Things to do & places to visit in Amsterdam, North Holland Province, The Netherlands

Charming, compact and charged with a zestful energy usually associated with cities ten times its size, open-minded Amsterdam delights with well known worldly pleasures tempered with down to earth Dutch sensibility. Radiating along a picturesque series of canals, the city seems to float dreamily and of its own accord at the lowland edge of Europe, welcoming fans of fine art, cutting edge fashion, or a raucous night out, with equal regard for all.

Amsterdam city in , North Holland Province, The Netherlands. Timezone: Europe/Amsterdam, current date and time: Tuesday, May 14, 2024, 0:45.

Amsterdam Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in May

61°F - 48°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Moderately chilly and breezy

Feels like

23%

Chance of rain

71.0 millimeters

Amount

15.5 mph

Wind speed

74%

Humidity

15.7

Daylight length

5:46 AM

Sunrise

9:27 PM

Sunset

47%

Cloud cover

Sweater

What to wear

Top things to do (22)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

4.5 Van Gogh Museum (64.7k reviews) from $30.30
- Bravo!
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Museums

Discover the world's largest collection of works by Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh, featuring masterpieces such as Sunflowers, The Potato Eaters, Almond Blossom and The Bedroom. Book your tickets online. Please consult the museum website for current opening hours. See more..
4.5 Anne Frank House (63.3k reviews)
- Anne Frank House
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

The Anne Frank House (Dutch: Anne Frank Huis) is a museum dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. The building is located on a canal called the Prinsengracht, close to the Westerkerk, in central Amsterdam in the Netherlands. As a visitor, you experience this story through a audio tour, quotes, photos, videos, and original items. The Anne Frank House can only be visited with an online ticket for a specific date and time. See more..
4.5 Rijksmuseum (47.4k reviews) from $32.12
- Huge collection of state-of-the-art masterpieces from first-class artists
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Art Museums

The Rijksmuseum is the museum of the Netherlands. The completely renovated Rijksmuseum tells the story of the Netherlands from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Frans Hals, and more! Most famous is Rembrandt's masterpiece the Night Watch. A new display of the collection, a renewed building, new public facilities, a revamped garden and a new Asian Pavilion. Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. See more..
4.5 Vondelpark (24.9k reviews)
- Amazing walk in the heart of Amsterdam
Spent 2-3 hours Parks

At one of Amsterdam's most famous parks, travelers can enjoy a host of outdoor activities amid beautiful English-style landscaping. Here, you can hike the countless trails or ride a bike around to spot charming bandstands and even a sculpture by Picasso along the way. Have a picnic by the pond as herons and ducks waltz past or pop by one of the many cafes in the park. You might want to visit between April and May to see the park awash with tulips in bloom or between May and September to watch live concerts at the open-air theater. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Centraal Station (17.7k reviews)
- Great building
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Public Transportation Systems

Completed in 1889 and located in the heart of town, this neo-Renaissance rail station was designed by P.J.H. Cuypers, the same person who designed the famous Rijksmuseum. See more..
4.5 The Jordaan (11.9k reviews)
- A Quiet, Beautiful Walk
Spent 2-3 hours Neighborhoods

This charming neighborhood is Amsterdam's Greenwich Village, with its narrow alleys, leafy canals lined with 17th-century houses, quirky specialty shops, cafes and designer boutiques. See more..
4.5 ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo (7.118 reviews) from $34.42
- A review you need to read!
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Zoos

Stroll among the shady trees, admire the diversity of plants and animals, travel to the stars, enjoy our heritage. Visit ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo and experience nature right in the city centre. See more..
4.5 Museum Het Rembrandthuis (6.854 reviews)
- Plan some time for etching and paint demonstrations
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Historic Sites • Art Museums

Rembrandt lived and worked from 1639 to 1658 in this 17th-century house, which today is a museum that pays tribute to the artist's life and career. See more..
4.5 Body Worlds (5.303 reviews) from $24.09
- One of a kind exhibition - would recommend to anyone!
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Science Museums

Gunther von Hagens’ BODY WORLDS: The Happiness Project in the heart of Amsterdam tells the amazing story of our own body and the impact of happiness on our health. More than 200 anatomical specimens of real human bodies show the complexity, resilience and vulnerability of the body. Join the 40 million people around the world who have already seen the exhibition and been on this fascinating voyage of discovery through the human body. See more..
4.5 A'dam Lookout (5.143 reviews)
- Swing makes it worthwile!
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Observation Decks & Towers

LOOKOUT 360º Amsterdam sensational swing An iconic viewing point in The Netherlands - A’DAM LOOKOUT, has joined the Eiffel Tower, the Fernsehturm and the London Eye. For the daredevils among us, LOOKOUT also has a further adrenalin kick in store. On the roof is Europe’s highest swing. You swing over the edge of the tower at a thrilling height of almost 100 metres above the ground. Highlights: - The most spectacular view of Amsterdam and the surrounding area - A Bird’s-eye view of Amsterdam from the highest swing in Europe - Access to the indoor interactive state-of-the-art Amsterdam exhibition - Free digital photo of your visit to LOOKOUT - Enjoy coffee, breakfast, lunch, dinner and/or cocktails in Madam Restaurant & Sky Bar - Free WIFI available Payments with cards only. See more..
4.5 Museum Quarter (4.729 reviews)
- A Haven for Education and Discovery
Points of Interest & Landmarks

The Museum Quarter is the place to be to learn and discover in the Netherlands’s capital city. One shouldn’t rush their time here. You have the jaw-dropping Rijksmuseum and the beloved Van Gogh Museum, some other smaller curations, and one massive green space for the community to embrace. This space was kept quite clean for the number of people on it, which I appreciated, unlike Paris’s Champ de Mars by the Eiffel Tower. It’s certainly challenging to miss, and obviously crucial NOT to miss, when in Amsterdam. I can’t wait to go back in the future! See more..
4.5 Begijnhof (4.608 reviews)
- Peaceful courtyard amidst the city’s hustle and bustle
Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Historic Walking Areas

Tucked away just off Spui, this delightful collection of houses arranged around an open court is well worth searching out. See more..
4.5 GVB (3.963 reviews)
- A great way to see the city
Spent < 1 hour Public Transportation Systems

I stayed in Willemspark and used the tram line #2 to get to and from the central district. Trams run mostly on-time. You can buy one-hour as well as one-day tickets from the conductor on the rear of the train on most lines. Most stops have digital displays that show arrival times. There are small benches on every stop to make it easier on people with mobility issues. See more..
4.5 Moco Museum Amsterdam (3.827 reviews) from $24.57
- Excellent modern art in beautiful setting
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Museums

Dedicated to modern art, contemporary art, and street art, this independent museum in Amsterdam's Museumplein is a favorite amongst the youth. See more..
4.5 Verzetsmuseum Amsterdam (3.444 reviews)
- Well worth the visit and better than the usual tourist attractions
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Children's Museums • History Museums

Explore true stories and destinies of everyday people during World War II in the Netherlands. What did life look like? What choices did you have to make? Step back in time at the Resistance Museum. See more..
4.5 Museum Ons'Lieve Heer Op Solder (3.434 reviews)
- Home and Church Museum
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

In the heart of Amsterdam's bustling centre lies one of the city's oldest museums: Museum Our Lord in the Attic. Here visitors get to experience the Dutch Golden Age in a special way: a 17th-century house with a top floor converted into a Catholic church. See more..
4.5 Het Scheepvaartmuseum| The National Maritime Museum (3.220 reviews)
- Absolutely worth visiting
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours History Museums

The National Maritime Museum holds one of the world's largest and most notable maritime collections including paintings, ship models, navigation instruments and sea charts. Discover 500 years of Dutch maritime history and its strong link to society of today and tomorrow. See more..
4.5 OBA Library of Amsterdam (3.045 reviews)
- WOW!
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Libraries

We try and visit the libraries of places we visit on vacation. The OBA is clean, bright, open. We were impressed with the amount of people utilizing the library~young mom's with storytellers, college students and work groups. The restaurant on the top floor looked delicious, unfortuently, we were not hungry. The OBA is worth a visit while in Amsterdam. 10 minutes from the Central Station/boat docks. See more..
4.5 Herengracht (2.240 reviews)
- Herengracht
Bodies of Water

At the beginning of the Herengracht we find the Herenmarkt, a square that now serves as a children's playground. Behind the square stands the West India House, built in 1617. From 1624, the building served as the head office of the Dutch West India Company, a multinational which administered the Dutch colonies in North and South America. In the year 1625, a meeting took place in this building, in which it was decided to found the city of New Amsterdam. Which was later renamed to New York. See more..
4.5 Micropia (1.485 reviews)
- Amazing interactive microbiology museum. Family and disabled friendly for a good price. Can't recommend it enough.
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums

Amazing museum, I didn't expect much but I was really taken aback. There were many microscopes and flasks filled with bacteria, very interactive and many unique ways of teaching children (and adults) about microbes. I recommend going there an hour before the daily lab Q&A so you can look at at least most of the first floor exhibitions. It has many videos, so even if you're not really into reading, you will still learn many new things. The visit takes three hours minimum, especially if youre interacting with everything. It is a great way to spend an afternoon with your family. People with advanced knowledge of biology may find it primitive but experiencing and interacting with all the exhibitions makes up for it. For a cheap price (compared to other museums) it is really worth your time and I can't recommend it enoug. See more..
4.5 Portuguese Synagogue (1.473 reviews) from $18.20
- History of jew resilience
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites

This very well preserved synagogue is certainly worth a visit. It is one of the biggest synagogues built by the jews fleeing from Portugal during the sixteenth century. We may admire the huge stone columns supporting the very high ceiling. In the basement the visitor may see a short film with the history of the sephardite jews as well as several cult objects, many of the centuries old. There are audio guides and a well done flyer. See more..
4.5 Johan Cruyff Arena (1.392 reviews)
- Stadium Tour
Spent 1-2 hours Arenas & Stadiums

The largest stadium in the Netherlands and home to the Ajax football team, it has played host to legendary sporting matches and music concerts. See more..
4.5 Amsterdam Canal Ring (1.132 reviews)
- Quintessential, Bike-Friendly Amsterdam
Spent More than 3 hours Neighborhoods • Bridges • Scenic Walking Areas

You just can’t miss the canals of Amsterdam when you visit this renowned global city. Water brings it all to life. As the people here are the savviest cyclists you’ll ever meet (tied with the Danish, perhaps?), bicycles are EVERYWHERE. Unlike the more competitive nature of cycling in the US you’ll find in parks and city streets where folks zip up and down “recklessly,” the bikers here are spatially-aware and patient with pedestrians. I never felt like I was about to crash into a speedy bike. Minus a few spots where the city was doing road/bridge construction work, the area is clean and lively. You won’t be alone anywhere you go—this is obviously the most popular part of Amsterdam. Even with the summer crowds, I felt as safe as could be. Next visit, I’ll spend a bit of money to take a river cruise, which from seeing others’ experiences as they sailed underneath the bridges, looks like an absolute blast. See more..
4.0 Red Light District (31.7k reviews)
- Beautiful busy district!
Tuesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 2-3 hours Neighborhoods

Amsterdam’s De Wallen area is home to one of the world’s most famous red light districts. Take a stroll to soak up the rousing yet beautiful lights, or visit the Red Lights Secrets Museum to learn more about Amsterdam’s sex work profession. The district is also known for its trendy coffee shops, bars, and clubs. The best time to see the district is in the early evening or at night, when the lights begin to illuminate the narrow streets. The area is safe, but it can get very busy, and taking photos or videos of workers is illegal. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.0 Heineken Experience (25.7k reviews)
- Fun Experience
Tuesday: 10:30 AM - 7:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Breweries

Go on a interactive journey at The Heineken Experience at Heineken's oldest brewery. The tour is mostly self-guided, with guides at certain key points. Here, you can learn about the history, gain insight into the brewing process, and customise your own Heineken bottle or glass at the souvenir shop. To get more out of the experience, download the multi-language digital app. At the end of the tour, enjoy two Heinekens, and even get the chance to pour your own draught. The attraction usually draws large crowds so skip the line by booking a tour online in advance. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.0 Dam Square (15.4k reviews)
- Amsterdam’s beating heart
Points of Interest & Landmarks

All roads lead to Dam Square, the real heart of Amsterdam, where The Royal Palace, the Nieuwe Kerk and the War Memorial overlook this vast and bustling open space. See more..
4.0 Madame Tussauds Amsterdam (7.423 reviews) from $30.78
- Whilst you're there, may aswell!
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Speciality Museums

Pose beside the wax figures of a bevy of international stars, world leaders, and Dutch household names like King Willem-Alexander and Johan Cruyff. See more..
4.0 NEMO Science Museum (4.419 reviews) from $24.09
- Fantastic fun, especially for children
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Science Museums • Children's Museums

Expand your world at NEMO Science Museum. In the largest science museum of the Netherlands you will find proof that science and technology can be captivating for all ages. The remarkable building on top of the IJ-tunnel offers five floors of exciting hands-on activities. At NEMO you can experience the joy of science and technology, by blowing gigantic soap bubbles, watch an enormous chain reaction and experiment in a real laboratory. In a variety of exhibitions you can 'Take a journey through the mind' or learn that there is more than meets the eye when it comes to sustainable electricity and smart transportation at 'Smart Technology'. Enjoy a magnificent view over Amsterdam The creative mind behind NEMO, build in 1997, is Italian architect Renzo Piano. He had a clear vision for his design of the NEMO building, with its very own piazza 22 metres above water level. The spectacular roof terrace has a magnificent view over Amsterdam and the Eastern Docklands. You can access the roof terrace free of charge. The roof terrace and cafe in NEMO are the perfect places to sit back, relax and enjoy a drink. See more..
4.0 Royal Palace Amsterdam (3.408 reviews)
- Spectacular
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings

The Royal Palace Amsterdam is in use by the Dutch Royal House. Most of the year, the Royal Palace is alsof open for visitors. You are welcome to discover the rich history and interior of this magnificent building in the heart of Amsterdam. Visitors are welcome to discover the building's rich past and legacies left by it's successive occupants - as Amsterdam's Town Hall for 150 years, the French Royal and Imperial Palace for 5 years and the Palace of the House of Orange for the past two centuries. The Royal Palace was built in the seventeenth century as the Town Hall of Amsterdam, after a design by Jacob van Campen. It's paintings and sculptures were made by some of the most distinguished artists of the time and allude to the city's influence and prosperity in the Dutch Golden Age. In 1808 Louis Napoleon, brother of the French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, became King of Holland and converted the Town Hall into a Palace. The superb collection of Empire furniture, clocks and chandeliers date from that period. The collection of Empire furniture is one of the best preserved and most complete collections in the world. The rooms in the Palace are decorated with artworks from the collection of the House of Orange-Nassau Historic Collections Trust. Many paintings show the various members of the family of Orange-Nassau See more..
4.0 Albert Cuyp Market (2.495 reviews)
- The place to be.......
Spent 2-3 hours Flea & Street Markets

The city's largest street market is just south of the city center. See more..