Amsterdam has always been known for their canals, boat houses and ‘coffee shops’ but it is so much more than that. I decided to stop over in Amsterdam at the end of two-week trip to Greece and Croatia and instantly fell in love with the city. There is so much to do and see in this laid-back friendly city and I can’t wait to go back and explore more.
Here is a list of the top things you must do your first time in Amsterdam!
Anne Frank House
Visiting the Anne Frank House is easily my most recommended this to do while visiting Amsterdam. It is such an incredible experience unlike anything I’ve ever experienced being inside the house where Anne and her family lived and hid for years. This is probably one of the most popular things to do so make sure you buy your tickets in advance. You can purchase tickets up to two months before your trip and I highly recommend you buy them as soon as possible to ensure you are able to visit during your trip.
Van Gogh Museum
This museum is home to the largest collection in the word of the work of Van Gogh. The museum is quite large with over 200 paintings on display. You don’t have to know much about art to appreciate the paintings on display here.
The Van Gogh Museum is probably the most visited museum in the country so it will be very busy. Make sure you purchase your tickets in advance so you can pick the time slot that works best for you. I would also recommend spending the extra couple of dollars to get the audio tour as it is nice to get background information on the art you’re looking at while walking through the museum.
Go on a Canal Cruise
Going on a canal cruise is a must while you are in Amsterdam. This was actually one of my favourite things I did there. It was a beautiful sunny day and I had a great time touring the canals with a great guide that provides cool facts and tons of history on the city and the canals. The tour was very inexpensive and was booked through GetYourGuide.
Vondelpark
Vondelpark is another great thing to do especially when the weather is great. This large park is an oasis in the city with large grassy areas, ponds and winding pathways. It’s the perfect spot to have a picnic or relax and do some people watching. This is the perfect spot to slow down a take a break.
Eat a Stroopwafel
Stroopwafel is a popular Dutch food made from two thin layers of baked dough stuck together with caramel syrup. There are local stores, food trucks and bakeries all throughout Amsterdam that make them. I headed to van Wonderen Stroopwafels where they exclusively make them. You can get them plain or you can get yours with toppings. They have so many different options for toppings and they’re so good!
Walk the Red Light District
Walking through the Red Light District was a really unique experience. Prostitution is legal here and there is a ton of sex shows, strip clubs and other shops to check out. You can also choose to do a walking tour if you are interested in learning more about the history of the Red Light District, prostitution and coffee shops.
Whatever you do, do not take any phots of the women. It is not allowed and you will likely cause serious problems for yourself that will come with a hefty price tag so I recommend keeping your phone put away while walking through the district. You will also want to keep an eye out for pickpockets as this is a high traffic area for tourists you are more likely to be pickpocketed walking through here.
Apple Pie at Winkle 43
Winkel 43 is extremely well known for its apple pie. There is a constant line here just for the apple pie so be prepared to wait. You will want to make sure you get here early if you plan to grab a seat.
Shopping on the 9 Streets
‘The Nine Streets’ is located along the canal in the Jordaan area. You will find both vintage and designer boutiques along with many great restaurants. It is a great spot to walk around and do some shopping or grab a bite to eat while in Amsterdam.
Bloemenmarkt – Floating Flower Market
Amsterdam is home to the only floating flower market in the entire world, which has been open since 1862. I loved walking through the market and seeing all the beautiful flowers. I definitely recommend bringing home some tulip bulbs to plant in your own garden.
Go to a Coffee Shop
Coffee shops in Amsterdam are not quite like the coffee shops you go to in the rest of the world. Although you can enjoy a good cup of coffee at one you can also smoke a joint or enjoy an edible. Coffee shops have been operating there since 1976 and are a great experience for those looking to safely enjoy some weed while travelling abroad. There are coffee shops all over the city but I recommend checking out Easy Times. They have a great selection and a laid-back inviting vibe.
Try Patat Frites
Head to one of the many Manneken pis locations for some delicious french fries with over 20+ sauce options. These are easily a staple food item you must try when visiting Amsterdam!
Heineken Museum
You don’t just have to be a beer love to enjoy the Heineken Museum! Amsterdam has been home to Heineken since it was first founded in 1864. You can learn about the history of the company, the recipe, the process, sample beers, purchase beer and make personalized gifts/souvenirs. This is a great way to spend an afternoon especially on a rainy day!
