Picking the best spots in Amsterdam feels like trying to decide which Dutch cheese is the greatest – it’s a delightful challenge where every option brings something special to the table. From the winding canals lined with centuries-old houses to the cozy brown cafes where locals gather, Amsterdam packs so many wonderful places into its compact streets. You could spend days just exploring the Museum Quarter, or lose yourself in the charming neighborhoods that branch out from the city center like spokes on a bicycle wheel.
We’ve combed through Amsterdam’s most beloved corners to create this list, looking at places that matter not just for their looks, but for their stories, their character, and the way they make you feel when you’re there. We wanted to include both the famous landmarks that make Amsterdam instantly recognizable and the hidden gems that locals treasure.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or your fifth, this collection of Amsterdam’s 25 best places aims to give you a mix of must-see spots and lesser-known treasures that showcase what makes this city so special. From peaceful canal-side gardens to bustling market squares, each place offers its own slice of Amsterdam’s unique charm.
Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum sits at the heart of Amsterdam’s Museum Quarter, where I first encountered it during my initial visit to the city in 2018. As the Netherlands’ largest art museum, it houses over 8,000 pieces spanning Dutch history and culture across its sprawling galleries. The 19th-century building itself tells a story, with its gothic-meets-renaissance architecture creating an impressive backdrop for masterpieces like Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch” and Vermeer’s “The Milkmaid.” Beyond the main collections, you’ll find a peaceful sculpture garden and a research library that contains more than one million items. The museum’s newly renovated atrium floods with natural light, making it a perfect spot to pause between exploring the centuries of Dutch art and innovation on display.
Dam Square
Many visitors flock to Dam Square, the beating heart of Amsterdam’s historic center, but this iconic plaza serves as much more than just a meeting point. Located where the Amstel River was dammed in the 13th century, it’s now home to both the Royal Palace and the National Monument, making it a natural starting point for exploring the city. During summer months, the square comes alive with street performers, food vendors, and outdoor cafes, while winter brings holiday markets and seasonal festivities. Whether you’re interested in touring the palace, people-watching from a cafe terrace, or using it as a base for shopping adventures on nearby Kalverstraat, Dam Square offers something for every type of visitor throughout the year.
Anne Frank House
Step inside one of Amsterdam’s most important historical sites at the Anne Frank House, where a young girl’s diary became a powerful symbol of hope during World War II. The museum lets you walk through the actual Secret Annex where Anne and her family hid for two years, with the original bookcase that concealed their hiding place still standing. As you move through the preserved rooms, you’ll find Anne’s actual diary on display, along with other personal items and photographs that tell the story of the eight people who sought refuge here. The museum also features a modern exhibition space where you can learn more about persecution and discrimination in the present day.
Interesting Fact:
Did you know that Anne Frank’s original diary is still on display at the museum, allowing visitors to see the very pages where she wrote her moving observations while in hiding during WWII?
The museum receives over 1.2 million visitors annually, making it one of Amsterdam’s most visited sites, though due to preservation of the original house layout, only 80 people are allowed inside at a time.
Royal Palace Amsterdam
Originally built as Amsterdam’s City Hall in the 17th century, the Royal Palace sits proudly on Dam Square as one of the Netherlands’ three royal residences. King Willem-Alexander uses this grand building for state visits and official functions, though it remains open to visitors most of the year. Inside, the palace tells the story of Dutch maritime power through its marble floors and larger-than-life Atlas statue shouldering what appears to be the world. The Citizens’ Hall, with its soaring ceilings and detailed maps inlaid in the floor, reminds visitors of Amsterdam’s golden age when merchant ships sailed across oceans to trade. When you wander through the palace rooms, you’ll spot paintings by Ferdinand Bol and other Dutch masters hanging on walls that have witnessed centuries of history unfold.
Vondelpark
Amsterdam’s version of Central Park, Vondelpark has been the city’s favorite outdoor hangout since 1865. This sprawling 120-acre green space draws both locals and tourists who come to picnic on its lawns, jog along its winding paths, or simply watch the world go by from one of its many benches. The park comes alive during summer afternoons when musicians set up impromptu concerts near the central pavilion, and families spread out blankets for lazy Sunday lunches. It’s not just a park – it’s where Amsterdam goes to escape the city without leaving it, complete with ponds, an open-air theater, and several cafes where you can grab a coffee and watch the endless stream of cyclists roll by.
Van Gogh Museum
Step into the world of one of history’s most famous artists at the Van Gogh Museum, home to the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s works. You can explore over 200 paintings and 500 drawings spread across four floors, including iconic pieces like “The Potato Eaters” and “Sunflowers.” The museum offers audio guides in multiple languages, helping you understand the stories behind each masterpiece. For art lovers looking to dive deeper, join one of the daily guided tours or stop by the interactive education area where you can learn about Van Gogh’s painting techniques and creative process.
Jordaan District
When people ask me about Amsterdam’s coolest neighborhood, I always point them to the Jordaan. This former working-class district has evolved into one of the city’s most charming areas, with narrow streets winding past historic houses, hidden courtyards, and small canals. What I love most about the Jordaan is how it feels like a village within the city – you’ll find locals chatting outside traditional brown cafés, artists selling their work in small galleries, and weekly markets where vendors have been selling their goods for generations. It’s not as touristy as the city center, which means you can experience authentic Amsterdam life while exploring the vintage shops, cozy restaurants, and peaceful hofjes (courtyard gardens) tucked away behind unassuming doors.
Canal Ring
A UNESCO World Heritage site since 2010, Amsterdam’s Canal Ring forms the heart of the city’s historic center. Built during the Dutch Golden Age of the 17th century, these waterways tell stories of merchant ships and trading wealth that made Amsterdam what it is today. As you walk along the canals, you’ll notice the distinctive narrow houses leaning slightly forward – a clever design that made it easier to hoist furniture up using the beam at the top. Unlike Venice’s canals, which were mainly for transport, Amsterdam’s waterways were part of an intentional city plan, creating the half-moon shape that gives the area its name. The bridges and boats you see aren’t just for tourists – locals still use these waters daily, whether they’re commuting to work on their boats or living in one of the many houseboats that line the canals.
NEMO Science Museum
Built to spark curiosity in minds young and old, the NEMO Science Museum has been drawing visitors to its ship-shaped building since 1997. Perched along Amsterdam’s eastern docklands, this copper-green structure looks like a massive vessel ready to set sail across the harbor. Inside, five floors of interactive exhibits let you conduct experiments, learn about chain reactions, and explore everything from DNA to sustainable energy. The rooftop terrace is a local favorite – not just for its fun water features and summer activities, but also for its sweeping views of Amsterdam’s historic center. Kids love playing with the bubble-making stations and testing gravity with ball runs, while adults find themselves just as entertained by the hands-on demonstrations and physics puzzles. The museum’s design, crafted by renowned architect Renzo Piano, has become an iconic part of Amsterdam’s skyline, representing the city’s long connection to maritime history and innovation.
Museumplein
Ever wandered into a place where art and culture flow through the streets? That’s exactly what you’ll find at Museumplein, Amsterdam’s cultural heart and museum quarter. This sprawling public square is where you’ll spot locals lounging on the grass with picnic baskets, while the city’s most famous museums – the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum – stand guard around them. In winter, the square transforms into an ice rink where both tourists and Amsterdam natives glide across the frozen pond, hot chocolate in hand. It’s also the spot where you’ll find the iconic “I Amsterdam” letters, though they’ve been moved to pop up at different locations around the city. Whether you’re an art lover, people watcher, or just looking for a place to relax, Museumplein delivers a perfect slice of Amsterdam life.
Albert Cuyp Market
Located in the bustling De Pijp neighborhood, Albert Cuyp Market has been the go-to shopping spot for locals since 1905. Just like many European markets, you’ll find fresh produce, flowers, and clothing here. But what sets this market apart is its distinctly Dutch character – the smell of warm stroopwafels mingles with calls from herring vendors, while cheese merchants offer endless samples of aged Gouda. Because of its working-class roots, the market maintains an authentically local vibe, and you’ll find better prices here than in the tourist-heavy city center. As you browse the nearly 300 stalls stretching along Albert Cuypstraat, you’ll quickly understand why both grandmas doing their weekly shopping and curious travelers consider this market an essential part of Amsterdam life.
Amsterdam Dungeon
Many tourists visit the Amsterdam Dungeon for its theatrical take on the city’s dark history, but this attraction goes beyond just telling spooky tales. Located in the heart of Amsterdam, this interactive experience combines live actors, special effects, and detailed sets to bring 500 years of the city’s most sinister stories to life. The 80-minute journey takes you through various scenes – from plague-ridden streets to witch trials – while professional performers keep you entertained (and sometimes startled) throughout. While the Amsterdam Dungeon is particularly popular during the Halloween season, its year-round shows offer a unique way to learn about the city’s history, making it an engaging alternative to traditional museums.
Heineken Experience
Many beer enthusiasts make their way to the Heineken Experience for a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most famous breweries, but this attraction offers much more than just a typical brewery tour. Located in the original Heineken brewery building from 1867, visitors can explore four floors of interactive exhibits that show how this Dutch pilsner became a global phenomenon. Along the way, you’ll learn about the brewing process, try your hand at pouring the perfect draft, and even participate in a virtual reality ride that puts you inside a brewing tank. While the tour ends with two complimentary beers in the tasting room, the building itself serves as a remarkable example of Amsterdam’s industrial heritage and tells the story of a family business that grew into an international brand.
Artis Zoo
Many visitors come to Artis Zoo Amsterdam for its historic 19th-century buildings and gardens, but this destination is much more than just a traditional zoo. Located in the heart of Amsterdam’s city center, it’s home to over 750 species of animals and includes a planetarium, an aquarium, and one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Netherlands. While most people spend time watching the elephants and penguins go about their daily routines, you can also explore the interactive microbe museum or attend one of the daily keeper talks. The zoo stays open year-round, offering different seasonal programs and activities, making it an ideal spot for both families and nature enthusiasts looking to escape the busy city streets.
De Pijp Neighborhood
Ever stumbled upon a neighborhood that feels like a mini-world of its own? That’s De Pijp for you, a former working-class district turned into Amsterdam’s coolest hangout spot. Just south of the city center, this neighborhood is the birthplace of the famous Albert Cuyp Market, where locals have been buying everything from fresh stroopwafels to vintage clothes since 1905. The narrow streets are packed with indie coffee shops, international restaurants, and brown cafés where you can grab a beer like a true Amsterdammer. It’s also home to the Heineken Experience, housed in the original brewery building, where you can learn about the famous Dutch beer’s history while sipping a fresh pint.
Amsterdam Museum
Ever wondered what Amsterdam looked like back in the 13th century? At the Amsterdam Museum, you’ll find yourself walking through time as you explore the city’s rich past, from its humble beginnings as a fishing village to the global hub it is today. Located in the former City Orphanage building, this cultural gem tells stories through artwork, photographs, and everyday objects that shaped local life. Inside, you’ll discover everything from medieval artifacts to contemporary exhibits about immigration and urban development. It’s the perfect spot to understand how Amsterdam evolved while getting up close with treasures like the original city seal and paintings from the Dutch Golden Age.
Rembrandt House Museum
Step into the former home of Dutch master Rembrandt van Rijn at the Rembrandt House Museum, where the artist lived and worked during the peak of his career. This restored 17th-century building gives you a glimpse into the daily life of the famous painter, complete with his original studio, living quarters, and collection of art objects. Take part in one of the regular painting demonstrations to learn about Rembrandt’s techniques, or explore his extensive collection of prints and drawings. For art history buffs, the museum offers guided tours that reveal fascinating details about the artist’s life, from his rise to fame to his eventual bankruptcy.
Xtracold Ice Bar
Of all the unique bars I’ve encountered in Amsterdam, none are quite as memorable as the Xtracold Ice Bar. This quirky spot keeps things at a cool -10°C (14°F) and serves drinks in glasses made entirely of ice. When you step inside, they give you thermal gear and gloves to keep warm while you sip vodka cocktails surrounded by ice sculptures and frozen fixtures. It’s not your typical drinking experience – the whole place is carved from 35 tons of natural ice – but that’s exactly what makes it special. Those who brave the cold are treated to an unforgettable night out that feels more like an Arctic expedition than a regular bar visit.
Red Light District
Ever wondered what it’s like to walk through one of Europe’s most talked-about neighborhoods? Amsterdam’s Red Light District is a place where the city’s famously open-minded attitude comes to life after dark. Located in the oldest part of Amsterdam, known as De Wallen, this network of narrow medieval streets draws curious visitors from around the world. Beyond its notorious red-lit windows, you’ll find some of the city’s most interesting historical sites, including the Old Church (Oude Kerk) dating back to 1213, local breweries, and quirky museums. While it’s now a major tourist spot, this area still maintains its authentic Dutch character with traditional brown cafés, street performers, and locals going about their daily lives among the crowds of wide-eyed visitors.
Leidseplein
One of my favorite spots in Amsterdam is Leidseplein, a lively square that’s been the heart of the city’s entertainment scene since the 1800s. Tucked between the central canals and Vondelpark, this buzzing plaza comes alive each evening with street performers, musicians, and locals heading to their favorite bars and restaurants. The historic Stadsschouwburg theatre stands proudly on one end, its classical facade watching over the countless cafe terraces that spill onto the square. During summer evenings, you’ll find both tourists and amsterdammers sitting at outdoor tables, sipping Belgian beers and watching the endless parade of cyclists and performers pass by. The surrounding streets branch out like spokes on a wheel, each one packed with comedy clubs, music venues, and cozy brown cafes where you can experience authentic Dutch nightlife.
Nine Streets
You’ll find the Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) in the heart of Amsterdam’s canal ring, where nine narrow lanes connect three of the city’s main canals. This charming neighborhood is home to independent boutiques, vintage shops, cozy cafes, and specialty stores housed in beautiful 17th-century buildings. Locals and tourists alike come here to browse unique fashion finds, sample Dutch cheese, or simply enjoy a coffee while watching boats glide by on the canals.
De Hortus Botanical Gardens
Ever wondered what it’s like to step into a living museum of plants from around the world? That’s exactly what you’ll find at De Hortus, Amsterdam’s botanical garden that’s been growing rare and exotic species since 1638. One of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, this peaceful green sanctuary sits right in the heart of the city’s bustling Jewish Quarter. You can wander through tropical greenhouses filled with palm trees and butterflies, explore the three-climate greenhouse system, or relax in the tranquil Mediterranean garden. The garden’s crown jewel is its collection of cycads – ancient plants that shared the earth with dinosaurs – making it a must-visit spot for both plant enthusiasts and anyone seeking a quiet escape from the city streets.
Westerkerk
Built in the early 1600s, the Westerkerk stands as Amsterdam’s largest Protestant church and one of its most recognizable landmarks. You’ll spot its tall blue and gold crown atop the tower from various points around the city center, rising above the charming canal houses of the Jordaan neighborhood. The church holds special meaning for locals and visitors alike – it’s where Rembrandt was buried (though the exact spot remains unknown) and where Anne Frank would hear the bells chime from her hiding place nearby. Climbing the tower rewards you with sweeping views across Amsterdam’s historic rooftops and winding canals, though be prepared for the narrow, steep stairs to reach the top. The church’s simple yet elegant interior offers a peaceful escape from the busy streets below, with towering columns and massive windows that fill the space with natural light.