Don't miss these top 10 must-visit sights in Amsterdam

Europe

Don’t miss these top 10 must-visit sights in Amsterdam

When I think of Amsterdam, I immediately see the countless canals, bicycles and of course the red light district. As one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Amsterdam has much more to offer and is well known for its rich cultural scene. Here are my top 10 must-visit sights in Amsterdam you need to see at your next trip. I marked all sights in the map at the end of the post.

1. Visit the Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum Amsterdam offers Dutch works of art, a collection of Asian art object and artifacts from Dutch history. These include works of art by well-known artists such as Rembrandt, Van Gogh and Vermeer. The building is also architecturally beautiful both inside and out. Don’t miss the impressive large hall in the museum, the library and visit the small garden next to the building. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m to 5 p.m. Admission is free for those up to 18 years of age and adults pay 22.50 euros.

2. Discover the Countless canals

Amsterdam is known for its canals. The best way to explore it is on foot or by bike and just drift through the streets. Because behind every corner there is a new, beautiful canal waiting for you. The areas around Bloemenmarkt, Dam Square, the Jordaan Neighborhood and De Negen Straatjes are highly recommended. Grab a little snack like some cheese, a stroop waffle or Dutch fries on the way.

3. Experience the Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House Museum shows the life of the Jewish Holocaust victim Anne Frank. There you can see the story of Anne, the Secret Annex and her famous diary. An emotional visit that brings you closer to the history of the Second World War. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m to 10 p.m. Adults pay 16 euros entry.

4. Explore Amsterdam from the water

If you want to explore Amsterdam from a different perspective, then a canal cruise is just the thing. A one-hour boat ride with a group to all of Amsterdam’s highlights costs between 13 and 16 euros. Of course you can also book private tours, but this will be significantly more expensive at around 90 euros. Many boat trips regularly depart from the main station along the beautiful canal houses in the city center. You can easily stop by there spontaneously and don’t have to reserve tickets. In cold temperatures you can use a boat with a glass roof.

Walk along the canals in Amsterdam

You find Dutch art in the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam

5. Visit the Royal Palace

The Paleis op de Dam is not the seat of the Dutch royal family, but is used for representative purposes and as a guest house for state guests. You can also visit the royal palace. If you like impressive royal buildings and furnishings, then you should stop by the palace. The opening times vary and it’s better to check online beforehand to see whether the palace is currently open to the public. A ticket for an adult costs 12.50 euros. When you’re at the palace, be sure to check out Dam Square with the National Monument and visit the nearby Nieuwe Kerk.

6. See the Gingerbread Houses in Damrak

You can get the best-known view of canal houses or also known as Gingerbread Houses at the Damrak Waterfront right at the main train station. The cute little and colorful houses are lined up right on the water and offer a wonderful photo opportunity. An absolutely fantastic postcard motif. Many boat trips through the canals also start from there. So definitely stop by there.

7. Enjoy the art of the Van Gogh Museum

The art museum houses the largest collection of works by the Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh. There you will find over 200 paintings and 400 drawings by van Gogh. So if you like his art, you should definitely stop by. Tickets are only available online, so you should book them early enough. Adults pay 23.50 euros entry including the multimedia tour and 20 euros just for entry. Opening times vary, so please check online beforehand.

The famous view on the Damrak Waterfront

Visit the Royal Palace at the Dam Square

8. Dive into the red light district

The famous red light district is located in the area called De Wallen, not far from the main train station. Most of the bars, fast food restaurants, establishments and shops can be found on the streets Oudezijds Achterburgwal and Oudezijds Voorburgwal. It’s best to visit the district during the day and once at night to fully experience it. Many establishments and especially the shop windows with women are only open in the evening.

9. Adventurous view at A’dam Lookout

If you want to see Amsterdam from above, you should definitely visit the A’Dam Lookout observation deck. You take an elevator with light effects to the roof on the 20th floor. There is not only a restaurant and a bar, but also a swing over the edge of the building. There you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Amsterdam and the highest swing in Europe. At the weekend you can party there at DJ sessions. Entry to the viewing platform costs 16.50 euros per person. If you dare the adventure and want to go on the swing, you pay an additional 6 euros. The platform is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

10. See the flowers in Keukenhof

If you like flowers, you should definitely visit Keukenhof in Lisse. From Amsterdam, the drive to Lisse takes about half an hour. The most beautiful tulips and flowers from all over the world are beautifully arranged there. Every year the park opens its doors during tulip season. Please check the Keukenhof website for exact opening times. Entry costs 19.50 euros. You should know that the farm is very popular with tourists and it can get very crowded. If you don’t want to go in the Keukenhof, you can also visit some of the freely accessible flower fields around the farm.