A beautiful city full of crazy, weird and wonderful things to do.
Amsterdam is one of my favourite city breaks, for many great reasons. It truly has something to offer everyone, from a romantic relaxing stroll next to the charming canals, going on a shopping spree, visiting at Christmas for a festive spirit to taking a ride on the highest swing in Europe.
I have personally visited Amsterdam four times! This city is great for those of you planning a solo trip, it is extremely safe, I would feel completely comfortable as a solo female here, even later at night. More so, it is a great destination for those of you travelling in a couple or a group of friends.
Within this guide, I am going to reveal to you the coolest experiences in Amsterdam, with something for everyone to enjoy.
1) A'DAM Lookout - Europe's Highest Swing
Starting with one of the most adventurous things to do in Amsterdam! A’DAM Lookout is a must if you are a thrill seeker. It is Europe’s tallest swing offering panoramic views across the city. If you are not a fan of heights, don’t worry, there is a panorama restaurant and bar offering 360 degree views, a great spot for sunset. I won’t spoil the surprise but the lift to the top of the tower is a special visual experience itself. Book your ticket here
2) Anne Frank's House
The secret annex has over 1 million visitors per year and may well be the most famous site in Amsterdam. Anne was a German Jewish victim of the holocaust who is famous for her diary that documented her time during hiding whilst avoiding Nazi prosecution. For two years during WW2, the annex served as a hiding place for Annex, the secret entrance was a sliding bookcase. Sadly, on 04.08.1994, the annex was raided and Anne was deported to Auschwitz where she died from exhaustion.
Make sure to buy your ticket beforehand as this usually is sold out all year round. You can purchase a ticket to the museum for €16 per adult here
3) A Canal Cruise
Enjoy a cruise on the picturesque canals of Amsterdam. A great experience, day or evening with many options to choose from. Lover’s Canal Cruises are a popular operator and offer a range of different tours. Do you want to enjoy a cruise with New York Pizza? Or, a fancy dinner cruise? View your options here, with tickets from €16 here
4) The Smoke Boat - A Unique Trip
I promised you that I would deliver to you the most unique experiences that Amsterdam has to offer, and this may be at the top of the list. The world’s first smoke boat, where yes, you can smoke weed! If that is your vibe, then definitely check out their website and book a ticket for €26.00 per person including a cold drink. You’ll be guaranteed a good time. Book here
5) The Heineken Experience
Love a beer? Definitely take a trip to The Heineken Experience. Tickets start at €23 with an additional fee for the rooftop bar. Book here
6) Love Lock Bridge
Location: De Staalmeestersbrug Bridge
Unfortunately we were met by a grumpy local who seemed to be more interested in cutting off the padlocks! Hopefully, you won’t stumble across him. (We still managed to put ours on high up, out of his reach. This was a couple of years ago, and it does seem that the padlocks are removed throughout the year as there did not seem to be a huge amount when we arrived) Still a good experience for a cute memory though and it’s free.
7) Moco Museum - Featuring Banksy Exhibit
This is my favourite museum in Amsterdam, featuring quirky, fun art pieces and walk though experiences. You can find artwork by Dali and Banksy here, make sure to visit earlier in the morning for a quieter experience. Visit their website here
8) The Bulldog - Amsterdam's Original Bulldog
The Bulldog Cafe’s are pretty iconic, especially the original one as shown above. Most of you will know that cannabis is legal here in Amsterdam, if you want to indulge in the experience then I recommend checking out this spot as it is very unique and vibey. You can also buy pre rolls here and edibles (even vegan cakes!)
9) The Red Light District
Amsterdam is home to the world’s arguably most well-known Red Light District, with approximately 200 window brothels and 350 sex workers. Take a walk down the main street in De Wallen and you’ll quickly get the feel of the district, it is definitely a laugh after a few drinks to wander around. The street is lined with sex shows, bars, coffee shops and makes for an interesting experience.
10) Glow Minigolf
Raining? No problem, this indoor mini golf has you covered. Based on Back To The Future, the entire course is neon themed set in the dark. It is set beneath a bar and costs only €12 You can book here
11) Lost In Amsterdam - Bar
With an extremely cosy atmosphere, Lost In Amsterdam has been my favourite chill-out spot all four times I have visited Amsterdam. They have a DJ playing in the evening, a lovely drinks menu (expensive though) and you can bring your own weed to smoke if you’d like. A great spot to hang out, especially on a rainy day. If you are on a budget, you can stay for as long as you want if you order a drink, we would usually order a tea to be on the cheaper side.
12) Sex Museum
Told you, Amsterdam is just full of quirky (quite sex orientated) things! This is the world’s first ever sex museum and what better place to have it. It can feel a little awkward with some of the exhibits but it is a laugh and online you can grab a ticket for €10 here
13) Take A Bicycle Ride
Did you know that there are more bikes in Amsterdam than Dutch! Where better to take a cycle than one of the most bike friendly cities in the world. Just be careful because there are soo many bicycles everywhere.
14) XtraCold Ice Bar
Visit the coolest place in town! This ice bar is a fun experience and if you book online, you can enjoy three free drinks. There is also a normal bar on the way in, so you can spend some extra time there outside of the cold. Book here for €24.50 a ticket
15) ARTIS - Amsterdam's Zoo
Visit one of the oldest zoo’s in Europe with approximately 700 different species. It is easily accessible from the centre of Amsterdam and you can buy a ticket online for €25 here
16) Amsterdam Square
There is always something going on at Amsterdam Square and it is definitely worth a visit as it is just 5 minutes walk from Central Station. It is always hustling with tourists, locals and usually the odd street performer or two. A handful of shopping centres are located here, the most popular, Bijenkorf and Magna Plaza.
17) Museum of Prostitution
Located at the Red Light District, Red Light Secrets is a museum of prostitution. The insides are decorated as a brothel and you can listen to an audio guide as you walk around. You will come across a wall of confessions – these are very funny to read and you can even add your own! At the end, you can take a photo in a photo booth with a range of accessories. Purchase your ticket here for €14.50
18) Ice Skating
Visiting during the Christmas season? Make sure to check out one of Amsterdam’s ice rinks for the festive spirit.
19) Attend One of Amsterdam's Famous Music Festivals
20) Take a Stroll at Vondelpark
Pay a visit to the most popular park in Amsterdam, attracting thousands of tourists a day. Perfect at anytime of year, take a stroll during the chilly winter months or soak up the sun in the warmer summer months. A great way to relax and escape the city life for free!
21) Get a Professional Iris Photo at Iris Galerie Amsterdam
Another unique thing to do in Amsterdam is to get a photo of your eye up close. This can be done with a partner, family member or friend and you can get the eyes merged as above or you can get a singular photo of your own eye. There are lots of different designs and sizes of frame to choose from. Prices start from €49
