From amazing art galleries to lovely canals and the famous coffeeshops, there are something for everyone in Amsterdam.
The capital of Holland impressed me with its beautiful architecture, nice locals, delicious food and unusual sights. I have never seen such a unique city and it’s pretty hard to describe how awesome it is, so you simply have to go and see for yourself.
If you’re looking for some inspiration for things to do in Amsterdam, then here is a great list for you.
Here is the list of the Top 9 Things to Do in Amsterdam!
Rent a bike
The first thing you should do in Amsterdam – Rent a bike. This is no doubt the best way to get around and view the city. There is seriously no hills in central Amsterdam, so it’s easy to get around – just watch out for the traffic!
There will not be a problem to rent a bike since there are several rental shops all around town. Just hop on, start pedaling and enjoy the ride!
See the Red Light District
I’m almost positive that you have heard about the Red Light District in Amsterdam. Red glowing lights, legal prostitution, ladies flirting with men and women standing in display windows, sex shops, sex theaters and much much more.
I felt a bit uncomfortable when stepping inside this district with the ”window-girls” flirting with both my boyfriend and me – but hey, that’s a part of the experience.
This is such a sight that one simple can not miss among the top things to do in Amsterdam!
Just remember: Show respect to the people standing in the windows. The prostitution is their job, and they do not appreciate you taking pictures, pointing and laughing at them!
Eat a Herring Sandwich
Fresh herring is a delicacy in Holland and is a must to eat during your stay. All around town, you will find several food trucks selling these famous sandwiches. My favorite is a sandwich with herring, pickles, and onion.
I’m not sure if you have eaten herring before, but in my home country Sweden, I do not eat the traditional pickled herring. I was a bit skeptical about eating this sandwich since I don’t like it back home, but this was surprisingly good!
I recommend Vishuisje Herengracht, which lies on Herengracht 560.
Explore the Canals
One of the best things to do in Amsterdam is to stroll or bike along the beautiful canals in town. Did you know that Amsterdam’s canals cover an area of about 100 kilometers? There are around 200 canals in Amsterdam where Herengracht, Keizersgracht, Prinsengracht, and Singel are some of the canals that one simple can not miss.
Visit the Anne Frank House
If you have ever read the book ”Anne Franks Diary,” then you will probably want to visit this place. This is the actual house where Anne Frank was hiding together with her family for two years during the Second World War.
If you want to know more about her history and the horrible history of the Second World War, then this is a place that’s worth visiting.
Relax in Vondelpark
If you need a break from the lively capital, then you should head to Vondelpark. This is the largest city park in Amsterdam and offers great opportunities for you who want to relax, people-watch and have a nice picnic!
Taste the local cheese
Holland is famous for producing cheese in several shapes and flavors. In Amsterdam, you will find several shops that sell delicious cheese where they also offer many samples for you to taste.
Some of my favorites are smoked cheese (taste like sausage), chili cheese and pesto cheese!
In the same street of the famous flower market in central Amsterdam, there you will find several stores that offer a great variety of cheese!
Visit a coffeeshop
When strolling in Amsterdam, you can almost invariably feel the smell of marijuana and hash. It’s not surprising at all since there are several coffeeshops around town where its legal to use marijuana and hash if you’re over 18 years old. Here you can come to smoke or even eat a cake that’s made out of hash (hash brownie).
The opinions are different when it comes to these coffeeshops. Some think that they are great some believe that they’re bad. In my opinion, I would not say that this is more harmful to your body than alcohol.
If you’re interested in trying this, then Amsterdam is the place. ”The Bulldog” was the first coffeeshop in Amsterdam and is a popular place among both locals and tourists.
See Dam Square
Dam Square is one of the most lively places in town, located in the historical center of Amsterdam. Around this particular square, there is a lot for you to do. A visit to the Royal Palace, the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) and the National Monument are just a few of the things.
If you’re looking for shopping, there are several options. If you like to people watch, then this is the place. If you would like to have a nice bite of food with a beautiful view of Dam Square at a decent price – yes they have that too! Definitely one of the best things to do in Amsterdam!
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