Best places to visit in Amsterdam: top attractions you don't want to miss

In a city so full of history and culture as Amsterdam, it’s unlikely you’ll see everything on a short trip, so choosing the best places to visit is an essential part of planning a trip. From outstanding museums to incredible landmarks, the Dutch capital is a sightseeing dream.

Whether you’re exploring the cobblestone streets for the first time or returning to enjoy the sights, this guide to Amsterdam’s must-see attractions will help you discover the highlights. Cruise the iconic canals at night, one of Amsterdam's best nighttime activities, join the locals on bikes, take in the world-class art galleries, and find family-friendly activities that will delight all ages — it’s all possible with these 21 must-see places in Amsterdam.

Best places to visit for history

1. Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House, one of the best museums in Amsterdam, is dedicated to the life of young Jewish diarist Anne Frank. It is located in the former home where the Frank family hid from the Nazis in a secret annex for two years during World War II.

Highlights

Visitors can go inside the annex where 13-year-old Anne wrote her famous diary and lived with her family and other Jewish occupants. See the original diary pages, photographs, and other artifacts that tell her story.

How to experience it 

Tickets can only be purchased directly from the Anne Frank House website. They are available up to six weeks in advance and can sell out, so book yours as soon as you can before your visit. Tickets are not available at the door. If you want to gain a deeper understanding, take a walking tour of the city’s Jewish Quarter before your visit.

Price

Adult tickets are €16, or €23 including a 30-minute introductory talk.

Where is it?

Westermarkt 20, 1016 DK Amsterdam.

2. Amsterdam Museum

The Amsterdam Museum is an innovative city museum that celebrates the past and future of the Dutch capital through art, meaningful stories, and exhibitions. It focuses on urban issues, and its aim is to “connect Amsterdam’s visitors and residents with each other and the city.” While the museum’s Kalverstraat location is closed for refurbishment, the Amsterdam Museum collection is on display in the Hermitage Amsterdam on the banks of the Amstel.

Highlights

Innovative exhibitions give an important voice to residents and lovers of the city, while Panorama Amsterdam is a permanent chronological exhibition that gives an impression of how Amsterdam has formed and is still developing. The collection contains objects from Rembrandt art to rings from the world’s first gay wedding.

How to experience it 

Entry ticket includes an audio tour of the museum. Book your Amsterdam Museum ticket ahead of your visit if you have a specific time slot in mind.

Price

Adult tickets are €18, and under 18s can enter for free.

Where is it?

Amstel 51, 1018 EJ Amsterdam.

3. National Maritime Museum

The permanent collection and exhibitions at the National Maritime Museum showcase the Netherlands’ seafaring traditions and important moments in maritime history. It’s divided into five sections, from “Trade and Navigation” to “The Relationship between Mankind and the Sea.”

Highlights

See uniforms and weapons used by the Netherlands’ naval heroes, and step aboard the museum’s decommissioned ships and submarines.

How to experience it 

This is a popular attraction in Amsterdam, so get there early or be sure to book a skip-the-line ticket. Interactive displays and VR experiences inside the museum bring it to life.

Price

Adult skip-the-line tickets are €17.50 and best booked ahead.

Where is it?

Kattenburgerplein 1, 1018 KK Amsterdam.

4. Jewish Museum

The Jewish Museum is located in four synagogues in the Jewish Cultural Quarter, which plays an important role in telling the story of Amsterdam’s Jewish communities in what was once a major center for Jewish culture and learning. The museum provides insight into this fascinating past, with a rich collection of artwork, documents, and artifacts from the 16th to the 20th centuries.

Highlights

Step inside the 17th-century Portuguese Synagogue to see its amazing interior, and learn about Jewish life and traditions at the Jewish Museum.

How to experience it 

An entry ticket for the Jewish Quarter includes access to the Jewish Museum, Jewish Museum Junior, and the Portuguese Synagogue. You can visit them at your own pace, as the ticket is valid for a month.

Price

Tickets are €17, and valid for one month, so you can visit different locations on different days.

Where is it?

Nieuwe Amstelstraat 1, 1011 PL Amsterdam.

5. Royal Palace Amsterdam

This magnificent Royal Palace on Dam Square boasts more than 250 years of history and now serves as a magnificent example of Dutch Classical architecture. It is still a working royal palace, King Willem-Alexander’s official reception palace, and has an important role during state visits and official royal events.

Highlights

The stunning grand hall, which can accommodate up to 1,500 people during state events, and the art and exquisite furnishings from the time of Louis Napoleon.

How to experience it 

The palace walls can’t talk, so use the audio guide included with your ticket to learn the fascinating history of every room and hall open to the public, as well as the exterior and grounds.

Price

Entry tickets cost €12.50 and include an audio guide.

Where is it?

Dam, 1012 NP Amsterdam.

Best places to visit for art

6. Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is the national museum of the Netherlands and a must-see in Amsterdam. It’s dedicated to Dutch art and its collection contains works by the likes of Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals. As well as paintings, the four-story museum has Delftware pottery, sculpture, furniture, books, and even aircraft. The 8,000 pieces on display date from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.

Highlights

Some of the most famous works inside the Rijksmuseum are “The Night Watch” by Rembrandt, “The Milkmaid” by Vermeer, and a painting of 18th-century Dutch rulers William and Mary of Orange by Anthony van Dyck.

How to experience it 

Book your entry ticket in advance for full access to the permanent collection. Art lovers and curious visitors should opt for a guided tour of the Rijksmuseum, or get a multimedia guide for an extra €5, to hear the stories behind the most important works of art.

Price

Adult tickets are €23.50. Tours start around €55. 

Where is it?

Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam.

7. Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum on Museumplein, Amsterdam’s largest square surrounded by the city’s most prominent museums, is dedicated to the works of 19th-century Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh.

Highlights

Renowned works on display include “The Potato Eaters,” “Sunflowers,” and “Almond Blossom.”

How to experience it 

Tickets to the Van Gogh Museum include access to any temporary exhibits at no extra cost, so you’ll see everything when you visit. Book your timed-entry ticket ahead of your visit, as time slots can sell out weeks in advance, especially in busy periods like summer and Easter. A private tour is a great way to immerse yourself in the works and history of the artist, and your guide will help you understand the evolution of his work and how it was affected by his troubled personal life and experiences.

Price

Adult tickets are €22, and under 18s can enter for free. Tours cost around €115 and include the entry fee.

Where is it?

Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam.

8. Moco Museum

The Moco Museum is located on the Museumplein, in the same area as the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. It features an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art by world-renowned artists such as Banksy, Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, and Roy Lichtenstein.

Highlights

The large collection of Banksy’s iconic street art and interactive installations, providing an immersive experience for all visitors.

How to experience it 

Timed-entry tickets give visitors access to all of the museum’s collections. If you can, book an early time slot to avoid the busy period in the middle of the day. Don’t miss the Moco Garden, an outdoor space with rotating exhibitions, which is lovely when the sun shines.

Price

Adult tickets are €22.95, and children and students receive a discount.

Where is it?

Honthorststraat 20, 1071 DE Amsterdam.

9. Rembrandt House Museum

At the Rembrandt House Museum, you can visit the studio and home of the Dutch master, where he lived from 1639 to 1658. It is now the only museum in the world dedicated to Rembrandt and houses a collection of paintings, as well as stories about the artist’s life and work. In 2023, the museum added five new exhibition spaces where you can see the artist’s workspace and home. Tickets cost €13 for adults, and under 18s can enter for free. There are also interactive activities such as trying on costumes and making your own

Highlights

As well as going inside the place Rembrandt lived and worked for 20 years, you’ll see an almost complete collection of Rembrandt’s etchings and art by some of his contemporaries and those he inspired. The museum also offers interactive activities and a program of lectures and workshops.

How to experience it 

Entry tickets can sell out in busy periods, so booking in advance is best. An entry ticket to the Rembrandt House includes the museum’s informative multimedia tour.

Price

Adult tickets are €17.50. Some tours of Amsterdam include entry to the Rembrandt House.

Where is it?

Jodenbreestraat 4, 1011 NK Amsterdam.

10. Stedelijk Museum

Fans of modern and contemporary art won’t want to miss the Stedelijk Museum on their trip to Amsterdam. It has a vast collection of over 90,000 works spanning the entire 20th century (and more). Situated on Museumplein, where it first opened in 1895, it is a neighbor to the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum.

Highlights

Iconic pieces from renowned artists including Gauguin, Mondrian, Monet, van Gogh, Pollock, Zapata, Toorop, and Kandinsky, as well as works from lesser-known Dutch artists. There are a few interactive displays and modern art installations too.

How to experience it 

Booking ahead allows you to skip the line, and your all-day ticket gives you access to every exhibition and includes a helpful audio guide.

Price

Adult skip-the-line tickets are €22.50.

Where is it?

Museumplein 10, 1071 DJ Amsterdam.

Best places to visit for culture and sightseeing

11. Dam Square

The heart of Amsterdam, Dam Square is a bustling hub surrounded by beautiful architecture and historic landmarks, such as the Royal Palace and the National Monument.

Highlights

One of the most famous landmarks in Amsterdam, the highlight of Dam Square is the energy that permeates its atmosphere, with street performers, vendors, and locals all converging to create a lively and dynamic scene.

How to experience it 

The best way to experience Dam Square is to simply wander around and take it all in, watching the performers, browsing the market stalls, people-watching, and enjoying the vibrant space.

Price

Free.

Where is it?

Dam, 1012 JL Amsterdam.

12. The canals

Amsterdam’s famous canals, all 100 kilometers of them, are as much of a landmark as the Royal Palace or the Rijksmuseum. These waterways have been an integral part of Amsterdam's history and culture for hundreds of years and have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Highlights

Admire the narrow houses lining the canals, as well as stunning churches and bridges, learning all about how the “Venice of the North” came to be.

How to experience it 

The best way to experience the canals is by taking a boat tour, which allows you to sit back and relax while taking in the stunning scenery. If you're looking for a more active experience, try renting a pedal boat or kayak to explore the canals on your own.

Price

Canal cruises start around €16.

Where is it?

Canals run throughout the entire city, and cruises depart from near Central Station, Anne Frank House, Leidse Square, and other locations.

Best places to visit for families

13. Vondelpark

The largest and most-visited park in the Dutch capital, Vondelpark covers 120 acres and, as well as beautiful green spaces and lovely picnic spots, there are several other picturesque spots to visit around the park, from the ponds and rose garden to playgrounds and an open-air theater.

Highlights

Free concerts and performances at the open-air theater in summer, and the Blauwe Theehuis, a 1930s pavilion turned bar. Grab a table on the terrace for craft beer, pizza, coffee, and cake. Look out for the colorful parakeets too.

How to experience it 

Rent a bike and cycle through the winding paths and lush greenery — many consider biking the best way to get around Amsterdam. Stop for a drink at the Blauwe Theehuis or pack a blanket and a picnic to eat outside. Make sure to check the theater schedule in case you want to catch one of the free performances that happen at the park. If you are visiting Amsterdam in winter, the park is still perfect if you want to wrap up and take a stroll for a moment away from the city bustle.

Price

Entry to Vondelpark is free at all times.

Where is it?

Vondelpark stretches out into the southwest of the city from its main entrance on Stadhouderskade, not far from the Rijksmuseum.

14. The Upside Down Museum

Amsterdam’s Upside Down Museum quite literally flips the idea of a traditional museum on its head. This one-of-a-kind attraction is a sensory overload of art, illusions, and fun. As soon as you enter, you'll find yourself in a topsy-turvy world where gravity doesn't quite work the way you're used to. The museum is designed to challenge your perception and offer a truly playful experience.

Highlights

The world’s largest (or only?) voice-activated LED ball pit and jacuzzi and the famous Freakshake in the museum’s Instagrammable café.

How to experience it 

Let loose and embrace the whimsy of it all. Be sure to bring your camera, as you'll want to capture every mind-bending moment.

Price

Adult tickets cost €25.95. It’s best to book your desired time slot well ahead of visit, as some can sell out in advance.

Where is it?

Europaboulevard 5, 1079 PC Amsterdam.

15. NEMO Science Museum

With five floors of interactive exhibits, the NEMO Science Museum will have you feeling like a deep sea explorer in no time. From the mesmerizing electricity show to the mind-bending illusions, NEMO is a must-visit for kids in Amsterdam, but there's really something for everyone.

Highlights

The timeline of scientific discoveries in the “Science Throughout the Ages” exhibit is brilliant, and the hands-on science activities are fun for all ages. The panoramic view of Amsterdam from the rooftop terrace is stunning.

How to experience it 

Make your way slowly through all five floors, taking part in the many demonstrations and interactive exhibits. You don’t need to pay to visit the museum’s rooftop terrace, it’s one top free attractions in Amsterdam.

Price

Adult fast-track entry tickets are €17.50.

Where is it?

Oosterdok 2, 1011 VX Amsterdam.

16. Amsterdam Botanical Garden

The Hortus Botanicus, or Amsterdam Botanical Garden, is among the world's oldest botanical gardens. It was established in 1638, and holds over 4,000 species of plants from all continents.

Highlights

Some of the highlights include the butterfly house, the desert greenhouse, prehistoric Wollemi pine trees, and the giant Victoria water lily. The carnivorous plant collection is fascinating.

How to experience it 

Take your time wandering through the gardens and greenhouses, soaking in the sights and smells. Visit the Hortus Cafe or pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in one of the many scenic spots throughout the park.

Price

Adult tickets are €12.50, with discounts for children and students.

Where is it?

Plantage Middenlaan 2a, 1018 DD Amsterdam.

17. ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo

Nestled in the heart of the city, ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo is more than just an animal park. It's a unique destination where you can explore the wonder of nature, learn about different species of animals, and enjoy picturesque gardens in one place.

Highlights

Micropia, the world's first museum dedicated to microbes, the planetarium, and the Butterfly Pavilion.

How to experience it 

Book your timed-entry ticket in advance and use the ARTIS app to guide you around the zoo and learn more about its history and residents.

Price

Adult tickets for the zoo are priced from €25. Micropia requires a separate entry ticket (€17.50).

Where is it?

Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, 1018 CZ Amsterdam.

Best places to visit for unique experiences in the city

18. Begijnhof

Tucked away in the center of Amsterdam, Begijnhof has a serene atmosphere and charming beauty, a world away from the busy streets that surround it. It’s one of the oldest hofjes (a courtyard surrounded by almshouses) in Amsterdam, and one of the most beautiful places to visit in the city. Two churches stand among the historic buildings, the Catholic Houten Huys and the English Reformed Church.

Highlights

Two churches stand among the historic buildings, the Catholic Houten Huys and the English Reformed Church.

How to experience it 

Wander through the peaceful courtyard, taking your time to appreciate the beauty and tranquility of this historical treasure, and step inside the English Reformed Church to see the pulpit panels designed by Piet Mondrian.

Price

Entry to Begijnhof and its churches is free.

Where is it?

Begijnhof 1, 1012 WS Amsterdam.

19. Eye Film Museum

If you're a movie lover, the Eye Film Museum in Amsterdam is definitely worth a visit. Not only does it have a fascinating collection of movies and film-related items, but the building itself is an architectural masterpiece.

Highlights

The panoramic view of the city from the top floor of the Eye Film Museum is worth the admission fee alone, but seeing and learning about the history of cinema, seeing original movie reels and posters, and stepping into a realistic film set add to the fun.

How to experience it 

Check out the museum’s schedule before deciding when to visit, as there’s a daily program of talks, screenings, and events. A meal or drink in the bar with its beautiful view is a lovely way to end your visit.

Price

Standard tickets are €12.50 directly from the museum, and discounts are available.

Where is it?

IJpromenade 1, 1031 KT Amsterdam.

20. Red Light District

Amsterdam’s famous Red Light District in the city’s oldest neighborhood is known for its sex workers and coffeeshops (very different to coffee shops, which specialize in coffee, not cannabis) and its liberal attitude to both. It has some of the narrowest lanes in the city, a fascinating history, and buzzing nightlife.

Highlights

Some highlights include the Condomerie (a store dedicated entirely to condoms), the Erotic Museum, the Museum of Prostitution, and of course, the actual red-lit windows themselves. It’s important to be respectful of the sex workers at all times, and allow them to do their job.

How to experience it 

A walking tour is a great way to explore the Red Light District through the eyes of a local, or step inside the Museum of Prostitution to learn all about Amsterdam’s relationship with the world’s oldest profession. It’s also nice to simply wander around and take it all in, but it's worth doing some research beforehand to make sure you're aware of any rules or customs.

Price

The area is free to explore.

Where is it?

De Wallen, around the Oudezijds Achterburgwal canal.

21. Heineken Experience

This brewery tour offers a unique glimpse into the history of Heineken, Amsterdam's most famous beer brand. During the tour, you'll learn about the ingredients used to make the beer, the brewing process, and see the bottling and packaging stages, before tasting the end result.

Highlights

The best part of the Heineken Experience comes at the end — the tasting room. Here, you can sample Heineken's classic brews and even some experimental beers.

How to experience it 

Book your tour in advance as this is one of Amsterdam’s most popular experiences. If you want to take the experience to another level, book the VIP tour, which will allow you to see even more of the brewery and taste some exclusive beers.

Price

Entry to the Heineken Experience starts at €21 for standard tours, up to €55 for VIP tours.

Where is it?

Stadhouderskade 78, 1072 AE Amsterdam.

Things to know before visiting Amsterdam

How many days should I spend in Amsterdam?

That really depends on the amount of time you have available, as well as what you want to see. It’s possible to see the highlights of Amsterdam over a weekend, but if you want to truly delve into the culture and experience all that it has to offer, then at least five days is a good amount of time. That way, you can take enough time to visit the major attractions and explore some of the city’s less populated areas. Of course, if you have longer to spend, then you could easily fill up a whole week or more with activities and sightseeing.

What is the best time of year to visit Amsterdam?

Amsterdam can be explored all year round. If you're a budget-conscious traveler or don’t like crowds, then the winter months (November to February) might be the best time to visit as flights and hotel prices drop significantly. If the popular tulip season is when you want to go, then book a trip in April or May. Summer (June to August) is the peak season when most international visitors come to Amsterdam, making it a good choice for those who want to experience its vibrant nightlife and outdoor activities.

How do I get around Amsterdam?

The best way to explore Amsterdam is by foot. The city is relatively small and the most popular attractions are all within walking distance. The city also has an extensive network of trams and buses, so you can take public transportation easily too. There are many bike-sharing programs available too, allowing you to cycle around the city as the locals tend to do. Amsterdam is also served by a metro, making it easy to travel to and from the airport or other areas of the city. Of course, you can get around on the city’s famous canals, but they’re more suited to sightseeing than commuting.

What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Amsterdam?

The Jordaan neighborhood is one of the most popular places to stay in Amsterdam. This charming area is full of narrow cobbled streets, cafes, and independent boutiques. Another great option is De Pijp, which is close to many of the city's main attractions including the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum. The Plantage neighborhood is also popular, with its green spaces, lively markets, and canalside walks.

What are the best places to visit in Amsterdam with kids?

Amsterdam has plenty of attractions suitable for families with young children. The NEMO Science Museum is a great spot to explore interactive exhibits and the ARTIS Royal Zoo is perfect for little animal lovers, while Vondelpark has vast green spaces perfect for running around.

Is it necessary to book a guided tour for the Anne Frank House and other attractions, or can I explore them on my own?

For Anne Frank's House, tickets must be booked in advance, and you can choose a standard ticket or one with an introduction to the museum and life of Anne Frank. Guided tours aren’t available. Attractions like museums can usually be explored at your own pace, but many offer an audio tour or guided tour as an extra option too.

What is the best way to see Amsterdam's canals, and are there any canal tours available?

Canal cruises are a great way to see Amsterdam’s canals and learn about their history. There are many operators offering boat tours, as well as cycling and walking tours if you’d rather do it that way. Most canal tours pass by famous Amsterdam landmarks, such as the Anne Frank House and Skinny Bridge. You can also book private tours if you’d like a more tailored experience.