Amsterdam is the most visited city in the Netherlands, and even in Europe. The city hosts some of the world’s most famous museums and is a true paradise for art lovers. But Amsterdam has so much more to offer than museums.
Are you planning on spending a day or weekend in Amsterdam and want to do something different from the usual museum-focused itineraries? Then this article is for you. Let us introduce you to seven fun things to do in Amsterdam that aren’t museums.
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1. Explore the Canals
Amsterdam’s canals are one of the city’s most iconic features, and the cityscape would be unimaginable without them. Built in the 17th century, the canals were originally designed in a circular layout around the city for water management, transport, and defense.
A canal cruise in Amsterdam offers a unique perspective on the city, letting you see its historic canal houses, bridges, and waterfront neighborhoods from the water. You can either rent a boat yourself or join a guided Amsterdam canal cruise. One of the most impressive views is at the crossing of Reguliersgracht and Herengracht, where you can admire more than 15 bridges at once. The most beautiful canal houses are found along the “Golden Curve” (Gouden Bocht), a stretch that truly represents Amsterdam’s Golden Age architecture.
Not in the mood for a canal cruise? Amsterdam’s canals are equally enjoyable on foot or by bicycle. Stroll along the waterways during the day, or admire the houseboats and illuminated canal houses in the evening. Head toward Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht, the main iconic canals of Amsterdam’s canal ring. If you prefer a quieter, more laid-back experience, the Jordaan district is just a short walk from the bustling city center and is considered one of Amsterdam’s most charming neighborhoods.
2. Visit a Local Market
Markets are one of the most overlooked yet rewarding things to do in Amsterdam. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, wandering through a market gives you a glimpse into local life, Dutch culture and Amsterdam’s vibrant street atmosphere.
The largest and most famous market in the city is the Albert Cuyp Market in Oud-Zuid. It’s open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed on Sundays!), The huge market offers everything from fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, cheese, Dutch specialties to souvenirs, sweets, clothing and fabrics.
The market is perfect for strolling, tasting local delicacies, and soaking up the lively atmosphere. Don’t miss trying fresh herring, stroopwafels, or poffertjes from the market stalls.
In addition to Albert Cuyp Market, Amsterdam is home to the world’s only floating flower market at Singel, where you can pick up tulip bulbs and vibrant bouquets. The city is also popular for its many flea and vintage markets, such as the Waterlooplein Market, where you can find second-hand treasures and antiques. Visiting a market is a wonderful way to experience Amsterdam beyond the museums and typical tourist sights.
3. Explore Amsterdam by Bike
It’s not just the individual sights that make Amsterdam so special, it’s the city’s overall vibe. If you’d like to experience Amsterdam like a local, renting a bicycle is one of the best things you can do. Instead of hopping on a tourist bus, join everyday life on two wheels and discover the city at your own pace.
Unlike many other large European cities, cycling in Amsterdam is genuinely fun and surprisingly easy. Drivers are extremely used to cyclists, and the city’s traffic system is designed with bicycles in mind. Almost everywhere you’ll find dedicated cycle paths, making it possible to bike safely through large parts of the city.
A bicycle tour allows you to see a large part of Amsterdam in one day and reach neighborhoods that are less accessible by public transport. It’s also a great way to combine sightseeing with a bit of exercise. Rent a bike and cycle along the canals, through narrow alleys, or across green spaces like the Vondelpark.
Bicycles can be rented all over the city, either by the hour or by the day. During busy periods such as weekends and school holidays, bikes tend to sell out quickly, so it’s best to go early. Alternatively, you can book your bike online in advance to avoid disappointment.
By the way, bike theft is very common in Amsterdam, so be sure to lock your bike properly. When biking in Amsterdam, don’t forget to follow traffic rules and use hand signals at any times.
4. See Amsterdam from Above
From the water, you can experience Amsterdam’s canals and canal houses up close. But what does the city actually look like from above? Seeing Amsterdam from a higher vantage point offers a completely different perspective on its unique layout and diverse architecture.
With its circular canals, historic canal houses and iconic monuments, Amsterdam is already captivating at street level. From above, you’ll also notice how the historic city center blends with more modern developments. As one of the Netherlands’ most economically important cities, Amsterdam is home to numerous banks and international companies, and modern office buildings form part of the wider cityscape. This contrast becomes especially clear when viewed from above.
One of the best places for a panoramic view of Amsterdam is the A’DAM Lookout. It’s located directly behind Amsterdam Central Station and features a 360-degree viewing platform. Whether you visit in summer and step out onto the open-air terrace, or come on a colder day and enjoy the view from inside the glass-enclosed platform, the 20-story A’DAM Lookout offers impressive views across the city.
For those looking for an extra thrill, don’t miss the famous over-the-edge swing at A’DAM Lookout. It lets you swing high above Amsterdam’s skyline and adds an adventurous twist to your visit.
5. This Is Holland Experience
One of my personal favorite things to do in Amsterdam is the This Is Holland Experience. I’ve been here six times already while showing friends around the city, and I’d happily visit again. It’s one of those attractions that works just as well for first-time visitors as it does for people who already know the Netherlands a bit.
This Is Holland is one of the best ways to get an introduction to the Netherlands, its landscapes and its culture. The highlight is a virtual flight experience, now offered in 5D, that lets you enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Amsterdam and many other famous sights and cities across the country. Flying over windmills, tulip fields, canals and the Dutch coastline is truly unique. You’ll see the Netherlands from an angle you’ve likely never experienced before. Besides the stunning visuals, the experience is fun, engaging and packed with interesting facts about Dutch history and traditions.
Our tip: with the I amsterdam City Card (€65.00), you get free access to both the A’DAM Lookout and the This Is Holland 5D flight experience, along with free entry to over 20 attractions in and around Amsterdam. Unlimited use of GVB public transport, including buses, trams and the metro, is also included.
6. Relax in Amsterdam’s Parks
Amsterdam is home to countless canals and monuments, but what many visitors don’t realize is that the city also has some beautiful green spaces.
The most famous park is Vondelpark, located between Leidseplein and Museumplein, close to the Rijksmuseum. It’s at walking distance to the vibrant center and can easily be incorporated into a daytrip to the city. This large urban park features countless walking paths, bridges, ponds and well-kept gardens. Vondelpark is loved by both locals and visitors. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or simply relaxing on the grass. During the summer months, free open-air theater performances take place here on weekends, adding to the lively atmosphere.
If you prefer a quieter and more spacious setting, head to the Amsterdamse Bos on the southern outskirts of the city. This vast green area offers plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling and picnic. With forests, lakes and open fields, the Amsterdamse Bos feels far removed from the busy city center and is ideal if you’re looking to slow down and escape the crowds for a few hours.
7. Visit the Heineken Brewery
The national beer of the Netherlands par excellence is Heineken, a brand that is also well known and enjoyed around the world. This iconic beer has its origins in Amsterdam, where Heineken was brewed from 1867 until the late 20th century, not far from the city center, before being exported worldwide.
After production moved to a larger facility, the historic brewery was transformed into the Heineken Experience in 2008. Despite the name, this is less a traditional museum and more an interactive and entertaining visit centered around the brewery and the Heineken brand. Visitors learn about the company’s history and brewing process and can enjoy two tastings of the famous beer. It’s a unique activity in Amsterdam and especially popular with beer lovers.
If you don’t feel like visiting the brewery itself, you can still enjoy a Heineken almost anywhere in the city. On sunny days, Amsterdam’s terraces fill up quickly and are the perfect place to soak up the city’s relaxed atmosphere with a cold beer in hand.
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