Amsterdam’s best experiences mix world-famous museums with simple pleasures: cycling along canals, coffee in a brown café, browsing markets. This list of the 20 best things to do in Amsterdam gives 2026 prices from Amsterdam Explorer (verified October 2026) and practical tips.
Museums
- Anne Frank House — the Secret Annex where Anne wrote her diary; €16.50, released six weeks ahead. How to book.
- Van Gogh Museum — Sunflowers, The Bedroom and 200 paintings; €27, online only. Book 3–6 weeks ahead from March to October.
- Rijksmuseum — Rembrandt’s Night Watch and Vermeer’s Milkmaid; €27, timed tickets.
- Stedelijk Museum — modern art; a major Yayoi Kusama retrospective runs until 17 January 2027 (€32.50).
- Rembrandt House Museum — the painter’s home and studio.
- Heineken Experience — the old brewery, with tastings; €24.95.
Canals and neighbourhoods
- A canal cruise — one hour on the water is the best introduction; evening cruises are magical. Compare Amsterdam canal cruises.
- The Jordaan — narrow lanes, hidden courtyards (hofjes) and the Saturday Noordermarkt.
- The Nine Streets — boutiques and cafés crossing the main canals.
- De Pijp and the Albert Cuyp Market — stroopwafels, cheese and street food.
- Begijnhof — a peaceful medieval courtyard just off the busy Spui.
- Dam Square and the Royal Palace — the historic heart of the city.
Parks, views and the river
- Vondelpark — Amsterdam’s favourite park for cycling, picnics and people-watching.
- Free ferry to Amsterdam Noord — the NDSM wharf’s street art and the EYE Film Museum.
- A’DAM Lookout — a rooftop view over the city, with a swing over the edge.
- Cycle like a local — rent a bike for a day and ride to Amstelpark or along the Amstel river.
Day trips and seasonal
- Keukenhof — 7 million spring flowers, 18 March–9 May 2027. Tickets.
- Zaanse Schans — working windmills and wooden houses, 20 minutes away.
- Haarlem — a charming historic town, 15 minutes by train.
- Volendam and Marken — traditional fishing villages by the IJsselmeer.
How much things cost (2026)
| Sight | Price | Book ahead? |
|---|---|---|
| Anne Frank House | €16.50 | Yes — 6 weeks ahead |
| Van Gogh Museum | €27 | Yes, online only |
| Rijksmuseum | €27 | Yes, timed |
| Heineken Experience | €24.95 | Recommended |
| Keukenhof (spring) | About €21 online | Yes |
| GVB day ticket | €9 | No |
Under-18s enter the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum free (with a booked ticket).
Tips
- Book the three big museums before you travel; they sell out in spring and summer.
- Stay off the red bike lanes when walking.
- Respect the Red Light District rules: no photos of the windows.
- Most places prefer cards — some don’t accept cash at all.
- Budget for the 12.5% tourist tax at your hotel.
More Amsterdam guides
- Amsterdam itinerary
- Where to stay in Amsterdam
- Anne Frank House tickets
- Keukenhof tickets and tulip season
- Schiphol to Amsterdam
- Best time to visit Amsterdam
- Amsterdam tourist tax
- Amsterdam travel guide
FAQ: Things to do in Amsterdam
What should you not miss in Amsterdam?
The Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, a canal cruise and a walk through the Jordaan.
How many days do you need in Amsterdam?
Three days covers the highlights; add a day for Keukenhof, Zaanse Schans or Haarlem. See our Amsterdam itinerary.
What is free to do in Amsterdam?
Walking the canals, Vondelpark, the Begijnhof, markets and the free ferries to Amsterdam Noord.
Can you buy Van Gogh Museum tickets at the door?
No. Tickets are sold online only, with a time slot.
Is the I amsterdam City Card worth it?
It can be if you visit many museums and use public transport, but it doesn’t include the Anne Frank House or the Van Gogh Museum.
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