Top 10 Local Things to do in Amsterdam

1. Book a private boat tour

Going by boat is a great way to admire the breathtaking canal belt and learn about the history of Amsterdam. There are various types of boat trips such as a personalized private trip both during the daytime and night time with one of our local guides. Some types of tours you can enjoy:

• Romance in Amsterdam tour: This tour is at nighttime when the canals are all filled with lights and the streets are quiet you can enjoy the scenery with the one you love.
• A Golden Age tour of the historical centre is another tour option. You can enjoy a customized tour with some snacks and good chats.

By going with a local tour guide you can find out many fascinating facts about Amsterdam’s history and things to do and see during the rest of your stay.

You can read more about what our customers have to say about our tours here.

2. Visit local markets

When visiting Amsterdam make sure to visit one of our local markets. The Albert Cuyp market is one of our biggest markets. Make sure to try a warm and freshly baked SStroopwafel( Syrup waffle), taste some famous Dutch cheese and have a sweet treat such as poffertjes ( tiny pancakes). Another great market is Noordermarkt which is an organic farmers market or Waterlooplein flee market for the vintage lovers. So make sure to add visiting local markets to your things to do in Amsterdam!

3. Visit the Jordaan

The Jordaan is the most famous area of Amsterdam. In the past, this area was inhabited by the working class. Gentrification of decades past has attracted lots of galleries, restaurants and speciality shops. The North of the Jordaan is more touristy so check out the south for a peaceful wander when checking out the scenery.

4. Visit Museums 

There is more than enough Art to see whilst in Amsterdam. There are many art related things to do in Amsterdam. Let’s look at some of the best ones out there. At the museum quarter, you can find all the big museums such as the Rijks Museum and marvel at world famous artists paintings such as Rembrandt and Vermeer. Just around the corner, you will find the works of Vincent Van Gogh. The modern art Museum: Stedelijk is also worth a visit. If you are into history make sure to check out the Resistance Museum. Another fun visit is to the EYE film museum.

5. Enjoy food, drinks, and culture 

Situated at Westerpark, this complex of industrial buildings used to be the city’s municipal gas works. It is now transformed into a cultural hub. Home to bars, restaurants, coffee roasters, a microbrewery and an art house cinema. Look out for regular food markets, festivals and events held here.

6. Rent a bike!

You have might have heard about the most popular transportation in Amsterdam: the bicycle! Did you know there are more bikes than people in Amsterdam?! It is a great way to see a lot of the city. It is safe and refreshing! Keep some rules in mind: don’t cycle next to each other, use lights at night and make sure to always lock your bike up to one of the many bike parking spots. It can sometimes be a bit busy but with a local guide showing you the ropes and routes you will be in for a great bike ride!

7. Have a picnic in one in the Vondel park or one of the other local parks!

With over 30 parks in Amsterdam, there will be no problem finding a nice park to have a picnic. Vondel Park has the largest green space, this is where locals come for drinks, food and to enjoy a sunny day. Keep in mind that In the summer there are a lot of live concerts in the park, so depending on when you visit you could hear some great tunes.

8. Visit the North of Amsterdam on a free ferry ride

Just across the IJ from Central Station, Amsterdam North is one of our favourite neighbourhoods. With its cool, industrial vibe, it’s quickly becoming one of the most interesting areas. From the ferry, you can see the EYE film museum with its beautiful terrace overlooking the water and the Tolhuistuin restaurant. Also, if you venture a bit further to find De Ceuvel, a sustainable city playground build on a former shipyard. NDSM Wharf is home to many festivals, a monthly flea market, and hotspots Pllek and Noorderlicht. Definitely worth the short ferry ride!

9. Go to the nine little streets (Negen Straatjes)

The nine streets forms an area with small quaint streets with some canal bridges, small boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. It is one of the most lively neighbourhoods in the city. In this area, you can find over 200 shops.  Therefore, you may want to make a list of things you want to buy so you don’t get lost, or ask one of our local guides for advice!

10. Go beer tasting under a windmill!

There are eight remaining windmills in Amsterdam. The most accessible one is De Gooyer in the Oostelijke Eilanden (Eastern Islands) area. However, keep in mind this isn’t just any windmill, under the sails of this landmark is Brouwerij’t IJ: an artisan microbrewery with a large outdoor drinking terrace.