weeks in advance at 10 a.m. local time. Set an alarm to snag them.
4. Explore the Rijksmuseum
Rembrandt’s The Night Watch is the star, but I loved the quirky 17th-century dollhouses. The free museum app is a game-changer for navigating the massive collection.
5. Cycle Through Vondelpark
Amsterdam has 800,000 bikes, and Vondelpark is the perfect spot to join the locals. Rent a bike and pedal past ponds and sculptures. Stop for a picnic with herring from a nearby stall.
6. Wander the Jordaan Neighborhood
This area’s narrow streets are lined with indie boutiques and cafés. I stumbled upon Café Chris, a 1624 brown café, and sipped jenever with locals spilling out onto the sidewalk.
7. Hit the Albert Cuyp Market
In De Pijp, this market is a feast for the senses. Grab fresh stroopwafels and browse quirky souvenirs. It’s open Monday to Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
8. Step into History at Oude Kerk
Amsterdam’s oldest building (from 1306) is now a contemporary art space in the Red Light District. I found its mix of ancient gravestones and modern exhibits oddly calming.
9. Discover NDSM Wharf
Take the free ferry from Central Station to this artsy hub in Noord. I loved the graffiti-covered warehouses and waterfront bars. Check out IJ-Hallen, Europe’s largest flea market, on select weekends.
10. Savor Raw Herring
I was skeptical, but a broodje haring (herring sandwich) from a haringhandel cart was surprisingly tasty. Ask for extra pickles to balance the fishy bite.
11. Tour the Heineken Experience
This interactive brewery tour ends with a rooftop beer. I learned more about hops than I expected! Book ahead for discounts.
12. Visit the Portuguese Synagogue
This 1675 synagogue in the Jewish Quarter glows with candlelight. I paired it with the Jewish Historical Museum for a deeper dive into Amsterdam’s Jewish heritage.
13. Check Out Electric Ladyland
This fluorescent art museum is trippy and fun. It’s by appointment only, so call ahead. I became part of a glowing, surreal art piece.
14. Stroll the Bloemenmarkt
The world’s only floating flower market is touristy but charming. I bought tulip bulbs as souvenirs (check export rules for your country).
15. Experience A’DAM Lookout
For panoramic views, head to this observation deck with Europe’s highest swing. I chickened out on the swing but loved the skyline vistas.
16. Dive into NEMO Science Museum
Great for families, this hands-on museum near Central Station makes science fun. I geeked out over the interactive exhibits.
17. Relax at a Brown Café
In’t Aepjen, near the Red Light District, is a 15th-century gem with monkey decor (sailors once paid with monkeys!). I sipped local beer and felt like a time traveler.
18. Explore the Verzetsmuseum
This Dutch Resistance Museum near Artis Zoo tells WWII stories through real artifacts. It’s open daily, and the audio guide is included.
19. Catch a Candlelight Concert
These concerts in historic venues, lit by LED candles, range from Vivaldi to Taylor Swift. I teared up at a jazz set in a church, booked Zone A seats for the best view.
20. Day Trip to Keukenhof (March 20–May 11)
If you’re here in spring, bus 858 from Schiphol Airport takes you to this tulip wonderland. I spent hours among blooming fields by buying a Combi Ticket for transport and entry.
Trip Planning Made Easy
Amsterdam is small, so you can see multiple sights in a day. I recommend the I Amsterdam City Card for free entry to many attractions and public transport. Book major museums like Van Gogh and Anne Frank in advance. For cycling, download a route app like Fietsnetwerk for safe paths. Stay in neighbourhoods like Jordaan or De Pijp for a local feel and avoid peak tourist areas like Dam Square for dining, head to Oost for affordable, authentic eats.
Final Thoughts
Amsterdam 2025 is a city of contrasts, old and new. As I write this, I am thinking of the reflections on the canals, the museums, and the markets. Here are 20 experiences to make your first trip unforgettable. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or just exploring, these will help. Pack comfortable shoes, get on a bike, and let Amsterdam inspire you.
FAQs
How many days in Amsterdam?
Three days to hit the highlights and a neighborhood or two. Two days if you’re short on time.
Is Amsterdam walkable?
Yes! Most everything is within a 30-minute walk of Central Station. Bikes or trams for NDSM and further.
Best time to visit?
Spring (March–May) for tulips or summer (June–August) for festivals. In 2025, SAIL in August and October’s anniversary celebrations.
Are coffee shops safe for tourists?
Yes, if you’re interested in legal cannabis, stick to licensed coffee shops and ask staff for advice. Start small if you’re new to it.
How do I avoid tourist traps?
Skip overpriced restaurants near Leidseplein and Dam. Locals eat in De Pijp or Oost. For souvenirs, avoid generic shops at the Bloemenmarkt try indie stores in the 9 Streets.
